Last updated: January 18, 2025
Kardzhali, Bulgaria, exhibits a diverse climate characterized by three distinct Köppen-Geiger classifications: Cfb (oceanic), Csb (warm-summer Mediterranean), and Csa (hot-summer Mediterranean). This region experiences a wide temperature range, with minimums plunging to -18°C (0°F) in February, while summer peaks can soar to 38°C (100°F) in August. The annual average temperature reaches around 13°C (55°F), highlighting Kardzhali's unique climatic conditions that influence its rich ecosystems and agricultural practices.
Kardzhali, Bulgaria, showcases pronounced seasonal temperature patterns that reflect its diverse climate. Winter months typically feature low temperatures, with January and February seeing minimums as cold as -18°C (0°F) and average temperatures around 2-4°C (35-40°F), transitioning into mild spring as temperatures gradually rise, peaking in April with an average of 11°C (52°F). By May, warmth becomes more pronounced, with average temperatures reaching 16°C (61°F), and the arrival of summer leads to higher extremes—July often records maximums of 37°C (99°F) and August can reach 38°C (100°F). As autumn sets in, temperatures begin to cool, with September showcasing an average of 19°C (67°F), followed by November's decline to 8°C (48°F), before returning into the cold of winter in December. This cyclical fluctuation illustrates the region's capacity for both extreme heat and significant cold, defining Kardzhali's climate throughout the year.
In Bulgaria, both Kardzhali and Gabrovo experience extreme temperatures, with a minimum of -18°C (0°F) in February and maximum of 37°C (99°F) in August as detailed in their respective climate profiles: monthly temperatures in Kardzhali and monthly temperatures in Gabrovo. Krumovgrad has slightly milder winter temperatures with a minimum of -16°C (3°F) in February, but it also reaches a comparable maximum of 38°C (100°F) in August, as noted in its climate information: monthly temperatures in Krumovgrad.
Kardzhali, Bulgaria, experiences a varied precipitation pattern throughout the year, with peak rainfall typically occurring in the summer months. January and February see significant precipitation, measuring 76 mm (3.0 in) and 66 mm (2.6 in) respectively, while the early spring months witness a surge, particularly in March with 93 mm (3.7 in). This trend continues into April and May, where precipitation remains steady at around 78 mm (3.1 in) and 77 mm (3.1 in), marking a noteworthy seasonal transition. The arrival of June brings the highest rainfall, with 115 mm (4.5 in), correlating with increased storm activity and summer showers.
As the summer progresses, however, July sees a decrease to 73 mm (2.9 in), followed by a marked drop in August, where precipitation plummets to just 17 mm (0.7 in), indicating a brief dry spell typical of the season. September sees a slight rebound with 35 mm (1.4 in), but precipitation levels remain subdued until October, which registers 92 mm (3.6 in). Notably, December experiences the highest precipitation of the year at 124 mm (4.9 in), coupled with an increase in rainy days, indicating a shift back to wetter winter conditions. This cyclical precipitation pattern highlights Kardzhali's diverse climate, reflecting its unique seasonal changes.
Kardzhali, Bulgaria, showcases a noteworthy seasonal variation in sunshine duration, with distinct trends that reflect the changing seasons. Starting from a low of 181 hours in January, the amount of sunshine steadily increases as winter transitions into spring. By March, sunshine hours reach 296, and continue to climb, peaking in April at 350 hours. This upward trajectory continues into the warmer months, with May recording 401 hours and June slightly surpassing that at 406 hours. The height of summer sees July emerging as the sunniest month, boasting 428 hours of sunshine, a time when residents and visitors can fully appreciate the long, bright days.
As the summer wanes, sunshine hours begin to decline, yet August remains robust with 402 hours before dropping in September to 347 hours. The onset of autumn brings diminished sunlight, with October providing only 296 hours. By the time winter arrives, sunshine hours drop again, culminating in November with 244 hours and December falling to 227 hours. This cyclical pattern underscores Kardzhali's diverse climate, where the abundance of sunshine in summer contrasts sharply with the reduced light of winter months, highlighting the region's capacity for both brightness and gloom throughout the year.
Kardzhali, Bulgaria, experiences significant fluctuations in the UV Index throughout the year, reflecting the region's diverse seasonal characteristics. In the winter months, January and February see moderate UV levels, with indexes of 3 and 4, allowing for a relatively safe exposure time of 30 minutes. As spring approaches, the UV Index rises sharply, with March reaching 7 (high), indicating a need for more sun protection. The onset of summer brings peak UV levels, with April reaching 8 and maintaining very high levels of 9 in May, followed by 10 in both June and July—risking harmful skin effects after just 15 minutes of exposure.
As summer transitions to autumn, the UV Index gradually declines but remains high, registering 9 in August and 8 in September. By October, it falls to 6, marking a return to high levels but with a more extended burn time of 25 minutes. The UV Index continues to decrease into the winter months, with November dropping back to 3 (moderate) and December further reducing to 2 (low), allowing for a much safer 45-minute exposure time. This seasonal variation emphasizes the importance of sun protection during the high UV periods of spring and summer, while also highlighting the reduced risk during winter months in Kardzhali.
UV Risk Categories
Kardzhali, Bulgaria, experiences notable seasonal shifts in daylight duration throughout the year, affecting both daily life and outdoor activities. Winter months start with approximately 9 hours of daylight in both January and December, gradually increasing to 10 hours in February and then reaching 11 hours by March. As spring unfolds, the days grow longer, culminating in April with 13 hours of sunlight and peaking at 14 hours in May. This trend signifies a growing opportunity for outdoor endeavors, as natural light continues to increase as the warmer months approach.
The summer months see the longest daylight periods, with June boasting an impressive 15 hours of sunshine. Although July's duration slightly declines to 14 hours, August brings a decrease to 13 hours, signifying the nearing end of summer. As autumn commences, daylight begins to diminish again, with September offering 12 hours and October reducing back to 11 hours. By November, the cycle returns to 9 hours, mirroring the winter months. This rhythmic pattern of daylight duration not only highlights seasonal changes but also reflects the importance of adaptation in daily activities across the year in Kardzhali.
The climate in Ardino, Bulgaria, features cold winters and warm summers, with January seeing temperatures drop to a minimum of -15°C (6°F) and July peaking at 36°C (96°F). Precipitation is highest in June at 124 mm (4.9 in), contributing to a humid summer, while August experiences significantly lower rainfall at just 18 mm (0.7 in). The region boasts abundant sunshine, particularly in July with 428 hours, providing ample daylight throughout the warmer months. For more detailed climate information, visit Ardino climate.
Dzhebel, Bulgaria, experiences a continental climate with significant temperature variations throughout the year. Winter months, particularly January and February, can be quite cold, with lows dipping to -16°C (4°F) and average temperatures around 4°C (39°F). Summers are warm, especially in July and August, where average highs reach around 23°C (74°F) and 35°C (96°F) respectively. Precipitation is distributed unevenly, with the wettest months being March and June, while August sees minimal rainfall. For more detailed information, visit Dzhebel climate.
Gabrovo, Bulgaria experiences a varied climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January sees average temperatures around 1°C (34°F) with significant snowfall, while July can reach up to 36°C (97°F). Precipitation is highest in June at 136 mm (5.4 in), contributing to the region's lush greenery, and the summer months benefit from abundant sunshine, with July enjoying 428 hours. The transition seasons, particularly spring, bring moderate temperatures and increasing sunlight, making them ideal for outdoor activities. For more detailed information, visit Gabrovo climate.
Kardzhali, Bulgaria experiences a varied climate with cold winters and hot summers. January temperatures range from -15°C to 15°C, gradually warming to a peak in July, where averages can reach 22°C. The region sees substantial precipitation, especially in June with 136 mm, and enjoys abundant sunshine, particularly in summer months like July, which boasts 428 hours. Visitors can expect mild to warm weather in spring and summer, making it an appealing destination for outdoor activities. For more detailed information, visit Kardzhali climate.
Kirkovo, Bulgaria experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January sees temperatures ranging from -11°C to 15°C, while July peaks at a maximum of 36°C. Precipitation is heaviest in December with 159 mm, and the driest month is August at just 10 mm. Sunshine is abundant during summer, reaching up to 429 hours in July. For more detailed information, visit Kirkovo climate.
Krumovgrad, Bulgaria experiences a diverse climate with cold winters and hot summers. January temperatures range from -15°C to 15°C, accompanied by significant precipitation of 76 mm, while July sees highs of up to 37°C and lower rainfall at 44 mm. The region enjoys abundant sunshine, peaking in July with 428 hours, which helps foster a warm summer environment. Autumn and spring are milder, featuring average temperatures from 7°C to 24°C and moderate rainfall. For more detailed information, visit Krumovgrad climate.
In conclusion, Kardzhali, Bulgaria, presents a dynamic climate characterized by significant seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV index, and daylight hours. The region's distinct seasonal transitions manifest in everything from the extreme temperatures of summer to the cooler, sun-scarce winter months, creating a landscape that is as diverse as it is engaging. Understanding these climatic factors is crucial for residents and visitors alike, allowing for informed decisions regarding outdoor activities, sun protection, and agricultural practices. As Kardzhali continues to navigate these seasonal shifts, its rich ecological and cultural landscape remains profoundly influenced by the interplay of climate and weather patterns throughout the year.