`Ajlun Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Jordan

Summer

The summer months in Ajlun, Jordan, span from June to August and are characterized by hot and dry weather. Temperatures during this time typically range from an average low of 20°C (68°F) to an average high of 35°C (95°F). The humidity levels are generally low, making the heat more bearable. However, there can be occasional heatwaves with temperatures exceeding 40°C (104°F). Rainfall is scarce during summer, with an average of only a few millimeters per month.

Spring and Autumn

Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are transitional seasons in Ajlun, offering milder temperatures and more comfortable weather. In spring, temperatures gradually rise, with average highs in the mid-20s Celsius (mid-70s Fahrenheit) and average lows in the mid-10s Celsius (mid-50s Fahrenheit). Light showers may occur during this time, but overall, the weather tends to be pleasant. In autumn, temperatures decline, with average highs in the low 20s Celsius (low 70s Fahrenheit) and average lows in the low 10s Celsius (low 50s Fahrenheit). Like spring, autumn experiences occasional rainfall, but the weather is generally dry and sunny.

Monthly Average Temperatures in Ajlun, Jordan

Ajlun, Jordan, features a continental Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters. The average annual temperature is approximately 16 degrees Celsius (61 degrees Fahrenheit).

During the summer months (June to September), temperatures can reach highs of around 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit) and lows of around 18 degrees Celsius (64 degrees Fahrenheit). July is typically the hottest month, with average temperatures of 29 degrees Celsius (84 degrees Fahrenheit). The summer months also experience occasional hot spells, during which temperatures can exceed 35 degrees Celsius (95 degrees Fahrenheit).

In the winter months (December to February), temperatures average between 5 degrees Celsius (41 degrees Fahrenheit) and 10 degrees Celsius (50 degrees Fahrenheit). January is typically the coldest month, with average temperatures of 7 degrees Celsius (45 degrees Fahrenheit). The winter months see a fair amount of precipitation in the form of rain and occasional snowfall, especially at higher elevations.

Cloud Cover

Ajlun, Jordan experiences varying cloud cover throughout the year. During the summer months (June-August), the skies are typically clear or partly cloudy, with occasional thunderstorms. In the spring and fall (April-May and September-October), cloud cover is more frequent, with a mix of sunny and cloudy days. The winter months (November-March) bring the most cloud cover, with frequent overcast skies and occasional snow or rain.

Cloud Types

The types of clouds observed in Ajlun vary depending on the time of year and weather conditions. Cumulus clouds, characterized by their puffy, cotton-like appearance, are common during the summer and fall months. These clouds are often associated with fair weather and can produce light rain or snow. Stratus clouds, which appear as a uniform gray layer covering the sky, are common during the winter months and can produce drizzle or light rain. Cirrus clouds, thin, wispy clouds made of ice crystals, are often seen in the spring and fall and indicate fair weather.

Seasonal Precipitation Patterns

Precipitation in Ajlun, Jordan, exhibits a distinct seasonal pattern. The region experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. During the summer months (May-September), rainfall is scarce, with most days receiving little to no precipitation. The average monthly precipitation during this period ranges from a mere 1 mm in July and August to 10 mm in May and September.

Winter Precipitation

In contrast to the summer, the winter months (October-April) witness significantly higher precipitation levels. Rainfall is frequent, with an average of 5-10 days of precipitation per month. The heaviest rainfall occurs in January and February, with monthly averages reaching 100 mm. This precipitation contributes to the lush vegetation and agricultural productivity of the region.

Precipitation Patterns

Ajlun, Jordan, experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Rainfall is concentrated during the winter months from November to April, with an average annual precipitation of around 500 mm (20 in). The majority of this rainfall occurs in the form of sporadic, heavy downpours. Snowfall is rare but can occasionally occur during the coldest months.

Seasonal Variations

During the summer months, precipitation is scarce, with average monthly rainfall typically below 5 mm (0.2 in). Temperatures soar to highs of around 30°C (86°F), creating arid conditions. In contrast, the winter months bring significant rainfall, averaging over 100 mm (4 in) per month. Temperatures drop to around 10°C (50°F), making the weather cold and wet. This seasonal contrast in precipitation patterns is a defining characteristic of the Mediterranean climate experienced in Ajlun.

Heavy Snowfall in Ajlun, Jordan

A blanket of heavy snowfall engulfed the city of Ajlun, Jordan, on January 18, 2023. The snowfall, which began in the early morning hours, reached a depth of over 50 centimeters, leaving streets impassable and disrupting daily life. The snowfall was accompanied by strong winds and freezing temperatures, creating hazardous conditions for residents.

The heavy snowfall brought both beauty and disruption to Ajlun. The snow-covered landscapes created picturesque scenes, with trees and buildings adorned in a thick layer of white. However, the snow also caused widespread power outages, transportation delays, and school closures. The local authorities worked tirelessly to clear the snow and restore essential services, but the snowfall continued to impact the city throughout the day.

Sunrise in Ajlun, Jordan

Watching the sunrise in Ajlun, Jordan, is an awe-inspiring experience. As the first rays of golden light peek over the horizon, the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant hues. The ancient ruins of Ajlun Castle, perched atop a hill overlooking the Jordan Valley, are illuminated in a warm glow. The air is filled with a sense of serenity and wonder as nature awakens to a new day.

Sunset in Ajlun, Jordan

As the sun descends towards the horizon in Ajlun, Jordan, a fiery spectacle unfolds in the sky. The sky bursts into a kaleidoscope of colors, ranging from deep oranges and reds to soft pinks and purples. The ancient ruins of Ajlun Castle take on a haunting beauty, their silhouette sharply defined against the backdrop of the setting sun. The surrounding hills and valleys are bathed in a warm golden light, creating a breathtaking panorama.

Lunar Observation in Ajlun, Jordan

Ajlun, Jordan, offers a captivating setting for lunar observation due to its dark skies and remote location. The absence of urban lights ensures minimal light pollution, allowing for pristine views of the moon’s surface. Visitors to Ajlun can immerse themselves in the tranquility of the night sky, marveling at the intricate craters and vast lunar landscapes through telescopes or the naked eye. The clarity of the night sky also facilitates the observation of lunar eclipses and other celestial events.

The surrounding hills and natural topography of Ajlun further enhance the lunar observation experience. Hikers and campers can venture to higher vantage points, affording them panoramic views of the moonlit landscape. The interplay of moonlight and rugged terrain creates a surreal and atmospheric environment, perfect for stargazing and moonwatching. Ajlun’s unique location and pristine skies make it an ideal destination for amateur astronomers and enthusiasts seeking exceptional lunar observation opportunities.

Annual Humidity Patterns

Ajlun, Jordan, is characterized by relatively low humidity levels throughout the year. The average annual humidity ranges from 45% in late summer to 65% in late winter. During the summer months (June-September), humidity levels are consistently low, typically ranging from 35% to 45%. This is attributed to the warm, dry air masses originating from the Sahara Desert, which dominate the region during this period.

Seasonal Variations

Humidity levels exhibit distinct seasonal variations in Ajlun. During the winter months (December-March), humidity gradually increases as cold fronts from the Mediterranean Sea bring moisture into the area. Humidity levels peak in January and February, when they often reach 65% or higher. This period corresponds with the rainy season, which brings significant precipitation to the region. In contrast, the summer months are characterized by extremely low humidity levels, often dropping below 35%. The low humidity is influenced by the prevailing southerly winds, which bring hot, dry air from the desert.

Wind Patterns

Ajlun, Jordan, experiences a predominantly westerly wind direction throughout the year. This is attributed to the prevailing westerlies, which are global wind currents that blow from west to east in the mid-latitudes of the Northern Hemisphere. During the summer months (June to September), the westerlies intensify, bringing with them hot, dry air from the Sahara Desert. This often leads to strong winds and occasional dust storms in the region.

In contrast, during the winter months (December to February), the westerlies weaken, and northerly winds become more prevalent. These winds are driven by cold fronts originating from the Mediterranean Sea and often bring rain or snow to Ajlun. The wind speeds are generally lower during this time of year, although occasional strong gusts may occur. Overall, the wind patterns in Ajlun are characterized by a dominance of westerly winds, with seasonal variations influenced by the prevailing westerlies and local weather conditions.

Spring (March-May):

Spring in Ajlun is characterized by mild and pleasant weather, making it an ideal time to visit. The temperatures range between 15°C to 25°C, providing comfortable conditions for exploring the castle and surrounding areas. The landscape is adorned with blooming wildflowers, creating a picturesque setting. Rainfall is minimal, and the skies are mostly clear, offering excellent visibility for panoramic views from the castle.

Autumn (September-November):

Autumn in Ajlun brings slightly cooler temperatures, ranging between 10°C to 20°C. The days are still sunny, but the nights can be chilly, requiring warmer clothing. The foliage turns vibrant shades of yellow, orange, and red, creating a breathtaking spectacle in the surrounding forests. This season is less crowded, providing a more serene and tranquil experience for visitors. The harvest season also begins in autumn, offering opportunities to sample fresh produce from local farmers’ markets.

Potential and Challenges

Ajlun, Jordan boasts significant potential for solar energy development due to its abundant sunshine and large expanses of arid land. The region receives an average of 5.5 kWh/m2 per day of solar radiation, providing excellent conditions for photovoltaic (PV) systems. Moreover, Jordan’s government has set ambitious targets for renewable energy, with solar energy playing a prominent role.

However, certain challenges need to be addressed for solar energy to fully realize its potential in Ajlun. One major obstacle is the high cost of installing and maintaining PV systems. Additionally, land availability can be an issue, as the region is largely agricultural with limited open space for solar farms.

Development and Investment

Despite the challenges, there has been considerable progress in solar energy development in Ajlun. Several projects have been initiated to install solar panels on rooftops and in open areas. One notable project is the 1.5 MW solar farm in Kufranga, which generates enough electricity to power over 1,000 homes.

To support solar energy development, the Jordanian government provides various incentives, including tax breaks and feed-in tariffs for renewable energy producers. These incentives have attracted foreign investors and helped bring down the cost of solar energy for businesses and individuals.

Climate and Vegetation in Ajlun, Jordan

Ajlun is situated within Jordan’s Mediterranean climatic zone, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The average annual temperature is around 18°C (64°F), with July and August being the hottest months and January the coldest. The average annual rainfall is approximately 600 mm (24 in), primarily occurring during the winter months. The region receives a significant amount of sunshine throughout the year, with an average of 3,000 hours annually.

The vegetation in Ajlun is primarily composed of Mediterranean shrubland and forests. The dominant species include evergreen oak, holm oak, terebinth, and carob trees. These forests provide shelter for a diverse range of wildlife, including wolves, jackals, wild boar, and various bird species. The vegetation also contributes to the region’s biodiversity and plays a crucial role in soil conservation and water retention. However, due to human activities such as deforestation and overgrazing, the natural vegetation cover has been gradually declining in recent decades.

Queen Alia International Airport

The nearest airport to Ajlun, Jordan, is Queen Alia International Airport (AMM), located approximately 80 kilometers (50 miles) to the west. AMM is Jordan’s primary international airport, serving both domestic and international flights. It offers direct connections to major cities around the world, including Amman, Istanbul, Dubai, London, and Paris. From the airport, travelers can reach Ajlun by taxi, bus, or rental car. The journey typically takes about 1.5 hours by taxi or bus, while a rental car allows for a more flexible and convenient option.

Other nearby airports

While Queen Alia International Airport is the closest airport to Ajlun, there are other regional airports that may offer alternative options for travelers. Marka International Airport (ADJ), located about 35 kilometers (22 miles) south of Amman, primarily serves domestic flights and charter services. It may offer more affordable or convenient flights for travelers within Jordan. Amman Civil Airport (AMM), located just outside of Amman, is another regional airport that handles both domestic and international flights. However, it is primarily used for military and government operations and may not have as many commercial flight options as Queen Alia International Airport.

History of Ajlun, Jordan

Ajlun, a city in northern Jordan, boasts a rich and ancient history dating back to the Neolithic period. It was an important Roman settlement known as Capitolias and later served as a Byzantine town before falling under Arab rule in the 7th century. During the Crusader era, Ajlun held strategic importance and was fortified by the Muslims and later by the Crusaders. The most notable landmark from this period is Ajlun Castle, a magnificent fortress built by the Muslim warlord Izz al-Din Usama in the 12th century. After the fall of the Crusader Kingdom of Jerusalem, Ajlun came under Ayyubid, Mamluk, and Ottoman control before eventually becoming part of the modern state of Jordan.

Ajlun Castle

Ajlun Castle, perched atop Mount Auf, is the city’s most iconic landmark and a testament to its historical significance. Built in 1185 AD by the Muslim leader Izz al-Din Usama, the castle was part of a larger defensive network established to protect the Muslim territories from Crusader incursions. The castle’s architecture reflects a blend of Islamic and Crusader influences, with massive walls, towers, and a keep. It also features a mosque, a cistern, and a stable, providing a glimpse into the daily life of the medieval garrison. Ajlun Castle has been extensively restored in recent years and is now a popular tourist destination, offering panoramic views of the surrounding Jordan Valley and the distant mountains of Palestine and Syria.