Last updated: January 18, 2025
Silistra, Bulgaria is characterized by a humid subtropical climate classified under the Köppen-Geiger system as Cfa. The region experiences a wide temperature range, with January lows dipping to a frosty -19°C (-1°F) and July highs soaring to a scorching 40°C (105°F). The annual average temperature stands at a mild 13°C (56°F), highlighting Silistra's notable seasonal contrasts and making it a unique location for climate study and appreciation.
In Silistra, Bulgaria, temperature patterns exhibit pronounced seasonal shifts, reflecting a diverse climatic landscape. Winter months, particularly January and February, are marked by subzero minimums, with temperatures plunging to -19°C (-1°F) and -16°C (4°F), respectively. As spring unfolds, temperatures gradually rise, reaching a peak of 29°C (84°F) in April, showcasing a typical transition from cold to mild conditions. By May, the warmth continues to build, culminating in summer's peak, where July and August boast averages of 24°C (75°F) and 25°C (76°F), with maximum temperatures soaring to around 40°C (105°F). As autumn sets in, temperatures begin to cool, with notable drops in November and December, where chilly minimums in December touch -18°C (0°F). Overall, Silistra's climate is characterized by cold winters, warm summers, and a gradual yearly progression from frigid conditions to heat, reflecting a dynamic seasonal cycle.
Silistra experiences a varied climate, with temperatures ranging from a frigid minimum of -19°C (-1°F) in January to a scorching maximum of 38°C (101°F) in July. For more detailed information about the monthly temperatures in Silistra, you can visit this link: monthly temperatures in Silistra.
Precipitation patterns in Silistra, Bulgaria, reveal significant variability throughout the year, with the highest rainfall typically occurring during the warmer months. June stands out as the wettest month, boasting 90 mm (3.5 in) of precipitation over an average of 13 days, reflecting the peak of the rainy season as spring transitions into summer. Other months, such as March, also contribute notable rainfall, with 62 mm (2.4 in) registered, while July maintains substantial moisture at 58 mm (2.3 in). In contrast, the late summer and early fall months of August and September are relatively dry, receiving only 20 mm (0.8 in) each, suggesting a distinct dip in precipitation.
The distribution of rainy days further highlights the seasonal precipitation trends, with a notable increase in rainfall frequency as spring progresses. March experiences 9 rainy days, which climbs to 10 days in May, leading into the wetter June. However, August and September significantly drop to just 3 days and 2 days of rainfall, respectively, indicating a settled and drier climate. Conversely, winter months, particularly January and February, see a moderate level of precipitation around 44 mm (1.7 in) to 47 mm (1.9 in), spread across 7 rainy days, establishing a steady, albeit less intense, pattern that provides a contrast to the more vibrant seasonal shifts experienced in the warmer months.
In Silistra, Bulgaria, sunshine duration exhibits a clear seasonal pattern, transitioning from the cold, gray days of winter to the vibrant sunlight of summer. January starts the year with a modest 164 hours of sunshine, which gradually increases to 230 hours in February and significantly rises as spring approaches. By March, 290 hours of sunshine can be enjoyed, culminating in 346 hours by April. This upward trend continues into May, where daylight stretches to 397 hours, indicating an unmistakable shift toward longer, sunnier days as nature awakens from winter dormancy.
The peak sunlight is observed in the heart of summer, with July boasting the highest duration at 427 hours. Even August retains substantial sunshine with 405 hours, though it marks the beginning of a gradual decline as fall approaches. As the cooler months of October through December arrive, sunshine hours decrease significantly, with October recording 286 hours, and November and December dropping further to 212 hours and 194 hours, respectively. This cyclical pattern not only illustrates the essence of Silistra's climate but also enhances the region's appeal, offering residents and visitors alike the chance to bask in warm sunshine during the peak summer months while preparing for the quieter, sunnier days of winter.
The UV Index in Silistra, Bulgaria, showcases a distinct seasonal variation, reflecting the changing sun intensity throughout the year. In the winter months of January and December, the UV Index remains low at 2, allowing for longer burn times of 45 minutes without significant risk of sunburn. February marks a shift to moderate levels with a UV Index of 4, and by March, it escalates to 6, categorizing it as high. This transition indicates an increasing exposure risk as the days lengthen and the sun gains strength, necessitating more cautious sun protection measures.
As spring progresses into summer, the UV Index reaches its peak, with June, July, and August consistently recording a very high UV Index of 9. During these months, the burn time drastically shortens to just 15 minutes, emphasizing the importance of sun safety practices, such as wearing sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing. In September, the index declines slightly to 7, indicating a return to high exposure levels, while October and November see a moderate UV Index of 5 and 3 respectively. This seasonal fluctuation not only impacts daily outdoor activities but also highlights the necessity for public health awareness regarding UV exposure as one navigates the varying intensity of sunlight across the year.
UV Risk Categories
Daylight duration in Silistra, Bulgaria, showcases a clear seasonal rhythm, reflecting the natural ebb and flow of the year. In the depths of winter, January offers only 9 hours of daylight, which gradually increases to 10 hours in February as the days start to lengthen. By March, the amount of sunlight available reaches 11 hours, signaling the transition toward spring. This upward trend continues through April and May, with daylight extending to 13 hours and then 14 hours, providing an invigorating boost of light and warmth as nature reawakens.
The longest days occur in the summer months of June and July, both enjoying 15 hours of daylight, ideal for outdoor activities and gatherings. However, as summer wanes, daylight begins to diminish, dropping to 13 hours in August and further decreasing to 12 hours in September. The descent into autumn continues with October offering 10 hours of daylight, and the days shrink to 9 hours in November and 8 hours in December. This cyclical pattern of daylight not only shapes daily life in Silistra but also enhances the region's seasonal charm, inviting residents and visitors to savor the varying lengths of daylight throughout the year.
Silistra, Bulgaria experiences a continental climate with cold winters and hot summers. January temperatures can drop as low as -19°C (1°F), while July often reaches highs of 38°C (101°F). Precipitation varies throughout the year, with June receiving the most at 87 mm (3.4 in), while August tends to be the driest with only 20 mm (0.8 in). The region enjoys abundant sunshine during the summer months, peaking at 429 hours in July. For more detailed information on weather patterns, visit Silistra climate.
In conclusion, the climate of Silistra, Bulgaria, is marked by distinct seasonal variations that influence temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight. Winter brings cold temperatures and shorter days, while summer offers warmth and long hours of sunlight, creating ideal conditions for outdoor activities. The dynamic shifts in UV Index highlight the importance of sun safety, particularly during the summer months when exposure risk is highest. As these climatic factors intertwine, they not only define the lifestyle of the region's residents but also create a rich seasonal tapestry that captivates visitors year-round. Understanding these trends fosters greater appreciation for Silistra's unique environment and serves as a reminder of the intricate relationship between climate and daily life.