Weather Almeria
The city of Almeria is located in south-eastern Spain on the Mediterranean coast. Boasting 217km of beautiful coastline and natural parks, this region was known in the 1960s as the 'European Hollywood'. Now it is still a popular holiday destination partly due to its sub-tropical and semi-arid climate, influenced by the Mediterranean Sea and the nearby deserts of inland Spain and Northern Africa. It is a very dry and warm resort with some of the highest temperatures and lowest precipitation levels of any city in Europe.
The weather is beautiful with over 300 days of sunshine per year and average temperatures throughout the year ranging from 130C in January to 270C in August. The city has a dry climate all year round. January is the wettest month of the year with average rainfall at 30mm, while the driest months of June, July and August only receive 10mm of rain per month. This city is unique among European resorts in that it has never recorded a temperature below freezing. The lowest temperature on record was 0.20C in January 1935.
The warmest months occur in July and August when temperatures can reach 310C. This is also the most pleasant time of year to swim as average sea temperatures are around 250C. These temperatures are influenced by the Levant wind is an easterly wind blowing from the Spanish interior desert bringing dry heat and sometimes dust and sand. Heatwaves can be quite common at this time of year and in August 2011 the temperature in Almeria reached 430C!
Summer Weather in Almeria
The summer months of June, July and August are hot and dry with average daytime temperatures ranging from 230C in June to 270C in August, which is the resort's hottest month of the year. Temperatures can get as high as 310C during the summer, especially if the Levant wind is affecting the region bringing hot, dry conditions. Overnight low temperatures only drop down to around 180C to 220C so look for a room with air-conditioning when choosing a hotel. This is the best time of year for sunbathing and enjoying the beaches, with 11 hours of sunshine a day in June and sea temperatures at their warmest between 210C and 250C.
There are also very low levels of precipitation during these months with an average of 10mm of rain falling over 1 to 3 days during June to August. The summer months are perfect for relaxing and enjoying the warm sunny weather and light beach clothing are all that are needed. The beaches are beautiful at this time of year and Almeria has several beaches on offer, some very popular and with many facilities, and some which are more secluded and private. It is important to remember to use sunscreen when out and about during the day, as the hot sun and dry winds can cause sunburn. Keep cool by relaxing in one of the many bars and restaurants around the city. Summer is also a great time to experience some local traditions with many festivals occurring in these months, often with parades, fireworks and dancing. This does however make summer the busiest and most pricey time of year to visit the resort.
Autumn Weather in Almeria
September to November brings decreasing temperatures and gradually increasing levels of rainfall. September continues to experience warm weather with average temperatures at this time averaging 250C and reaching a maximum of 290C. These temperatures drop in October and November to between 210C and 250C during the day and down to 120C at night by the end of the season. There are fewer hours of sunshine per day during autumn and this declines throughout the season from 6 hours in September to 3 hours in November. Sea temperatures also begin to drop during this time of year from 230C in September to 190C in November, but this is still a pleasant time to swim in the Mediterranean on the warmer early autumn days. Rainfall begins to increase from 10mm average rainfall in September to 30mm in October and November. This rain falls over 4 to 7 days throughout each month so it is still unlikely that you will need an umbrella when out sightseeing, but it is always worth checking an extended forecast to make sure. The cooler days make it an ideal season to visit if wanting to explore the city and surrounding areas and there is plenty to see away from the beaches once the temperatures have decreased.
Winter Weather in Almeria
During winter, daily average temperatures drop to 130C or 140C throughout the season, making it the coldest time of the year. January is the coldest month, when the average maximum temperature is 170C and lowest is 80C. There are also fewer hours of sunshine in winter with between 2 to 3 hours per day. Instead, there is more rain with 30mm of rain falling in January, the wettest month of the year, and 20mm falling in December and February, often falling in short showers or thunderstorms. There are plenty of activities in Almeria to keep everyone occupied in winter, even if outdoor activities are not an option in the colder weather. At this time of year, the sea temperatures are only 170C in December and drop further to 150C in January and February, so swimming and water sports are only for the most dedicated swimmers.
Spring Weather in Almeria
Spring sees gradually increasing temperatures as winter ends and summer approaches. The coolest month is March with average temperatures ranging from 100C overnight to 200C during the day. These slowly increase to an average minimum of 140C and maximum of 240C in May. The average daily hours of sunshine are also increasing at this time of the year from 4 hours a day in March to 7 hours in April and 9 hours in May. The wettest month of spring is April when 20mm of rain falls over 5 days, decreasing to 10mm by May.
The Mediterranean is also becoming more appealing for a swim as sea temperatures increase from 150C in March to 190C in May. Although this is not the best time of year to visit the resort if looking for beach activities and sunbathing, the mild temperatures and dry climate makes it a good choice for those wanting to participate in outdoor activities, walking or sightseeing in the city area. The weather is pleasant now and there are fewer tourists making it a good time to visit and experience the region without feeling the heat. Easter is also a good time to visit and experience the festivities of the local Catholic communities.