Many people associate Egypt with hot temperatures and sunny weather, but the reality is that this country experiences a unique winter climate that includes snow. While snow in Egypt is a rare phenomenon, it does happen in certain regions of the country. In this section, we will explore the question of whether it snows in Egypt and provide information on snowfall in the country.
Key Takeaways:
- Snow does occur in Egypt, but it is limited to certain regions of the country.
- The annual average snowfall varies across Egypt, with some regions experiencing higher levels of snowfall than others.
- The snowiest month in Egypt also varies depending on the region.
- The possibility of snow in Egypt depends on the time of year and the location within the country.
- Snowfall in Egypt is a unique and fascinating natural phenomenon in this desert country.
Egypt’s Climate and Winter Temperatures
Egypt has a desert climate, characterized by hot and dry summers and mild winters. However, the temperature in winter can vary across different regions of the country.
Winter Temperatures
The winter season in Egypt generally starts in November and lasts till February. The temperature during this time varies from mild to cool in most parts of the country. In Cairo, the average high temperature during winter is around 68°F (20°C), while the low temperature averages at around 50°F (10°C). In coastal areas like Alexandria, the average high temperature is around 64°F (18°C), while the low temperature averages at around 44°F (7°C).
How Cold Does It Get in Egypt?
The temperature in Egypt during winter can occasionally drop below freezing, especially in the northern and southern regions. The temperatures in the desert can reach a low of 32°F (0°C), while in the cities, the temperature can drop to around 41°F (5°C) on average.
Egypt Winter Climate
The winter climate in Egypt is perfect for exploring the country’s ancient history and natural wonders, especially in areas such as Luxor, Aswan, and the Red Sea. The winter season also brings some rainfall, which helps replenish the Nile River and supports the country’s agricultural sector.
In summary, the climate in Egypt during winter is generally mild to cool, with occasional drops in temperature, especially in the northern and southern regions. The winter season provides excellent conditions for exploring the country’s history and natural beauty.
What’s the snowiest part of Africa? Learn here!
Historical Snowfall in Egypt
Egypt is mostly known for its hot, dry climate, but snowfall is not unheard of in this desert country.
The average annual snowfall in Egypt is less than an inch, making it a rare occurrence. The snowiest month varies across the country, with some regions experiencing snowfall from December to February, while in other parts, it can happen between January and March.
Annual Average Snowfall and Inches of Snow
Historical records indicate that the annual average snowfall in Egypt is around 0.1 inches, which is equivalent to 2.5 millimeters. However, in some years, snowfall can be slightly heavier. For instance, in January 2013, Egypt received a rare and heavy snowfall that measured up to two inches in some parts of the country.
As a result of its low precipitation rates, any snow that falls in Egypt is unlikely to accumulate or last very long. The inches of snow that fall typically do not exceed 0.5 inches.
Regions with the Most Annual Snowfall
The regions with the highest annual snowfall in Egypt are in the northern and southern parts of the country, particularly the mountainous areas. The Sinai Peninsula, for instance, is known to experience snowfall on rare occasions, particularly in the region surrounding Mount Sinai. Another region where snowfall occurs is the Saint Catherine’s Monastery, where snowfall can last for a few hours before melting away.
The Snowiest Month in Egypt
The snowiest month in Egypt varies depending on the region. In the northern parts of the country, December to February tends to be the snowiest period, while in southern regions, snowfall is more likely to occur between January and March.
Overall, the occurrence of snowfall in Egypt is a rare and unique phenomenon compared to many other countries around the world. When it does happen, it can create beautiful and memorable scenery.
Snowfall in Northern Egypt
While snow is a rare occurrence in Egypt, it does happen in the northern regions of the country where the climate is cooler and more wet. Northern Egypt includes cities such as Alexandria, Port Said, and Suez.
The average annual snowfall in northern Egypt is approximately one inch, with the snowiest month being January. Along with snow, the region also experiences very low temperatures during the winter season, with an average low of 50°F (10°C) and occasional drops below freezing.
The snow accumulation in northern Egypt is typically light, with only a few days of snow per year. However, heavy snowfall has occurred in the past, such as in December 2013 when parts of northern Egypt experienced a rare snowstorm, with up to two inches of snow accumulation in some areas.
Snowfall in Southern Egypt
Southern Egypt is a region that is known for its dry, hot climate. However, during the winter months, it is not uncommon for snow to fall in some areas. The regions that experience snowfall in southern Egypt are the high-altitude areas of the Sinai Mountains.
The snowfall in southern Egypt is not as heavy as that in the north, but it is still a rare and fascinating occurrence. The how much does it snow in Egypt question may be answered here as the average annual snowfall in these regions is around 2.5 inches. The low temperature during winter can drop to below 32°F (0°C), allowing for some snow accumulation.
The winter season in southern Egypt is also characterized by windy conditions, which can contribute to the formation of snowdrifts in areas of higher elevations. The snow in southern Egypt typically melts quickly due to the warm daytime temperatures, making it a brief but enchanting spectacle.
Rare Snowfall Events in Egypt
While snowfall in Egypt is rare, there have been a few memorable instances of snowfall in both the northern and southern regions of the country.
Northern Region Snowfall
One of the most notable snowfall events in the northern region of Egypt occurred in 2013, when a winter storm brought snow and sleet to the capital city of Cairo for the first time in over a century. The snowfall caused disruptions in transportation and power outages in the city.
Other instances of snowfall in the northern region include a 2000 snowstorm in the city of Alexandria and occasional dustings of snow in the Sinai Peninsula.
Southern Region Snowfall
In the southern region of Egypt, snowfall is even rarer. However, in 2016, the southern city of Aswan experienced a brief snowfall event, which is a very uncommon occurrence in the desert city.
Overall, while snowfall in Egypt is an infrequent occurrence, it can make for a memorable and unique experience for those who witness it.
Find out if it snows in Kenya here!
Conclusion
Overall, while Egypt may not be known for its snowy winters, snowfall does occur in some regions. The annual average snowfall in Egypt varies based on the location, with northern regions receiving more snow than southern regions. The snowiest month also varies across the country. Despite the rarity of snowfall in Egypt, it is a fascinating natural phenomenon, and the country’s winter climate is unique.
While snow in Egypt may not be a common occurrence, it adds to the country’s diverse climate and adds to its allure. So, if you happen to be in Egypt during the winter season, be sure to keep an eye out for any snowfall!
