Weather in Kuwait City

Kuwait City Climate and Weather: A Year-Round Overview

Kuwait City, the capital of Kuwait, is located in the Arabian Peninsula and experiences a desert climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild winters. The city is known for its scorching temperatures, with summer temperatures often exceeding 45°C (113°F). This article provides a detailed overview of the climate and weather in Kuwait City throughout the year, including temperature ranges, precipitation levels, and notable weather patterns.

Temperature

Kuwait City experiences extremely high temperatures, especially during the summer months. From June to August, average daily temperatures range between 40°C (104°F) and 48°C (118°F). The highest recorded temperature in Kuwait City was 54.4°C (129.9°F) in July 2016. These scorching temperatures make Kuwait City one of the hottest cities in the world. During the winter months, temperatures in Kuwait City are relatively mild compared to the summer. From December to February, average daily temperatures range between 12°C (54°F) and 20°C (68°F). However, it is worth noting that nighttime temperatures can drop significantly, sometimes reaching as low as 5°C (41°F).

Precipitation

Kuwait City experiences very little precipitation throughout the year, with an average annual rainfall of only 115 millimeters (4.5 inches). The majority of the rainfall occurs during the winter months, particularly between November and February. However, even during these months, the amount of rainfall is relatively low. The infrequent rainfall and arid conditions contribute to the desert landscape that characterizes Kuwait City and the surrounding areas. The city's location in the desert makes it prone to sandstorms, which can occur throughout the year but are more common in the spring.

Notable Weather Patterns

Sandstorms, also known as haboobs, are a common weather phenomenon in Kuwait City. These dust storms occur when strong winds blow loose sand and dust particles, reducing visibility and creating hazardous conditions. Sandstorms can last for several hours and often lead to the suspension of outdoor activities. During the summer months, Kuwait City experiences strong winds known as the Shamal. The Shamal winds blow from the northwest and can reach speeds of up to 50 kilometers per hour (31 mph). These winds contribute to the oppressive heat and can cause sandstorms and dust devils. In addition to the extreme heat and sandstorms, Kuwait City also experiences high levels of humidity, particularly in the summer. The combination of high temperatures and humidity can make the weather feel even more uncomfortable and can pose health risks, especially for vulnerable populations.

Climate Data

To provide a comprehensive understanding of the climate in Kuwait City, the table below presents average monthly temperature and precipitation data:

Month	Average High (°C)	Average Low (°C)	Precipitation (mm)
January	18	8	15
February	20	10	11
March	24	14	6
April	30	19	2
May	37	25	0
June	42	29	0
July	45	32	0
August	45	32	0
September	41	28	0
October	35	22	0
November	27	15	5
December	20	10	16

Note: The precipitation data represents the average monthly values and may vary from year to year.

Conclusion

Kuwait City experiences a desert climate with extremely hot summers and mild winters. The city's scorching temperatures, coupled with low levels of precipitation and frequent sandstorms, make it a challenging environment for both residents and visitors. It is important to take necessary precautions, such as staying hydrated and protecting oneself from the sun and sand during the summer months.