Climate in Eritrea

Eritrea has a highly diverse climate, with major differences between regions. Annual temperatures range from lows of 2°C in the coldest regions to highs of 35°C in the warmest areas. Annual precipitation ranges from 145mm in drier regions to 382mm in wetter parts of the country. Some regions receive significant snowfall, with up to 42cm annually, while other areas see little to none. The warmest areas are warm year-round while the coldest regions remain cool, making Eritrea a country of sharp climate contrasts.

Temperature patterns across Eritrea vary by region, with distinct differences between areas. The Southeast is the warmest part of the country, with peak temperatures reaching 35°C and an annual average of 24°C. Cooler conditions are found in the Southeast, where winter lows drop to 2°C and an annual average of 5°C. This 19°C difference in annual averages between regions means travellers can experience vastly different conditions depending on which part of Eritrea they visit. The biggest regional differences emerge in summer, with up to 22°C variation across the country. For example, Adi Keyh in the Debub Region averages 24°C annually, while Assab in the Southern Red Sea Region averages 5°C.

Eritrea sees notable variation in rainfall across its regions, ranging from 145mm to 382mm per year. The Southeast receives the most rainfall, at approximately 382mm annually. The Central is the driest, with around 145mm per year. Rainfall is distributed fairly evenly across the seasons, with no strong wet or dry period in most regions. The Southwest sees the most snowfall, with up to 42cm annually, while other parts of the country receive little to none. Visitors heading to wetter areas can expect more frequent rain than those staying in drier parts of the country.