Last updated: January 18, 2025
Gjirokastër, Albania, is characterized by a Mediterranean climate classified under the Köppen-Geiger system as Csb and Csa. The region experiences a diverse temperature range, with winter lows plunging to a frigid -26°C (-15°F) in January, while summer peaks can soar to a scorching 38°C (101°F) in June. The annual average temperature hovers around a mild 13°C (56°F), illustrating the distinctive seasonal transitions that define the area's unique climate. This variability supports a rich biodiversity and agricultural practices, significantly influencing local livelihoods and culture.
In Gjirokastër, Albania, the temperature patterns reveal distinct seasonal trends that transition from the extreme cold of winter to the warm embrace of summer. January marks the coldest month, with temperatures plummeting to a minimum of -26°C (-15°F) and averaging just 3°C (38°F). As February arrives, milder conditions emerge, with averages rising to 6°C (43°F) and maxing out at 20°C (68°F). Spring brings gradual warming, reaching an average of 12°C (53°F) in April and a notable high of 29°C (85°F). The warmth intensifies in summer, where June through August showcases average temperatures between 20°C (68°F) and 24°C (75°F), often hitting scorching highs of 38°C (101°F). As autumn approaches, temperatures begin to dip again, with October averaging 14°C (58°F) and November seeing a minimum of -6°C (22°F) before returning to winter conditions in December. This cyclical pattern of cold and warmth greatly influences the region's ecology and agricultural practices.
Gjirokaster experiences a temperature range from a chilly minimum of -15°C (5°F) in January to a warm maximum of 36°C (98°F) in July, as detailed in the monthly temperatures in Gjirokaster. In comparison, Permet sees slightly colder winter temperatures, with a minimum of -17°C (1°F) in January, and shares a similar maximum of 36°C (96°F) in August, according to the monthly temperatures in Permet.
Gjirokastër, Albania, experiences a pronounced wet season during the winter months, with January and December being the wettest, recording substantial precipitation levels of 148 mm (5.8 in) and 244 mm (9.6 in), respectively. February and March also contribute significantly to this trend, with 146 mm (5.8 in) and 142 mm (5.6 in) of rainfall. The number of rainy days fluctuates but remains elevated, with January and December having around 11 to 13 days of precipitation. In stark contrast, summer months such as July and August are characterized by a significant decrease in rainfall, with July receiving only 35 mm (1.4 in) over just four days.
As the seasons transition into autumn, precipitation levels begin to rise again, peaking during November at 186 mm (7.3 in), while October sees a moderate 98 mm (3.8 in). The overall annual pattern indicates that Gjirokastër is primarily influenced by a Mediterranean climate, with concentrated rainfall during the winter months and significantly drier conditions in the summer. This seasonal variability in precipitation plays a crucial role in shaping the region's landscape, agricultural cycles, and water resource management.
Gjirokastër, Albania, experiences a noticeable seasonal variation in sunshine duration, with a steady increase from the winter months into summer. January begins the year with a modest 195 hours of sunshine, gradually rising to 250 hours in February and 322 hours in March. This upward trend continues through spring, reaching 346 hours in April and achieving a robust 395 hours in May, signaling a significant enhancement in daylight as temperatures warm. June marks the start of summer with 404 hours of sunshine, which sets the stage for the sunniest months of the year.
The peak sunshine is recorded in July, boasting an impressive 427 hours, before descending slightly to 396 hours in August. Even as summer wanes into autumn, ample sunshine persists, with September still enjoying a substantial 344 hours. However, a gradual decline is evident as daylight reduces, with October receiving 307 hours, followed by November and December, which hover around 251 and 235 hours, respectively. This clear seasonal pattern highlights the importance of sunlight in shaping the climate and lifestyle of Gjirokastër, influencing everything from agricultural practices to local tourism.
In Gjirokastër, Albania, the UV Index reflects significant seasonal variability, with a notable escalation from winter towards summer. January and February maintain moderate UV levels at indices of 3 and 4, respectively, indicating a burn time of approximately 30 minutes. As spring arrives, UV radiation intensifies, peaking in March at a UV Index of 6, categorized as high, reducing the allowable exposure time to 25 minutes. The trend escalates dramatically in April, reaching an index of 8 and categorizing it as very high, with burn time dropping to just 15 minutes, as individuals need to be increasingly vigilant about sun exposure.
The summer months present the highest UV Index values, peaking in June at 11, which is classified as extreme and allowing only 10 minutes of unprotected sun exposure. July and August follow closely with a UV Index of 10, maintaining very high levels and requiring 15 minutes of care. As autumn sets in, UV levels begin to decline, with September still showing a very high index of 8, before falling to 6 in October and eventually returning to moderate indices of 4 in November and 3 in December. This seasonal fluctuation highlights the essential need for sun protection during the peak summer months in Gjirokastër.
UV Risk Categories
In Gjirokastër, Albania, daylight duration varies significantly throughout the year, following a clear seasonal pattern. The year begins with January providing only 9 hours of daylight, which gradually increases to 10 hours in February and 11 hours in March. As spring unfolds, daylight extends considerably, reaching 13 hours in April and peaking at 14 hours in both May and June. This stretch of extended daylight fosters outdoor activities and contributes to the flourishing local ecosystem during the warmer months.
As summer transitions to autumn, daylight begins to taper off, with July also offering 14 hours, followed by a slight decrease to 13 hours in August. The reduction in sunlight continues into September, where daylight measures 12 hours, before falling to 11 hours in October. By November, daylight dwindles back to 9 hours, mirroring the shorter days of the winter months in December. This rhythmic ebb and flow of daylight significantly impacts the region's climate, agriculture, and lifestyle, dictating a seasonal cycle of growth and rest throughout the year.
Gjirokaster, Albania experiences a diverse climate throughout the year, with cold winters and hot summers. January sees minimum temperatures drop to -15°C (5°F), while July and August reach maximums of 36°C (97°F). Precipitation varies significantly, peaking at 305 mm (12.0 in) in December, while the summer months remain relatively dry. The region enjoys abundant sunshine, especially in July, which boasts 425 hours. For more detailed information, visit Gjirokaster climate.
Permet, Albania, experiences a varied climate throughout the year, characterized by cold winters and warm summers. In January, temperatures can drop as low as -17°C (1°F), while July and August see peaks of up to 36°C (96°F). Precipitation is highest during winter months, particularly in December, with 237 mm (9.3 in) of rainfall, while summer months like July and August are drier. Sunshine is abundant, especially in the summer, with July enjoying around 427 hours of sunlight. For more detailed climate information, visit Permet climate.
In conclusion, Gjirokastër's climate, characterized by fluctuating temperature, precipitation, UV Index, sunshine duration, and daylight hours, illustrates the region's distinct seasonal cycles. From the cold, wet winters that give way to the warm and sun-drenched summers, residents experience a dynamic environment that shapes agricultural practices and daily life. The notable increase in UV radiation during the summer underscores the importance of sun protection, while variations in daylight duration highlight the changing rhythms of the natural landscape. Overall, Gjirokastër embodies a rich tapestry of climatic features that contribute to its unique cultural and ecological identity.