Zabul Climate

Last updated: January 18, 2025

Zabul, Afghanistan, experiences a diverse climate characterized by two distinct Köppen-Geiger classes: BSk (Cold Semi-Arid) and Csa (Mediterranean Hot-Summer). During the coldest month of January, temperatures can plummet to a chilling -22°C (-8°F), while the region boasts a remarkable average temperature of 15°C (60°F). The summer months see soaring highs, with June temperatures peaking at 43°C (110°F), highlighting the stark temperature variations that define Zabul's unique climatic landscape.

Zabul temperature by month

Zabul, Afghanistan, exhibits pronounced seasonal temperature patterns, with winter months characterized by bitter cold and significant temperature swings. January and February see minimum temperatures plunging to as low as -22°C (-8°F), while averages hover around 1°C (33°F) and 3°C (37°F), respectively. As spring approaches, temperatures steadily rise, with March averaging 9°C (48°F) and reaching a maximum of 32°C (90°F). By May, the climate shifts dramatically, with average temperatures soaring to 21°C (70°F) and highs touching 40°C (104°F). The summer months of June and July experience peak temperatures, consistently exceeding 40°C (104°F), while August begins a gradual cooling trend. In fall, September maintains warm conditions with averages of 23°C (73°F), but by November, temperatures drop significantly again, with lows of -18°C (0°F). This cyclical pattern underscores the region's extreme temperature variations, reflecting the harsh climatic conditions of Zabul.

Monthly Temperatures in Zabul, Afghanistan

The chart illustrates Zabul's temperature patterns throughout the year, with values aggregated from various locations across the region. It highlights seasonal variations and temperature changes across the months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec333748617080838073604739
Data source: Zabul temperature data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.
Choose your preferred temperature unit
The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

Shahr-e Safa experiences a temperature range from a frigid minimum of -7°C (20°F) in December to a sweltering maximum of 43°C (110°F) in June, as detailed in the link monthly temperatures in Shahr-e Safa. In comparison, Qalat faces even colder winters with a minimum of -16°C (4°F) in January, while summer temperatures peak at 39°C (103°F) in June, found in the link monthly temperatures in Qalat. Mizan 'Alaqahdari has a similar winter chill, registering a minimum of -13°C (9°F) in January, but boasts a slightly higher maximum of 41°C (105°F) in June, as shown in the link monthly temperatures in Mizan 'Alaqahdari.

Precipitation Patterns in Zabul

The precipitation patterns in Zabul, Afghanistan, exhibit a distinct seasonal variation, primarily concentrated in the winter and early spring months. January and February are the wettest months, with 55 mm (2.2 inches) and 76 mm (3.0 inches) of rainfall, respectively, and an average of 5 to 7 rainy days each month. March follows with a peak of 86 mm (3.4 inches), accentuating the region's reliance on this period for moisture. As spring transitions to summer in April, precipitation declines significantly to 35 mm (1.4 inches), and drops sharply thereafter, with no recorded rainfall in June and minimal amounts in July and August.

As autumn approaches, Zabul experiences an even drier climate, with September and October showing no significant rainfall, followed only by sporadic precipitation in November (31 mm, 1.2 inches) and December (9 mm, 0.4 inches). This pattern signifies a stark contrast from the more humid winter months, with the overall annual rainfall limited, fostering a predominantly arid environment. The rarity of precipitation during the summer contributes to the extreme temperature conditions, further emphasizing Zabul's climatic challenges.

Monthly Average Precipitation in Zabul, Afghanistan

The average monthly precipitation in Zabul, providing insights into seasonal rainfall patterns and the region's precipitation trends throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec557686351201101319
Data source: Zabul precipitation data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

Sunshine Duration in Zabul

Zabul, Afghanistan, experiences a remarkable increase in sunshine duration as the seasons transition from winter to summer. Starting the year with 233 hours of sunshine in January, the region gradually awakens to more light, reaching 356 hours by April. The month of May marks a significant turning point, as the hours of sunshine soar to 394, culminating in the peak summer months of June and July, where the sun shines for an impressive 401 and 403 hours, respectively. This progression not only enhances the warmth felt during these months but also supports agricultural practices that rely on ample sunlight.

As summer wanes, the sunshine hours begin to decrease, though still maintaining a substantial presence. From August, with 385 hours of sunshine, the decline continues into September (351 hours) and October (337 hours). By November and December, daylight hours drop to 295 and 299 hours, respectively, indicating the onset of winter. These trends highlight the seasonal rhythms of Zabul, with long, sunlit days dominating the summer period while shorter daylight hours characterize the colder months. This significant variation underscores the importance of managing seasonal changes in energy and agriculture, reflective of the region's unique climatic identity.

Monthly Sunshine in Zabul, Afghanistan

Monthly sunshine duration represents the total hours of direct sunlight Zabul receives each month, excluding periods when the sun is obscured by clouds or other obstructions.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec233h274h331h356h394h401h403h385h351h337h295h299h
Data source: Zabul sunshine duration data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.

Zabul UV Index Trends

Zabul, Afghanistan, presents a significant variation in UV Index levels throughout the year, reflecting the region’s intense sunlight exposure. The year starts with a UV Index of 7 in January, categorized as high, allowing for a burn time of 25 minutes. Progressively, the UV levels escalate, reaching 8 in February and peaking at 13 in March, classified as extreme, which drastically reduces safe exposure time to just 10 minutes. This upward trend continues into April and May, where the UV Index maintains an extreme rating of 12 and 14, respectively, emphasizing the need for heightened sun protection during these months.

As summer unfolds, Zabul endures its highest UV Index readings of 14 from June to July, necessitating precautions due to severe risks of skin damage with only 10 minutes of unprotected exposure. Although August sees a slight decrease to 13, the extreme classification remains in effect. The UV Index then gradually declines in the fall, with values of 12 in September and 9 in October, before further dropping to 6 in November and 5 in December, where exposure risks lessen to moderate levels. This pronounced seasonal variation in UV exposure highlights the importance of sun safety measures in Zabul, especially during the critical spring and summer months.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Zabul, Afghanistan

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Zabul. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec7813121414141312965
Data source: Zabul UV Index data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Daylight Hours in Zabul

In Zabul, Afghanistan, daylight duration exhibits a clear seasonal pattern that directly correlates with the changing temperature and climatic conditions throughout the year. Starting with only 10 hours of daylight in January, the days gradually lengthen, reaching 11 hours in both February and March. As spring sets in, daylight extends to 12 hours in April and continues to increase, peaking at 14 hours in June, coinciding with the region's hottest months. This significant increase enhances not only the warmth but also the opportunities for outdoor activities and agricultural practices, which thrive under the extended sunlight.

As the summer months transition into fall, daylight duration begins to shorten once again. July, August, and September maintain a steady 13 hours of sunlight, illuminating the region before dropping back to 12 hours in October. The gradual decline continues into the winter months, with November and December both returning to 10 hours. This cyclical pattern of daylight duration is vital for understanding Zabul's environmental rhythms and underlines the importance of light in daily life, agriculture, and lifestyle adaptations throughout the year.

Average Monthly Daylight Hours in Zabul, Afghanistan

This chart shows the total daylight hours Zabul receives each month, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec616h661h719h778h827h852h839h796h739h680h629h603h
Data source: Zabul daylight hours, calculated based on aggregated data for various regional locations, determined by the times between sunrise and sunset.

Climate Highlights of Zabul's Popular Destinations

The climate in Alaqahdari Atghar, Afghanistan, is characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January sees temperatures ranging from -18°C to 17°C, while July can reach up to 38°C. Precipitation is highest in the early months, peaking at 72 mm in March, and significantly decreases to negligible amounts by summer. Sunshine hours are abundant, particularly in June and July, with nearly 400 hours of sunlight these months. For more detailed information, visit the 'Alaqahdari Atghar climate.

Alaqahdari Shah Joy in Afghanistan experiences a varied climate with cold winters and hot summers. January sees temperatures ranging from -21°C to 15°C, while summers peak in July with averages around 28°C. Precipitation is highest in the early months, particularly March with about 85 mm, tapering off to dry conditions from June to September. The region enjoys substantial sunshine, reaching up to 402 hours in June and July. For more details, visit 'Alaqahdari Shah Joy climate.

Hukumat-e Shinkai, Afghanistan experiences a continental climate characterized by cold winters and hot summers. January sees average temperatures around 1°C (34°F) and heavy precipitation of 54 mm, while July peaks at an average of 28°C (84°F) with minimal rainfall. Sunshine is abundant throughout the year, particularly in the summer months, with July enjoying up to 401 hours of sunlight. The region also displays a significant decrease in precipitation during the warmer months, highlighting a dry summer pattern. For more details, visit Hukumat-e Shinkai climate.

Khakiran, Afghanistan experiences a stark climate with frigid winters and warm summers. January temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -22°C (-8°F), while July sees highs up to 34°C (94°F). Precipitation peaks in March at 115 mm (4.5 in) but is minimal from June through September, making these months typically dry. Sunshine is abundant, especially in summer, with over 400 hours in July alone. For detailed climate data, visit Khakiran climate.

Mizan 'Alaqahdari, Afghanistan experiences a continental climate characterized by cold winters and hot summers. January temperatures can plummet to -13°C (9°F), while July sees highs around 40°C (105°F). Precipitation is predominantly concentrated in the winter months, peaking in March with 86 mm, and summers are remarkably dry. The region enjoys abundant sunshine, particularly in July with 405 hours, contributing to a warm and pleasant summer climate. For more details, visit Mizan 'Alaqahdari climate.

The climate in Nayak, Afghanistan, features cold winters and hot summers, with January temperatures ranging from -15°C to 15°C and reaching up to 37°C in July. Precipitation is highest during the winter months, particularly in February and March, while summer months are generally dry. Average annual sunshine peaks in July with 405 hours, contributing to the warmth. For more detailed climate information, visit Nayak climate.

Qalat, Afghanistan experiences a diverse climate with significant temperature fluctuations throughout the year. Winter months, particularly January and February, can be quite cold, with minimum temperatures dropping as low as -16°C (4°F) and average highs reaching up to 20°C (69°F). As summer arrives, temperatures can soar, peaking at 39°C (102°F) in July, while precipitation is minimal during this period. The city enjoys a substantial amount of sunshine, especially in the summer months, with June and July averaging over 400 hours of sunlight. For more details, visit Qalat climate.

Sayagaz, Afghanistan experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and hot summers. January temperatures range from -17°C to 16°C, while July sees highs of 38°C. Precipitation is highest in February and March, averaging 81 mm and 83 mm respectively, with a notable dry spell in June to September. Despite lower rainfall in the warmer months, sunshine is abundant, peaking in July at 405 hours. For more detailed information, visit Sayagaz climate.

Shahr-e Safa, Afghanistan, experiences a continental climate with cold winters and hot summers. Temperatures range from a minimum of -7°C (20°F) in January to a maximum of 43°C (109°F) in July. Precipitation is concentrated in the winter months, with January seeing 55 mm, while summer months typically receive no rainfall. Sunshine is abundant, peaking at 398 hours in June. For more details, visit Shahr-e Safa climate.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Zabul, Afghanistan, presents a unique climate characterized by stark temperature fluctuations, variable precipitation, and significant UV exposure, all of which play critical roles in shaping the region's agricultural practices and daily life. The pronounced seasonal variations in sunshine duration and daylight hours further emphasize the strategic importance of adapting to these climatic conditions. Understanding these patterns not only aids in the effective management of resources but also highlights the vital need for public health awareness regarding UV exposure during the extreme summer months. Overall, Zabul's climate offers both challenges and opportunities, underscoring the intricate relationship between environment and human activity in this dynamic region.

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