Last updated: January 18, 2025
Nakhichevan, Azerbaijan, exhibits a diverse climate characterized by the Koppen-Geiger climate classes BSk, Dfa, and Dfb. With winter temperatures plummeting to a frigid -22°C (-8°F) in January and scorching summer highs reaching 42°C (108°F) in July, the region experiences a significant range in thermal conditions. The average annual temperature hovers around 12°C (54°F), reflecting the interplay of continental and semi-arid influences that shape Nakhichevan's unique climatic identity.
In Nakhichevan, Azerbaijan, temperature patterns demonstrate a striking seasonal variation. The year begins with harsh winter conditions, where January and February experience severe lows of -22°C (-8°F) and -21°C (-5°F), respectively, alongside average temperatures barely rising above freezing. As spring approaches, temperatures gradually increase, with March showcasing a shift towards milder conditions, peaking at 27°C (80°F) during the day. By May, the climate transitions into early summer warmth, reaching an average of 17°C (63°F) and maxing out at 37°C (98°F). The months of June and July bring the peak heat, where average temperatures hover around 25°C (78°F) and can soar to 42°C (108°F). As summer wanes into autumn, September maintains the warmth with averages of 21°C (69°F), before temperatures dip again in October. The onset of winter reasserts itself in November and December, returning lows to a biting -19°C (-2°F), closing the cycle of significant temperature variation throughout the year.
Nakhchivan experiences a significant temperature range throughout the year, with February witnessing a chilling minimum of -17°C (2°F), while July can soar to a blistering maximum of 39°C (103°F). This stark contrast showcases the continental climate of the region, making it essential for residents and visitors alike to prepare for varied weather conditions. For more detailed information, check the monthly temperatures in Nakhchivan here.
Precipitation in Nakhichevan, Azerbaijan, exhibits a clear seasonal pattern, peaking during the spring months. January and February receive modest precipitation, with 29 mm (1.1 in) and 40 mm (1.6 in), respectively, while March and April see a notable increase, accumulating 71 mm (2.8 in) and 72 mm (2.8 in). This uptick marks the transition from winter to spring, characterized by around 12 rainy days per month in March and April, enabling the region's flora to thrive. In May, precipitation slightly decreases to 55 mm (2.2 in), preceding a sharp decline in the summer months of June through August, where rainfall dwindles to 13 mm (0.5 in) in June and 9 mm (0.4 in) in August, reflecting the dry heat of summer.
As autumn arrives, rainfall begins to pick up again, with October receiving 23 mm (0.9 in) and November 25 mm (1.0 in), indicative of the shifting weather patterns in the region. While December sees an increase back to 38 mm (1.5 in), the number of rainy days varies significantly throughout the year. Notably, June and July experience only 2 to 3 rainy days, while the wetter months of March and April can see up to 12 rainy days, creating a contrast that underscores Nakhichevan's semi-arid climate and seasonal variations.
In Nakhichevan, Azerbaijan, sunshine duration exhibits a clear seasonal progression, transforming from the dim hours of winter into the bright expanse of summer. Starting with 214 hours of sunshine in January, the region gradually witnesses an increase as spring unfolds, with February seeing 273 hours and March reaching 315 hours. Notably, April marks a significant surge, offering 339 hours as nature awakens. This trend continues through May and June, where the long daylight hours culminate in maximum sunshine of 405 hours, highlighting a pivotal transition into the summer months.
The peak sunshine period occurs in July, when Nakhichevan boasts an impressive 414 hours of sunlight, allowing residents to enjoy vibrant outdoor activities. As the summer wanes, sunshine hours begin to decrease gradually, with August still holding onto 396 hours before dipping into the autumn months. September offers 343 hours, followed by a steady decline to 267 hours in November and 260 hours in December. This seasonal pattern not only underscores the stark contrast between the sun-drenched summers and the comparatively overcast winters but also illustrates how Nakhichevan's climate shapes the lifestyle and activities of its inhabitants throughout the year.
The UV Index in Nakhichevan, Azerbaijan, showcases a distinct seasonal pattern, significantly impacting outdoor activities and skin protection measures. Starting in the winter months, January and February present moderate exposure levels with a UV Index of 4 and 5, respectively, allowing for 30 minutes of burn time. As spring approaches, the UV Index escalates dramatically, particularly reaching 9 in both March and April, labelling these months with a very high exposure risk. During this transitional period, individuals are advised to limit their sun exposure to just 15 minutes to prevent skin damage.
The summer months bring the highest UV Index readings, peaking at 12 in June and July, categorizing these periods as extreme with a minimal burn time of just 10 minutes. August slightly decreases to 11, but remains in the extreme range. As the year progresses into autumn, the UV Index gradually declines, with September returning to 9, followed by a drop to 7 in October, indicating a high exposure risk but allowing for longer burn times of 25 minutes. November and December see a further decline to 4 and 3, respectively, reverting to a moderate exposure level as winter takes hold. This seasonal variation highlights the necessity for heightened sun safety awareness during peak summer months while allowing for more relaxed outdoor activity during the autumn and winter.
UV Risk Categories
In Nakhichevan, Azerbaijan, daylight duration demonstrates a clear cyclical pattern that characterizes the changing seasons. During the winter months, January and December each offer only 9 hours of daylight, while February sees a slight improvement with 10 hours. As spring approaches, daylight begins to extend, reaching 11 hours in March and further increasing to 13 hours in April. The transition into May heralds the peak of spring, with 14 hours of daylight, providing ample opportunity for outdoor activities as the natural world flourishes.
With the arrival of summer, daylight duration plateaus at 14 hours in both June and July, allowing for long, sunlit days that are ideal for exploration and recreation. However, as autumn sets in, daylight hours gradually diminish, beginning with 13 hours in August and tapering down to 12 hours in September. By October, the daylight duration is reduced to 11 hours, then continues to decline through November back to 10 hours. This cyclical dance ultimately returns to 9 hours in December, completing the annual cycle and showcasing the interplay between sunlight and the seasonal rhythms in Nakhichevan.
Nakhchivan, Azerbaijan experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year, with January averaging around -2°C (28°F) and July peaking at approximately 26°C (80°F). The region sees relatively low rainfall, with July and August being the driest months, receiving only 8 mm (0.3 in) of precipitation each. Sunshine hours are abundant, especially in the summer, with July enjoying the highest at 413 hours. This unique climate contributes to a distinct seasonal beauty, making Nakhchivan an intriguing destination for travelers. For more detailed information, visit Nakhchivan climate.
In conclusion, the climate of Nakhichevan, Azerbaijan, reflects a unique interplay of temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours that shape the region's seasonal dynamics. From the frigid winters with limited daylight and moderate UV exposure to the scorching summers marked by peak sunshine and extreme UV risks, Nakhichevan experiences an array of climatic shifts throughout the year. Understanding these patterns is essential for residents and visitors alike, as it informs appropriate outdoor activities, sun safety measures, and agricultural practices. As this region continues to adapt to the challenges posed by climate variability, the deepened knowledge of its environmental rhythms will remain vital for sustainable living in Nakhichevan.