Climate and monthly weather forecast
Smolyan, Bulgaria

Smolyan, a city nestled within the magnificent Balkan Mountain ranges of Bulgaria, is characterized by a Dfb Köppen climate classification. This is indicative of a humid continental climate that sees warmth in the summer and no dry season. Weather variations in Smolyan are dramatic throughout the year, necessitating significant adaptation to shifting climate conditions.

Monthly average temperatures oscillate from a low of -5.2°C (22.6°F) in the heart of winter to a high of 25.7°C (78.3°F) during the summer's peak. This difference in temperature outlines the distinctive seasonal changes inherent to Smolyan's climate. The daylight hours also fluctuate substantially over the year, from as few as 9.2 hours per day in December to as many as 15.2 hours per day in June.

Relative humidity maintains a moderate to high level throughout the year, ranging from 57% in August to 77% in December. Rainfall is another climatic attribute that quantifies the wet and dry periods in Smolyan. The least rainfall, 10mm (0.39"), is observed in September, while the heaviest rainfall, 210mm (8.27"), inundates the city in December.

Given the swinging temperatures and variable precipitation, the best time to visit Smolyan generally falls between May and September. During this period, the city experiences a comfortable average high temperature from 18.5°C (65.3°F) to 25.7°C (78.3°F) and the average low temperature ranges from 7.7°C (45.9°F) to 12.7°C (54.9°F). September is particularly appealing as it records the lowest rainfall, a mere 10mm (0.39"), promising dry, sunny days that allow ample opportunity for outdoor exploration.

Visitors might want to avoid the chilly period from November to February in Smolyan. During this window, low temperatures can plummet from 1.1°C (34°F) to a severe -5.2°C (22.6°F), while high temperatures only range from 4.1°C (39.4°F) to 10.2°C (50.4°F). This period also records a high average rainfall, reaching its peak at 210mm (8.27") in December, making these months less ideal for travel.

In Smolyan, spring unfolds from March to May and delivers transitional climate conditions. Early spring witnesses a slow climb in temperatures - the average high moving from 9.2°C (48.6°F) to 18.5°C (65.3°F) and average low advancing from a chilly -2.1°C (28.2°F) to a reasonable 7.7°C (45.9°F) by the end of spring. The daylight also starts growing longer, moving from 12 hours to 14.5 hours.

Summer in Smolyan, running from June to August, presents warm and longer days. The high temperature during this period hovers between 22.2°C (72°F) to 25.7°C (78.3°F) and the low temperature from 10.8°C (51.4°F) to 12.7°C (54.9°F). Rainfall reduces considerably during summer, with August being the driest month at just 30mm (1.18"). The ample daylight, reaching up to 15.2 hours in June, adds to the appeal of this season.

Autumn swiftly arrives in Smolyan in September, bringing a gradual drop in temperatures. The high temperature recedes from 21.1°C (70°F) in September to just 10.2°C (50.4°F) by November. The low temperature follows a similar path, sliding from 8.8°C (47.8°F) to 1.1°C (34°F). Daylight hours also contract, dwindling from 12.5 hours to 9.9 hours. Despite these changes, the autumn period provides a lovely viewing of the changing foliage in the mountainous surroundings.

In Smolyan, winter reveals itself in full force from December to February. The high temperature remains cold, varying from 4.1°C (39.4°F) to 10.2°C (50.4°F), while the low temperature dips further to -3.8°C (25.2°F) to 1.1°C (34°F), and it is no stranger to negative figures. Rainfall climbs steeply, reaching its zenith of 210mm (8.27") in December. The city also receives the least amount of daylight during this season, dropping to a low of 9.2 hours in December.

Expect cold days coupled with considerable precipitation in Smolyan in January. January temperatures range from highs of 2.7°C (36.9°F) to lows of -5.2°C (22.6°F), and residents may experience 80mm (3.15") of rainfall during the month. Weather in January »

As winter continues in February, conditions become milder than in January. However, February sees the thermometer's measurement climbing slightly to a high of 4.5°C (40.1°F), while the minimum temperature remains in the minuses at -3.4°C (25.9°F). Weather in February »

With the arrival of March, Smolyan rejuvenates under the warmth of the emerging spring season. An increase in temperatures to the high of 9.2°C (48.6°F) is recorded, while a low of -2.1°C (28.2°F) keeps the spring chill in the air. Weather in March »

April witnesses the transformation of Smolyan into a beautiful paradise with longer daylight hours and warmer temperatures. However, the highest temperature shoots up to 13.6°C (56.5°F), all the while the city enjoys the mercy of the last of the minuses with a low at 3.9°C (39°F). Weather in April »

May ushers in the much-awaited release from the winter's hold as Smolyan transitions into the sunny and warm summer season. Catching the first glimpse of summer, the city sees mercury rise to a comfortable 18.5°C (65.3°F). The month of May is known for its blooming nature and the flourishing fields under the bright daylight. Weather in May »

June comes with the full glory of summer, carrying pleasant temperatures, longer daylight hours, and lesser humidity. The temperature modestly touches a high of 22.2°C (72°F), thus crafting a perfect atmosphere for outdoor activities. Weather in June »

July is the warmest month in Smolyan, with the heat seeping through the city's picturesque landscapes. The temperature of the month ranges from its hottest at 25.6°C (78.1°F) to a warm 12.8°C (55°F) at night. In the peak of the summer season, the city is laced with the most extended daylight hours of the year. Weather in July »

The city of Smolyan typically experiences warm weather in August, similar to July's pattern. The warmest days reach up to 25.7°C (78.3°F), while the nights mildly cool down to 12.7°C (54.9°F). With less rainfall than any other month, August disciplines a steady shift towards transitioning into fall. Weather in August »

September welcomes early signs of Fall, with a drop in temperature, after the summer peaks. The temperature profile closely follows with a monthly high of 21.1°C (70°F) while cooling at night to 8.8°C (47.8°F). The arrival of autumn takes the residents back to pleasant mornings and cozy nights. Weather in September »

October in Smolyan dictates a transition towards the cold winter months from the colorful fall season. The temperature dips to a warm 16.3°C (61.3°F) as the chill starts settling in for the upcoming winter. The city gets the aura of a painting with trees shedding their foliage, signaling winter's arrival. Weather in October »

November introduces colder conditions to Smolyan as it approaches the winter season. The high temperature registers at 10.2°C (50.4°F), while the nighttime temperature drops to 1.1°C (34°F), indicating the arrival of chilly winds. Weather in November »

December in Smolyan marks the onset of the winter season with cold temperatures throughout the month. The thermometer stays between a colder 4.1°C (39.4°F) at its warmest and a chilly -3.8°C (25.2°F) at night. The festive lights outshine the dullness of the shortest days of the year, bringing a radiant glow to the city. Weather in December »