Climate and monthly weather forecast
Almaty, Kazakhstan

Nestled in the heart of Central Asia, Almaty, Kazakhstan, belongs to the humid continental climate category under the Köppen climate classification, coded as Dfa: humid continental, no dry season, hot summer. The city grapples with considerable variations in weather throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from a chilly -8.4°C (16.9°F) in the cold season to a torrid 30°C (86°F) during the peak summer months.

Looking at the annual cycle, a steady fluctuation is noticeable in climate parameters, including temperature, humidity, rainfall, snowfall, and daylight hours. Monthly average maximum temperatures escalate gradually from 0.7°C (33.3°F) in January to the zenith of 30°C (86°F) in July, then decline progressively until December's frigid 2.3°C (36.1°F). The story echoes in the progression of minimum temperatures, nosediving to a record -8.4°C (16.9°F) in harsh January and February, subsequently ascending to a comfortable 18°C (64.4°F) in July, followed by a gradual descent to the coolest -6.4°C (20.5°F) in December.

Humidity parameters paint a contrasting picture. Relative humidity spirals down from 77% in January and February to April's 59%, only to hit the year's nadir at 45% in August. The subsequent climb peaks at 79% by the end of December.

Rainfall figures point to more nuances. The first drizzles start in January with a modest 34mm (1.34") to 43mm (1.69"), then crescendo to April's 107mm (4.21"), maintaining a consistent pattern until October before winding down to December's minimal 42mm (1.65"). A similar rhythm emerges in the count of rainfall days.

On the contrary, the frequency of snowfall days reaches a high in the winter months with 11 each in January and December, with virtually negligible occurrences from May to September. Meanwhile, daylight hours range from a minimum of 9 hours in January to a maximum of 15.3 hours in June, while sunshine hours climb from 3.3 hours in December to January to 9.9 hours in July before descending. Finally, UV index levels peak in summer with 9 from June to August, then plunge to 1 during the cold months.

Unique weather patterns manifest in Almaty, distinguished by the absence of rainfall from May to September and a particularly steep drop in humidity levels during August.

Peak tourism season in Almaty spans from May to September when temperatures are agreeable, ranging from 22.4°C (72.3°F) to 30°C (86°F), and the city basks in sunlight for up to 9.9 hours daily. The relative absence of rainfall, coupled with the lowest humidity levels of the year, provides an amicable environment for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

The most inhospitable period to visit Almaty is between December and February. Temperatures bottom out, dropping to -6.4°C (20.5°F) to -8.4°C (16.9°F), and daylight, registering only 9-9.4 hours, is fleeting. Compounded with 11 days of snowfall each in January and December, these months can present formidable weather conditions to visitors unfamiliar with Central Asian winters.

Spring in Almaty, spanning from March to May, is the season of consistent rain, with downfall levels escalating from 75mm (2.95") in March to 107mm (4.21") in April, along with an increasing number of rainfall days. However, temperatures rise consistently, averaging from -1.1°C (30°F) to 11°C (51.8°F), and sunshine hours extend from 4.3 hours in February to 7.8 hours by the end of spring.

The Almaty summer bursts upon the scene with sweltering temperatures reaching a peak of 30°C (86°F) in July. The showers are a regular feature, particularly in May, with precipitation levels around 106mm (4.17"), tapering off to around 30mm (1.18") by August. Sunshine hours are long, peaking at 9.9 hours in July, and the UV index level hits 9 between June to August, urging protective measures during outdoor sojourns.

As autumn sets in Almaty from September to November, temperatures commence a steady decline from 24.2°C (75.6°F) in September to 8.2°C (46.8°F) by November, and daylight hours whittle down to 9.7 hours in November. Rainfall retreats from 27mm (1.06") in September to 56mm (2.2") in November, painting a picture of the tranquil fall season.

The winter months from December to February in Almaty are cold and unforgiving. Temperatures plunge into the negative, hitting a low of -8.4°C (16.9°F) in January, while daylight is limited to only 9-9.4 hours a day. Snowfall is a constant presence, peaking at 11 days each in January and December. Sunshine hours dip to the year’s low point at 3.3 hours. The harsh weather can pose challenges to tourists, thereby suggesting careful planning before embarking on a winter journey.

January in Almaty, Kazakhstan, is marked by a considerable intensity of cold, characterizing the peak of winter in the city. The lowest temperatures of the year are registered here, with a daily average high of just 0.7°C (33.3°F) and nightly low of -8.4°C (16.9°F). Weather in January »

Transitioning from January, February presents slightly less harsh weather conditions in Almaty, but it remains firmly in winter's grip. With a maximum temperature rising to 2.2°C (36°F), it is slightly warmer than the preceding month. Weather in February »

March marks the arrival of the spring season in Almaty, with an appreciable shift in weather patterns. The city starts to warm up significantly, with an average high temperature soaring to 8.7°C (47.7°F). The snowfall subsides gradually and gives way to expected rainfall. Weather in March »

Thanks to the rising temperatures, Almaty’s weather in April symbolizes a full-fledged spring. The city continues to warm up, and the rainfall becomes increasingly prominent. With longer daylight hours, the city experiences more sunshine, augmenting its vibrant spring setting. Weather in April »

May presents a beautiful mix of mild temperatures and vibrant vegetation in Almaty. With an average daily high temperature reaching 22.4°C (72.3°F), the weather becomes comfortably warm but not overwhelmingly hot. It also becomes noticeably drier compared to the previous month. Weather in May »

June sets the stage for the arrival of the summer season in Almaty. The city swelters under the highest UV index of 9, demanding caution from visitors and residents alike. The splendid sun-soaked parks and gardens are quite a sight during this period. Weather in June »

July is the hottest month in Almaty, with the average high temperature reaching a peak of 30°C (86°F). It is also relatively arid, with little rainfall and low humidity, reinforcing the summer season. Despite the heat, tourists can enjoy exciting nightlife and cultural events. Weather in July »

August in Almaty witnesses a slight cooling trend, compared to July's peak summer heat. With reduced rainfall and temperatures, the city is in the waning phase of the summer season. Weather remains favorable for outdoor activities, including hiking in the nearby mountains. Weather in August »

September signals the onset of autumn in Almaty and brings about an impressive color change in the city's foliage. While the temperatures dip to a daily average high of 24.2°C (75.6°F), the city remains hospitable. The reduced rainfall and humidity enhance the overall pleasant and mild climate. Weather in September »

October witnesses a retreat of the mild weather, as Almaty prepares for the upcoming winter season. Apart from declining temperatures, there is an evident decrease in daylight hours. The first signs of snow can start to appear towards the end of the month. Weather in October »

November in Almaty corresponds to the late autumn period where winter touches upon the cityscape. Average temperatures drop sharply, paving the way for the colder months ahead with snowfall starting to become a regular occurrence. Weather in November »

December brings the full force of winter to Almaty, with cold temperatures and plentiful snowfall. The shortest daylight hours of the year can be anticipated this month, causing the days to typically end early. The city gets adorned with lights and decorations, filling the air with festive cheer. Weather in December »