Winter in Jerusalem feels crisp, calm, and honestly, a bit brighter than you might guess. You’ll find cool days averaging in the low to mid-50s °F (10–13 °C) and chilly nights dipping into the low 40s °F (5–6 °C). Snow almost never shows up, but short rain showers roll through pretty often, leaving the city feeling fresh and clean.
You’ll probably notice the winter skies change quickly. Clear mornings can turn cloudy with some light rain by afternoon.
The season brings shorter days, just over 10 hours of daylight in December. That really shapes how you plan your time outside.
Since winter is the wettest season of the year, you’ll want to be ready for damp streets and cooler winds. The city’s stone buildings and old sites look especially charming in this weather, which actually makes winter a surprisingly nice time to wander.
Overview of Jerusalem’s Winter Climate
Jerusalem’s winter brings cooler temperatures, shorter days, and most of the city’s annual rainfall. You’ll notice mild but damp conditions compared to the scorching, dry summers.
Daylight, wind, and cloud cover all shift pretty noticeably as winter settles in.
Mediterranean Climate Characteristics
Jerusalem sits right between Mediterranean and semi-arid climates. So, you get wet winters and dry summers, with almost all of the rain falling from November to March.
During winter, average highs reach about 53–57°F (12–14°C). Lows usually drop to 41–44°F (5–7°C).
It hardly ever freezes, but a few nights can get close to 35°F (2°C). Snow? It’s rare, but you might see a few flurries every couple of years.
Humidity stays moderate, and you probably won’t run into muggy weather in winter. Winds blow steadily, averaging around 6–7 mph, usually from the west.
That breeze adds a chill, especially after dark.
Because Jerusalem sits at about 2,579 feet (790 meters) above sea level, it feels cooler than coastal cities like Tel Aviv, even though the overall climate is similar.
Typical Weather Patterns in Winter
Rain really defines winter here. On average, you’ll have about a 19% chance of rain on any winter day, with monthly totals between 1.2 and 1.8 inches.
Rain usually comes in quick bursts, sometimes heavy, but clear skies often follow.
Clouds start to thin out as winter goes on. December tends to be the cloudiest, while late February brings more clear or partly sunny days.
This shift makes late winter feel brighter and a bit warmer.
Daylight ticks up as winter moves along. In December, the sun sets around 4:35 PM. By late February, it’s closer to 5:35 PM, giving you almost an extra hour of daylight.
Sunrise also gets earlier, so mornings brighten up a bit.
You’ll almost never see snow. Instead, expect damp, cool days with the occasional storm. A light waterproof jacket and layers are your best bet for staying comfortable.
Comparison to Other Seasons
Winter really stands out compared to the rest of the year in Jerusalem. Summer highs often shoot above 85°F (29°C) and skies barely see a cloud, but winter brings cooler, wetter, and more unpredictable weather.
Spring warms up fast, with March highs reaching the upper 60s°F (20°C). Rain tapers off quickly, and the landscape turns green before summer’s dry heat moves in.
Autumn works as a transition. Early fall stays hot and dry, but by November, cooler nights and the first rains signal winter’s approach.
The distribution of rainfall shows the contrast:
- Winter (Nov–Mar): Almost all annual precipitation
- Summer (Jun–Sep): Nearly no rain
- Spring & Autumn: Transitional, with light rainfall mainly in March and November
This rhythm shapes Jerusalem’s climate and really influences daily life, farming, and travel plans here.
Average Winter Temperatures in Jerusalem
Winter brings cool days and chilly nights to Jerusalem. Temperatures swing depending on the month and time of day.
You’ll find mild afternoons compared to other cities at this latitude, but nights often slip down close to the lower 40s °F, especially in January.
Monthly Temperature Ranges
From December through February, daily highs usually stick between 53°F and 57°F (12°C–14°C). Lows often land between 41°F to 48°F (5°C–9°C).
- December: Highs around 57°F, lows near 48°F
- January: Highs closer to 53°F, lows near 41°F
- February: Highs back up to about 57°F, lows around 44°F
Jerusalem almost never sees extreme cold. Freezing temps below 32°F can happen, but it’s uncommon.
Snowfall is rare, though you might catch a bit some winters.
Daytime Versus Nighttime Temperatures
Daytime in winter feels cool but pleasant for walking or sightseeing. Highs often reach the mid-50s °F, so a light jacket usually does the trick.
Once the sun sets, things get noticeably colder. Temperatures drop fast, often into the low-40s °F.
Some years, nights even dip into the upper 30s °F.
Because the city sits at about 2,500 feet (760 meters), nights feel cooler than along the coast. If you’re heading out after dark, you’ll want warmer clothes than you’d expect from those mild afternoons.
Coldest and Mildest Winter Months
January is the coldest month in Jerusalem. Highs hover near 53°F (12°C), and lows average about 41°F (5°C).
This is when you’re most likely to see frost or the odd snow shower.
December and February feel a bit milder. December still stays cool, but daytime highs near 57°F make it more comfortable.
By late February, temperatures start climbing, and lows aren’t as sharp, usually around 44°F.
If you’re after the mildest winter weather, February has more daylight and slightly warmer days than the rest of winter.
Rainfall and Precipitation Patterns
Jerusalem’s winter brings most of the city’s annual rainfall, with steady showers shaping the season. Rain falls unevenly from month to month, with big differences in totals and the rare chance of snow.
Monthly Rainfall Totals
Jerusalem gets about 365 mm of rain per year, and most of that falls between December and February. January is usually the wettest, with around 80 mm of rain.
December and February see plenty too, though less than January.
Summer, by comparison, is nearly bone dry, with July and August logging basically 0 mm of rain.
Here’s a quick look at the averages:
| Month | Avg. Rainfall (mm) |
|---|---|
| December | ~70 mm |
| January | ~80 mm |
| February | ~65 mm |
| July | ~0 mm |
So if you visit in winter, expect wet weather, but summer stays dry and clear.
Frequency of Rainy Days
You won’t get rain every day in winter, but when it comes, it can be steady and sometimes heavy. January has about 10 rainy days on average, making it the wettest month.
December and February see a bit less, usually 7–9 days each.
These rainy days spread out over the month, not bunched together. You might get a few wet days, then several dry ones.
Winter weather can flip quickly, with fast shifts between rain and sun.
So, if you’re planning winter activities, bring rain gear, but you’ll also catch breaks of sunshine between storms.
Rare Occurrence of Snow
Snow in Jerusalem doesn’t happen often, but it’s not impossible. The city’s elevation, about 779 meters (2,557 feet) above sea level, gives it a better shot at snow than coastal spots like Tel Aviv.
When snow does fall, it’s usually light and melts fast. Every few years, though, a heavier snow might blanket the city and slow things down.
These rare events stick in people’s memories, but you can’t really count on seeing snow.
If you’re traveling in mid-winter, keep in mind a brief snowfall could happen, but don’t bank on it.
Humidity and Wind Conditions in Winter
In winter, Jerusalem’s humidity climbs compared to the dry summers. Winds pick up, hitting their peak in the coldest months.
Both of these factors shape how the weather feels when you’re out and about, and they definitely affect comfort if you’re exploring the city.
Average Humidity Levels
Humidity rises in winter, often hitting 58–62% on average. Cooler temperatures and seasonal rain between December and March boost the moisture in the air.
You’ll probably notice mornings and evenings feel damper, especially after a rain. Indoors without heating, things can get a little clammy because of the extra moisture.
Here’s a quick look at average humidity:
| Month | Average Humidity |
|---|---|
| December | ~60% |
| January | ~62% |
| February | ~60% |
| March | ~59% |
These numbers are moderate compared to Israel’s coast, but still enough to notice. If you’re sensitive to damp air, bring quick-drying clothes and maybe plan for some indoor time after rain.
Wind Speed and Gusts
Winter also brings stronger winds. Average speeds range from 8–12 km/h (5–7 mph), and gusts can reach 16 km/h (10 mph), especially in January and February when storms pass through.
Winds usually blow in from the west or southwest, carrying cool, moist air from the Mediterranean.
This flow brings winter rains and adds to the chilly feel.
While those speeds might not sound wild, gusts can make it feel colder than the thermometer says. If you’re walking through the Old City or up in the hills, a windproof jacket will make a big difference.
Wind can also cut visibility during rain, as strong gusts drive showers across the streets. Expect the occasional blustery afternoon, especially when weather fronts roll in.
Sunlight and Daylight Hours
Winter in Jerusalem means shorter days and less sunshine than the long, bright summers. You’ll get reduced daylight and a lower sun angle, which affects both the weather and your daily plans.
Average Daily Sunshine
During the winter months, you’ll see fewer hours of direct sun. In December, expect about 6 hours per day.
January averages closer to 5 hours 45 minutes. By February, you get a bit more—around 6 hours 15 minutes.
Clouds are more common in winter, so the sky isn’t as reliably clear as in summer. About 56–60% of daylight hours in December and January are sunny, while February bumps up to about 58%.
Most days, you’ll get a mix of sun and cloud.
The sun sits lower in the sky, too. At midday in late December, it only climbs to about 35° above the horizon—compare that to over 80° in June.
This weaker sunlight keeps winter days feeling cool, even if it’s bright out.
Length of Daylight in Winter
Daylight hours shift a lot through winter. The shortest day comes in late December, with about 9 hours 54 minutes of daylight.
Early January stays short, just over 10 hours.
By February, days start stretching out, reaching about 11 hours by month’s end. That extra time lets you squeeze in more outdoor plans as winter winds down.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
- December: ~10 hours
- January: ~10 hours 20 minutes
- February: ~11 hours
These shorter days, along with the cooler air, really shape the pace of daily life in Jerusalem during the winter months.
Travel Tips for Experiencing Winter in Jerusalem
Winter in Jerusalem hits you with cool temperatures, frequent rain, and wind that sometimes feels colder than you’d expect. You’ll want to prepare for damp conditions.
At the same time, there are so many cultural events and seasonal activities that make winter here feel special.
What to Pack for Winter Weather
Definitely bring layered clothing. Daytime highs usually land around 11–14°C (50–57°F). Nights? They can drop to 5–6°C (41–43°F).
A warm sweater or fleece under a waterproof jacket will keep you comfortable.
Rain falls pretty often, especially in January, so toss a compact umbrella and water-resistant shoes in your bag.
The stone-paved Old City gets slippery, and puddles show up fast.
A lightweight scarf, gloves, and a hat come in handy on windy days. If you’re heading up to places like the Mount of Olives, you’ll be glad you have them.
If you want to see religious sites, you’ll need modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
Darker colors make sense when it’s wet out, since they hide mud splashes better.
Thinking about exploring outside Jerusalem, maybe the Judean Desert? Pack quick-dry fabrics, just in case you run into flash floods after heavy rain.
Seasonal Activities and Events
Winter brings a bunch of major holidays to Jerusalem. In December, you’ll probably spot Hanukkah menorah lightings at the Western Wall and maybe grab some sufganiyot, which are those delicious seasonal donuts.
Christian visitors flock to the Old City’s churches for Christmas services. The atmosphere feels pretty festive around then.
February rolls in with Tu b’Shvat, so locals and visitors join tree-planting ceremonies and nature-themed events. Sometimes March brings Purim—expect parades, costumes everywhere, and wild street parties.
Museums like the Israel Museum or Tower of David run winter programs that keep things interesting. You’ll find evening light shows, bustling indoor markets, and plenty of cultural performances when it’s rainy outside.
If you want to get outdoors, try to pick clear days. Walk the Old City or check out short hiking trails near Jerusalem, but stay flexible—weather can flip fast.