Last updated: January 18, 2025
The climate of Plovdiv, Bulgaria, is characterized by a complex interplay of Köppen-Geiger climate classes, including temperate (Cfa) and continental (Dfb) varieties, alongside a maritime influence (Cfb). This diverse climate manifests through a wide range of temperatures; the coldest month, February, can drop to a chilling -21°C (-6°F), while the summer peaks can soar to an intense 42°C (107°F) in August. With an annual average temperature of 12°C (54°F), Plovdiv experiences distinct seasonal variations, making it a fascinating subject for climate studies.
Plovdiv, Bulgaria, exhibits pronounced seasonal temperature fluctuations throughout the year, characterized by cold winters and hot summers. In the winter months, particularly January and February, temperatures can plunge to as low as -21°C (-6°F), with averages hovering around 1°C to 4°C (33°F to 39°F). As spring approaches, march signals a gradual warming trend, with average temperatures rising to 6°C (43°F) and reaching a notable 24°C (76°F) by the end of the month. April and May further enhance this warming, showcasing a significant increase in maximum temperatures that peak at 34°C (93°F) in late spring. The summer months of June, July, and August herald the hottest period, with maximum temperatures soaring to around 39°C to 42°C (102°F to 107°F), while maintaining comfortable averages. As autumn sets in, a cooling trend emerges, with September still offering relatively warm conditions but gradually dipping, and by November temperatures can drop to the low single digits. December brings the onset of winter again, with frigid readings reminiscent of the beginning of the year, weaving a distinct narrative of climate variability in Plovdiv.
Plovdiv experiences a temperature range from a chilling minimum of -20°C (-5°F) in January to a sweltering maximum of 42°C (107°F) in August, as detailed in the monthly temperatures in Plovdiv. In nearby Hisarya, temperatures dip to -18°C (-1°F) in January and peak at 39°C (102°F) in August, according to the monthly temperatures in Hisarya. Meanwhile, Asenovgrad records an even colder minimum of -21°C (-6°F) in February and a slightly lower maximum of 37°C (99°F) in August, noted in the monthly temperatures in Asenovgrad.
Precipitation in Plovdiv showcases a clear seasonal pattern, with the wettest months typically occurring during late spring and early summer. Starting with the year's first months, January and February receive modest rainfall, measuring 49 mm (1.9 in) and 51 mm (2.0 in) respectively, with precipitation occurring over approximately 7 to 8 days. As spring progresses, March experiences a notable increase to 77 mm (3.0 in), while April sees a slight decline to 65 mm (2.6 in). The peak arrives in June with the highest monthly total of 124 mm (4.9 in), indicating the onset of summer storms.
The summer months of July and August exhibit a decrease in precipitation, with 82 mm (3.2 in) and 37 mm (1.5 in) respectively, reflecting less frequent rain with only 9 and 5 days of rainfall. As autumn unfolds, September and October bring moderate amounts, with 30 mm (1.2 in) and 64 mm (2.5 in), while November retains fairly consistent precipitation. December rounds off the year with 76 mm (3.0 in), experienced over 10 days, underscoring the winter's contribution to Plovdiv's climate. This variability illustrates a clear transition between wet and dry periods, fundamentally shaping the region's agricultural landscape and water resources.
In Plovdiv, Bulgaria, sunshine duration exhibits clear seasonal trends, with a notable increase as the year transitions from winter to summer. Starting from January's 177 hours, sunshine hours gradually climb, reflecting the lengthening days. February sees an increase to 238 hours, while March continues this upward trajectory, reaching 288 hours. By the arrival of spring in April, sunlight peaks at 345 hours, and the trend accelerates into the summer months, culminating in July with an impressive 426 hours of sunshine. May and June also contribute significantly, with 393 hours and 400 hours respectively, making these months some of the brightest of the year.
As summer wanes, sunshine hours begin to taper slightly, with August maintaining a healthy 403 hours before the decline accelerates in September to 344 hours. The autumn months of October and November see a further decrease, with sunshine hours dropping to 291 and 232 hours respectively. December concludes the year with 220 hours, marking it as the month with the least sunlight. This cyclical pattern not only highlights the vivid contrast between the long, sunny days of summer and the shorter, gloomier days of winter but also underscores Plovdiv's potential for solar energy utilization, particularly during the peak summer months.
In Plovdiv, Bulgaria, the UV Index reflects significant seasonal variation, highlighting the importance of sun protection during certain months. Beginning in January, the UV Index registers at 3, indicating moderate exposure with a burn time of 30 minutes. This moderate level persists into February with an Index of 4, allowing for safe outdoor activities with minimal precautions. However, as spring progresses into March and April, the Index sharply increases to 8, categorized as very high. This marked rise requires individuals to adopt protective measures such as sunscreen and protective clothing within a burn time of just 15 minutes.
The intensity of UV radiation peaks during the summer months, reaching an extreme UV Index of 11 in June, where even brief sun exposure can lead to skin damage in as little as 10 minutes. July and August maintain a high level of UV risk, with an Index of 10 and a burn time of 15 minutes. As autumn approaches, September sees the UV Index drop slightly to 8, but the risk remains significant. By October, the Index declines to 6, which is still considered high, and further decreases in November and December to moderate levels of 4 and 3 respectively. This pattern underscores the critical need for awareness regarding UV exposure, especially in the peak summer months.
UV Risk Categories
In Plovdiv, Bulgaria, daylight duration fluctuates significantly throughout the year, illustrating the dynamics between seasons. January marks the year with about 9 hours of daylight, gradually increasing to 10 hours in February and 11 hours in March. As spring takes hold in April, daylight extends to 13 hours, further lengthening to 14 hours by May. The peak of summer arrives in June, where residents can enjoy a maximum of 15 hours of daylight, providing ample opportunity for outdoor activities and sunlight exposure.
As summer gives way to autumn, daylight duration begins to taper off, with July and August offering 14 and 13 hours respectively. By September, daylight decreases to 12 hours as the days shorten further into October, which sees 11 hours. The transition to winter is marked by a return to 9 hours of daylight in both November and December. This cyclical pattern emphasizes the variations in natural light throughout the year, influencing not just daily routines but also agricultural practices and energy consumption in the region.
Asenovgrad, Bulgaria experiences a continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures can drop as low as -21°C (-6°F), gradually rising to a maximum of 37°C (99°F) in July. Precipitation peaks in June with 158 mm (6.2 in), while sunshine hours reach their highest in July at 426 hours. Overall, the region enjoys a fair amount of sunshine throughout the year, contributing to its scenic beauty. For more details, visit Asenovgrad climate.
Hisarya, Bulgaria experiences a diverse climate with cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures range from a minimum of -18°C to a maximum of 15°C, while July sees highs of up to 39°C. Precipitation is highest in the summer months, with June receiving 109 mm, contributing to its lush surroundings. Sunshine hours peak in July at 427 hours, making it the sunniest month. For more details, visit Hisarya climate.
Kalofer, Bulgaria experiences a diverse climate with cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures range from -18°C to 15°C, while July sees highs up to 37°C. Precipitation is highest in June (119 mm) and lowest in September (20 mm), contributing to a total annual average that supports lush vegetation. The region enjoys abundant sunshine, particularly in July with 427 hours, creating a vibrant atmosphere during the summer months. For more details, visit Kalofer climate.
The climate in Perushtitsa, Bulgaria, features cold winters and warm summers, with January temperatures ranging from -18°C to 14°C and July highs reaching up to 35°C. Precipitation is highest in late spring and early summer, particularly in June with 176 mm. Sunshine hours peak in July at 426 hours, providing ample sunlight during the summer months. Overall, Perushtitsa experiences a significant variation in temperature and precipitation throughout the year, making it a unique climate to explore. More details can be found at Perushtitsa climate.
Plovdiv, Bulgaria, experiences a continental climate characterized by hot summers and cold winters. January temperatures can drop as low as -20°C (−5°F) but range up to 16°C (61°F), while July sees maximums reaching up to 40°C (105°F). The city receives the most precipitation in June (77 mm), with total rainfall decreasing through autumn. A notable feature is the abundance of sunshine, especially during the summer months, peaking at 427 hours in July. For more detailed information, visit Plovdiv climate.
In conclusion, Plovdiv, Bulgaria, showcases a rich tapestry of climatic features, from its diverse temperature ranges and precipitation patterns to varying sunshine and UV index levels throughout the year. These elements collectively shape the lifestyle and environmental dynamics of the region. The considerable seasonal variations in daylight duration further enhance the impact of these climatic factors, influencing daily activities and natural cycles. Understanding these trends is essential for residents, policymakers, and those exploring the potential for agricultural development and energy strategies in response to evolving weather patterns. As climate awareness increases, so too does the importance of adapting to these variations, ensuring that the community thrives in harmony with its environment.