The climate of Irkutsk
Geographically positioned in the northern region of
Russia,
Irkutsk experiences a Humid continental climate according to the Köppen climate classification. The city's weather pattern follows a 'Dwb' classification code, indicating severe dry winters and warm summers.
The temperatures in Irkutsk show a great degree of fluctuation throughout the year. The mercury slides to a chilling low of -23.8°C (-10.8°F) in
January and then gradually climbs to a comfortable average high of 25.8°C (78.4°F) by
July. Rainfall and snowfall also demonstrate seasonal variations. The city sees an escalating trend from
February's 7mm (0.28") of rain and 56mm (2.2") of snow, reaching a peak of 65mm (2.56") rain and 123mm (4.84") snow in
April and
March respectively.
Relative humidity stays relatively high during the winter months, hovering around 94% in January and February, before tapering off to about 54% by
May. One unique weather pattern that makes Irkutsk stand out is its daylight hours. From a brief 8.3 hours of daylight in January, the city revels in as much as 16.7 hours from
June to July. The city enjoys an average annual UV Index of 1 to 6, peaking in the summer months, and a mean visibility range from 4km (2.5mi) in January to 10km (6.2mi) in June.
The best time to visit Irkutsk
Considering the various weather parameters, summer months between
June and
August qualify as the most favorable time to visit
Irkutsk. During this period, the temperature averages between 22.7°C (72.9°F) to 25.8°C (78.4°F) providing optimum warmth for sightseeing. Additionally, prolonged daylight hours peaking at 16.7 hours add an extra charm to the exploring experience. The UV index in these months, extending from 5 to 6, promises adequate sun exposure for vitamin D synthesis. Relative humidity around this time, at an average of 59% to 66%, creates pleasant weather conditions.
The worst time to visit Irkutsk
Experiencing the bite of freezing temperatures between -19.9°C (-3.8°F) to -13.4°C (7.9°F), the months from
December to
February can be deemed unsuitable for tourism. The daylight hours plummet to 7.8hrs to 8.3hrs resulting in considerably less time for exploration. The relative humidity is also at its highest almost touching 94%, adding to the chilling weather's harshness.
Spring weather in Irkutsk
During the spring months of
March to
May,
Irkutsk witnesses a dramatic rise in temperature; from an average low of -12.8°C (9°F) in March to an average high of 16.3°C (61.3°F) by May. Rainfall sees a gradual increase from 17mm (0.67") to 32mm (1.26") while snowfall reduces from 123mm (4.84") to 33mm (1.3"). Daylight hours increase notably from 11.9hrs to 15.7hrs, providing ample light for daytime activities.
Summer weather in Irkutsk
June to
August, the summer months for
Irkutsk, greet the residents with a moderate temperature range of 22.7°C (72.9°F) to 25.8°C (78.4°F). Rainfall is at its annual peak during these months, reaching an apex of 65mm (2.56") in
July. Snowfall, on the other hand, is absent during this season. The city luxuriates in daylight for a splendid 14.6hrs to 16.7hrs.
Autumn weather in Irkutsk
Autumn, spanning from
September to
November, is characterized by a gradual cooling trend with temperatures fluctuating between 14.9°C (58.8°F) and -4.6°C (23.7°F). Rainfall ranges from 30mm (1.18") to 11mm (0.43") and snowfall increases from 25mm (0.98") to 81mm (3.19"). With the average daylight hours decreasing from 12.7hrs to 8.8hrs, the days start to get shorter.
Winter weather in Irkutsk
The winter months of
December to
February in
Irkutsk are intensely cold, with temperatures ranging from a bone-chilling low of -23.8°C (-10.8°F) to a high of -10.7°C (12.7°F). Snowfall reaches its highest at 95mm (3.74") in December and drops to 56mm (2.2") by February. Rainfall is reduced to minimal levels, hovering between 7mm (0.28") to 12mm (0.47"). The daylight hours drop to their yearly low of 7.8hrs in December, ushering in the long winter nights.
Weather in January
As the year begins,
Irkutsk city experiences temperatures that can fall as low as -23.8°C (-10.8°F). The icy
January weather in Irkutsk, Siberia's industrial city, is characterized by a biting cold due to its proximity to Lake Baikal.
Weather in January »Weather in February
Slightly higher than
January's average, the temperatures range from -22.8°C (-9°F) to -10.7°C (12.7°F). In
February, the wintry conditions persist, exhibiting similar characteristics as the previous month in
Irkutsk. Most outdoor getaway spots continue to be blanketed under snow, offering enchanting visuals.
Weather in February »Weather in March
Irkutsk registers a commendable increase in temperatures to -2.1°C (28.2°F) from
February's chilly -10.7°C (12.7°F). While outdoor snow activities remain a popular choice,
March weather unfolds a gradual shift towards spring.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
With a notable increase in average temperatures to 8.6°C (47.5°F), the persistent snow finally disappears. The arrival of
April signals the full transition to spring, bringing a welcome change from the biting cold of the previous months.
Weather in April »Weather in May
Compared to last month,
May records a temperature rise to 16.3°C (61.3°F), signifying the onset of summer. As the Siberian city transitions into an entirely new season, May involves the celebration of the natural world in full bloom.
Weather in May »Weather in June
June marks the definitive arrival of summer with an average temperature soaring to a maximum of 23.9°C (75°F). Amidst significantly warmer days, the city's recreational activities shift to Lake Baikal as locals and visitors engage in swimming, fishing, and picnics.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
The city experiences the highest average temperatures of the year, reaching up to 25.8°C (78.4°F).
July in
Irkutsk contributes to the pulsating energy of the Siberian summer with picnics and BBQs becoming a regular take. With thriving wildlife and blooming Angara River banks, city residents enjoy a multitude of outdoor activities.
Weather in July »Weather in August
The temperature dips from the yearly peak in
July to 22.7°C (72.9°F). With the advent of
August,
Irkutsk experiences a gradual shift towards the refreshing autumn. Although the summer activities continue, the shorter daylight hours hint at the approaching change in seasons.
Weather in August »Weather in September
As
Irkutsk moves into autumn, the temperature descends to a more comfortable 14.9°C (58.8°F).
September ushers in a mesmerizing array of colors with leaves turning into hues of red, orange, and gold. This beautiful transformation of the local flora paints a breathtaking vista rarely seen in the rest of the country.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
Compared to
September,
October observes a significant drop in temperatures to an average of 6.4°C (43.5°F). As the grip of autumn tightens, the leaves shed their hue and winter starts faintly buzzing in the background. While hiking trips, lake visits, and picnics continue during the early part of the month, preparations for the approaching winter start becoming evident.
Weather in October »Weather in November
A precipitous drop to -4.6°C (23.7°F) from
October's 6.4°C (43.5°F) indicates the imminent arrival of winter.
November often serves as the prelude to
Irkutsk's rigorous winter, with the city's ornamentation shifting to a frosty theme.
Weather in November »Weather in December
With temperatures further dipping to -11.5°C (11.3°F), the Siberian winter settles in
Irkutsk. The city gets transformed into a winter wonderland with buildings, trees, and streets blanketed in snow. Amidst asperity,
December brings its unique charm, fostering a festive spirit as the new year's anticipation sweeps the city.
Weather in December »