Weather overview
Урук experiences a desert climate with sharp seasonal contrasts. From November to March, the weather is mild, with daytime temperatures ranging from +13 °C to +20 °C, making it the most comfortable time to explore the ancient ruins and surrounding landscapes. Nights can be cooler, especially in January and December, when temperatures drop to +8.4 °C.
The heat intensifies from April, peaking between June and August, when Урук becomes one of the hottest places in the region. Daytime highs often exceed +40 °C, with July and August reaching +46.7 °C. Rainfall is almost nonexistent during these months, and the air remains dry, with humidity levels as low as 13%. Travelers visiting Урук in summer should prepare for extreme heat and plan activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Temperature
Temperatures in Урук shift dramatically throughout the year. The coolest months, January and February, see average highs of +18.6 °C and +19 °C, while nights can feel chilly at +8.4 °C. By March, the mercury rises noticeably, with averages climbing to +19.5 °C, signaling the start of warmer days.
From May to September, Урук enters its hottest period. June marks the beginning of extreme heat, with averages soaring to +38 °C and peaks near +44.8 °C. The highest temperatures occur in July and August, where +39.6 °C and +39.8 °C are typical, and daytime highs can reach +46.7 °C. Even nights remain warm, rarely dropping below +30 °C. By October, the heat begins to ease, with averages falling to +28.1 °C.
| Month | Minimum | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| January | 8.4 | 18.6 |
| February | 8.2 | 19 |
| March | 13.7 | 25.9 |
| April | 20.2 | 33.5 |
| May | 25.5 | 39.2 |
| June | 30.2 | 44.8 |
| July | 31.9 | 46.4 |
| August | 32.4 | 46.7 |
| September | 28.1 | 42.2 |
| October | 21.7 | 34.8 |
| November | 15 | 26.4 |
| December | 10.1 | 20.5 |
Precipitation
Урук is a dry city, with most of its annual rainfall concentrated in the cooler months. January and December are the wettest, receiving 31 mm and 26 mm of rain, respectively. March also sees occasional showers, with 39 mm of precipitation, while February and November are drier, with 17 mm and 12 mm.
From April to October, rain is virtually absent in Урук. The months of June, July, August, and September record no measurable precipitation, reflecting the city’s arid summer climate. Even during the wetter months, rain is infrequent, and travelers should not expect prolonged periods of overcast skies or heavy downpours.
| Month | Precipitation |
|---|---|
| January | 31 |
| February | 17 |
| March | 39 |
| April | 11 |
| May | 4 |
| June | 0 |
| July | 0 |
| August | 0 |
| September | 0 |
| October | 0 |
| November | 12 |
| December | 26 |
What to pack
For a trip to Урук between November and March, pack layers to adapt to mild days and cooler nights. Light jackets or sweaters are useful for evenings, especially in January and December, when temperatures can dip to +8.4 °C. Comfortable walking shoes and breathable clothing are ideal for exploring the ruins during the day, while a scarf or hat can provide sun protection.
Visiting Урук from April to October requires preparation for extreme heat. Lightweight, loose-fitting clothing in light colors helps reflect the sun’s rays, while a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen are essential. A reusable water bottle is crucial to stay hydrated, and a damp cloth or cooling towel can offer relief during outdoor activities. If traveling in May or September, consider packing a light shawl for cooler mornings or evenings.
| Month | Wind speed | Direction |
|---|---|---|
| January | 1.3 | 300 |
| February | 1.4 | 313 |
| March | 0.3 | 295 |
| April | 1 | 321 |
| May | 2.4 | 333 |
| June | 4.8 | 316 |
| July | 5.1 | 305 |
| August | 4.4 | 314 |
| September | 3.8 | 320 |
| October | 2.3 | 328 |
| November | 1.3 | 313 |
| December | 1.2 | 310 |