Last updated: January 18, 2025
Syunik, Armenia, exhibits a diverse climate characterized by a blend of Köppen-Geiger climate classifications, including Cfa, Dfb, Dfa, and BSk. The region experiences a stark temperature range, with winter lows plunging to a frigid minimum of -27°C (-16°F) in January, while summers can soar to a blistering maximum of 35°C (95°F) in September. The average annual temperature rests at a mild 7°C (44°F), reflecting the area's varied climate and its potential impact on the local ecosystem and agriculture.
The temperature patterns in Syunik, Armenia, exhibit pronounced seasonal variations, with winters characterized by severe cold and summers marked by warmth. January and February are the coldest months, with minimum temperatures plunging to -27°C (-16°F) and -25°C (-13°F) respectively, while average temperatures remain below freezing. As the seasons transition to spring, temperatures gradually rise, with March witnessing the emergence of slightly warmer conditions, peaking at an average of 1°C (34°F). By May, the climate begins to exhibit a significant warming trend, reaching maximum temperatures of 30°C (87°F) during the day. The summer months of June through August showcase the region's peak warmth, with July averaging 18°C (65°F) and maximum temperatures soaring to 35°C (95°F). As autumn approaches, temperatures notably decline, with October seeing averages drop to 8°C (47°F), and by December, the chilling grip of winter returns, with a minimum of -24°C (-11°F), encapsulating the dramatic climatic fluctuations that define Syunik throughout the year.
Goris experiences a minimum temperature of -26°C (-14°F) in January, with a maximum of 29°C (85°F) in September, while Khndzoresk has a slightly milder January minimum of -23°C (-8°F) and a warmer September maximum of 33°C (92°F). Similarly, Tat'ev matches Goris with a January low of -26°C (-14°F) and a September high of 29°C (85°F). For detailed monthly temperatures, visit monthly temperatures in Goris, monthly temperatures in Khndzoresk, and monthly temperatures in Tat'ev.
Precipitation in Syunik, Armenia, demonstrates a distinct seasonal pattern, with a marked increase during the spring months of March through May. Starting from January's modest 35 mm (1.4 in), the amount of rainfall rises significantly to 108 mm (4.3 in) in March and peaks at 134 mm (5.3 in) in May, suggesting a robust spring thaw that supports agricultural activities in the region. This period is also characterized by an increase in rainy days, culminating in 20 days of precipitation in May, making it the wettest month of the year.
As summer approaches, rainfall decreases sharply, with June receiving 80 mm (3.1 in) and July only 49 mm (1.9 in). The autumn months see a slight uptick in precipitation again, notably in September and October with 55 mm (2.1 in) and 63 mm (2.5 in) respectively. Despite this increase, the overall trend toward drier conditions during the summer is evident, reflecting the region's transition from the wet spring months to the cooler, drier winter season, where precipitation averages around 48 mm (1.9 in) from November to December.
In Syunik, Armenia, sunshine duration showcases a clear seasonal trend, with daylight hours increasing steadily from winter to summer. Starting at a modest 215 hours in January, the region experiences a gradual enhancement in sunlight as the year progresses. By March, sunshine hours reach 310, and this upward trajectory continues, peaking in July at an impressive 405 hours. The late spring and summer months, particularly May and June, also exhibit noteworthy amounts of sunshine, with May contributing 387 hours and June slightly surpassing that at 396 hours, signaling a vibrant and sunlit period ideal for outdoor activities and agriculture.
As summer transitions to autumn, sunshine duration begins to decline. The gradual drop in hours can be observed in August, where it falls to 387 hours, and continues to decrease to 326 hours in September. This decrement reflects the shift toward shorter days and less intense sunlight, eventually tapering off to approximately 261 hours in November and 264 hours in December. Overall, Syunik's climate provides a rich tapestry of sunshine throughout the year, with summer months offering the longest hours, while winter brings a substantial reduction in daylight, shaping the region's ecological and social dynamics.
The UV Index in Syunik, Armenia, reveals significant variations throughout the year, with marked increases during the spring and summer months. Starting in January with a moderate UV Index of 4, residents are cautioned to limit sun exposure to around 30 minutes. However, as February transitions into spring, the index climbs to 6, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure in just 25 minutes. By March and April, the UV Index reaches very high levels of 10 and 9 respectively, emphasizing the need for protective measures, as allowed sunburn times decrease to just 15 minutes.
The summer months intensify these trends, with the UV Index peaking at an extreme level of 12 from May to July, where burn times are reduced to a mere 10 minutes. August sees a slight dip to 11, yet it remains in the extreme category, followed by a decrease to a very high index of 9 in September. As autumn approaches, the UV Index begins a gradual decline, landing at a high of 7 in October before settling back to moderate levels of 4 in November and 3 in December. This seasonal variability underscores the importance of sun protection strategies during the sunnier months, thereby promoting skin health and overall well-being in Syunik.
UV Risk Categories
Daylight duration in Syunik, Armenia, exhibits a distinct seasonal pattern, reflecting the annual cycle of sunlight exposure. Beginning in January with only 9 hours of daylight, the amount gradually increases as winter gives way to spring. By March, daylight extends to 11 hours, and further rises to 13 hours in April. The progression continues into May, where residents enjoy 14 hours of daylight—one of the longest durations of the year—culminating in the equally abundant light during June and July. This extended period of daylight not only enhances outdoor activities but also plays a crucial role in the region's agricultural productivity.
As summer transitions to autumn, daylight duration begins to wane. In August, daylight slightly decreases to 13 hours, followed by a return to 12 hours in September. The decline accelerates into October, where daylight shortens to 11 hours. Finally, as winter approaches, daylight once again diminishes to 9 hours in November and December, mirroring the conditions at the year's start. This cyclical change in daylight duration significantly influences the lifestyle and activities of residents, emphasizing the importance of seasonal adaptations in Syunik.
Goris, Armenia experiences a continental climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January is the coldest month, with average temperatures around -7°C (20°F) and significant snowfall, while July sees average highs of 17°C (63°F). Precipitation peaks in spring, particularly in April and May, contributing to lush greenery during these months. The city enjoys ample sunshine, especially in summer, with July averaging 401 hours of sunshine. For more detailed information, visit Goris climate.
Khndzoresk, Armenia experiences a continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. January sees temperatures as low as -23°C (-8°F), while July peaks at 32°C (90°F). Precipitation is highest in spring, particularly in May with 125 mm (4.9 in), contributing to vibrant seasonal changes. The region enjoys ample sunshine, especially in summer, with July receiving 401 hours. For more detailed information, visit Khndzoresk climate.
Tat'ev, Armenia experiences a continental climate with significant temperature variations throughout the year. Winter months, especially January and February, can see minimum temperatures plummeting to -26°C (-14°F) and considerable snowfall, while the summer months of July and August offer milder conditions with highs reaching up to 29°C (85°F). Precipitation peaks in spring, particularly in April and May, contributing to lush landscapes, while sunshine hours increase throughout the warmer months, with July enjoying the most at 401 hours. For more detailed information, visit Tat'ev climate.
In conclusion, the climate and solar dynamics of Syunik, Armenia, reveal a complex interplay of temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV index, and daylight patterns throughout the year. From the harsh winters marked by low temperatures and limited daylight to the vibrant summers characterized by extended sun exposure and elevated UV levels, these climatic factors collectively shape the region's ecological systems, agricultural practices, and daily life. As residents navigate the changing seasons, understanding these variations is essential for implementing effective strategies for sun protection and optimizing agricultural outputs, ultimately enhancing the quality of life in this unique Armenian landscape.