The climate of Islamabad
In terms of climate classification,
Islamabad,
Pakistan, falls under the Köppen Cwa category, which signifies a humid subtropical climate with a pronounced dry winter. Located geographically on the Pothohar Plateau, the city experience considerable seasonal variations in various meteorological parameters.
Throughout a typical year, Islamabad experiences fairly high temperatures ranging, on average, from 7.1°C (44.8°F) to 39.1°C (102.4°F). A close examination of the monthly means reveals that the city witnesses its coldest temperatures in
January at 7.1°C (44.8°F), while the hottest conditions predominantly occur in
June with temperatures as high as 39.1°C (102.4°F).
Relative humidity is anothersignificant aspect of Islamabad's climate, fluctuating from 26% to 53% throughout the year. The lowest humidity conditions are observed in June, while the highest humidity is typically in
August. Contrary to what might be expected, rainfall is not highest during the most humid months. Indeed, the highest precipitation measurements are noted between
July and August, when rainfall reaches 87mm (3.43") to119mm (4.69") respectively.
Regarding the city's climatic features related to sunshine and uv index, sunlight availability spans from 10.2 to 14.4 hours per day, achieving its highest levels around June or July. However, the highest uv index is consistently seen in
May, June, and July, all of which register an index of 8.
The best time to visit Islamabad
With consideration for the overall climate trends and patterns, as well as tourist preferences for comfortable temperatures and minimal rainfall, the most favorable time to visit
Islamabad is arguably between
October and
November. During these months, the average temperatures are a comfortable 24.6°C (76.3°F) to 30.3°C (86.5°F) with just 9mm (0.35") to 15mm (0.59") of precipitation, thereby providing excellent conditions for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
The worst time to visit Islamabad
Conversely, the most challenging time to visit
Islamabad, particularly for tourists unaccustomed to high humidity and significant rainfall, would be during the monsoon period running from
July to
August. These months are characterized by highest average rainfall of 87mm (3.43") to 119mm (4.69") and are also associated with high humidity levels of 42% to 53%.
Spring weather in Islamabad
The spring season, which spans from
March to
May in
Islamabad, is marked by climbing temperatures and a relative decrease in rainfall. The average high temperature rises from 24.7°C (76.5°F) in March to 36°C (96.8°F) in May. Although the rainfall amounts decrease from 64mm (2.52") in March to 29mm (1.14") in May, the onset of spring also sees a relative increase in daylight, amounting to 13 hours by May end.
Summer weather in Islamabad
The summer season, starting from
June and extending through
August, is when
Islamabad observes the most extreme temperatures. The average high temperature during the summer months maintains in the range of 35.5°C (95.9°F) to 39.1°C (102.4°F). The maximum rainfall in the span of the year is recorded within these months, peaking at 119mm (4.69") in August.
Autumn weather in Islamabad
Autumn in
Islamabad unfolds from
September through
November, bringing with it a decrease in both temperature and rainfall. The average high temperature moves down from 33.8°C (92.8°F) in September to 24.6°C (76.3°F) by November. Rainfall also displays a significant decrease, moving from 45mm (1.77") to just 9mm (0.35") in this period.
Winter weather in Islamabad
In the winter months of
December through
February,
Islamabad displays its lowest temperatures of the year. Average lows dip to 7.1°C (44.8°F) in
January, the coldest month, while average highs hover round 19.3°C (66.7°F) in February. Despite the drop in temperature, this time of year is relatively dry, with precipitation totals only reaching 29mm (1.14") to 52mm (2.05").
Weather in January
January marks the onset of winter in
Islamabad,
Pakistan. The temperatures significantly drop and the city experiences the chill of winter with the temperatures falling to a low of 7.1°C (44.8°F) and only hitting a high of 17.6°C (63.7°F).
Weather in January » Weather in February
In
February,
Islamabad steadily transitions from winter to spring. The city enjoys pleasant climatic conditions with the mercury level starting to rise slightly. More sunny days are seen as compared to
January, with an increase in the daylight duration.
Weather in February »Weather in March
Islamabad witnesses the full bloom of spring in
March with a noticeable rise in temperatures. Daylight duration extends further, making the days longer and warmer. The city is mildly humid in March, keeping the weather pleasant and comfortable for outdoor activities.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
As the calendar hits
April, the arrival of summer can be felt in
Islamabad. The city experiences a significant increase in temperatures from
March, reaching up to a scorching high of 30.5°C (86.9°F). The sun shines brightly for extended hours, keeping the city dry and the vegetation lush.
Weather in April »Weather in May
May, one of the warmest months in
Islamabad, portrays the peak of summer. With high temperatures, the rise in humidity offers little respite from the heat. The sweltering conditions do not deter life in the city, as people stay cool under the shade and trees come alive in a riot of colors.
Weather in May » Weather in June
Coasting into
June,
Islamabad experiences constant warm temperatures. The humidity level remains stagnant from
May to June, offering no relief from the summer swelter. The decreasing air pressure signals the impending arrival of monsoon.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July is a significant month weather-wise for
Islamabad as it marks the start of the monsoon season. Not only is it the hottest month with temperatures soaring up to 37.5°C (99.5°F), but it also sees the highest rainfall, amounting to 87mm (3.43"), and the longest daylight duration.
Weather in July » Weather in August
As the city moves into
August, temperatures slightly drop, indicating the end of the hot summer days. The rains, however, persist, adding up to 119mm (4.69"), the highest for the year. The humidity level rises, making the city feel warmer than it is.
Weather in August »Weather in September
September in
Islamabad is defined by the gradual reduction in rains and slight cooling down of temperatures. The transition from monsoon to post-monsoon is evident from the reducing rainfall and cloud cover. Dryer weather allows for more hours of sunshine, lighting up the city in the warm glow.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
In
October,
Islamabad experiences a considerable drop in temperature, announcing the onset of autumn. The city remains dry owing to the minimal rainfall and reduced cloud cover. The daylight duration decreases, leading to shorter days and longer nights.
Weather in October »Weather in November
November brings further cooling temperatures to
Islamabad, preparing residents for the ensuing winter. The city experiences clear skies again, following the monsoon and post-monsoon clouds. On a high note, sunshine spreads over almost the entire month.
Weather in November » Weather in December
The closing month in
Islamabad,
December, plunges the city into winter. The clear skies, high pressure, and steady winds contribute to significantly lower temperatures, bringing the chill into the atmosphere. Low temperatures, combined with low humidity, result in chilly winter days.
Weather in December »