The climate of Astrakhan
In the middle of the
Astrakhan region, an area identified by the Köppen climate classification as a mid-latitude steppe, the weather is distinctive and unique. The region falls under the 'BSk' climate categorization, typically characterized by hot summers and cold winters, both with very little precipitation. This creates a climate picture that presents stark contrasts between the various seasons.
Throughout the year, there is a stark variation in temperatures, the highest average monthly high reaching 33.9°C (93°F) in
July and the lowest average monthly low dipping to -5.3°C (22.5°F) in
January. The region's relative humidity fluctuates moderately over the year, peaking at 82% in January and dropping to 37% in the months of
June and July. Rainfall also varies, with
May accounting for the highest rainfall of 18mm (0.71"), and
October seeing the least, at just 5mm (0.2").
The region experiences snowfall from
November to
April, with the highest snowfall of 33mm (1.3") occurring in January. Regarding daylight, July has the longest daylight hours at 15.4 hours while
December records the shortest, at 8.7 hours. The amount of sunshine Astrakhan receives varies from 4 hours in January to 12 hours in
August. Generally, July and August show the most sunshine and least cloud cover, indicating a clear, sunny summer.
The UV index is highest, at 7, between June and August, suggesting a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure, while the visibility remains good throughout the year, dropping slightly to 9km (5.6mi) in January and December. Despite the extreme temperatures, the wind speed stays relatively steady with highs of 18.3km/h (11.4mph) in
March and lows of 14.7km/h (9.1mph) in August.
The best time to visit Astrakhan
The ideal time to visit
Astrakhan would be from
May to
July. During these months, the city experiences its maximum daylight hours, ranging from 15.0 hours to 15.7 hours, alongside the maximum sunshine hours.
June, in particular, boasts 11.7 hours of sunshine, with a low relative humidity of 37%. The average high temperature ranges from 25.3°C (77.5°F) in May to a peak of 33.9°C (93°F) in July, providing perfect conditions for sightseeing and outdoor activities. However, it is crucial for visitors to keep in mind the high UV index during this period and take necessary precautions, including wearing a hat and sunscreen.
The worst time to visit Astrakhan
Planning a visit to
Astrakhan might be challenging in the winter months from
December to
February. During this period, the city experiences the lowest temperatures, with average lows plunging to -5.3°C (22.5°F) in
January. This season also sees the highest relative humidity of 82% in January and the least daylight hours, with 8.7 hours in December. Winter also sees the city's maximum snowfall with 33mm (1.3") in January. Visitors may find the cold and limited daylight hours obstructive to their plans.
Spring weather in Astrakhan
Spring in
Astrakhan extends from
March to
May. The average high temperature ranges from 8.1°C (46.6°F) in March to 25.3°C (77.5°F) by May. At the same time, the average low temperature increases from 1°C (33.8°F) to 15.9°C (60.6°F). Rainfall increases significantly during this period, with May recording the highest precipitation of 18mm (0.71"). The daylight hours show an ascending trend, while the relative humidity declines considerably during this period.
Summer weather in Astrakhan
Astrakhan's summer, between
June and
August, is characterized by hot and dry conditions. The city receives the maximum sunlight and daylight hours. The average high temperature ranges from 31.5°C (88.7°F) in June to 32.2°C (90°F) in August, while the average low fluctuates between 20.9°C (69.6°F) to 20.8°C (69.4°F). Despite the heat, the humidity drops to its lowest year-round level.
Autumn weather in Astrakhan
The autumn months of
September to
November witness a sharp drop in temperature from an average high of 24.7°C (76.5°F) in September to 7.5°C (45.5°F) in November. The average low temperature also dips from 15.3°C (59.5°F) in September to 2.1°C (35.8°F) in November. Despite this, the city sees an increase in relative humidity.
Winter weather in Astrakhan
Winter in
Astrakhan is marked by cold temperatures and considerable snowfall. The average high temperature descends from 2.3°C (36.1°F) in
December to -1°C (30.2°F) in
January, while the average low decreases from -2°C (28.4°F) to -5.3°C (22.5°F) within the same period. Astrakhan experiences snowfall from
November to
April, and daylight and sunshine hours shrink to their shortest levels. The relative humidity also peaks in winter.
Weather in January
Notably,
January is characterized by its lowest temperature, dipping to -5.3°C (22.5°F), with the maximum staying at a chilling -1°C (30.2°F).
Astrakhan in January is a winter canvas, with white snow blanketing the city. The low temperature transforms the landscape, complementing the charm of the city's historic buildings.
Weather in January »Weather in February
Succeeding the chill of
January,
February in
Astrakhan marks a slight temperature climb with lows of -4.7°C (23.5°F) and highs just above freezing. Typically embodying the last stretch of the city's winter season, February still possesses a noticeable coldness.
Weather in February »Weather in March
March signals spring's arrival in
Astrakhan, bringing noticeable changes in the weather with temperature ranging between 1°C (33.8°F) and 8.1°C (46.6°F). Relative humidity starts to decrease, and snowfall sees a sharp drop, indicating receding winter conditions.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
Astrakhan in
April experiences a significant rise in temperature with highs reaching up to 17°C (62.6°F), showcasing the full advent of spring. The snow is completely replaced by rain, while the UV index sees an increase. Extended hours of sunshine and daylight bring vibrancy to the city, turning it into a delight for sightseers.
Weather in April » Weather in May
May introduces the onset of summer to
Astrakhan with temperatures hiking from 15.9°C (60.6°F) to 25.3°C (77.5°F). The city bearing longer hours of sunshine and persistently increasing temperature, May becomes a precursor to the upcoming scorching summer.
Weather in May » Weather in June
June in
Astrakhan announces high summer with temperatures soaring, reaching a peak of 31.5°C (88.7°F). Moreover, the city basks in the longest daylight hours of the year with an average of 15.7 hours per day. The cloud cover diminishes considerably, and the city enjoys clear skies most of the time.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July is the pinnacle of summer in
Astrakhan with the thermometer recording the highest temperature of the year, peaking at 33.9°C (93°F). The city continues to receive ample sunshine enhancing the summer experience. Given these conditions, it's imperative for tourists to stay hydrated and avoid excessive exposure to the sun.
Weather in July » Weather in August
August sees a slight decrease in temperature from 33.9°C (93°F) in
July to 32.2°C (90°F), marking the beginning of the end of
Astrakhan's summer. The city continues to be bathed in sunlight and enjoys clear, sunny days. The relative humidity begins to rise, signaling the impending change of season.
Weather in August » Weather in September
September in
Astrakhan shows the first signs of autumn, evident by a significant drop in temperature from 32.2°C (90°F) to 24.7°C (76.5°F). The arrival of autumn paints Astrakhan's landscape with shades of gold and red. Decreasing daylight hours and cooler night temperatures mark a shift away from the summer heat.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October ushers in a colder autumn for
Astrakhan, with temperatures falling to a low of 15.9°C (60.6°F), highlighting the city's seasonal shift. The countryside adorns a rich palette of autumn colors, attracting tourists and photographers alike.
Weather in October » Weather in November
November in
Astrakhan marks the later stages of autumn and the beginning hints of winter with temperatures ranging from 2.1°C (35.8°F) to 7.5°C (45.5°F). The city sees an uptick in relative humidity and an increase in rainfall.
Weather in November » Weather in December
The month of
December in
Astrakhan witnesses the return of the biting cold winter with temperatures plunging to -2°C (28.4°F). The arrival of snow adorns Astrakhan with a pristine white cover, transforming the city into a winter wonderland.
Weather in December »