Climate in Iraq

Iraq has a highly diverse climate, with major differences between regions. Annual temperatures range from lows of -1°C in the coldest regions to highs of 30°C in the warmest areas. Annual precipitation ranges from 65mm in drier regions to 295mm in wetter parts of the country. Some regions receive significant snowfall, with up to 83cm annually, while other areas see little to none. The warmest areas are hot year-round while the coldest regions remain cool, making Iraq a country of sharp climate contrasts.

Temperature patterns across Iraq vary by region, with distinct differences between areas. The North is the warmest part of the country, with peak temperatures reaching 30°C and an annual average of 27°C. Cooler conditions are found in the Northeast, where winter lows drop to -1°C and an annual average of 6°C. This 21°C difference in annual averages between regions means travellers can experience vastly different conditions depending on which part of Iraq they visit. The biggest regional differences emerge in summer, with up to 23°C variation across the country. For example, Soran in the Erbil averages 27°C annually, while As Sulaymānīyah in the Muḩāfaz̧at as Sulaymānīyah averages 6°C.

Iraq sees notable variation in rainfall across its regions, ranging from 65mm to 295mm per year. The Central receives the most rainfall, at approximately 295mm annually. The Southeast is the driest, with around 65mm per year. Rainfall is distributed fairly evenly across the seasons, with no strong wet or dry period in most regions. The North sees the most snowfall, with up to 83cm 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.