Last updated: January 18, 2025
Kukës, Albania, experiences a diverse climate characterized by three distinct Köppen-Geiger classifications: Cfb (Oceanic), Csb (Mediterranean), and Dfb (Continental). The region endures a temperature range that showcases its climatic variability, with winter lows plunging to a frigid -26°C (-14°F) in January and summer highs soaring to a scorching 38°C (101°F) in August. The annual average temperature hovers around 10°C (50°F), highlighting the transitional nature of Kukës' climate and its unique interplay of maritime and continental influences.
Temperature patterns in Kukës, Albania, reveal a distinctive seasonal rhythm, transitioning from the harsh, frigid winter months to the warm, sultry summer. January and February are characterized by particularly severe cold, with minimum temperatures dropping to -26°C (-14°F) and -24°C (-12°F), respectively, while March begins a gradual thaw, with average temperatures rising to 4°C (40°F) and maximums reaching 23°C (74°F). As spring unfolds in April and May, temperatures continue to climb, peaking at an average of 13°C (56°F) in May and maxing out at 30°C (87°F). The summer months of June, July, and August bring warmth, with average highs of 20°C (69°F) to 21°C (70°F) and maximums hitting 37°C (98°F) in July and 38°C (101°F) in August. In contrast, autumn heralds a cool-down, with temperatures dipping again in September and October, before plunging back into winter's chill by December. Overall, Kukës exhibits a remarkable shift from icy winters to warm summers, highlighting the stark contrasts that define its climate.
Bajram Curri experiences a minimum temperature of -24°C (-12°F) in January, with a maximum of 33°C (92°F) in July (monthly temperatures in Bajram Curri). Kukes has a slightly lower minimum of -26°C (-14°F) in January and also reaches a maximum of 33°C (92°F), but in August (monthly temperatures in Kukes). Valbone's climate features a minimum of -25°C (-13°F) in January, with its warmest month peaking at 30°C (86°F) in August (monthly temperatures in Valbone).
Precipitation patterns in Kukës, Albania, exhibit a prominent seasonal distribution, with the winter months experiencing the heaviest rainfall. In December, rainfall peaks at 197 mm (7.8 in) over approximately 14 days, closely followed by January and February, which receive 147 mm (5.8 in) and 143 mm (5.6 in) respectively. This winter deluge provides essential moisture during colder months, while spring sees a noticeable decrease with March and April recording 139 mm (5.5 in) and 109 mm (4.3 in), respectively, as days gradually warm with the onset of spring.
As summer approaches, a significant reduction in precipitation is observed, with July and August yielding only 73 mm (2.9 in) and 56 mm (2.2 in), respectively, resulting in fewer rainy days, averaging around 10 to 8 days. The trend picks up again in late autumn, with October and November receiving 102 mm (4.0 in) and 121 mm (4.8 in), respectively. This fluctuation in precipitation underscores Kukës’ distinct seasonal characteristics, where wet winters contrast with drier and warmer summers, shaping the region's hydrology and vegetation dynamics.
Sunshine duration in Kukës, Albania, reveals a clear seasonal trajectory, characterized by a steady increase from winter's gloom to the vibrant rays of summer. Beginning with just 181 hours in January, the amount of sunshine steadily climbs through February to reach 245 hours, showcasing an early hint of improving conditions. By March, the sunshine hours jump to 308, followed by April and May where the days lengthen significantly, amassing 345 hours and 397 hours respectively. The transition from spring to summer marks a peak in solar brightness, with June and July reaching maximums of 403 hours and 429 hours, creating an ideal atmosphere for outdoor activities and agrarian pursuits.
As summer wanes into late summer and early autumn, sunshine duration begins to taper off, exemplified by 398 hours in August and then declining to 345 hours in September. October continues this downward trend with 302 hours, while the final months of the year witness a notable reduction in daylight, dropping to 240 hours in November and 218 hours in December. This analysis of sunshine duration not only highlights the peak months of June and July but also underscores the seasonal rhythm Kukës experiences, transitioning from limited winter sunlight to the abundant brightness of summer, before re-entering the stark light of winter.
The UV Index in Kukës, Albania, experiences marked seasonal shifts, reflecting the region's varying sun exposure throughout the year. During the winter months, January and February show moderate UV levels at 3 and 4, respectively, allowing for a burn time of about 30 minutes without protection. As spring unfolds, the UV Index climbs dramatically; by March, it reaches 7 (high exposure), requiring a burn time of only 25 minutes. April and May see an escalation to 8 and 9 in the very high category, necessitating even shorter sun exposure times of 15 minutes to prevent skin damage.
The peak UV Index occurs in June, when it reaches an extreme level of 11, indicating the need for rapid sun protection measures with a burn time of just 10 minutes. July and August maintain a very high index of 10, still demanding careful sun safety practices. As autumn progresses, the UV levels gradually decline, dropping to 6 in October and moderating to 4 in November, before falling to a low index of 2 in December, reflecting seasonal changes and the diminished sun intensity. This data emphasizes the importance of adapting sun protection strategies throughout the year in Kukës, particularly during the high and extreme UV periods of late spring and summer.
UV Risk Categories
Daylight duration in Kukës, Albania, exhibits a clear seasonal pattern, highlighting the significant variations across the year. Starting from just 9 hours in January, the days gradually lengthen through February to 10 hours and further to 11 hours in March. The transition into spring brings more noticeable increases, with daylight reaching 13 hours in April and peaking at 14 hours in May. As summer approaches, June offers the longest days of the year, extending to 15 hours, providing ample sunlight for outdoor activities and fostering a vibrant atmosphere.
As the summer months transition into fall, daylight gradually decreases, with July still maintaining 14 hours, but tapering to 13 hours by August. September witnesses a further reduction to 12 hours, leading into October, where daylight shrinks to 11 hours. The cycle continues, plunging back down to 9 hours again in both November and December, marking the return to winter's shorter days. This rhythm of daylight illustrates the climatic changes Kukës experiences, underscoring the importance of maximizing daylight hours during the longer days of summer while preparing for the shorter winter months.
Arren, Albania experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January showcases frigid temperatures, with average lows around -1°C (30°F) and high precipitation of 153 mm (6.0 in). The summer months, particularly July and August, shine with average highs reaching up to 34°C (94°F) and fewer rainfall days, averaging just 47 mm (1.9 in) in August. The region enjoys substantial sunshine, peaking at 430 hours in July. For more detailed information, visit Arren climate.
Bajram Curri, Albania experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January marks the coldest month with temperatures dropping as low as -24°C and heavy precipitation peaking at 208 mm. As spring arrives, temperatures gradually rise, reaching averages of 13°C in May, while summer months see highs of 33°C and lower rainfall, particularly in August with only 53 mm. The region enjoys ample sunshine during the summer, with July receiving up to 428 hours. For more detailed information, visit the Bajram Curri climate.
Bicaj, Albania experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January sees temperatures ranging from -26°C to 11°C, with significant precipitation at 122 mm, while July boasts milder conditions from 7°C to 32°C, and notably lower rainfall of 67 mm. Sunshine hours peak in summer, reaching up to 430 hours in July, while winter months receive considerably less sunshine, averaging around 183 hours in January. The wettest month is December, with 151 mm of precipitation, making it essential for residents and visitors to prepare accordingly. For more details on weather patterns, visit Bicaj climate.
The climate in Bujan, Albania, features cold winters and warm summers, with temperature extremes ranging from a minimum of -24°C in January to a maximum of 33°C in July and August. Precipitation is highest in December at 298 mm, peaking during the winter months, while the summer months see significantly lower rainfall, particularly in August with just 53 mm. Sunshine hours vary throughout the year, reaching a peak of 428 hours in July. Overall, Bujan experiences a distinct seasonal cycle, making it an interesting climate for visitors and residents alike. For more details, visit Bujan climate.
Bushtrice, Albania, experiences a continental climate characterized by cold winters and mild summers. January temperatures can drop as low as -26°C (-14°F), while July peaks around 32°C (89°F). Precipitation is highest in May (146 mm) and December (151 mm), contributing to a lush environment, particularly in spring. The region enjoys abundant sunshine, with July receiving around 430 hours of sunlight, making it the sunniest month. For more detailed information, visit Bushtrice climate.
The climate in Bytyc, Albania, experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year, with January averaging 1°C (34°F) and peaking in July and August at around 24°C (75°F) to 37°C (99°F). Precipitation is highest in winter months, particularly December with 193 mm (7.6 in), while summer sees significantly less rainfall, such as August's 30 mm (1.2 in). Notably, sunshine hours peak in July at 427 hours, providing ample sunlight during the summer. For more detailed information, visit Bytyc climate.
The climate in Fajze, Albania, features cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures can drop as low as -21°C, while July sees highs around 37°C. Precipitation is heaviest in winter, particularly in December and January, with monthly totals often exceeding 100 mm. The region experiences significant sunshine during the summer months, peaking in July with 427 hours. For more detailed information, visit Fajze climate.
Gjinaj, Albania experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures range from a frigid -26°C (-14°F) to a mild 11°C (52°F), while July sees temperatures between 7°C (45°F) and 32°C (89°F). Precipitation is highest in winter months, with January receiving 122 mm (4.8 in), and drops in the summer, notably into July and August with around 67 mm (2.7 in). The area enjoys abundant sunshine, particularly in summer, peaking at 430 hours in July. For more detailed information, visit Gjinaj climate.
The climate in Golaj, Albania, is characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures can drop to as low as -21°C, while July sees highs of up to 37°C, indicating a significant seasonal variation. Precipitation peaks in January and December, reaching over 100 mm, while summer months are relatively drier. Sunshine is abundant during summer, particularly in July, with over 400 hours of sunlight, contributing to the pleasant climate. For more detailed information, visit Golaj climate.
Kalis, Albania experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures can drop to a minimum of -24°C, with average highs reaching 12°C, while July sees temperatures up to 32°C. Precipitation is highest in winter and early spring, with January receiving about 150 mm, but during the summer months, it decreases significantly. Sunshine peaks in July with approximately 431 hours, providing ample sunny days in the warmest months. For more detailed information, visit Kalis climate.
The climate in Kokaj, Albania, experiences significant seasonal variation, with cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures can plunge to a minimum of -26°C, while July sees highs reaching up to 33°C. Precipitation is highest in the winter months, peaking in December at 151 mm, while summer rainfall is comparatively lower. Sunshine hours peak in July with 430 hours, providing ample daylight during the warmest month. For more detailed information, visit Kokaj climate.
Kolsh, Albania experiences a continental climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January sees minimum temperatures plunge to -22°C (-7°F), while July witnesses highs of up to 34°C (94°F). Precipitation is highest in December, reaching 203 mm (8.0 in), while the summer months typically receive less rainfall, with July averaging just 56 mm (2.2 in). Sunshine hours peak in July at 430 hours, contributing to warm and pleasant summer days. For more detailed information, visit Kolsh climate.
Krume, Albania experiences a continental climate with distinct seasonal variations. Winters are cold, with January temperatures ranging from a minimum of -21°C to a maximum of 14°C, and precipitation is relatively high at 101 mm. Summers are warm to hot, peaking in July and August with averages around 23-24°C and maximums reaching up to 38°C, accompanied by lower rainfall of about 39-40 mm. Sunshine is prominent, particularly in summer months, with July receiving the most hours of sun at 427. For more information, visit Krume climate.
Kukës, Albania experiences a diverse climate with cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures can plunge as low as -26°C (-14°F), while July sees averages around 19°C (67°F), peaking at 32°C (89°F). Precipitation is highest in late autumn and winter, peaking at 151 mm (5.9 in) in December, while summer months like July and August receive less than 70 mm (2.7 in). The region enjoys abundant sunshine, especially during the summer, with July receiving up to 430 hours of sun. For more details, visit Kukes climate.
Lekbibaj, Albania, experiences a diverse climate with cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures can plunge to a minimum of -24°C (-12°F) with high precipitation, averaging 208 mm (8.2 in), while sunny hours are relatively low at 178. As the seasons progress to summer, temperatures rise to averages of 21°C (70°F) in August, and precipitation decreases significantly, particularly in the summer months. This pattern provides a mix of sunshine and rain, with the best weather occurring from May to August, ideal for outdoor activities. For more details, visit Lekbibaj climate.
The climate in Llugaj, Albania, features cold winters and warm summers, with January temperatures ranging from -24°C to 11°C and July temperatures between 8°C and 33°C. Precipitation is highest in December (298 mm) and lowest in August (53 mm), contributing to a varied seasonal landscape. Sunshine hours peak in July with 428 hours, providing ample daylight during the summer months. This distinct climate makes Llugaj a unique destination for both winter sports and summer activities. For more detailed information, visit Llugaj climate.
The climate in Shenmeri, Albania, features distinct seasonal variations, with cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures range from -22°C to 12°C, with significant precipitation peaking at 203 mm in December. As the year progresses, temperatures rise, reaching maximum averages around 34°C in August, while precipitation decreases, particularly in July and August. The region enjoys ample sunshine, especially in the summer months, offering over 400 hours of sunshine in both June and July. For more detailed climate information, visit Shenmeri climate.
Shishtavec, Albania experiences a continental climate with distinct seasons. Winters are cold, with January temperatures ranging from -26°C to 11°C, often accompanied by significant precipitation, peaking at 151 mm in December. Summers are warm, with July temperatures averaging 19°C and lows of 7°C and relatively low rainfall around 67 mm. Sunshine hours are abundant during the summer months, reaching up to 430 hours in July, contributing to a pleasant daytime climate. For more detailed information, visit Shishtavec climate.
Shtiqen, Albania experiences a continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. January sees temperatures ranging from -26°C to 11°C, while July's average high reaches 32°C. Precipitation is highest in December and May, with 151 mm and 146 mm, respectively, and sunshine peaks in July with 430 hours. The region has a notable variation in temperature and weather patterns throughout the year, making it essential for visitors to prepare accordingly. For more detailed information, visit Shtiqen climate.
Surroj, Albania exhibits a climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures can drop as low as -22°C (-7°F), while July sees highs around 33°C (92°F). Precipitation is highest during the winter and early spring months, peaking at 203 mm (8.0 in) in December. The region enjoys significant sunshine, particularly in summer, with July receiving about 430 hours. For more detailed insights, visit Surroj climate.
Ujmisht, Albania experiences a continental climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures can dip as low as -22°C (-7°F), while July sees highs reaching 34°C (94°F). Precipitation is highest in December (203 mm) and January (153 mm), with summers being relatively drier, especially in July (56 mm) and August (47 mm). Sunshine is abundant in the summer months, peaking at 430 hours in July, which contributes to the warm and enjoyable conditions during this season. For more detailed information, visit Ujmisht climate.
Valbone, Albania experiences a diverse climate with cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures can drop to -25°C (-13°F), while July sees highs of up to 30°C (86°F). Precipitation is highest in December, reaching 275 mm (10.8 in), with January and February also experiencing significant rainfall. The region enjoys ample sunshine, peaking at 428 hours in July. For more details on the climate, visit Valbone climate.
The climate in Zapod, Albania, features cold winters and warm summers. January averages around -3°C (27°F) with significant precipitation of 122 mm (4.8 in), while July reaches warm highs of 32°C (89°F) with much less rainfall (67 mm or 2.7 in). Sunshine hours peak in July at 430, contributing to a generally pleasant summer atmosphere, whereas winter months receive fewer sunlight hours. This variability creates diverse weather conditions throughout the year, making it an intriguing destination for climate enthusiasts. For more details, visit Zapod climate.
In conclusion, the climate dynamics of Kukës, Albania, are characterized by distinct seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours. The region transitions from harsh winter conditions to warm summers, creating a diverse environment that influences lifestyle and activities throughout the year. The fluctuations in precipitation underscore the significance of winter rains and summer sunshine, while the UV Index highlights the need for protective measures during peak sun exposure months. Understanding these climatic factors allows residents and visitors to better appreciate and navigate the natural rhythms of Kukës, ultimately fostering a deeper connection to this unique mountainous area.