The climate of Balkanabat
Balkanabat, a city located in
Turkmenistan, experiences a predominant Mid-latitude desert climate, categorized as BWk by the Köppen climate classification. This classification represents areas known for extremely dry conditions and wide temperature swings between day and night.
The yearly temperatures in Balkanabat show a significant range from balmy to hot. The temperatures could go as low from 1.7°C (35.1°F) in
January to as high as 37.5°C (99.5°F) in
July. On a comparative note, the city rarely receives precipitation throughout the year. Rainfall records range from a minimal 5mm (0.2") during the summer months of
June through
September to a maximum of 15mm (0.59") in
April.
Interestingly, snowfall also occurs in Balkanabat, albeit limited to the colder months. The meager snowfall, from 16mm (0.63") in January to 12mm (0.47") in
February, ambitiously tapers down to 1mm (0.04") in
March and April. Thus, Balkanabat is indicative of a climate zone where snowfall tends to be sparse. The city's sunlight varies between 9.6 hours per day in
December to 14.9 hours in June, supplemented with cloud cover of 9% in the summer months, revealing long clear days and short warm nights.
The best time to visit Balkanabat
Considering the climate variables, the optimal time to visit
Balkanabat would be during the relatively cooler months from
March through
May. During this period, the city experiences average high temperatures varying from 15.8°C (60.4°F) in March to 29.7°C (85.5°F) in May, thus presenting a comfortable climate for visitors. Likewise, humidity levels range from 49% in March to 32% in May, providing a somewhat dry yet pleasant atmosphere. The ample hours of sunlight, from 12 hours in March to 14.4 hours in May, is an added attraction.
The worst time to visit Balkanabat
The intense summer heat from
June through
August makes these months less favorable for a visit. The soaring high temperatures fluctuate from 35.2°C (95.4°F) to 37.5°C (99.5°F) during this period, making outdoor activities uncomfortable. Also, coupled with the lowest relative humidity readings of 24% and 22% in
July and August respectively, the city experiences an extremely dry and hot climate. Despite being the period with the longest daylight hours, exceeding 14 hours per day, the scorching heat could potentially deter some visitors.
Spring weather in Balkanabat
Spring in
Balkanabat is characterized by a pleasant climate with temperatures rising progressively from 15.8°C (60.4°F) in
March to 29.7°C (85.5°F) in
May. This period also experiences a decrease in rainfall, with averages from 13mm (0.51") in March to 12mm (0.47") in May. On the other hand, the amount of sunlight increases progressively from 12 hours to 14.4 hours per day, making this season a relatively warm and dry period.
Summer weather in Balkanabat
The summer months in
Balkanabat are characterized by high temperatures, low rainfall, and low relative humidity. From
June through
August, the temperature highs remain above 35°C (95°F) with the highest recorded in
July at 37.5°C (99.5°F). The rainfall during this period is scanty, never exceeding 6mm (0.24") in a month. However, despite the harsh heat, summers here are known for the longest daylight hours, spanning approximately 14 hours per day.
Autumn weather in Balkanabat
Come autumn, the temperatures begin to dip from a high of 30.1°C (86.2°F) in
September to a moderate 13.2°C (55.8°F) in
November. The autumn months of September to November also witness a slight increase in rainfall, with the amount ranging from 5mm (0.2") in September to 7mm (0.28") in November. Sunshine hours also decrease during this period, with an average of 11.2 hours of daylight per day in November. This season is marked with moderate temperatures and slightly cloudy conditions.
Winter weather in Balkanabat
Winter in
Balkanabat brings forth lower temperatures, minimal rainfall and scarce snowfall. The temperatures significantly decrease from a high of 9°C (48.2°F) in
December to the lowest of 1.7°C (35.1°F) in
January. Rainfall is minimal, averaging between 9mm (0.35") in December and 11mm (0.43") in January. Despite recording snowfall, it happens sporadically and usually only a mere 1mm (0.04") in December and January. Shorter days are characteristic of this season with an average of 9.4 daylight hours in December.
Weather in January
Balkanabat,
Turkmenistan, witnesses a chilly start to the year, as
January graces the city with cold days and colder nights. Its temperatures swings from 1.7°C (35.1°F) to 8.3°C (46.9°F) typically denote a regular winter. Occasional rain and snowfall accompany the cool temperatures, adding to the beauty of winter sights.
Weather in January » Weather in February
There is only a mild transition in weather from
January to
February. The cold continues as overall temperatures experience an insignificant rise. The city experiences slightly less snowfall, even though the layer of snow brought by the north winds is still evident.
Weather in February »Weather in March
March brings a breath of fresh air to
Balkanabat with a noticeable transformation in weather. Warmth starts to replace the cold winter chill as the city makes welcome changes in anticipation of spring. Flowers start to bloom, aided by a gradual increase in daylight hours.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
The city of
Balkanabat fully embraces spring in
April. The city's natural beauty with vibrant colors becomes a sight to behold as flora thrives under increased sunshine. Outdoor activities become more enjoyable, with the drop in humidity from 49% in
March to 42% in April, bringing less frequent showers.
Weather in April »Weather in May
In
May, summer makes its first soft touch felt with a significant rise in temperatures. The entire city begins to bud under the increasing warmth, with extended daylight and fewer rain showers. The comfortable weather allows for leisurely strolls in the park and picnics under partly cloudy skies.
Weather in May »Weather in June
June typically marks the beginning of the hot summer season in
Balkanabat. The air becomes drier, and the sun shines brightly for a larger part of the day. The UV Index hits 8 implying caution, especially during the afternoon hours.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July is the hottest month in
Balkanabat and is known for its high-temperature record of 37.5°C (99.5°F). The heat wave penetrates every corner of the city, encouraging residents to stay indoors during the day. Despite the heat, rainfall does its part in providing much-needed relief.
Weather in July » Weather in August
The grip of the sweltering summer heat in
Balkanabat softens during
August. The climate remains hot, albeit at lower temperatures, providing a slight reprieve. UV protection remains non-negotiable as people continue to visit local markets and vibrant city streets in the evenings.
Weather in August »Weather in September
September brings a welcome change from the intense summer heat in
Balkanabat. The early signs of autumn appear with a gentle drop in records, signaling the beginning of the end of summer. The flora of the city starts changing colors, adding an entirely different charm to the cityscape.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October in
Balkanabat is a treat for all with the fall season at its magnificent best. The city is endowed with a riot of colors as trees journey through the transformation process before shedding their leaves. Cooler temperatures make outdoor activities inviting once more, with fewer hours of daylight marking shorter days.
Weather in October » Weather in November
November is the transition period from the colorful fall to the approaching winter in
Balkanabat. The cityscape transitions in hues and temperatures begin to drop, hinting at the upcoming winter. Layers become necessary as the city experiences a coolness in the atmosphere, especially during the evenings and nights.
Weather in November » Weather in December
Balkanabat ends the year on a chilly note as
December winter takes charge. The city enters into the festive mood, with the cold weather providing the perfect backdrop for the holiday season festivities. Winter fog engulfs the cityscape, creating picturesque views along with snowfall, which graces the city but in scarce amounts.
Weather in December » [Resources]