Last updated: January 18, 2025
The climate of Samangan, Afghanistan, is characterized by a diverse range of temperatures and distinct seasonal variations classified under the Koppen-Geiger climate classes of Dsb (Mediterranean Highland) and Csa (Temperate). During the coldest month, January, temperatures can plunge to a frigid -24°C (-12°F), while the warmest month, June, witnesses a striking high of 37°C (99°F). With an annual average temperature hovering around 9°C (49°F), Samangan exemplifies the climatic contrasts typical of highland regions, presenting a unique environment shaped by its elevation and geographical features.
The temperature patterns in Samangan, Afghanistan, reveal a striking seasonal progression characterized by pronounced variations throughout the year. Winter months, particularly January and February, experience extreme cold, with minimum temperatures reaching as low as -24°C (-12°F) and -21°C (-6°F), respectively. As spring approaches, temperatures gradually rise, evident in March with average conditions shifting to around 5°C (41°F), culminating in April's more temperate 10°C (51°F). By May, the transition to summer is marked by warmer averages of 15°C (59°F) and an ascent to maximums of 32°C (90°F). The peak of summer in June showcases the hottest temperature of the year, with averages of 19°C (67°F) and highs reaching 37°C (99°F). As the year progresses into autumn, temperatures retract, with September maintaining a moderate average of 16°C (60°F) but giving way to cooler conditions in October and November, where early winter sets in again with lows around -20°C (-4°F). December closes the cycle, returning to former winter extremes, demonstrating the marked seasonal fluctuations that define Samangan's climate.
Langar experiences a minimum temperature of -18°C (0°F) in December and a maximum of 32°C (89°F) in June, while Aibak sees slightly milder temperatures with minimums of -15°C (5°F) in December and maximums reaching 37°C (99°F) in June. In contrast, Duab experiences the coldest winter temperatures, plunging to -24°C (-12°F) in January, but warms up to a maximum of 26°C (80°F) in August. For detailed monthly temperatures in Langar, visit monthly temperatures in Langar, for Aibak, check monthly temperatures in Aibak, and for Duab, refer to monthly temperatures in Duab.
Precipitation in Samangan, Afghanistan, exhibits a distinct seasonal pattern that aligns closely with the region's climatic fluctuations. The winter months, particularly January and February, see moderate rainfall, accumulating 38 mm (1.5 in) and 51 mm (2.0 in), respectively. As spring unfolds, precipitation peaks in April with 93 mm (3.7 in) while the number of rainy days increases, reaching up to 14 days. This wet period is vital for the region as it supports the growth of vegetation and replenishes water sources. May also contributes significantly with 77 mm (3.0 in) of rain, before transitioning into the comparatively dry summer months.
During the summer, precipitation drastically declines, with June registering only 9 mm (0.3 in) and July and August experiencing minimal rainfall at 5 mm (0.2 in) and 1 mm (0.0 in), respectively. This dry spell continues into September with a mere 2 mm (0.1 in) and is followed by a slight resurgence in October, bringing 15 mm (0.6 in). The fall season returns with more rain in November at 42 mm (1.6 in), while December sees a decrease to 25 mm (1.0 in). Overall, the precipitation cycle in Samangan varies significantly, reflecting the interplay between seasonal temperature changes and local meteorological conditions.
In Samangan, Afghanistan, sunshine duration exhibits a clear seasonal pattern, with hours of sunlight increasing steadily from winter to summer. January begins the year with 222 hours of sunshine, gradually climbing to 263 hours in February. This upward trend continues through the spring, reaching 313 hours in March and peaking at 335 hours in April. By May, the days become noticeably longer, culminating in 384 hours of sunlight as the region prepares for summer. June maintains this upward trajectory, offering 407 hours of radiant sunshine, while July sees a remarkable peak with 415 hours—the highest sunshine duration recorded throughout the year.
As summer transitions to autumn, sunshine hours begin to taper off, yet remain abundant. August still enjoys 389 hours of sunlight, making it another bright month, but this begins to decline in September with 350 hours. The descent continues into October at 326 hours, suggesting shorter days and shifting climatic conditions. November and December see further reductions to 268 hours and 276 hours, respectively, as winter approaches. This seasonal cycle highlights the contrast between the sun-drenched summer months and the relatively shorter, cloudier days of winter, underscoring the importance of sunshine for both climate and local ecosystems in Samangan.
In Samangan, Afghanistan, the UV Index reveals significant fluctuations throughout the year, closely correlating with the changing seasons and sun exposure. Starting in January, the UV Index registers at 6, categorizing the exposure risk as high, necessitating a burn time of 25 minutes for unprotected skin. As February arrives, the index climbs to 8, which is considered very high with a reduced burn time of just 15 minutes. The trend continues sharply upward in March and April, reaching an alarming 11 and 12, respectively, both classified as extreme. May showcases the highest recorded UV Index of 14, prompting immediate caution for sun exposure due to a burn time of only 10 minutes.
Entering the peak summer months, June and July maintain a consistent UV Index of 13, still falling within the extreme category, emphasizing the need for protective measures against skin damage. As summer transitions to autumn, the index begins to decline, with August recording a 12 and September a 11, both remaining in the extreme range. The season shifts further in October, dipping to 8 and reverting to very high, and then to 6 in November as winter approaches. By December, the UV Index low points to 4, indicating a moderate risk, allowing for longer unprotected exposure of 30 minutes. This annual UV Index cycle not only stresses the importance of sun safety during peak months but also highlights the region's unique climatic conditions.
UV Risk Categories
In Samangan, Afghanistan, daylight duration exhibits a clear seasonal pattern, beginning with 10 hours of daylight in both January and February as winter's grip lingers. March signals the onset of spring, bringing an increase to 11 hours of daylight. This upward trend accelerates in April, with days stretching to 13 hours, and further reaches 14 hours in both May and June, providing ample sunlight for activity and growth during the warmest months of the year. July maintains this duration, signifying the peak of summer with consistent exposure to light.
As summer transitions to autumn, daylight begins to wane gradually. August, while still enjoying 13 hours of daylight, marks the beginning of the descent, leading into September with 12 hours. This decline continues through October, returning to 11 hours, as daylight hours lessen with the advancing cooler months. By November, daylight has diminished to 10 hours, and December concludes the year with the shortest duration at just 9 hours. This annual cycle of daylight highlights the region's distinct seasonal shifts, influencing lifestyle, agriculture, and natural ecosystems.
Aibak, Afghanistan experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January sees temperatures ranging from -14°C to 16°C, while July peaks at a comfortable average of 26°C. Precipitation is highest in the spring months, particularly in March and April, totaling 80 mm and 85 mm respectively, while July and August experience very little rainfall. Sunshine hours peak during the summer, with July enjoying approximately 410 hours of sunlight. For more details, visit Aibak climate.
Dehi, Afghanistan experiences a continental climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January and February see temperatures dropping to as low as -18°C (0°F), while summers peak in July and August with averages around 23°C (74°F) and max temperatures reaching 33°C (92°F). Precipitation varies throughout the year, with the wettest months being March and April, receiving 74 mm (2.9 in) and 72 mm (2.8 in) respectively, while June to August are notably dry. Sunshine hours are abundant in the summer, peaking in July with 416 hours, contributing to its warm climate. For more detailed information, visit Dehi climate.
Duab, Afghanistan experiences a continental climate characterized by harsh winters and relatively mild summers. January and February are the coldest months, with average temperatures reaching as low as -9°C (16°F) and significant snowfall, while July sees warmer temperatures averaging around 16°C (61°F). Precipitation peaks in May at 119 mm (4.7 in), with summer months generally being drier. The region enjoys considerable sunshine throughout the year, with the highest hours recorded in July, totaling 418 hours. For more detailed information, visit Duab climate.
Langar, Afghanistan, experiences a continental climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January and December are the coldest months, with average temperatures around -4°C (25°F) and -2°C (29°F), respectively, while July is the warmest, boasting averages of 22°C (71°F). Precipitation peaks in the spring, especially in April with 124 mm (4.9 in), and drastically drops during the summer months, reaching as low as 3 mm (0.1 in) in July. The area enjoys considerable sunshine, particularly in the summer, with June and July seeing over 400 hours of sunlight. For more details, visit Langar climate.
In conclusion, the climate, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight patterns in Samangan, Afghanistan, collectively illustrate the region's distinct seasonal dynamics. From the dramatic temperature shifts between the frigid winters and scorching summers to the accompanying variations in rainfall and sunlight, each element plays a significant role in shaping the local environment and lifestyle. The high UV Index during peak summer months serves as a reminder of the need for sun safety, while the gradual changes in daylight duration reflect the natural rhythms of the year. Together, these climatic and environmental factors underscore the unique challenges and opportunities faced by the inhabitants of Samangan, influencing agricultural practices, outdoor activities, and overall well-being in this remarkable region.