Climate and monthly weather forecast
Altai, Mongolia

Altai City, positioned within the province of Govi-Altai, experiences a Mid-latitude steppe climate as defined by the Köppen climate classification, which is signified as BSk. Characterized by parched winds and significant temperature fluctuations, the BSk climate stipulates an arid environment marked by a mixture of warm summers and cold winters.

A defining attribute of Altai's weather pattern is the dramatic contrast between summer and winter temperatures. On a yearly scale, the maximum average temperature, in July, peaks at around 20°C (68°F), while the minimum hovers around -25°C (-13°F) in January, providing a stark testament to Altai's drastic seasonal shifts. Similarly, daylight duration experiences a significant difference, fluctuating from an average of 15.7 hours in June and dipping down to 8.7 hours in December.

Altai's rainfall is relatively minimal throughout the year, with the greatest precipitation occurring in the summer months, particularly July, when the average rainfall totals 44mm (1.73"). On the contrary, the winter months register minimal precipitation, with January and February averaging only one millimeter of rain. Sunshine hours follow a consistent pattern, increasing from 10-15 hours during the summer season and decreasing to 6-9 hours in winter. From March through August, the ultraviolet index ranges from 3 to 9, suggesting the need for sun protection precautions.

The ideal travel period for Altai deliberates several climatic variables. For visitors who prefer mild temperatures and longer daylight hours, June to August offers a clear advantage. The temperature during these months rises to between 19°C (66.2°F) and 20°C (68°F), providing ideal conditions for outdoor activities. It is worth noting, however, that this period coincides with the highest rainfall of the year, peaking at 44mm (1.73") in July. Although the precipitation is balanced by an increased amount of sunshine, ten hours per day providing ample opportunity to explore.

One of the least favorable periods to visit Altai is from November to February, when temperatures plummet to between -3°C (26.6°F) and -10°C (14°F) during the day. Nights are even colder, with temperatures diving as low as -22°C (-7.6°F) to -25°C (-13°F). These months also have the shortest daylight hours, falling between 8.7 and 9.5 hours per day. Although the winter season does witness minimal rainfall, the cold temperatures and decreased daylight can present challenging conditions for visitors.

The Spring period in Altai, marked by months from March through May, ushers in a gradual increase in temperature from -2°C (28.4°F) to 14°C (57.2°F). The weather during these months can be unpredictable and varies significantly from lows of -16°C (3.2°F) to highs of 14°C (57.2°F). The daylight hours increase from 11.9 hours in March to 15 hours by May end. During this period, rainfall starts to pick up, amounting to a total of 21mm (0.83") over the course of the three months, signaling the beginning of a more humid period.

Summers from June to August in Altai are warm and somewhat wet. The average daytime temperature during these months ranges from 19°C (66.2°F) to 20°C (68°F), making it the warmest period of the year. Conversely, nighttime temperatures remain mild, staying between 6°C (42.8°F) and 8°C (46.4°F), providing a refreshing contrast. Rainfall spikes during this period, with June through August seeing a total of 102mm (4.02") of precipitation, the highest for the year. Despite this, summer features the longest daylight hours, averaging around 15.37 hours per day.

Autumn is marked by consistency in Altai. Average temperatures during September to November range from 14°C (57.2°F) to -3°C (26.6°F). The night temperatures, however, are a different story, stooping from 1°C (33.8°F) in September to a chilling -17°C (1.4°F) in November. Daylight hours start to decrease from 12.6 hours in September to 9.5 hours in November. The rainfall in autumn reduces to a combined total of 26mm (1.02"), nearly half of that experienced during the summer months.

During the winter season, which spans December to February, Altai experiences sub-zero temperatures. Daytime highs fluctuate around -10°C (14°F) while nighttime lows plumment to -25°C (-13°F) in the peak of winter. Rainfall diminishes drastically, with the winter months recording a mere 4mm (0.16") in total. Despite the low amounts of sunshine, amounting to 6-7 hours per day, Altai receives a fair share of daylight, ranging between 8.7 and 9.1 hours during winter months. The ultraviolet index remains at the very minimum of 1 throughout the winter, any risk of harmful exposure to the Sun's UV radiation is low.

The bracing climate of Altai, Mongolia ushers in the New Year with a chill. January is characterized by frigid temperatures dropping as low as -25°C (-13°F). January's weather is quite uniform, having similar levels of sunshine, daylight, and number of rainy days as February's. Weather in January »

February is marginally milder than January, although temperatures continue to be characterized by a severe cold. Daylight lengthens to approximately 10.4 hours and temperatures continue in a similar range, with the lowest temperature being around -23°C (-9.4°F). Weather in February »

Altai in March sees a notable upward shift in temperature as spring sets in. Temperatures range from -16°C (3.2°F) to -2°C (28.4°F), a stark contrast to the preceding periods of intense cold. The number of daylight hours continues to increase, indicating a transition from the winter season into a warmer phase. Weather in March »

In Altai, April brings more benevolent weather conditions. The transition from chilly winters to more moderate spring temperatures is well underway. The daylight hours further lengthen to 13.6 hours, inviting locals and tourists to enjoy outdoor activities. Weather in April »

May is the doorstep to Altai's summer, highlighted by milder temperatures ideal for sightseeing and nature walks. With the highest temperature climbing to 14°C (57.2°F) and daylight hours further extending to 15 hours, May clearly signals the onset of summer. Weather in May »

June ushers in the heart of summer in Altai, with weather becoming progressively balmy. The higher temperatures coupled with longer daylight hours make it the perfect time for exploration. June stands out due to a sharp spike in the number of rainy days to 10 and the highest UV index of 9. Weather in June »

July is the warmest month, with temperatures skyrocketing to a peak of 20°C (68°F). There's no lack of sunlight either, with daylight hours reaching at a generous 15.4 hours. Altai's July weather sees a perfect blend of warmth, sunshine, and occasional rainfall, which makes it the ideal setting for adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. Weather in July »

In August, the conditions continue to mirror those in July, promising warm and pleasant weather, perfect for continued summer festivities. However, temperatures experience a minor drop, signifying the slow but imminent decline towards the colder months. Weather in August »

Altai in September witnesses the onset of autumn with a significant decrease in temperature. After the balminess of summer, the first autumnal whispers emerge with temperatures reverting to a high of 14°C (57.2°F). As September progresses, the daylight hours decrease, signifying the retreat of summer and the onset of cooler weather. Weather in September »

October's weather in Altai, Mongolia is a clear departure from the balmy summer months. The temperature plummets to a high of barely 6°C (42.8°F), and daylight hours recede to about 10.9 hours. The autumn leaves change hue, and the landscapes transition into a pre-winter state, getting ready for the imminent cold. Weather in October »

November's weather brings with it the first throes of winter. A significant decline in temperature is registered, with highs only reaching -3°C (26.6°F). Altai's landscapes transform into a winter wonderland, with more daylight hours than December but considerably fewer than in October. Weather in November »

In December, Altai is firmly in the grip of winter, with the mercury dipping to a biting -22°C (-7.6°F). The sun becomes a rare sight, limiting daylight hours to a mere 8.7 hours, and the number of sunny hours drops to 6. Weather patterns mirror those of January, less the extreme cold, giving locals and tourists a taste of the frigid season ahead. Weather in December »