Climate and monthly weather forecast
Macedonia

Macedonia has a combination of a moderately continental climate type (Köppen climate classification Dfb) with hot summers and cold winters in its low-lying plains and valleys, snowy alpine in the high mountains at altitudes above 1500 meters, and Mediterranean (Csa) in its far southeastern regions. Summers vary from warm to hot, while winters range from mild to cold and snowy. Macedonia shares borders with Serbia in the northeast, Bulgaria in the east, Greece in the south, Albania in the west, and Kosovo in the northwest. The high mountain ranges, temperate latitudes and the distance from large water bodies influence the climate of Macedonia primarily.

Macedonia is a landlocked country in the Balkan Peninsula in southeastern Europe. The diverse geography consists mainly of high mountains ranges, valleys, farmlands, rivers, and lakes. Most of the cities are in the valley regions at a higher altitude than the sea level. The Sar and West Vardar mountains constitute the Dinaric Alps range, while the Osogovo-Belasica mountains form the Rhodope range. The mountain ranges encompass the rugged terrain of the Vardar valley region that constitutes the main path of the Vardar River and its tributaries. The three large lakes of Dojran, Prespa and Ohrid lie on the southern borders of Macedonia with Albania and Greece, along with numerous other small water bodies.

The best time to visit Macedonia is from May to September that includes the warm days of late spring, summer, and early autumn seasons. July and August is occasionally too hot for temperate weather lovers, but a welcome period for people to explore the mountains and relax in the resorts and spas. May and June bring brilliant sunshine, moderate rainfall, and occasional thunderstorms. September is mild in most places without the harshness of the peak summer and the cold winter. The average humidity is low during summer compared to the autumn and winter, and the days are long and bright.

The worst time to visit Macedonia is the cold winter season from December to February,
especially in the mountains, highlands, and valleys where the temperatures drop below freezing. Snowfall is massive, and blizzards may deposit north of 254mm (10") in a day in the mountains. Some adventure sports enthusiasts gather during the winter, as the snow is perfect for skiing. The days are short in the cold season and the sunshine limits to a few hours daily as dense fog lasts well until noon.

In Macedonia, the spring season is typically brief, commencing with cold temperatures in March, and transitioning to warmer and rainier conditions in May. The rainfall during this season is significant, preparing the land for the upcoming summer months. As the spring season progresses, the temperatures rise, gradually making the weather comfortable and inviting.

Summers in Macedonia are characterized by high temperatures, especially in the valley regions. August is often the peak of the summer season, with temperatures climbing up to 31.7°C (89.1°F), while some low-lying areas may experience heat spikes up to 37.8°C (100°F). The southern parts of the country, under the influence of the Mediterranean Sea, typically see milder temperatures. Despite the heat, the summer months are relatively less rainy, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities.

Autumn in Macedonia is typically a long season, marked by an initial phase of mild weather and transitioning to colder temperatures in the later stages. The autumn months experience a high volume of rain, preparing the land for the impending winter. Despite the colder temperatures towards the end of the season, the beautiful autumn colors and mild early-stage weather make this a beautiful time in Macedonia.

Winters in Macedonia are predominantly cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing in the mountains, highlands, and valleys. Snowfall is abundant, especially in the Dinaric Alps, where the snow can last well into April. Besides, frost and fog are common during this season, with fog often covering the skies for extended periods. Despite the chill, the beauty of the snow-covered landscapes offers a unique appeal.

In Macedonia, January is the heart of the winter season, when the country experiences some of the coldest temperatures of the year. The chill of January is felt most acutely in the high mountain ranges, where temperatures may plunge below -23.3°C (-9.9°F). Weather in January »

February in Macedonia signals the continuation of the winter season, albeit with some signs of easing off as the month progresses. Like January, February remains predominantly cold, with temperatures in the high mountains often dipping below -20°C (-4°F). Weather in February »

As winter starts to relinquish its hold, March ushers in the early onset of spring in Macedonia. However, the transition from winter to spring is gradual, with the initial stages of March still bearing the remnants of winter's chill. Weather in March »

April signifies the true onset of spring in Macedonia, with winter's vestiges rapidly fading. The high mountains, which remained in winter's grasp longer than the rest of the country, finally start to experience milder temperatures. Weather in April »

The transformation of seasons is complete by May, and spring is in full bloom across Macedonia. From the high peaks of the Dinaric Alps to the valleys of the Vardar River, May sees a notable change in weather conditions. The last remnants of winter have disappeared, replaced by warmer temperatures and vibrant spring scenery. In the high mountainous regions, temperatures now rarely fall below 0°C (32°F), even at night. Weather in May »

June marks the start of summer in Macedonia, bringing about a noticeable increase in temperatures. While the month starts relatively mild, the heat gradually intensifies, hinting at the hot summer days that lie ahead. In the mountainous regions, temperatures fluctuate between 15°C (59°F) and 25°C (77°F). Weather in June »

As the heart of summer, July is the hottest month of the year in Macedonia. It brings an unmistakable warmth to the entire country, from the highlands to the low-lying plains and valleys. In the mountainous areas, even at altitudes above 1500 meters, temperatures range from 20°C (68°F) to 25°C (77°F) during the day. Weather in July »

August continues the hot and dry spell of the summer season in Macedonia, maintaining the elevated temperatures of July. The entire country basks in warm weather, albeit with a slight drop towards the end of the month, signaling the approaching end of summer. In the mountains, temperatures continue to range between 20°C (68°F) to 25°C (77°F). Weather in August »

September in Macedonia marks the transition from the heat of summer to the cooler autumn season. It brings a noticeable change in the weather pattern with a decrease in temperatures and an increase in rainfall. In the highlands, September temperatures drop to a range between 15°C (59°F) and 20°C (68°F). Weather in September »

October brings a distinct autumnal feel to Macedonia, with further cooling of temperatures and an increase in precipitation. The mildness of September gives way to a more pronounced chill as the country continues its transition towards winter. In the mountainous regions, including the Dinaric Alps and the Rhodope range, October temperatures vary from 10°C (50°F) to 15°C (59°F). Weather in October »

November signifies the deepening of autumn in Macedonia, with temperatures continuing their downward trajectory and precipitation increasing. The last vestiges of warmth are replaced with a distinct chill, signaling the impending arrival of winter. In the mountainous regions, including the Dinaric Alps and the Rhodope range, November temperatures typically fluctuate between 5°C (41°F) and 10°C (50°F). Weather in November »

December marks the onset of winter in Macedonia, bringing with it colder temperatures, more precipitation, and shorter days. This time of year witnesses a remarkable transformation in the country's weather, as autumn gives way to winter's chilly grip. In the mountainous areas, including the Dinaric Alps and the Rhodope range, December temperatures range between 0°C (32°F) and 5°C (41°F). Weather in December »