There are considerable differences between the climate in the north and south of Tunisia. The north's climate is typically Mediterranean, with hot dry summers and mild wet winters. In the south, the proximity to the Sahara increases the aridity of the landscape, and makes an unpleasant summer climatic combination of high humidity and high temperatures.
Rainfall is irregular and droughts are common. Temperatures along the coast average 7°C (45°F) in winter and 32°C (90°F) in summer. In the South fierce hot, dry Sirocco winds from the Sahara take temperatures into the mid-40s C. The winds have a serious effect of both plant and human life.
Spring and autumn are the best seasons to visit Tunisia, although summer is popular despite the severity of the heat.