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Contents
- The climate of Moscow
- The best time to visit Moscow
- The worst time to visit Moscow
- Spring weather in Moscow
- Summer weather in Moscow
- Autumn weather in Moscow
- Winter weather in Moscow
- Weather in January
- Weather in February
- Weather in March
- Weather in April
- Weather in May
- Weather in June
- Weather in July
- Weather in August
- Weather in September
- Weather in October
- Weather in November
- Weather in December
- Frequently asked questions
- Average temperature
- Average humidity
- Average rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average snowfall days
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average UV index
The Red Square with a close view of the St. Basil's Cathedral building in Moscow, Russia
The climate of Moscow
Conforming to the Köppen climate classification, Moscow, the capital of Russia, holds a Dfb classification indicating a Humid Continental climate with a warm summer season and no dry season. Located in Eastern Europe, the climate sees significant shifts in weather patterns, heavily influenced by the city's geographical positioning.
In an annual observation of weather trends, descending temperatures are common between the months from November to March with average lows ranging from -9.1°C (15.6°F) to -7.6°C (18.3°F) and highs from -4°C (24.8°F) to 2.6°C (36.7°F). Contrastingly, a rise in temperature is observed from April to September ranging from 11.3°C (52.3°F) to 24.3°C (75.7°F) in average high temperatures and 2.2°C (36°F) to 14.4°C (57.9°F) in average lows.
In terms of precipitation, the trend showcases an increase in rainfall from May to October with monthly averages fluctuating from 49mm (1.93") to 85mm (3.35"). The city also experiences some snowfall, most commonly from November to March, with an average of 10 to 18 snowfall days per month. Humidity remains relatively high throughout the year, hovering around 64% to 85%. Details show longer daylight hours in summer with peak sunshine hours in June of 9.3 hours a day, while winter months see less sunlight, with December clocking in the shortest duration of an average of 0.6 sunshine hours daily.
In an annual observation of weather trends, descending temperatures are common between the months from November to March with average lows ranging from -9.1°C (15.6°F) to -7.6°C (18.3°F) and highs from -4°C (24.8°F) to 2.6°C (36.7°F). Contrastingly, a rise in temperature is observed from April to September ranging from 11.3°C (52.3°F) to 24.3°C (75.7°F) in average high temperatures and 2.2°C (36°F) to 14.4°C (57.9°F) in average lows.
In terms of precipitation, the trend showcases an increase in rainfall from May to October with monthly averages fluctuating from 49mm (1.93") to 85mm (3.35"). The city also experiences some snowfall, most commonly from November to March, with an average of 10 to 18 snowfall days per month. Humidity remains relatively high throughout the year, hovering around 64% to 85%. Details show longer daylight hours in summer with peak sunshine hours in June of 9.3 hours a day, while winter months see less sunlight, with December clocking in the shortest duration of an average of 0.6 sunshine hours daily.
The best time to visit Moscow
Considering the climatic conditions and weather patterns, the period between mid-May and mid-September is arguably the most favorable for visiting Moscow. During this time, temperatures reach a comfortable range from 18.6°C (65.5°F) to 24.3°C (75.7°F) during the day and 7.7°C (45.9°F) to 14.4°C (57.9°F) at night. Precipitation is somewhat high during these months, albeit not overwhelmingly so, with an average monthly rainfall between 49mm (1.93") and 85mm (3.35"). Besides, longer daylight during summer up to 17.5 hours a day in June, provides ample time for sightseeing and exploring the city.
The worst time to visit Moscow
The heart of the Russian winter, from November to March, is known for being particularly harsh. During this period, average daily temperatures can drop to between -4°C (24.8°F) and -3°C (26.6°F) during the day and from -9.1°C (15.6°F) to -7.6°C (18.3°F) at night. Additionally, sunlight is limited during these months with daylight hours dropping to a low of 7.1 hours in December, and sunshine hours to just 0.6 in the same month. Furthermore, significant snowfall, coupled with an upshot in humidity levels between 84% and 85%, can make the weather feel even colder.
Spring weather in Moscow
Spring brings a marked change to Moscow's climate. The period from April to June sees the transition from cold winter temperatures to warmer weather conditions. The daily average highs climb from a chilly 2.6°C (36.7°F) in March to a warm 22°C (71.6°F) in June. Correspondingly, night temperatures rise significantly from -4.4°C (24.1°F) to 12.1°C (53.8°F) within the same period. While rain levels increase gradually, April sees only 37mm (1.46"), suggesting slight showers, before it rises to 80mm (3.15") in June.
Summer weather in Moscow
Summer in Moscow, extending from July to September, is marked by higher temperatures. Daytime averages peak at 24.3°C (75.7°F) in July before dropping to 15.7°C (60.3°F) in September. Similarly, night temperatures peak at 14.4°C (57.9°F) and decline to 7.4°C (45.3°F) towards the end of summer. Despite the warmer temperatures, this time experiences relatively higher rainfall, reaching a year-high of 85mm (3.35") in July and maintaining 68mm (2.68") in September.
Autumn weather in Moscow
Autumn in Moscow, from October to November, sees a steep decline in temperatures. October starts with average day highs of 8.7°C (47.7°F), which plunge to 0.9°C (33.6°F) by November. Correspondingly, night temperatures also drop from 2.7°C (36.9°F) to -3.3°C (26.1°F). The rainfall is moderately high with values of 71mm (2.8") and 55mm (2.17") in October and November, respectively. Sunshine hours also decrease significantly from 2.5 hours daily in October to 1.1 hours in November.
Winter weather in Moscow
Winter is the most austere season in Moscow, marked by intense cold and limited sunlight. December to February sees a consistent daily high temperature of -4°C (24.8°F) to -3.7°C (25.3°F) and an average low of -9.1°C (15.6°F) to -9.8°C (14.4°F). Furthermore, the season sees substantial snowfall of 17 to 18 snow days per month. The combination of high humidity levels, snowfall, and the lack of sunshine—totaling 0.6 to 1.1 hours daily—make this time of year extremely cold.
Weather in January
January in Moscow, Russia, is characterized by cold temperatures and snowy conditions. These winter conditions make it an ideal time for snow-based activities, weather permitting. During the day, the maximum temperatures hover around -4°C (24.8°F), with colder nights seeing a dip to around -9.1°C (15.6°F). Weather in January »
Weather in February
The chill of winter continues in Moscow during February. Although the factor of cold remains the prime weather characteristic of the month, slow transitions towards the spring season start to appear towards the month's end. Compared to January's temperatures, February offers a slightly less severe cold with the highest and lowest temperatures being -3.7°C (25.3°F) and -9.8°C (14.4°F) respectively. Weather in February »
Weather in March
March is characterized by a noticeable shift in weather towards milder temperatures in Moscow, Russia. This transitional period exchanges the heavy snowfall for more rainy days along with an increase in daylight hours. The relative humidity drops from 80% in February to roughly 74%, hinting at the drying trend. Weather in March »
Weather in April
April in Moscow welcomes the spring season in full bloom with mild temperatures and increased rainy days. This month is distinct in terms of more daylight hours, fostering outdoor activities and city tours. As the snow clears, the city prepares itself for the warmer months ahead with a high temperature of around 11.3°C (52.3°F) and a low of 2.2°C (36°F). Weather in April »
Weather in May
May in Moscow marks the arrival of the warm season with temperatures rising considerably. The city witnesses a significant transition in its weather with the onset of summer. May experiences warmer temperatures with a high nearing 18.6°C (65.5°F) and a low of around 7.7°C (45.9°F). Weather in May »
Weather in June
June initiates the summer season in Moscow with the longest daylight hours of any other month. With averages of roughly 12.1°C (53.8°F) for the lowest temperature and 22°C (71.6°F) for the highest, the city greets the summer with warm, inviting weather. Weather in June »
Weather in July
July is the hottest month of the year in Moscow, Russia. The temperature peaks during this month with a highest average of 24.3°C (75.7°F) and a lowest of around 14.4°C (57.9°F). With a noticeable increase in humidity of approximately 74%, July also sees a rise in the ultraviolet (UV) index to 6. Weather in July »
Weather in August
Moscow's August weather is characterized by continuation of warm temperatures, although a slight cooling is noticeable towards the end of the month. This month still enjoys long daylight hours, fostering outdoor activities and events. Weather in August »
Weather in September
September in Moscow introduces the autumn season with cooler temperatures and shorter daylight hours. While September sees an average highest temperature of 15.7°C (60.3°F) and a lowest of 7.4°C (45.3°F), residents begin to feel the onset of cooler months ahead. Weather in September »
Weather in October
October marks the mid of autumn in Moscow, with the weather cooling down significantly compared to September. The daylight hours continue to decrease, giving the city a calmer ambiance as it prepares for the chilling winters ahead. Weather in October »
Weather in November
November in Moscow, Russia, signifies the return of the cold winter months. Temperatures dwindle further with an average high of around 0.9°C (33.6°F) and a low of -3.3°C (26.1°F). The city transitions into a quieter winter mode with shorter daylight hours and an increase in snowfall days, to about 10. Weather in November »
Weather in December
December brings Moscow into the full swing of winter, marked by colder temperatures and longer nights. As daylight hours shrink further to average about 7.1 hours a day, the city embraces the season with winter markets, ice-skating rinks, and festive illuminations. Weather in December »
[Resources]Frequently asked questions
What is the coldest time of year in Moscow?
The coldest period in Moscow tends to be January, when average temperatures fluctuate between a high of -4°C (24.8°F) and a low of -9.1°C (15.6°F).
How many days does it rain in Moscow?
Throughout the year, there are 105.5 rainfall days, and 707mm (27.83") of precipitation is accumulated.
When does it snow in Moscow?
January through May, September through December are months with snowfall in Moscow.
When does it snow the most in Moscow?
January has the most snowfall days of the year in Moscow, Russia. Snow falls for 18 days.
How many days does it snow in Moscow?
Throughout the year, in Moscow, Russia, there are 72.2 snowfall days.
When is the lowest UV index in Moscow?
January and December, with an average maximum UV index of 0, are months with the lowest UV index in Moscow, Russia.
What is the driest month in Moscow?
March is the month with the least rainfall in Moscow, Russia. Rain falls for 3 days and accumulates 35mm (1.38") of precipitation.
What is the least humid month in Moscow?
With an average relative humidity of 64%, May is the least humid month.
When it does not snow in Moscow?
In Moscow, Russia, snow does not fall in June through August.
When are the longest days in Moscow?
The month with the longest days in Moscow is June, with an average of 17h and 30min of daylight.
What month has the most sunshine in Moscow?
The month with the most sunshine is June, with an average of 9.3h of sunshine.
What is the month with the highest UV index in Moscow?
June and July, with an average maximum UV index of 6, are months with the highest UV index.
What are the warmest months in Moscow?
July, marked by an average high-temperature of 24.3°C (75.7°F) and a low-temperature of 14.4°C (57.9°F), is the warmest month.
What is the wettest month in Moscow?
The month with the most rainfall is July, when the rain falls for 15 days and typically aggregates up to 85mm (3.35") of precipitation.
What is the most humid month in Moscow?
The most humid month in Moscow is December, with an average relative humidity of 85%.
What is the month with the shortest days in Moscow?
The month with the shortest days in Moscow is December, with an average of 7h and 6min of daylight.
Is there Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Moscow?
Moscow does not observe Daylight Saving Time (DST). MSK timezone is used over the entire year.
What is the month with the least sunshine in Moscow?
The month with the least sunshine in Moscow, Russia, is December, with an average of 0.6h of sunshine.
Average temperature
Moscow, Russia
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (24.3°C).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (-4°C).
The month with the highest average low temperature is July (14.4°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is February (-9.8°C).
Average humidity
Moscow, Russia
The month with the highest relative humidity is December (85%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is May (64%).
Average rainfall
Moscow, Russia
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is July (85mm).
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is March (35mm).
Average rainfall days
Moscow, Russia
- Average rainfall days in January:
0.8 days - Average rainfall days in February:
0.7 days - Average rainfall days in March:
3 days - Average rainfall days in April:
9 days - Average rainfall days in May:
13 days - Average rainfall days in June:
14 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
15 days - Average rainfall days in August:
15 days - Average rainfall days in September:
15 days - Average rainfall days in October:
12 days - Average rainfall days in November:
6 days - Average rainfall days in December:
2 days
The months with the highest number of rainy days are July, August and September (15 days).
The month with the least rainy days is February (0.7 days).
Average snowfall days
Moscow, Russia
- Average snowfall days in January:
18 days - Average snowfall days in February:
15 days - Average snowfall days in March:
9 days - Average snowfall days in April:
1 days - Average snowfall days in May:
0.1 days - Average snowfall days in June:
0 days
- Average snowfall days in July:
0 days - Average snowfall days in August:
0 days - Average snowfall days in September:
0.1 days - Average snowfall days in October:
2 days - Average snowfall days in November:
10 days - Average snowfall days in December:
17 days
The month with the highest number of snowfall days is January (18 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are June, July and August (0 days).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Moscow, Russia
- Average daylight in January:
7h and 5min - Average daylight in February:
9h and 4min - Average daylight in March:
11h and 5min - Average daylight in April:
14h and 1min - Average daylight in May:
16h and 2min - Average daylight in June:
17h and 3min
- Average daylight in July:
16h and 5min - Average daylight in August:
15h and 0min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 4min - Average daylight in October:
10h and 2min - Average daylight in November:
8h and 2min - Average daylight in December:
7h and 1min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 17h and 30min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 7h and 6min).
- Average sunshine in January:
1h and 1min - Average sunshine in February:
2h and 4min - Average sunshine in March:
4h and 1min - Average sunshine in April:
5h and 4min - Average sunshine in May:
8h and 3min - Average sunshine in June:
9h and 2min
- Average sunshine in July:
8h and 4min - Average sunshine in August:
7h and 4min - Average sunshine in September:
4h and 5min - Average sunshine in October:
2h and 3min - Average sunshine in November:
1h and 1min - Average sunshine in December:
0h and 4min
The month with the most sunshine is June (Average sunshine: 9h and 18min).
The month with the least sunshine is December (Average sunshine: 0h and 36min).
Average UV index
Moscow, Russia
The months with the highest UV index are June and July (UV index 6).
The months with the lowest UV index are January and December (UV index 0).
Moscow, Russia
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