Average Annual Temperature 2020

Average annual temperature measures the typical warmth of a country over a year, crucial for climate studies.

191 data points•Updated 10/7/2026•Global Coverage•Average annual surface temperature | Our World in Data•

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Complete Data Rankings

Rank
1	Senegal	29.376 °C
2	Mali	29.239 °C
3	Burkina Faso	28.986 °C
4	Djibouti	28.655 °C
5	United Arab Emirates	28.583 °C
6	Mauritania	28.483 °C
7	Gambia	28.35 °C
8	Guinea-Bissau	28.095 °C
9	Qatar	28.092 °C
10	South Sudan	28.05 °C
11	Ghana	27.961 °C
12	Oman	27.94 °C
13	Niger	27.929 °C
14	Benin	27.868 °C
15	Cambodia	27.732 °C
16	Chad	27.555 °C
17	Togo	27.426 °C
18	Cayman Islands	27.309 °C
19	Nigeria	27.261 °C
20	Sudan	27.215 °C
21	Somalia	27.095 °C
22	Thailand	27.005 °C
23	Eritrea	27.004 °C
24	American Samoa	26.994 °C
25	Sri Lanka	26.99 °C
26	Kuwait	26.945 °C
27	Seychelles	26.942 °C
28	Brunei Darussalam	26.871 °C
29	Côte d'Ivoire	26.838 °C
30	United States Virgin Islands	26.711 °C
31	Saint Vincent and the Grenadines	26.707 °C
32	Guinea	26.61 °C
33	Bahrain	26.601 °C
34	Central African Republic	26.599 °C
35	Solomon Islands	26.583 °C
36	Saudi Arabia	26.55 °C
37	Jamaica	26.534 °C
38	Trinidad and Tobago	26.494 °C
39	El Salvador	26.484 °C
40	Anguilla	26.483 °C
41	Antigua and Barbuda	26.461 °C
42	Belize	26.456 °C
43	Philippines	26.454 °C
44	Kiribati	26.422 °C
45	Sierra Leone	26.402 °C
46	Suriname	26.233 °C
47	Cuba	26.166 °C
48	Bahamas	26.114 °C
49	Sao Tome and Principe	26.028 °C
50	Malaysia	26.026 °C
51	Venezuela	25.976 °C
52	Nicaragua	25.863 °C
53	Yemen	25.86 °C
54	Liberia	25.763 °C
55	Haiti	25.691 °C
56	Guyana	25.677 °C
57	Indonesia	25.664 °C
58	Puerto Rico	25.641 °C
59	Samoa	25.574 °C
60	French Polynesia	25.553 °C
61	Kenya	25.453 °C
62	Bangladesh	25.395 °C
63	Congo	25.38 °C
64	Comoros	25.345 °C
65	Panama	25.281 °C
66	Gabon	25.274 °C
67	Vanuatu	25.272 °C
68	Brazil	25.193 °C
69	Cameroon	25.168 °C
70	Timor-Leste	25.068 °C
71	Fiji	25.035 °C
72	Dominican Republic	24.869 °C
73	Paraguay	24.856 °C
74	Congo, Democratic Republic of the	24.815 °C
75	Algeria	24.726 °C
76	Cook Islands	24.686 °C
77	Equatorial Guinea	24.583 °C
78	Colombia	24.523 °C
79	Mozambique	24.427 °C
80	Vietnam	24.413 °C
81	Honduras	24.248 °C
82	India	24.163 °C
83	Myanmar	24.134 °C
84	Papua New Guinea	23.98 °C
85	Guatemala	23.831 °C
86	Iraq	23.817 °C
87	Laos	23.813 °C
88	Ethiopia	23.759 °C
89	China, Hong Kong SAR	23.698 °C
90	Mauritius	23.45 °C
91	Costa Rica	23.417 °C
92	Uganda	23.171 °C
93	Cabo Verde	23.169 °C
94	Egypt	23.158 °C
95	Madagascar	23.026 °C
96	Tanzania	22.934 °C
97	New Caledonia	22.876 °C
98	Angola	22.629 °C
99	Libya	22.585 °C
100	Australia	22.581 °C
101	Malawi	22.541 °C
102	Zambia	22.168 °C
103	Botswana	22.03 °C
104	Namibia	22.006 °C
105	Zimbabwe	21.786 °C
106	Saint Helena	21.61 °C
107	Mexico	21.579 °C
108	Burundi	21.34 °C
109	Ecuador	21.278 °C
110	Bolivia	21.083 °C
111	State of Palestine	21.046 °C
112	Israel	21.028 °C
113	Tunisia	20.86 °C
114	Pakistan	20.34 °C
115	Jordan	20.332 °C
116	Cyprus	20.229 °C
117	Rwanda	20.226 °C
118	Syrian Arab Republic	20.065 °C
119	Eswatini	19.814 °C
120	Morocco	19.508 °C
121	Peru	19.365 °C
122	Iran	18.339 °C
123	South Africa	18.182 °C
124	Uruguay	17.608 °C
125	Lebanon	16.586 °C
126	Turkmenistan	16.463 °C
127	Portugal	15.979 °C
128	Greece	15.574 °C
129	Argentina	15.251 °C
130	Spain	14.711 °C
131	France	14.505 °C
132	Italy	13.708 °C
133	Uzbekistan	13.466 °C
134	Albania	13.342 °C
135	Nepal	12.97 °C
136	South Korea	12.853 °C
137	Croatia	12.812 °C
138	Turkey	12.792 °C
139	Japan	12.751 °C
140	Azerbaijan	12.65 °C
141	Afghanistan	12.359 °C
142	Bulgaria	12.335 °C
143	Republic of Moldova	12.188 °C
144	Hungary	11.952 °C
145	North Macedonia	11.786 °C
146	Lesotho	11.682 °C
147	Serbia	11.669 °C
148	Netherlands	11.577 °C
149	Belgium	11.547 °C
150	Bosnia and Herzegovina	11.115 °C
151	Romania	11.08 °C
152	New Zealand	10.975 °C
153	Luxembourg	10.872 °C
154	Slovenia	10.833 °C
155	Ukraine	10.76 °C
156	Isle of Man	10.611 °C
157	Montenegro	10.558 °C
158	Germany	10.541 °C
159	United States	10.273 °C
160	Denmark	10.08 °C
161	Poland	10.018 °C
162	Ireland	10.015 °C
163	United Kingdom	9.901 °C
164	Chile	9.541 °C
165	Slovakia	9.5 °C
166	Czech Republic	9.439 °C
167	Lithuania	9.121 °C
168	Belarus	9.107 °C
169	Georgia	9.047 °C
170	Latvia	8.631 °C
171	Bhutan	8.557 °C
172	Estonia	8.27 °C
173	Kazakhstan	7.909 °C
174	North Korea	7.908 °C
175	Austria	7.717 °C
176	China	7.606 °C
177	Faroe Islands	7.249 °C
178	Falkland Islands (Malvinas)	7.122 °C
179	Armenia	7.103 °C
180	Switzerland	6.685 °C
181	Andorra	5.845 °C
182	Sweden	5.442 °C
183	Finland	4.722 °C
184	Norway	1.972 °C
185	Mongolia	1.907 °C
186	Iceland	1.584 °C
187	Kyrgyzstan	0.446 °C
188	Tajikistan	0.006 °C
189	Russia	-1.276 °C
190	Canada	-3.555 °C
191	Greenland	-18.371 °C

↑Top 10 Countries

Analysis: These countries represent the highest values in this dataset, showcasing significant scale and impact on global statistics.

↓Bottom 10 Countries

Context: These countries or territories have the lowest values, often due to geographic size, administrative status, or specific characteristics.

Analysis & Context

The country with the highest Average Annual Temperature in 2020 was Senegal at 29.38°C, while the global range spanned from -18.37°C in Greenland to 29.38°C. The global average temperature was 19.37°C, offering a snapshot of climatic conditions across the globe.

Geographical Influence on Temperature Extremes

The wide variation in Average Annual Temperature across countries in 2020 underscores the significant role geography plays in climate patterns. Countries like Senegal and Mali, both in West Africa, reported some of the highest temperatures, with averages of 29.38°C and 29.24°C respectively. This is largely attributed to their proximity to the equator, which results in minimal seasonal temperature variation and consistently high temperatures.

Conversely, countries situated in the polar and sub-polar regions, such as Greenland and Canada, exhibited some of the lowest average temperatures, with Greenland reaching as low as -18.37°C. The extreme cold in these regions is due to their higher latitudinal positions, where sunlight is less direct and winter conditions are prolonged.

Economic and Environmental Implications

The Average Annual Temperature of a country can have profound economic and environmental implications. High temperatures in countries like Burkina Faso and Djibouti, with averages of 28.99°C and 28.65°C respectively, often correlate with challenges in agriculture due to heat stress on crops and limited water resources. These conditions can exacerbate food insecurity and strain economic resources.

On the other hand, countries with colder climates, such as Russia and Norway, which recorded average temperatures of -1.28°C and 1.97°C respectively, face different challenges. Harsh winters can increase heating costs and impact infrastructure maintenance, but they also offer opportunities for winter tourism and certain types of agriculture suited to cooler climates.

Year-over-Year Temperature Changes

Analyzing the year-over-year changes in Average Annual Temperature reveals significant trends. Finland experienced the most substantial increase, with a rise of 1.60°C (51.4%), which could be linked to broader climate shifts affecting the Arctic region. Similarly, Sweden and Russia recorded increases of 1.41°C and 1.30°C respectively, highlighting a warming trend in the northern hemisphere.

Conversely, Botswana and Lesotho saw the largest decreases, with reductions of 1.37°C and 1.32°C respectively. These decreases may be related to regional climatic patterns and changes in atmospheric conditions that temporarily alter temperature averages.

Global Climate Context

The data on Average Annual Temperature in 2020 provides critical insights into global climate dynamics. The average temperature decline of -0.01°C globally might appear negligible, but it reflects complex interactions between natural variability and human-induced climate change. Countries experiencing significant temperature increases, such as Mauritania with a 1.17°C rise, contribute to the ongoing discourse on global warming and its impacts.

Understanding these patterns is essential for policymakers and environmentalists as they work to mitigate climate-related risks and adapt to changing conditions. The data not only highlights current challenges but also informs future strategies for sustainable development and climate resilience.

Frequently Asked Questions About Average Annual Temperature in 2020

Which country had the highest average annual temperature in 2020?

Senegal had the highest average annual temperature in 2020, with 29.38 °C.

What was the lowest average annual temperature recorded in 2020 and in which country?

The lowest average annual temperature recorded in 2020 was in Greenland, with -18.37 °C.

What was the average annual temperature across all countries in 2020?

The average annual temperature across all countries in 2020 was 19.37 °C.

What was the median average annual temperature for countries in 2020?

The median average annual temperature for countries in 2020 was 22.93 °C.

Which countries were in the top 3 for highest average annual temperatures in 2020?

The top 3 countries with the highest average annual temperatures in 2020 were Senegal (29.38 °C), Mali (29.24 °C), and Burkina Faso (28.99 °C).

How many countries are included in the dataset for average annual temperature in 2020?

The dataset for average annual temperature in 2020 includes 191 countries.

Insights by country

Indonesia

In 2020, Indonesia ranked #57 globally for Average Annual Temperature, with a value of 25.664236 °C. This temperature is relatively high compared to many countries, reflecting Indonesia's tropical climate, which is characterized by high humidity and significant rainfall throughout the year. The country's extensive archipelago, consisting of over 17,000 islands, contributes to its diverse microclimates, while its position along the equator ensures consistently warm temperatures.

Laos

In 2020, Laos had an average annual temperature of 23.813034 °C, ranking #87 out of 191 countries. This temperature is relatively moderate compared to its Southeast Asian neighbors, with countries like Thailand and Vietnam experiencing slightly higher averages. The country's geography, characterized by mountainous terrain and a tropical monsoon climate, influences its temperature patterns, while its low population density helps maintain a balance in environmental conditions.

China, Hong Kong SAR

In 2020, China, Hong Kong SAR ranked #89 globally for Average Annual Temperature at 23.698112 °C. This temperature is notably higher than many regions in mainland China, which experiences greater climatic variability. The warm climate in Hong Kong is influenced by its coastal location and urban heat island effect, driven by dense population and extensive infrastructure.

Bahamas

In 2020, the Bahamas ranked #48 globally for Average Annual Temperature, with a value of 26.11435 °C. This temperature is relatively high compared to many countries, reflecting the Bahamas' tropical climate, which is characterized by warm temperatures year-round. The country's geographical location in the Atlantic Ocean, along with its low elevation and proximity to warm ocean currents, significantly influences its climate, making it a popular destination for tourism and outdoor activities.

Kuwait

Kuwait ranked #26 globally for Average Annual Temperature in 2020, with a value of 26.944712 °C. This temperature is notably higher than many countries, reflecting Kuwait's position in a desert climate characterized by extremely hot summers and mild winters. The country's geographic location in the Arabian Peninsula, combined with urbanization and industrial activities, contributes to its elevated temperatures.

Philippines

The Philippines ranked #43 globally with an average annual temperature of 26.45386 °C in 2020. This temperature is notably higher than the global average, which typically hovers around 14 °C. The country's tropical climate, characterized by high humidity and significant rainfall, is driven by its geographical location near the equator and the surrounding Pacific Ocean.

Additionally, urbanization and deforestation in the Philippines contribute to localized warming, impacting weather patterns and climate resilience.

Japan

In 2020, Japan ranked #139 globally in Average Annual Temperature with a value of 12.7505 °C. This temperature is relatively lower than many Southeast Asian nations, which typically experience warmer climates. Japan's unique geography, characterized by its mountainous terrain and proximity to the ocean, contributes to its temperate climate, while urban areas like Tokyo also influence local weather patterns.

Montenegro

In 2020, Montenegro ranked #157 globally for Average Annual Temperature, with a value of 10.558413 °C. This places Montenegro below many of its Balkan neighbors, such as Albania and Serbia, which experience slightly warmer climates. The country's moderate temperatures are influenced by its diverse geography, including coastal areas along the Adriatic Sea and mountainous regions, which create varying microclimates.

Bangladesh

In 2020, Bangladesh had an average annual temperature of 25.394577 °C, ranking #62 out of 191 countries. This temperature is notably higher than the global average, which reflects the country's tropical monsoon climate. Key drivers of this temperature include its low-lying geography, which is susceptible to heat accumulation, and its dense population, which contributes to urban heat island effects in major cities.

Lithuania

In 2020, Lithuania had an Average Annual Temperature of 9.121173 °C, ranking #167 out of 191 countries. This temperature is relatively mild compared to neighboring Latvia, which experiences slightly cooler conditions. The country's geographic location in Northern Europe, characterized by a continental climate, contributes to seasonal temperature variations influenced by both maritime and continental air masses.

Data Source

Average annual surface temperature | Our World in Data

Our World in Data is a research organization that provides comprehensive data visualizations and statistics on global development topics. The "Average annual surface temperature" dataset offers country-level statistics on temperature changes over time, contributing to the understanding of climate trends.

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Historical Data by Year

Explore Average Annual Temperature data across different years. Compare trends and see how statistics have changed over time.

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