Weather in Sulaymaniyah

Stay informed about the latest weather conditions in the city of Sulaymaniyah. Below you will find current data, forecasts, and useful weather charts.

The climate in Sulaymaniyah, located in Iraq, is characterized by distinct seasons with significant temperature fluctuations throughout the year. Overall, it can be described as Mediterranean or semi-arid with features of continental influence. The city experiences cool, relatively wet winters and very hot, arid summers.

The winter months, from December to February, bring average temperatures ranging from 4.5°C to 7.1°C, with the possibility of night frosts, especially in January. This period is also the wettest, with the highest amount of precipitation (about 3-5 mm per month) and rainy days (10-15 days). Spring (March-May) is a time of gradual warming, when average temperatures rise from 9.9°C in March to a comfortable 19.8°C in May, while rainfall gradually decreases.

Summer, covering the period from June to September, is distinguished by extreme heat and drought. Average temperatures in July and August exceed 30°C, and maximums can reach nearly 39°C. A notable feature of the climate in Sulaymaniyah is the complete absence of precipitation and rainy days during these four summer months. In autumn, during October and November, temperatures gradually decrease from 19.3°C to 11.4°C, and precipitation returns to the region, preparing it for the cool winter.

The climate in Sulaymaniyah is characterized by significant seasonal temperature fluctuations. The annual range of average temperatures extends from a cool 4.5°C in January to a hot 30.6°C in July. The coldest months are January, when the average minimum temperature drops to -0.6°C, and February with an average minimum of 0.8°C. The hottest period falls in July and August, when the average maximum temperature reaches 38.6°C and 38.8°C respectively, and the average daily temperature exceeds 30°C.

Summer in Sulaymaniyah, spanning June, July, and August, is distinguished by dry heat. During these months, precipitation is practically non-existent, and daytime temperatures regularly rise above 34°C, sometimes approaching 39°C. Nights bring some relief but remain warm: average minimum temperatures range from 18.4°C in June to 22.5°C in July. Winter, by contrast, is cool. From December to March, average daytime temperatures vary from 9.5°C to 15.4°C, while night temperatures often drop close to zero or even lower, especially in January. These months also see the bulk of the precipitation.

Spring, covering April and May, brings moderate warmth to Sulaymaniyah. In May, the average temperature is a comfortable 19.8°C, creating pleasant conditions before the onset of the summer heat. September, despite formally marking the beginning of autumn, largely continues the summer weather pattern: the average temperature holds at 26.3°C, and daytime maximums can reach 34.6°C, making it a very warm month, effectively a continuation of the hot season. Truly autumnal coolness arrives in October, when the average temperature drops to a pleasant 19.3°C. Sulaymaniyah is characterized by notable diurnal temperature variations, especially in the summer months and September, when the difference between daily maximums and nightly minimums can exceed 15-16°C. For instance, in June, the average maximum is 34.4°C, while the minimum is 18.4°C.

The city of Sulaymaniyah observes a clearly defined seasonality in precipitation. The year can be divided into a wet winter period and a very dry summer. The highest amount of precipitation falls from late autumn to mid-spring, while the summer months are characterized by an almost total absence of rain.

The wet season usually lasts from October to May. The wettest months, in terms of precipitation amount (5 mm each), are January, February, and March. March also stands out with the highest number of days with precipitation – an average of 15 days. In January and February, given average minimum temperatures around 0°C (down to -0.6°C in January), precipitation may fall as snow. Snowfalls are also possible in December with a minimum temperature around 1.7°C. In the other months of the wet season (October, November, April, May), precipitation falls predominantly as rain, though its intensity is low – from 1 to 3 mm per month.

The dry season in Sulaymaniyah falls on the summer months – June, July, August, and September. During this period, precipitation is practically absent, the average monthly amount is 0 mm, and no rainy days are recorded. This time is characterized by clear and hot weather.

When planning a trip to Sulaymaniyah, it is important to consider the significant seasonal weather fluctuations. In general, the principle of layering your clothing will be your best ally. Regardless of the season, comfortable walking shoes are a must, as you will likely want to explore the city on foot. Do not forget an electronics adapter if your devices have a different plug.

The winter months (December to February) in Sulaymaniyah are quite cool, with average temperatures from 4.5°C to 7.1°C, and possible frosts. This period also sees the highest amount of precipitation, so be sure to pack a warm waterproof jacket, sweaters, a hat, gloves, and a scarf. An umbrella or raincoat will also be very useful. In spring (March-May) and autumn (October-November), the weather is changeable: days can be warm, while evenings are cool. It is recommended to take a light jacket or windbreaker, jumpers, as well as T-shirts and trousers, so you can easily adapt to temperature changes. Rain is still possible in March, April, and November.

Summer (June to September) in Sulaymaniyah is hot and dry, with average temperatures reaching 30°C and above, and an almost complete absence of rainfall. During this period, you will need light, breathable clothing made of natural fabrics (cotton, linen), a hat for sun protection, sunglasses, and sunscreen with a high SPF. Since there is no rain in summer, you can leave the umbrella at home. Evenings might be slightly cooler, so a light cardigan or wrap may come in handy.