Last updated: January 18, 2025
Paktika, Afghanistan, exhibits a diverse climate characterized by Koppen-Geiger classifications of BSk (semi-arid) and Cfa/Cfb (humid subtropical). The region experiences a broad temperature range, with frigid minimums plummeting to -21°C (-5°F) in January, only to rise to scorching highs of 38°C (101°F) during June. The annual average hovers around a mild 12°C (55°F), reflecting the area's unique blend of climatic conditions that influence both the natural environment and human activities.
Paktika, Afghanistan, showcases distinct seasonal temperature patterns that transition from severe cold in winter to warm summers. January begins the year with minimum temperatures plunging to -21°C (-5°F) and a frigid average of -2°C (28°F), while February slightly eases the chill but remains cold, averaging 0°C (32°F). As spring approaches in March and April, temperatures gradually increase, reaching a maximum of 30°C (86°F) and a comfortable average of 14°C (57°F) in April. The warmth continues to build in May and June, where daily highs peak at 33°C (91°F) and 38°C (101°F) respectively. July and August maintain these elevated temperatures, fostering a typically hot summer ambiance. The shift toward autumn in September witnesses a cooling trend, with averages around 20°C (69°F) before plunging into the colder months of October through December, characterized by minimums ranging from -15°C (6°F) to -13°C (8°F), showcasing the region's pronounced seasonal contrasts.
Sharan experiences a minimum temperature of -21°C (-5°F) in January and a maximum of 36°C (98°F) in June, making its climate quite extreme. Similarly, Zarghun Shahr has a slightly milder January minimum of -19°C (-2°F) and reaches a peak of 37°C (99°F) in July. Gomal Kelay also exhibits harsh winter temperatures with a minimum of -20°C (-4°F) in January, while it mirrors Sharan's summer conditions with a maximum of 36°C (98°F) in June. For detailed monthly temperatures, you can visit monthly temperatures in Sharan, monthly temperatures in Zarghun Shahr, and monthly temperatures in Gomal Kelay.
Paktika, Afghanistan, experiences varying precipitation throughout the year, with distinct peaks aligning with seasonal changes. The wettest months typically occur in early spring, particularly in March, when rainfall reaches 76 mm (3.0 in) across approximately 8 days. February follows closely with 53 mm (2.1 in), setting the stage for a gradual drying trend as spring transitions to summer. While the total precipitation decreases during June (19 mm or 0.7 in) and July (39 mm or 1.5 in), brief bursts of rainfall continue, indicating a shift toward drier conditions.
As summer gives way to autumn, precipitation takes a significant downturn, particularly in September and October, where figures drop to a mere 8 mm (0.3 in) and 5 mm (0.2 in), respectively. This trend reflects Paktika’s semi-arid climate, which culminates in relatively low precipitation in late fall and winter months, with December receiving only 8 mm (0.3 in). The overall pattern indicates a reliance on a limited number of rainy days, ranging from 1 to 8 days per month, reinforcing the region's characteristic dry spells punctuated by seasonal bursts of moisture.
In Paktika, Afghanistan, sunshine duration exhibits a clear seasonal trend marked by a steady increase from the cold winter months to the warm summer peak. January starts the year with 229 hours of sunshine, gradually rising to 272 hours in February. As spring unfolds, sunshine hours continue to expand, culminating in April with 355 hours and peaking in May at 397 hours. This upward trajectory reflects the region's growing daylight as the sun's intensity increases with the approach of summer, which enjoys the longest sunshine durations.
The summer months of June and July experience the highest sunshine totals, with hours reaching 400 and 401, respectively, showcasing Paktika’s sun-soaked climate. Though August sees a slight decline to 382 hours, the trend remains robust with autumn providing ample sunshine as well, with September and October still recording a respective 350 and 336 hours. However, a noticeable decrease occurs in the later months, as November (292 hours) and December (299 hours) indicate the advent of winter, marked by shorter days and diminished sunlight. Overall, Paktika's climate delivers a radiant summer, while the transitional months of spring and fall maintain a strong presence of sunlight, creating favorable conditions for agriculture and outdoor activities during these periods.
In Paktika, Afghanistan, the UV Index reflects significant seasonal variations, with values generally peaking during the spring and summer months. The year commences with a UV Index of 7 in January, categorized as high, necessitating a burn time of 25 minutes for unprotected skin. As the seasons transition, February sees a rise to 8, indicating very high exposure risks, which intensifies dramatically in March when the index spikes to 11, classified as extreme, with a burn time reduced to just 10 minutes. This trend continues through April and May, where the UV Index reaches its apex at 12 and 14, respectively, emphasizing the urgent need for effective sun protection during these months.
Summer months maintain elevated UV levels, with June and July both at 14, ensuring consistent extreme exposure risks. The index slightly lowers in August and September to 13 and 12, yet still requires caution due to significant risks of skin damage. As autumn approaches, October presents a decrease to a UV Index of 9, categorized as very high, with a return to more manageable burn times of 15 minutes. By November, the index drops to 6, reflecting high exposure conditions and a burn time of 25 minutes, while December concludes the year with a moderate UV Index of 5, allowing for a safer outdoor experience with a burn time of 30 minutes. This annual fluctuation indicates the importance of sun safety awareness, especially during the peak summer and early fall months.
UV Risk Categories
In Paktika, Afghanistan, daylight duration exhibits a defined annual cycle, starting with approximately 10 hours in both January and February. As winter transitions into spring, daylight gradually increases, with March experiencing an uptick to 11 hours and further extending to 12 hours in April. The ascent continues through May, where daylight reaches 13 hours, culminating in the summer months of June and July, when Paktika enjoys the longest days with 14 hours of daylight. This extended duration during the summer promotes opportunities for outdoor activities and agricultural productivity.
As summer gives way to autumn, daylight begins to recede, starting with 13 hours in August and reducing to 12 hours in September. This decline persists into October (11 hours) and November (10 hours), bringing the year to a close with shorter days. December records the least daylight, with just 9 hours, highlighting the stark contrast between the summer peak and the winter low. Overall, the variation in daylight duration throughout the year fundamentally shapes daily life in Paktika, influencing both environmental conditions and human activities.
Alaqahdari Sarobi, Afghanistan experiences a diverse climate with cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures range from a minimum of -18°C to a maximum of 13°C, while July sees much warmer conditions with highs around 34°C. Precipitation is notable in spring, peaking at 79 mm in March, and rainfall significantly decreases in the later months, particularly September with only 4 mm. The region enjoys ample sunshine, boasting up to 400 hours in July. More details can be found in the 'Alaqahdari Sarobi climate.
The climate in Alaqahdari Yosuf Khel, Afghanistan experiences distinct seasonal variations. Winters are quite cold, with January temperatures ranging from a minimum of -16°C (3°F) to a maximum of 12°C (54°F), while precipitation peaks in March at 81 mm (3.2 in). Summers are warm, especially in June and July, where average temperatures reach around 24°C (76°F) and precipitation is relatively low. The region enjoys ample sunshine, with over 400 hours in both June and July. For more details, visit 'Alaqahdari Yosuf Khel climate.
Gomal Kelay, Afghanistan experiences a continental climate with significant temperature variations throughout the year. Winter temperatures can drop to as low as -20°C (-4°F) in January, while summer averages reach around 25°C (77°F) in July and August, often peaking at 36°C (97°F). Precipitation is most abundant in March with 81 mm (3.2 in), while summer months are relatively dry, particularly June with just 9 mm (0.3 in). Sunshine is plentiful year-round, reaching its peak in May and June with nearly 400 hours of sunlight. For more detailed information, visit Gomal Kelay climate.
Jani Khel, Afghanistan, experiences a continental climate characterized by cold winters and hot summers. January temperatures can drop as low as -19°C (-2°F), gradually rising to a maximum of 37°C (99°F) in July. The region receives the most precipitation in late winter and early spring, particularly in March, when rainfall averages 67 mm (2.6 in). Sunshine is abundant throughout the year, peaking in June and July with over 400 hours of sunshine each month. For more detailed information, visit Jani Khel climate.
Khayr Kot, Afghanistan experiences a continental climate with cold winters and hot summers. In January, temperatures can drop as low as -19°C, while July sees highs around 37°C. Precipitation is highest in March at 67 mm, with very little rainfall during the summer months. Sunshine is abundant, particularly from May to July, averaging over 400 hours per month. For more detailed information, visit Khayr Kot climate.
Khoshamand, Afghanistan experiences a continental climate with significant temperature variations throughout the year. Winter months, particularly January and February, can see lows around -21°C (-5°F) and average temperatures of -1°C (30°F), while summers, especially June and July, boast maximums of up to 38°C (101°F). Precipitation is highest from March to February, peaking at 65 mm (2.6 in) in March, whereas summer months are notably dry. Despite cold winters, sunshine is abundant, with June and July receiving over 400 hours of sunlight. For more details on the climate, visit Khoshamand climate.
Muta Khan, Afghanistan experiences a significant temperature variation throughout the year, with January lows plunging to -21°C (-5°F) and July peaks reaching up to 36°C (97°F). The region sees its highest precipitation in March, with 65 mm (2.5 in), while the summer months of June and August are notably drier, receiving only 7 mm (0.3 in) each. Sunshine hours are abundant, peaking at 403 hours in July, contributing to warm summers. For more detailed information, visit Muta Khan climate.
The climate in Nikeh, Afghanistan, showcases extreme seasonal variations, with winter temperatures dropping as low as -17°C (2°F) in January and rising to a warm average of 21°C (70°F) by June. Precipitation peaks in March (85 mm) and diminishes considerably in fall months, such as October (15 mm). Sunshine hours are abundant from late winter to summer, with June and July enjoying 399 hours each. This combination of temperature, rainfall, and sunshine makes Nikeh's climate unique and diverse. For more detailed information, visit Nikeh climate.
Omnah, Afghanistan, experiences a continental climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January sees temperatures as low as -16°C (3°F), with an average of -2°C (29°F), while July peaks at an average of 24°C (76°F). Precipitation varies throughout the year, with the wettest months being March (81 mm) and February (55 mm), and significantly less rainfall in late summer and early fall. There is abundant sunshine, particularly in the summer months, with July recording up to 403 hours of sunlight. For more details, visit Omnah climate.
Sharan, Afghanistan experiences a continental climate characterized by harsh winters and warm summers. Temperatures range from a frigid -21°C (-5°F) in January to a warm 36°C (97°F) in July, with a significant increase in average temperatures from spring through summer. Precipitation is highest in March at 65 mm (2.5 in) and tends to decrease significantly during the summer months. The area enjoys abundant sunshine, particularly in June and July, with over 400 hours of sunlight each month. For more detailed information about the climate in Sharan, visit Sharan climate.
The climate in Ster Giyan, Afghanistan, is characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures can drop to -17°C (1°F), while July sees highs of up to 32°C (90°F). Precipitation is highest in July, averaging 106 mm (4.2 in), contributing to a significant seasonal variation in weather. Sunshine hours peak in June and July, with around 399 hours of sunlight each month. For more detailed information, visit Ster Giyan climate.
Urgun, Afghanistan experiences a continental climate characterized by significant temperature variation throughout the year. Winter temperatures can drop as low as -17°C (1°F) in January, while summers see highs reaching up to 34°C (93°F) in June. Precipitation peaks during the warmer months, particularly in July with 106 mm (4.2 in), while December records the least at 12 mm (0.5 in). Abundant sunshine is typical, especially in the summer months, with June and July each enjoying 399 hours of sun. For more details, visit Urgun climate.
Yahya Khel, Afghanistan, experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January and February are the coldest months, with average temperatures ranging from -2°C (29°F) to 0°C (32°F), while summer months like June and July see average highs of around 24°C (76°F) to 35°C (96°F). Precipitation is highest in the spring months, peaking in March at 81 mm (3.2 in), with significantly lower amounts in the summer. The region enjoys substantial sunshine, particularly in May and June, with over 400 hours of sun per month. For detailed climate information, you can visit Yahya Khel climate.
Zarah Sharan, Afghanistan experiences a continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures can drop to -21°C (-5°F), while July sees averages around 25°C (78°F) and maximums reaching 36°C (97°F). Precipitation is relatively high in winter months, peaking in March at 65 mm (2.5 in), before tapering off to minimal levels in late summer. The area enjoys substantial sunshine throughout the year, particularly from May to July, when it can exceed 400 hours per month. More details can be found at Zarah Sharan climate.
Zarghun Shahr, Afghanistan experiences a continental climate with significant temperature variations throughout the year. Winters are harsh, with January temperatures dipping as low as -19°C (-2°F), while summers are warm, reaching up to 37°C (99°F) in July. Precipitation is concentrated in the winter and spring months, peaking at 67 mm (2.6 in) in March, while summer months see very little rainfall. The region enjoys abundant sunshine, especially from April to July, with over 400 hours of sunshine each month during this period. For more detailed information, visit Zarghun Shahr climate.
Ziruk Alaqahdari, Afghanistan experiences a continental climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January sees minimum temperatures dropping as low as -17°C (2°F) and significant snowfall, with precipitation peaking in March at 85 mm (3.3 in). In contrast, July and August are the warmest months, averaging around 22°C (72°F) with 81 mm (3.2 in) of rainfall in July. The region enjoys ample sunshine, particularly during May and June, with over 395 hours of sunlight each month. For more detailed information, visit [ZirukAlaqahdari climate](/climate/afghanistan/paktika/ziruk--alaqahdari.html).
In conclusion, Paktika, Afghanistan, showcases a dynamic climate characterized by notable seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours. The region experiences extreme temperature swings, marked by frigid winters and scorching summers, while precipitation patterns reveal critical wet months that bolster agricultural activities. With ample sunshine during the summer and significant UV exposure, awareness of sun safety is crucial, especially during peak periods. The consistent rise in daylight hours into the summer months fosters an environment conducive to outdoor pursuits and productivity. Collectively, these climatic factors play a vital role in shaping the lifestyle, economy, and ecological balance within Paktika, underscoring the importance of understanding local climate dynamics for sustainable development planning.