Melilla, a Spanish autonomous city in North Africa, lies on the Mediterranean coast of Cape Tres Forcas, barely above sea level. Its climate is semi-arid Mediterranean, with hot, dry summers and mild winters. The annual average temperature is around 18.5 °C, with summer highs of 30 °C and winter lows that rarely drop below 8 °C.
Annual rainfall is scarce, approximately 340 mm, concentrated between October and March. Summers are virtually dry. Melilla enjoys around 2,850 hours of sunshine per year. The Mediterranean Sea moderates temperatures throughout the year, preventing both extreme cold and the most intense heat of the nearby North African interior. Saharan calima is a common phenomenon that can raise temperatures and reduce visibility. The westerly poniente wind brings moisture and some coolness, while the easterly levante can be warm and muggy.