Climate and monthly weather forecast
Rostov-on-Don, Russia

Rostov-On-Don, Russia is situated in the Humid Continental Köppen climate zone, characterized specifically as Dfa. This entails that the region experiences no dry season and hot summers. This continental climate classification is a result of the city's inland position, far from major bodies of water, causing substantial temperature difference between seasons.

The temperature variation in Rostov-on-Don is significant across various seasons. During the colder months from December to February, the maximum temperature fluctuates between -0.1°C (31.8°F) to 0.7°C (33.3°F), with the lowest temperature hovering around -5.3°C (22.5°F) to -4°C (24.8°F). However, in the warmer months from June to August, the temperature can reach as high as 26.6°C (79.9°F) to 29.2°C (84.6°F), and the minimum temperature remains between 15.8°C (60.4°F) and 18°C (64.4°F).

Rainfall in Rostov-on-Don is consistent throughout the year, with the months of June and December experiencing the highest average rainfall, approximately 70mm (2.76") and 69mm (2.72"), respectively. The city receives a moderate number of rainfall days, ranging between 7 to 12 days per month. The quantity of daylight varies substantially, with shorter days in winter (with 8.6 hours in December) and longer daylight hours in summer (reaching up to 15.9 hours in June).

Relative humidity in Rostov-on-Don is generally high throughout the year, with an average humidity between 59% in August to a peak of 86% in December. Rostov-on-Don also experiences considerable sunshine hours that vary from 1.2 hours per day in December to a max of 10.1 hours per day in July.

The best time to visit Rostov-on-Don, for outdoor activities and sightseeing, is largely from May to September. During this period, average temperatures are comfortably warm, ranging from 16.1°C (61°F) to 22.3°C (72.1°F), with a peak of 28.8°C (83.8°F) in August. The relative humidity is in the mid 60s and the city sees average sunshine hours between 8 and 10 daily, which guarantees plenty of daylight for visitors to explore the city. This period also experiences moderate rainfall, ensuring the city is lush and green.

A less favourable time to visit Rostov-on-Don would be from December to February due to sub-zero temperatures and substantial snowfall. Lowest temperatures can fall to -5.6°C (21.9°F) in February and the maximum hardly rises above 0.7°C (33.3°F). The meagre sunlight hours, ranging from 1.2 to 3 hours in these months also make outdoor activities less appealing. Moreover, these months also record the highest level of relative humidity upwards of 81%, adding to the discomfort.

Spring in Rostov-on-Don starts mildly in March with temperatures ranging from -0.9°C (30.4°F) at the lowest to 6.9°C (44.4°F) at the highest. As the season progresses, temperatures rise appreciably, reaching a comfortable 16.1°C (61°F) by May. Rainfall during spring is moderately distributed with an average of 47mm (1.85") to 56mm (2.2") over 11 to 12 days of the month. With up to 13.6 hours of daylight and an average of 6.3 hours of sunshine, Spring is a season of color and bloom in Rostov-on-Don.

Summer in Rostov-on-Don sees a relatively high temperature range from 15.8°C (60.4°F) to 29.2°C (84.6°F). Despite being the peak of the rainy season, these months experience only about 9 to 10 rainy days, with average rainfall around 53mm (2.09") to 70mm (2.76"). In June, the city enjoys maximum daylight of 15.9 hours and long sunshine hours around 9.5 to 10.1 hours. The UV index in these months, reaching a height of 7 to 8, requires vigilant use of sun protection.

Autumn in Rostov-on-Don sees temperatures declining from 22.6°C (72.7°F) in September to a cool 6.3°C (43.3°F) in November. Rainfall is relatively moderate during these months ranging from 39mm (1.54") to 53mm (2.09"), with about 9 to 12 days of rain per month. The daylight hours shrink noticeably during autumn, decreasing from 12.6 hours in September to 9.4 hours by November. However, the city still receives an adequate amount of sunshine, around 5.1 to 8 hours per day.

Winters in Rostov-on-Don are notably cold with average temperature hovering between -5.3°C (22.5°F) to -0.1°C (31.8°F). December, January, and February experience the highest average precipitation, with December topping at 69mm (2.72") over 10 to 12 rainy days per month. Winter months have the shortest daylight hours, from 8.6 hours in December to 9 hours in February. Despite the cold, it is the season where Rostov-on-Don becomes a winter wonderland, with its parks and trees adorned in snow.

Rostov-on-Don in January has its place within the grip of winter. Characterized primarily by sub-freezing temperatures, locals and visitors can expect a thick layer of frost as morning becomes the mainstay, with occasional snowfall painting a beautiful winter landscape. Weather in January »

February continues the narrative of the cold winter season, where the temperatures share a resemblance with January. The month sees an incremental increase in daylight hours and an apparent decrease in relative humidity, suggesting marginally better weather conditions. Weather in February »

March signals the arrival of spring with a significant leap in temperatures, which noticeably rises from -0.9°C (30.4°F) to 6.9°C (44.4°F). The change in season illuminates the city in a different charm, where the once winter-beaten paths begin to bloom into brilliant shades of green, indicating the onset of warmer days. Weather in March »

April ushered in a more noticeable warming trend, celebrating spring in full swing. Blending perfectly moderate temperatures and an abundance of daylight hours, the city begins to thrive under clear and bright skies. A reduction in relative humidity brings a more pleasant feel to the city's atmosphere, particularly during daylight hours. Weather in April »

May is famous for delivering a delightful blend of warmth and sunlight, the prelude to summer’s arrival. The temperatures rise noticeably, facilitating the onset of warmer days, characterized by a bright and vibrant cityscape. Residents and visitors alike can feel the simmering summer heat on the horizon, with ample daylight hours fostering an ideal climate for outdoor activities. Weather in May »

June introduces the first wave of summer heat to Rostov-on-Don, marked by a significant rise in temperatures. The city basks under the longest daylight hours of the year, reflecting the zenith of sunbathed summer days. Offering a respite from the soaring temperatures are the slightly cooler evenings, allowing the residents to enjoy comfortable, laid-back nights. Weather in June »

July in Rostov-on-Don commands the title of the hottest month, with phenomenal high temperature peaking at 29.2°C (84.6°F). Under the consistent sun, citizens and tourists can revel in the long, bright summer days. Despite the scorching temperatures, a relatively low level of humidity offers somewhat of a breather compared to previous months. Weather in July »

August in Rostov-on-Don witnesses the reign of summer. Echoing July's warmth, the temperature stays put, creating an atmosphere suitable for a myriad of outdoor activities. A steady sunshine duration transforms the city's landscapes into a kaleidoscope of summer hues, encompassing both the city's urban and natural attractions. Weather in August »

With the coming of September, summer gradually paves the way for the incoming autumn. An evident drop in temperature marks the arrival of the cooler but still comfortably warm days. Twinged with cool zephyrs, the city begins to showcase an array of autumn colors extending from the urban scape to natural parks. Weather in September »

October firmly ushers in the essence of autumn with noticeably cooler temperatures. Crisp morning air intertwined with autumn hues provide a distinct charm to the cityscape of Rostov-on-Don. Sunshine hours gradually wane, while the increase in relative humidity encapsulates the city in a cooler aura. Weather in October »

November in Rostov-on-Don witnesses a significant drop in temperature, which plunges to a maximum of just 6.3°C (43.3°F); a stark contrast to the preceding months. Shorter daylight hours corresponds with an increase in relative humidity, creating a cool, crisp ambiance throughout the city. Weather in November »

December sets the stage for the incoming harsh Russian winter. Temperatures oscillate around the freezing point and daylight hours reach a minimum. A distinct chill engulfs the city, casting an air of tranquility that matches well with the festive holiday season. Weather in December »