Israel weather by month

More than half of Israel is desert and there are pronounced differences in the climate between the Negev desert region and the fertile north of the country. In the North, a Mediterranean climate prevails bringing hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Frost and snow are virtually unheard of but winter rain comes in short, intense bursts, so be prepared.

On the coast, the summer weather is muggier and afternoons, when sea breezes disperse some of the humidity, are the most pleasant time of the day. In the inland hills around Galilee, summer daytime conditions are dryer and more pleasant but nights can be chilly and winter brings both heavy rainfall and occasional snowfalls. Beyond the hills to the south lies the desert where rainfall is low and localised, taking the form of sudden, intense showers during the winter months.

Daytime summer conditions here can be very hot, especially when the warm Khamsin (or, in Hebrew, 'Sharav') wind blows but nights are chilly and crisp. Israel is a very sunny country which has made it a popular holiday destination throughout the year but an especially good option for winter sun.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Maximum daytime temperature °C	13	15	17	22	26	29	30	30	29	26	20	15
Hours of sunshine (daily)	6	7	8	9	11	13	13	12	11	9	8	6
Days with some rainfall	10	10	8	3	1	0	0	0	0	3	5	9

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The climate guide for Israel (Jerusalem) shows long term monthly weather averages processed from data supplied by CRU (University of East Anglia), the Met Office & the Netherlands Meteorological Institute. Find out more about our data sources.

Israel climate overview

Lying at the eastern end of the Mediterranean, modern-day Israel was historically the site of Jewish kingdoms over 2500 years ago. Since this time, it has been invaded by the Greeks and Romans, among others, before finally re-emerging as a Jewish state after the Second World War. Considered to be at the geographical and spiritual epicentre for Jews, Christians, and Muslims, Israel still remains the most hotly disputed area in the world.

Mountain ranges run from north to south along the spine of the country. Nestled in these mountains is the beautiful city of Jerusalem, which contains well-preserved historical buildings. Summers here are dry, sunny, and warm but become wet and cool during the winter with occasional snow cover.

In the far north of the country lies the Sea of Galilee and the Golan Heights, both considered to be areas of outstanding natural beauty. Galilee also in particular has many religious heritage sites of biblical importance.

The Mediterranean coastal plain has sandy beaches around the commercial and business centre of Tel Aviv. Summer temperatures are generally warm but humidity can become high during the afternoons. Winter temperatures are comfortable or even cool and rain falls every few days, becoming more persistent further north.

The bleak Negev Desert dominates the country's southern third. The sub-tropical climate with little or no rain supports only desert scrub vegetation. Hot summer temperatures by day become cool by night, even cold during the winter months.

What to pack for Israel weather

Pack light clothing for the summer with warmer cover-ups for winter visits to the hills or Galilee and nights in the desert. Include a light scarf in early summer to protect yourself from the dusty Khamsin winds.

Top Israel destinations

Below are average maximum temperatures at popular countries, regions and places in Israel for next month - November. Select a destination to see the climate guide for all months of the year.