When you start planning a trip to Nablus, the weather definitely deserves some thought. Summers get long, hot, and dry, while winters turn cool and wet, with daylight fading earlier than you might like. If you want comfortable weather, spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) are your best bets. Temperatures stay mild, rain is rare, and there’s usually plenty of sunshine.
You’ll get warm, pleasant days without roasting in the summer heat, and evenings are nice enough for wandering through the city’s old markets, checking out cultural sites, or exploring the hills nearby.
These shoulder seasons also give you more daylight to work with, and you won’t have to worry much about heavy rain or sticky humidity.
If you get a handle on the seasonal weather patterns, you’ll make the most of your time in Nablus. Knowing when the climate is at its friendliest lets you plan outdoor adventures and cultural experiences without much hassle.
Overview of Nablus Weather and Climate
Nablus sits up in the northern West Bank, perched at about 760 meters above sea level. Its Mediterranean setting shapes the climate, so you’ll see warm, dry summers and cooler, wetter winters.
You’ll notice the seasons—temperatures, rain, and cloud cover all shift as the months roll by.
Mediterranean Climate Characteristics
Nablus falls into the Mediterranean hot-summer category (Csa). So, summers often feel long, dry, and sunny. Winters? Mild to cool, with spells of rain.
Most of the rain hits between late fall and early spring. From May through September, the weather dries out and the skies usually stay clear.
That’s just how Mediterranean climates work in this part of the world.
Humidity changes with the seasons. The air feels driest in spring and early summer. By late summer, especially August, it can get muggy.
Thanks to its elevation, Nablus dodges the worst of the heat you’ll find in the lower valleys or along the coast. That makes summer temperatures here a bit easier to handle.
Annual Temperature Patterns
Nablus cycles through warm summers and cool winters. Average daily highs go from 55°F (13°C) in January up to about 85°F (29°C) in August. Lows dip to 43°F (6°C) in winter and rise to 68°F (20°C) in summer.
The hottest stretch runs from late June to mid-September. Highs often climb above 79°F (26°C), and August is usually the peak.
The coldest spell lands between December and February. January tends to be the chilliest, with highs near 55°F and lows in the low 40s.
Evenings cool off a bit, even during hot spells, so nights are usually comfortable.
Seasonal Weather Variations
Nablus sees its rainy season from October to April. January is the wettest, averaging about 2.6 inches of rain.
From June through September, rain basically disappears, leaving a long, dry summer.
Cloud cover shifts too. Summer skies stay mostly clear, but winter brings more overcast days, especially in December.
Winds blow at around 6–7 mph year-round, which helps keep temperatures in check.
Daylight varies a lot—just over 10 hours in December, more than 14 hours in June. That can really shape your travel plans.
Humidity spikes in late summer, especially August, with more muggy days. Spring and winter, on the other hand, feel much drier and more pleasant.
Best Months to Visit Nablus for Pleasant Weather
You’ll catch the best conditions in Nablus during the mild seasons, when it’s not too hot or cold and rain is rare.
That’s when you can really enjoy the city’s markets, old sites, and even side trips to places like Ramallah or Bethlehem—without sweating all day or shivering at night.
Spring: March to May
Spring brings a nice warm-up after winter. In March, highs average around 62°F (17°C), with lows near 47°F (8°C).
By May, days reach 76°F (24°C) and nights hover around 58°F (14°C).
Rain falls off pretty quickly. March can still get about 1.5 inches, but by May, it’s nearly dry.
Outdoor plans get easier, and clear skies become the norm.
You’ll have 12–14 hours of daylight, so there’s more time to explore. The air feels fresh, humidity stays low, and wandering the Old City or hiking the hills is comfortable.
Nablus actually warms up a bit faster than Ramallah and Bethlehem in May, so if you want to get a jump on warm-weather travel, it’s a good pick.
Autumn: September to November
Autumn is another sweet spot for dry weather. September stays warm, with highs near 82°F (28°C) and lows around 66°F (19°C).
By November, things cool off to highs of 67°F (19°C) and lows near 52°F (11°C).
Rain starts to creep back in late October and November, usually 1–1.5 inches. Early autumn is mostly dry, so September and early October are great for being outside.
Humidity drops after summer, making warm days feel a lot more comfortable. Skies are clear most of the time, with more clouds showing up later in autumn.
Nablus hangs on to its warmth a bit longer than Bethlehem and Ramallah, so if you want to stretch your travel season, you’ll like it here.
Detailed Monthly Weather in Nablus
Nablus has that classic Mediterranean climate—hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters.
Temperatures, rain, humidity, and daylight all shift a lot through the year, and that shapes when outdoor fun is easiest.
Temperature Trends by Month
Winters in Nablus feel cool, but not harsh. January stands out as the coldest month, with highs near 55°F (13°C) and lows around 43°F (6°C). Nights can be chilly, but it rarely freezes.
Spring brings a steady rise in temperature. By April, highs hit 70°F (21°C), which feels great for sightseeing.
May gets even warmer, up to 76°F (24°C).
Summer heats up, but it’s not brutal. July and August hit highs near 85°F (29°C), with lows around 68°F (20°C).
September cools a bit to 82°F (28°C).
Autumn moves fast. October averages 77°F (25°C), November drops to 67°F (19°C), and December cools further to highs near 59°F (15°C).
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low |
|---|---|---|
| Jan | 55°F | 43°F |
| Apr | 70°F | 52°F |
| Jul | 84°F | 68°F |
| Aug | 85°F | 68°F |
| Oct | 77°F | 60°F |
Rainfall and Wettest Periods
Rain in Nablus follows a pretty clear pattern. The wettest months are December through February.
January tops the charts with about 2.6 inches (66 mm) and around 8 rainy days.
From late autumn through early spring, you should expect regular showers. February averages 2.4 inches, and March drops to about 1.5 inches.
By late spring, rain is almost gone. May gets just 0.1 inches, and June through September are basically dry.
The dry season runs about six months, from mid-April to mid-October. That makes summer a safe bet for outdoor plans.
Humidity and Dew Point Variations
Humidity shifts a lot in Nablus. Winters feel crisp, with low dew points that keep the air comfortable.
From December through March, muggy days are almost unheard of.
As summer rolls in, humidity climbs. The muggier period runs from early July to late September, peaking in August with about 11 humid days.
Dew points rise during this time, so hot days can feel even warmer.
By October, humidity drops fast. From November through spring, the air dries out again, making for easier travel during cooler months.
Hours of Sunshine Throughout the Year
Daylight hours in Nablus really swing with the seasons. Winter days are short, with about 10 hours of sun in December.
The earliest sunset comes in early December, around 4:30 PM.
Spring brings longer days quickly. By April, you get about 13 hours of sunlight.
The longest days are in June, with more than 14 hours and sunsets close to 7:45 PM.
Summer keeps those long, bright days going until September.
By October, daylight drops to about 11 hours, and autumn evenings arrive earlier.
This daylight cycle makes a difference—summer gives you more time to get out and about, while winter means you’ll want to start your plans earlier in the day.
Seasonal Guide: What to Expect Each Season
Nablus has a Mediterranean climate, so you’ll get hot, dry summers and cooler, wetter winters. Spring and autumn sit in the middle, offering the most comfortable weather for exploring the city and its surroundings.
Spring Weather Overview
Spring in Nablus runs from March through May. Temperatures climb from about 60°F (16°C) in March to 77°F (25°C) in May.
Nights stay cool, especially early on, so packing a light jacket isn’t a bad idea.
Rain tapers off as spring moves along. March can still bring a few showers, but by late April, the weather is mostly dry.
That makes it a lot easier to plan outdoor stuff without worrying about getting soaked.
Daylight stretches out, giving you more time to see the sights. Sunshine averages 8–10 hours per day, which is pretty ideal for exploring.
The mild air and low humidity make walking tours or hikes in the hills a breeze.
This is also when the countryside looks its best—olive groves and valleys turn lush and green. If you’re into photography or just want to soak up the scenery, spring is hard to beat.
Summer: Dry and Hot Conditions
Summer in Nablus lasts from June to September. It’s known for high temperatures and almost no rain.
Daytime highs usually sit between 86–93°F (30–34°C), with August as the hottest month.
Nights rarely drop below 68°F (20°C), so evenings stay warm.
Humidity peaks in August, making the heat feel heavier, but overall, it’s drier than the coast because Nablus is inland.
Rain just doesn’t show up in summer. You can expect clear skies and long stretches of sunshine.
If you’re coming in summer, try to plan your main activities for mornings or late afternoons. The midday heat can get uncomfortable, especially if you’re outside.
Light clothes, sunscreen, and lots of water are must-haves.
Autumn Climate Patterns
Autumn runs from late September to November. Temperatures cool down from highs around 87°F (31°C) in September to 70°F (21°C) by November.
Nights get cooler too, with averages between 55–64°F (13–18°C).
Rain comes back in late October and November. Showers aren’t constant, but they can be heavier than what you see in spring.
That marks the start of the wet season.
Humidity drops after summer, so the air feels more comfortable. September and October skies are often clear, with clouds rolling in later.
This is honestly one of the best times to visit Nablus. Mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and the return of green landscapes after the dry summer make it a great time for both city exploring and countryside trips.
Winter: Cool and Wet Months
Winter in Nablus runs from December to February. The days feel cool but not harsh, with highs usually around 55–64°F (13–18°C). Nights can get chilly, dropping to about 46°F (8°C).
Rain falls most often in December and January, making this the wettest part of the year. Downpours tend to be short but strong, and storms pop up now and then. Snow doesn’t happen often, but every so often, it surprises the city.
Humidity drops compared to summer, yet the frequent rain keeps things damp. You’ll see more cloudy skies, with sunshine limited to roughly 5–6 hours a day.
If you’re planning a trip in winter, you’ll want waterproof clothes and some extra layers. The rain might be annoying, but the cooler air makes it a good time to wander through Nablus’s markets, mosques, and old sites without sweating through your shirt.
Comparing Nablus Weather to Nearby Regions
Nablus shares a lot of climate traits with other central West Bank cities. Still, little differences in elevation and geography make the weather feel unique from place to place. These changes affect how much rain you’ll see, how hot the summers get, and how chilly winters feel. It’s something you’ll notice if you’re bouncing between cities.
Nablus vs. Ramallah
Nablus sits in a valley at about 550 meters above sea level. Ramallah, though, sits higher at around 880 meters. That extra height makes Ramallah cooler, especially once summer rolls in.
In July and August, Nablus can hit 29–30°C (84–86°F) during the day. Ramallah usually stays closer to 27°C (81°F). Nights in Ramallah feel cooler too, which is great if you can’t stand the heat.
Both cities get most of their rain from November through March. Ramallah usually ends up with a bit more—sometimes 20–30 mm more per month when winter peaks.
If you’re after milder summers and don’t mind a little extra rain in winter, Ramallah might be your pick. Nablus offers warmer evenings and a few more dry, sunny days.
Nablus vs. Bethlehem
Bethlehem sits south of Jerusalem at about 775 meters above sea level. Its higher spot makes it a bit cooler and drier than Nablus.
In summer, Bethlehem’s highs hover around 27–28°C (81–82°F). Nablus is a touch hotter, usually 29–30°C (84–86°F). Nights in Bethlehem get cooler, which can be a relief after a warm day.
Winter feels different too. Bethlehem’s nights sometimes fall to 4–5°C (39–41°F), while Nablus usually stays a bit warmer. Rainfall totals are close, but Bethlehem can get slightly less rain some years.
If you like cooler weather for sightseeing, Bethlehem might suit you better. Nablus brings a bit more warmth, especially in months like March or October.
Regional Context: Palestine and Israel
Across Palestine and Israel, climate differences mostly come down to elevation and distance from the Mediterranean. Tel Aviv and other coastal places feel warmer and more humid in winter. Inland hill towns like Ramallah, Bethlehem, and Nablus have cooler, drier air.
Nablus sits in a valley, so summers can feel hotter, but winters don’t get too cold. Ramallah and Bethlehem, thanks to their higher ground, get milder summers and chillier winters.
Compared to Israel’s coast, these West Bank cities deal with less humidity but more rain in winter. Expect clearer skies in summer, but be ready for wetter, cooler days from December to February.
When you travel between these areas, the changing landscape really shapes how the weather feels. Sometimes, even a short drive brings a noticeable shift in temperature or rain.
Practical Tips for Travelers Based on Weather
Nablus’s climate changes a lot with the seasons. Winters bring cool, rainy days, while summers get hot and dry. If you pack and plan with these shifts in mind, you’ll stay comfortable and make the most of your trip.
Packing Recommendations
Pack for the season you’re visiting. In winter (December–February), expect cooler days around 12–15°C and plenty of rain. Bring a waterproof jacket, some warm layers, and shoes that can handle puddles. An umbrella comes in handy, since rain can last a few days at a stretch.
During spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November), the weather feels mild, with highs between 20–26°C. Light clothes work, but you’ll want a sweater or jacket for cooler evenings.
In summer (June–August), Nablus heats up and dries out, with highs close to 30°C and almost no rain. Pack light, breathable clothes, sun protection like hats and sunglasses, and a water bottle to keep hydrated. Good walking shoes are a must all year, since the city’s hills can be a workout.
Planning Outdoor Activities
Try to match your plans to the weather. Spring and autumn bring mild temperatures and less rain, so they’re perfect for wandering the Old City, hiking in the hills, or browsing outdoor markets. You’ll get 9–11 hours of daylight, so there’s time to explore.
In summer, aim for early morning or late evening outings, since the midday sun can be brutal. With almost no rain and gentle winds, you can count on dry, steady weather for sightseeing.
Winter brings the most rain, around 100–150 mm each month, often spread over several days. If you visit then, consider indoor options like museums, cultural centers, or hammams. Trails and roads can get muddy, so hiking might not be the best idea.
Weather-Related Travel Considerations
Rainfall in winter can really slow down travel sometimes. After a heavy shower, streets might flood for a bit, and driving gets trickier. If you’re thinking about renting a car, it’s a good idea to check road conditions before you go anywhere.
Summer brings different issues—heat and that relentless sun can make things uncomfortable fast. Bring water, and honestly, try not to walk too much during those blazing afternoon hours. Find shade when you can.
Wind in Nablus usually stays pretty mild, but in the dry months, dust sometimes kicks up. Sunglasses make a big difference for your eyes.
Seasonal shifts change how much daylight you get. Summer days stretch on, so you’ve got more time outside, but winter days feel awfully short. It helps to plan your outings around the daylight, since sightseeing gets easier (and a lot safer) that way.