Last updated: January 18, 2025
Laghman, Afghanistan, experiences a diverse climate characterized by Koppen-Geiger classifications of Cfa (humid subtropical) and BSk (cold semi-arid). The temperature variations are notable, with minimum readings plunging to -24°C (-10°F) during the harsh January winters, while summer peaks can soar to an impressive 42°C (107°F) in June. Annually, the average temperature stabilizes around 15°C (59°F), highlighting the region's significant seasonal fluctuations and underscoring the unique climatic conditions that define Laghman's environment.
Laghman, Afghanistan, exhibits marked seasonal temperature patterns, reflecting the harsh winters and sweltering summers typical of the region. January and February are characterized by frigid conditions, with minimum temperatures plummeting to -24°C (-10°F) and -18°C (0°F), respectively, and average highs barely surpassing 21°C (69°F). As winter transitions to spring, temperatures rise steadily; by April, averages reach 16°C (61°F) with maximums soaring to 35°C (96°F). The onset of summer in May sees temperatures further escalate, peaking in June at an average of 25°C (77°F) and a maximum of 42°C (107°F). July and August maintain this warmth, with averages around 25-26°C (78-79°F) and maximums consistently hitting 40°C (105°F). As autumn approaches, temperatures gradually decline, with October experiencing cooler averages of 16°C (61°F) and minimums dipping below freezing again by November. However, December brings back the winter chill, with minimums reaching -20°C (-4°F). Overall, Laghman showcases a dramatic range of temperatures that exemplify its distinct seasonal changes, from frigid winters to sweltering summers.
The temperature variation in Qarghah'i ranges from a chilly -3°C (28°F) in December to a scorching 42°C (107°F) in June, reflecting its notable summer heat. In contrast, Dowlat Shah experiences much colder winters, with a minimum temperature plummeting to -24°C (-10°F) in January, while its warmest month sees a maximum of 28°C (83°F) in August. Meanwhile, Wuluswali 'Alingar has a milder winter minimum of -7°C (20°F) in January and a peak temperature of 38°C (100°F) in June. For more detailed insights, visit the monthly temperatures in Qarghah'i, Dowlat Shah, and Wuluswali 'Alingar through the provided links.
Precipitation in Laghman, Afghanistan, exhibits a distinct seasonal pattern, heavily influenced by the region’s climate. The wettest months are typically from February to April, where rainfall peaks significantly, with 70 mm (2.8 in) in February, escalating to 75 mm (2.9 in) in April. This correlates with an increasing number of rainy days, peaking at 12 days in May, allowing for a brief period of humidity before the dry season onset in June. The sudden drop to 10 mm (0.4 in) in June signals the commencement of a drier phase, which persists through September, marked by minimal rainfall.
As summer transitions to autumn, the precipitation remains scarce, with only 10 mm (0.4 in) in September and a slight uptick in October. November brings 32 mm (1.2 in), supported by four rainy days, while December sees a moderate decrease with 20 mm (0.8 in) over three days. Overall, Laghman's precipitation patterns reflect the stark contrasts between wet and dry seasons, profoundly affecting the local agriculture and lifestyle throughout the year.
Laghman, Afghanistan, experiences a notable variation in sunshine duration throughout the year, reflecting the region's distinct seasonal shifts. The year begins relatively dim, with January offering 220 hours of sunshine, which gradually increases as winter gives way to spring. By April, sunshine hours rise to 345 hours, reaching their peak in June at 405 hours. This upward trajectory highlights the strong correlation between warming temperatures and increasing daylight, making this period particularly favorable for outdoor activities and agriculture.
Summer months maintain high sunshine levels, with July leading at 412 hours, but this begins to taper off in August and September, where the totals drop to 391 hours and 352 hours, respectively. As autumn sets in, sunshine hours continue to wane, dropping to 332 hours in October and further to 277 hours in November. However, December experiences a slight recovery with 287 hours, suggesting a subtle return of daylight as winter approaches. This clear seasonal progression underscores how Laghman’s sunshine patterns not only shape its climate but also influence natural rhythms and local livelihoods throughout the year.
The UV Index in Laghman, Afghanistan, reveals significant variability throughout the year, with the risk of harmful exposure peaking in the spring and summer months. Starting in January with a UV Index of 6, categorized as high, inhabitants can expect a burn time of approximately 25 minutes before needing protection. As February rolls in, the UV Index jumps to 8, indicating very high exposure risk, followed by a substantial spike to 13 in March and 14 in April, marking extreme levels for both months. The intensity remains high in May with an index of 16, cautioning individuals to minimize sun exposure with a burn time of only 10 minutes—a clear indication that protection is essential during this period.
Entering the summer, Laghman maintains extreme UV levels, with June and July registering values of 15 and 14, respectively. Even as fall approaches, the UV Index remains elevated at 13 in August and 11 in September, suggesting that protective measures should continue well into the later summer months. The risk diminishes in October with a UV Index of 9, returning to very high levels, followed by a decrease in November to 6, and finishing the year with a moderate level of 5 in December. This analysis underscores the importance of sun safety, particularly during the extreme UV periods of March through September, guiding residents and visitors in their outdoor activities.
UV Risk Categories
Daylight duration in Laghman, Afghanistan, exhibits a noticeable seasonal rhythm, beginning with about 10 hours in both January and February. This steady configuration suggests a transition from the shorter days typical of winter into the gradual increase that characterizes early spring. By March, daylight extends to 11 hours, paving the way for more substantial increases as the season progresses. April and May witness an expansion to 13 hours of daylight, and as summer arrives, June and July peak with 14 hours each, providing ample time for outdoor activities and cultivation.
As summer transitions to autumn, daylight hours begin to taper off, with August returning to 13 hours and September witnessing a further decrease to 12 hours. The descent continues into the fall months, with daylight hours diminishing to 11 hours in October. By November, daylight reduces to 10 hours, culminating in December with the shortest duration of the year at 9 hours. This annual cycle not only reflects the natural changes in the environment but also significantly influences the lifestyle and agricultural practices of Laghman's residents throughout the seasons.
Dowlat Shah, Afghanistan, experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and mild summers. January temperatures can drop to a minimum of -24°C (-10°F) with significant snowfall, while July sees average highs around 28°C (82°F). Precipitation peaks in the spring and summer months, notably reaching 172 mm (6.8 in) in May, with lower amounts in winter. Despite the chilly winters, the region enjoys ample sunshine, particularly in May and June, with over 386 and 409 hours, respectively. For more details, visit Dowlat Shah climate.
Mehtar Lam, Afghanistan experiences a continental climate characterized by cold winters and hot summers. January temperatures range from a chilly -7°C to a mild 16°C, while July reaches peaks of 37°C. Precipitation is highest during the early spring months with 55 mm each in February, March, and April, tapering off to just 5 mm in June. The region enjoys abundant sunshine, particularly in June and July, with over 400 hours per month. For more details, visit Mehtar Lam climate.
The climate in Qarghah'i, Afghanistan, is characterized by distinct seasonal variations, with cold winters and hot summers. January temperatures range from -2°C to 21°C, while July sees highs of 40°C. Precipitation peaks in the early spring months, with March receiving an average of 77 mm, and summer months are typically drier. Sunshine is abundant throughout the year, especially in June and July, with over 400 hours of sun. For more details, visit Qarghah'i climate.
Wuluswali 'Alingar, Afghanistan, experiences a continental climate, characterized by cold winters and hot summers. January sees temperatures ranging from -7°C to a maximum of 16°C, while July can reach up to 37°C with an average of 27°C. Precipitation is most significant from February to April, with each month receiving about 55 mm of rain, while June is notably dry with only 5 mm. The area enjoys ample sunshine, peaking in July with approximately 414 hours. For more details, visit Wuluswali 'Alingar climate.
In conclusion, Laghman, Afghanistan's climate is characterized by significant seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours. The region experiences frigid winters followed by sweltering summers, with a pronounced rainy period in spring that supports agricultural activities. High levels of sunshine and UV exposure in the summer months necessitate protective measures for residents and visitors alike. As daylight durations shift throughout the year, they fundamentally influence local patterns of life, agriculture, and outdoor activities. Understanding these climatic dynamics is essential for fostering resilience in the face of environmental changes and for effectively planning future development in this unique region.