Winter in Annaba feels pretty mild compared to lots of other places, but it definitely has its own vibe. You’ll usually see average daytime highs around 61°F (16°C) in January, which is the coldest month, and nights can drop to about 46°F (8°C).
You won’t have to deal with harsh freezing weather, but there’s a cool, damp air that really shapes daily life during winter.
Rain shows up a lot in winter here. December through February brings the most showers, so this is the wettest stretch of the year.
Cloudy skies and steady winds from the Mediterranean add to the chill. Still, you’ll catch breaks of sunshine that show off the city’s coastal charm.
If you’re planning to spend time outside, shorter days and breezy afternoons will shape your plans. Winter in Annaba isn’t about brutal cold, but more about juggling cooler temps, rain, and the usual Mediterranean climate rhythm.
Overview of Annaba’s Winter Climate
Annaba sits in northeastern Algeria and gets its Mediterranean climate from its spot along the sea. Winters bring cooler air, more rain, and higher humidity compared to the hot, dry summers.
Location and Mediterranean Climate
You’ll find Annaba on Algeria’s northeastern coast, not far from Tunisia. Its spot by the sea keeps winters much milder than what you’d get inland.
The Mediterranean Sea keeps temperatures steady, so you won’t see any wild cold snaps. While other parts of Algeria might drop below freezing, Annaba usually stays above 5°C at night.
Daytime highs often hit 15–17°C, which feels pleasant compared to the deep cold of continental climates.
Annaba falls under the Köppen-Geiger classification Csa—that means hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters. The sea breeze bumps up humidity, making the air feel cooler than the numbers suggest.
Annaba gets more rain than the desert areas to the south. Most of it comes in the cooler months, with winter being the wettest season.
Winter Weather Patterns
From late November to March, expect cooler weather, frequent rainfall, and more clouds. January stands out as the coldest month, with lows near 8°C and highs around 16°C.
Rain falls often—January averages about 67 mm of it. You’ll get wet days roughly 8–9 times each month in midwinter.
Snow almost never falls here because of the mild coastal influence, but higher inland areas sometimes see it.
Winds pick up in winter, averaging close to 18 km/h in December. These breezes can make the air bite a bit more, especially on gray days.
Humidity creeps up too, so things feel damp—pretty different from the dry summer months.
Daylight hours drop, with just about 10 hours of sun in January. Even so, Annaba still gets the occasional clear day, which is always welcome.
Comparison to Other Regions in Algeria
Compared to inland Algeria, Annaba stands out. Cities like Constantine or Batna, farther from the sea, get colder nights that can dip close to freezing.
Annaba’s coastal air keeps things milder.
Down south in the Sahara, winters are way drier and sunnier. Daytime highs there can still hit 20°C or more, but nights cool off fast because of the desert.
Western coastal cities like Oran or Algiers have a similar Mediterranean feel, but Annaba usually sees a bit more rain in winter.
That makes Annaba a little greener and more humid than the drier western coast.
Travel across Algeria in winter, and you’ll notice Annaba’s mix of mild temperatures, higher rainfall, and sea influence really set it apart from both the dry south and the colder inland areas.
Average Winter Temperatures in Annaba
Winter brings cool days and chilly nights to Annaba, but temperatures stay mild compared to much of northern Algeria.
You’ll notice steady seasonal patterns, with January being the coldest.
Daytime and Nighttime Temperature Ranges
During winter, Annaba’s daytime highs usually land between 15°C and 18°C (59°F to 64°F). That’s comfortable enough for a walk along the coast or exploring the city without bundling up too much.
At night, temperatures drop more sharply. Lows often fall to 8°C–10°C (46°F–50°F) in December and February, and closer to 8°C (46°F) in January.
The coastal humidity makes the cool nights feel even damper, so you’ll want a jacket or sweater once the sun goes down.
The difference between day and night isn’t huge, so things stay pretty steady—unlike inland Algerian cities, where winter swings can get pretty wild.
Coldest Months and Record Lows
January’s the coldest month, with average highs near 16°C (61°F) and lows around 8°C (46°F). February is similar, though it starts to warm up a bit as the month ends.
Record lows don’t happen often, but sometimes temps dip below 5°C (41°F) if cold air sweeps in from the north.
Frost is rare in the city, but nearby higher areas can get colder nights.
You won’t see the severe cold you’d find in Algeria’s high plateaus, but the damp sea air can make it feel chillier than you’d expect.
Temperature Fluctuations and Extremes
Annaba’s winter brings mild but noticeable ups and downs. Cold fronts from the Mediterranean can pull daytime highs down to 12°C–14°C (54°F–57°F) for a few days.
Those cold spells don’t last long—things bounce back to normal pretty quickly.
You won’t have to worry about extreme heat in winter, but now and then, a warm spell can push highs up to 20°C (68°F) or a bit more, especially late in February.
Annaba’s coastal spot keeps winter extremes in check, making weather pretty predictable and easy to plan around.
Precipitation and Rainfall Patterns
Winter in Annaba, Algeria, means cooler temperatures and a clear jump in rainfall compared to the bone-dry summer.
You’ll notice wetter conditions, higher humidity, and more rainy days that really set the mood for the season.
Monthly Rainfall Totals
Rain peaks in winter. December usually gets the most, averaging around 70 mm (2.8 in).
January is close behind with about 71 mm (2.8 in), while February drops a little to 50–55 mm (2.0–2.2 in).
This rainfall keeps the region green during winter. Unlike summer, when rain is a rare event, winter showers show up more often and usually come in short bursts, not long storms.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Month | Average Rainfall (mm) | Average Rainfall (in) |
|---|---|---|
| December | ~70–71 mm | ~2.8 in |
| January | ~71 mm | ~2.8 in |
| February | ~50–55 mm | ~2.0–2.2 in |
So winter is by far the wettest time in Annaba, with totals way higher than the dry months.
Frequency of Rainy Days
You’ll see a lot more rainy days in winter. December often brings 15–18 days with some rain.
January is about the same, and February averages a bit fewer—around 12–14 days.
That means you’ll get rain on nearly half the days in December and January. Usually, it’s light to moderate showers, but sometimes you’ll get a heavier downpour.
In summer, rain might happen just once or twice a month, so winter feels a lot wetter. If you’re heading out, keeping an umbrella or rain jacket handy just makes sense.
Humidity Levels in Winter
Humidity stays pretty high in Annaba during winter, thanks to all the rain and cooler air. Relative humidity averages 70% to 75%, making mornings and evenings feel especially damp.
That’s typical for Mediterranean coast cities in winter. The extra moisture can make it feel colder than what the thermometer says.
You’ll also notice more cloud cover. The sky is way less clear than in summer, with overcast days popping up more in December and January.
That mix of humidity and clouds gives Annaba its classic winter feel.
Sea Temperature During Winter
The Mediterranean cools off a lot in Annaba during winter. The water temperature drops compared to summer and fall, so swimming becomes rare, but the sea stays milder than in many places at this latitude.
Average Sea Temperatures by Month
Winter runs from December through February. During these months, sea temperatures usually sit between 15°C and 17°C.
- December: about 17°C
- January: about 15.5°C
- February: about 16°C
These numbers come from long-term records, but they can shift a bit year to year. January is usually when the sea hits its coldest point.
Compared to summer, when the sea can get above 25°C, winter feels much chillier. Still, the water rarely drops below 15°C, which is mild compared to northern Europe or the Atlantic.
This steady range just shows how Annaba’s Mediterranean climate keeps things moderate.
Suitability for Swimming and Water Activities
At 15–17°C, the sea feels pretty cold for a casual swim. Without a wetsuit, most people won’t stay in for long.
Short dips are possible, but you probably won’t want to linger unless you’re used to cold water.
For water sports like diving, snorkeling, or surfing, winter is fine if you use the right gear. A full wetsuit will keep you comfortable enough.
The sea is often calmer in winter than summer, but storms can still whip up rough conditions.
If you’re planning anything on the water, check the local forecast for waves and wind. It’s the best way to know if it’s safe.
Wind Speed and Atmospheric Conditions
Winds can really shape how winter feels in Annaba. They change how cold it seems and how the weather shifts from day to day.
The steady breezes, random strong gusts, and changes in air pressure all play a part in comfort and visibility.
Average Wind Speeds in Winter
Annaba’s winter winds are usually moderate, but they can vary. Average speeds run between 10 to 15 km/h (6 to 9 mph), though gusts can get stronger near the coast.
You’ll notice the wind more in open areas by the sea than in sheltered spots inland.
Wind direction matters too. Northerly and northwesterly winds bring cool, damp air from the Mediterranean, while easterly breezes carry slightly warmer, still humid conditions.
This mix means the air can feel different even if the temperature doesn’t change much.
Wind speeds often pick up when low-pressure systems move in. These are common in winter and usually bring unsettled weather.
The winds aren’t extreme, but they can make it feel colder than what the thermometer says.
Impact of Winds on Local Weather
Winds do more than just make you chilly. They shape humidity, cloud cover, and rainfall patterns during winter.
When strong northwesterly winds blow in from the sea, you’ll often see more clouds and light rain.
On calmer days with just a light breeze, fog and haze can hang around, especially in the early morning. That can cut visibility on roads and along the coast.
If you’re traveling or planning outdoor activities, keep an eye out for these changes.
Wind also changes how you feel the cold. A steady breeze can make temps in the high 40s °F (8–10 °C) feel even colder, especially near the water.
Wearing wind-resistant clothing makes a big difference if you’re out exploring the city or the beaches during winter.
Sunshine Hours and Daylight Duration
In Annaba, winter brings shorter days and a lot less sunshine than summer. The sunlight you get each day really shapes how warm and bright the season feels.
Average Daily Sunshine
During winter, Annaba usually gets about 6 to 7 hours of sunshine per day. January often feels the gloomiest, with only 6.0–6.4 hours of sun, but by February, you might notice a small bump to almost 7 hours.
Clouds and rain show up more often in winter, so the sunlight drops. Humidity hovers around 75–77%, which keeps the skies pretty cloudy and makes bright days rare.
If you’re planning outdoor activities, you’ll have to work with shorter stretches of reliable sunshine. Mornings and early afternoons usually give you the best shot at clear skies before the clouds and rain decide to roll in.
Length of Winter Days
Winter days in Annaba don’t last as long. In December, you get roughly 9.5 hours of daylight. By February, that stretches out a bit, getting closer to 11 hours.
Sunrise in December happens around 7:30 AM, and sunset comes pretty early, near 5:00 PM. In February, the sun rises earlier, about 7:00 AM, and sets later, close to 6:00 PM.
As winter goes on, you get a bit more daylight for outdoor plans. Even with more light, evenings can feel chilly, so it’s smart to bring an extra layer if you’re out after sunset.
Typical Winter Experiences in Annaba
Winter in Annaba feels cooler, with more rain and less daylight. The city still keeps its coastal charm and lively culture, though. You’ll want to be ready for damp conditions, and things definitely slow down compared to the buzz of summer.
Outdoor Activities and Local Life
Daytime highs usually sit between 14°C and 16°C (57–60°F), and nights can dip close to 9°C (48°F). Rain falls pretty often, especially in December, which tends to be the wettest stretch. Outdoor plans might depend on the weather, but there’s still plenty to enjoy.
People still love walking along the seafront, even if swimming isn’t really an option—sea temperatures hang around 14–15°C (57–59°F), which isn’t exactly inviting. Locals gather at the cafés lining the coast, sipping something warm and watching the waves.
The markets stay lively all year, and winter actually makes them easier to explore without the summer crowds. You’ll spot fresh citrus, olives, and seafood in season. Cultural spots like the Basilica of St. Augustine or the old Kasbah are more pleasant to visit in cooler weather with fewer tourists around.
Travel Tips for Winter Visitors
Pack a waterproof jacket and sturdy shoes, since you’ll probably run into a few rainy days while you’re here. Winter brings about 50–70 mm of rain each month, and the streets can get pretty slippery.
You might want to bring an umbrella, but honestly, the coastal wind sometimes makes a hooded jacket the better pick.
Daylight sticks around for about 10 hours in December, so you’ll want to start sightseeing earlier if you don’t want to rush. If it’s pouring, museums and old churches can save the day—they’re solid indoor options.
You’ll find accommodation more easily in winter, since fewer people visit compared to the summer crowds. Prices tend to drop, too.
Buses and trams usually stick to their schedules, but wet weather can slow things down, so give yourself a little extra time when crossing between districts.
Bring layers, because mornings and evenings feel a lot cooler than midday. Usually, a light sweater under your jacket keeps you comfortable in Annaba’s mild but damp winter weather.