Last updated: January 18, 2025
The climate of Central Macedonia, Greece showcases a rich diversity, classified under the Köppen-Geiger climate categories of Cfa, Cfb, and Csa. This region experiences a wide temperature range, with January temperatures plummeting to a minimum of -21°C (-6°F) and soaring to a scorching maximum of 44°C (111°F) in August. On average, the yearly temperature rests comfortably at 16°C (60°F), reflecting the Mediterranean influence alongside continental characteristics in this vibrant area.
In Central Macedonia, Greece, the temperature patterns exhibit distinct seasonal trends. The winter months of January and February are characterized by notably low minimum temperatures, plunging to as low as -21°C (-6°F), while average daytime temperatures hover around 4°C (40°F) to 7°C (46°F). As spring approaches, March and April bring gradual warming, with maximum temperatures climbing from 26°C (80°F) in March to 31°C (89°F) in April. The transition into summer further amplifies this trend, with June and July experiencing average highs of 43°C (109°F) and 42°C (108°F) respectively, underscoring the region's capacity for heat. By late summer, temperatures remain elevated, particularly in August, where maximums can reach an extraordinary 44°C (111°F). As autumn arrives, a cooling trend is evident, with October and November seeing average temperatures drop to 16°C (61°F) and 12°C (53°F), respectively, before further plunging into the cold of December. This cyclical temperature pattern highlights the region's dynamic climate, oscillating between frigid winters and scorching summers.
The region of Central Macedonia in Greece experiences a wide range of temperatures across different locations. In Litochoro, temperatures fluctuate from a chilly -10°C (14°F) in January to a warm 34°C (94°F) in August. Similarly, Neos Marmaras experiences milder winters with minimum temperatures around -2°C (29°F) in January and summers reaching up to 33°C (92°F) in August. Thessaloniki, however, experiences more extreme temperatures, with winter lows diving to -10°C (14°F) and sweltering summer highs reaching 40°C (105°F). For more detailed information, you can refer to the monthly temperatures in Litochoro, Neos Marmaras, and Thessaloniki.
Precipitation in Central Macedonia, Greece, demonstrates a clear seasonal distribution with notable variation throughout the year. The winter months of January and February receive moderate rainfall, averaging 67 mm (2.6 in) and 57 mm (2.3 in) respectively, with around 8 days of rainfall each month. March marks a peak in precipitation, totaling 87 mm (3.4 in) over approximately 10 days, while April and May see a slight reduction to 60 mm (2.3 in) and 58 mm (2.3 in) respectively, maintaining relatively consistent rainfall patterns.
As summer approaches, the precipitation begins to decline, with June receiving 72 mm (2.8 in) over 11 days, and July and August showing further reductions of 51 mm (2.0 in) and 31 mm (1.2 in) on just 6 and 4 days of rainfall, respectively. Autumn brings a resurgence in rain, particularly in November, which records 105 mm (4.1 in) over 10 days, followed closely by December at 92 mm (3.6 in) with 9 days of rain. This seasonal rhythm underscores the region's Mediterranean climate, where wet conditions are prevalent in the cooler months and taper off during the heat of summer.
In Central Macedonia, Greece, the sunshine duration exhibits a remarkable seasonal pattern characterized by a steady increase from winter to summer. During the cold winter months, January records 187 hours of sunshine, gradually rising to 233 hours in February. As spring unfolds, March and April see a significant uptick, with sunshine hours climbing to 305 hours and 338 hours, respectively. This upward trend continues into May, which marks the transition to summer with 398 hours of bright sunshine, setting the stage for even more sun-soaked days.
The summer months of June, July, and August represent the pinnacle of sunshine in Central Macedonia, with July boasting an impressive 425 hours of sunlight, making it the sunniest month of the year. Although August experiences a slight dip to 396 hours, it still maintains robust sunshine. As autumn rolls in, a gradual decline begins, dropping to 346 hours in September and further decreasing to 294 hours in October. This trend continues into the final months of the year, with November and December recording 233 hours and 225 hours of sunshine, respectively. Overall, the region's sunshine dynamics not only highlight the vibrant summer but also reflect the transitional phases of its seasonal cycle.
The UV Index (UVI) in Central Macedonia, Greece, displays a clear seasonal trend that correlates strongly with the progression of the year. In the winter months, the UVI starts at a moderate level of 3 in January, rising slightly to 4 in February. As spring approaches, March sees a notable increase to 6, followed by an even sharper rise in April, when the UVI reaches 8. May marks the onset of summer with a UVI of 10, indicating heightened concern for outdoor activities, especially for those who are sensitive to UV exposure.
Summer months showcase the highest UV Index values, with June peaking at 11, the maximum level typically observed. July and August maintain elevated UVI levels of 10, signaling strong ultraviolet radiation and the need for protective measures during midday sun exposure. As September transitions into autumn, the UVI drops to 8, and further declines to 6 in October. The index continues to decrease, culminating in November with a UVI of 4, and the year concludes with a lower 2 in December. This trend highlights the importance of sun safety measures during the peak summer months while showcasing a gradual dip in UV radiation as the seasons change.
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In Central Macedonia, Greece, the duration of daylight exhibits pronounced seasonal variations, reflecting the changing position of the sun throughout the year. Beginning in January, daylight hours are relatively short at just 9 hours, gradually increasing to 10 hours in February. As spring approaches, March brings a noticeable rise to 11 hours, followed by April, which features 13 hours of daylight as the days grow longer. May continues this trend, offering 14 hours of daylight, setting the stage for the summer solstice.
The peak of daylight occurs in June, with an impressive 15 hours available to enjoy the outdoors. Following this burst of summer sunlight, July sustains 14 hours, while August sees a slight reduction to 13 hours. As autumn arrives, the daylight hours wane, decreasing to 12 hours in September and further to 11 hours in October. By November, daylight has receded back to 9 hours, a mark it maintains through December, completing the cycle of seasonal change. This rhythmic progression of daylight highlights the dynamic nature of Central Macedonia's climate, urging residents and visitors to embrace each unique phase of the year.
Afytos, Greece, enjoys a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. Average temperatures range from 10°C (50°F) in January to 26°C (80°F) in August, with highs reaching 33°C (92°F) during the peak of summer. Rainfall is heaviest in the winter months, with December receiving 94 mm (3.7 in) of precipitation, while August remains the driest month with just 18 mm (0.7 in). Sunshine hours peak during the summer, with July experiencing 427 hours of sunlight, promoting ideal conditions for outdoor activities. For more detailed information on the climate in Afytos, visit the Afytos climate page.
Agios Nikolaos, Greece, experiences a varied climate throughout the year, characterized by mild winters and hot, dry summers. Winter temperatures, particularly in January, range from a minimum of -7°C (20°F) to a maximum of 19°C (66°F), with higher precipitation levels, peaking in November and December at 87 mm (3.4 in) and 91 mm (3.6 in) respectively. In contrast, the summer months like July and August witness temperatures soaring up to 39°C (102°F) with lower precipitation, particularly in August, which receives just 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain. The region enjoys abundant sunshine, peaking in July with 426 hours, enhancing its appeal as a year-round destination. For more detailed climate information, please visit Agios Nikolaos climate.
Chaniotis, Greece experiences a Mediterranean climate with warm summers and mild, wetter winters. During peak summer months like July and August, temperatures often reach highs of 30-33°C (86-92°F) with minimal rainfall, making it ideal for enjoying the sunny 397–427-hour spans. In contrast, winter months such as January and December are cooler with average temperatures around 10-12°C (50-54°F) and higher precipitation, notably December with 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain. Spring and autumn offer milder weather, with temperatures ranging from 14-19°C (58-67°F) and moderate rainfall levels, making these seasons suitable for exploring this picturesque destination. For more detailed information, visit the Chaniotis climate page.
Dion, Greece experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters with lows reaching -11°C (12°F) in January and warm, dry summers with highs peaking at 34°C (94°F) in August. The region receives the most rainfall in November, amounting to 187 mm (7.3 in), while August is the driest month with just 42 mm (1.6 in) of precipitation. Sunshine varies throughout the year, with July enjoying the most sunlight at 424 hours, compared to just 189 hours in January. For more detailed information, visit the Dion climate page.
Edessa, Greece, experiences a diverse climate with cold winters and hot summers. Winter months, like January and February, have temperatures ranging from -19°C (-3°F) to maximums of 19°C (66°F), with precipitation levels peaking in November at 108 mm (4.2 in). Summer months see a significant rise in temperature, reaching up to 39°C (102°F) in July and August, and precipitation levels drop to a low of 24 mm (0.9 in) in September. Sunshine is abundant throughout the year, with a peak in July at 424 hours. For more information, visit the Edessa climate page.
Kallithea, Greece, experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by distinct seasons with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. Winter months see temperatures ranging from -11°C (12°F) to 16°C (62°F) with substantial precipitation, peaking at 187 mm (7.3 in) in November. Summertime temperatures can rise from 16°C (61°F) to a maximum of 34°C (94°F) in August, accompanied by significantly lower precipitation, notably just 42 mm (1.6 in) in August. Sunshine hours are plentiful year-round, peaking in July at 424 hours. For more detailed information on the climate, visit Kallithea climate.
Kerkini, Greece experiences a diverse climate with distinctive seasonal variations. Winters can be quite cold, seeing temperatures as low as -14°C (7°F) in January and December, while summers bring heat, with August reaching up to 41°C (106°F). The region receives a varied amount of rainfall throughout the year, peaking in December with 110 mm (4.3 in), and experiencing relatively drier months like September with 23 mm (0.9 in). Sunshine is abundant from April to August, especially in July with up to 425 hours. For more details, you can visit Kerkini climate.
Leptokarya, located in Greece's Central Macedonia, experiences diverse climatic conditions throughout the year. Winters are relatively cold, with January seeing average temperatures around 5°C (41°F) and reaching lows of -10°C (14°F), alongside significant precipitation of 99 mm (3.9 in). As spring progresses into summer, temperatures increase, peaking in July and August with averages of 24°C (75°F and 76°F) and maximums reaching 33°C (92°F) and 34°C (94°F), respectively, accompanied by abundant sunshine ranging from 397 to 423 hours. The region receives most of its rainfall in November, at 189 mm (7.4 in), while September and August are the driest months. For more detailed information, you can visit the Leptokarya climate page.
Litochoro, Greece experiences a diverse climate throughout the year, characterized by cold winters with temperatures as low as -10°C (14°F) in January, and warm summers with peaks reaching up to 34°C (94°F) in August. The area receives substantial precipitation, particularly in November with 189 mm (7.4 in), while summer months like August see a notable decrease to 56 mm (2.2 in). Sunlight is abundant, especially from May to August, with an average of over 400 hours of sunshine in June and July. This combination of seasonal variation makes Litochoro an interesting destination for visitors seeking a mix of Mediterranean weather patterns. For more detailed information, visit the Litochoro climate.
Loutraki, Greece, experiences a diverse climate with cold winters and hot summers. Average temperatures range from 0°C (32°F) in January to 23°C (74°F) in July and August, with extreme lows dropping to -21°C (-6°F) in January. Precipitation is highest in June with 100 mm (3.9 in) and lowest in September with 26 mm (1.0 in), highlighting a drier late summer. The region enjoys substantial sunshine, especially from May to August, peaking at 426 hours in July. For more detailed information, visit the Loutraki climate.
Neos Marmaras, Greece experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The temperatures range from an average low of -2°C (29°F) in January to a high of 33°C (92°F) in August. Rainfall is heaviest in December with 95 mm (3.7 in), while August sees the driest conditions at 13 mm (0.5 in). The region enjoys ample sunshine, particularly in the summer months, peaking in July with 427 hours. For detailed climate data, refer to the Neos Marmaras climate.
Nikiti, Greece experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. In the warmer months, temperatures can soar to a high of 39°C (102°F) in August with ample sunshine, reaching up to 426 hours in July. During the cooler months, the average temperature hovers around 10°C (50°F) in December, with precipitation peaking at 91 mm (3.6 in). Sunshine is less frequent in winter, with January offering around 189 hours of sunlight. Overall, the region provides a balanced climate year-round, making it a popular destination for those seeking both warmth and mild conditions. For more detailed information, visit Nikiti climate.
Ouranoupolis, Greece, experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. From January to December, average temperatures steadily rise from 9°C (49°F) to a peak of 27°C (80°F) in August before gradually cooling towards year-end. Precipitation varies, with wetter months like December receiving up to 114 mm (4.5 in) and drier summer months like August seeing only 10 mm (0.4 in). Sunshine hours are abundant throughout the year, peaking in July with 427 hours, providing ample daylight for outdoor activities. For more details on the climate, visit the Ouranoupolis climate.
Panorama, Greece experiences a diverse climate with distinct seasonal variations. Winters are relatively mild, with average temperatures ranging from 6°C (43°F) in January to 9°C (49°F) in December, accompanied by moderate precipitation levels between 50 mm (2.0 in) and 84 mm (3.3 in). Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather, as temperatures climb to averages between 11°C (52°F) in March and 17°C (64°F) in October, while receiving comparable rainfall. Summers are warm and dry, with temperatures peaking to 33°C (93°F) in July and August but with minimal rainfall, particularly in August at 37 mm (1.5 in). Throughout the year, Panorama enjoys abundant sunshine, peaking at 424 hours in July. For more detailed climate data, visit Panorama climate.
Paralia, Greece, experiences a diverse climate, marked by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The summer months from June to August see the highest temperatures, reaching up to 34°C (94°F), with minimal rainfall, especially in August at just 42 mm (1.6 in). Conversely, November stands out as the wettest month, accumulating 187 mm (7.3 in) of precipitation. Winter months remain relatively mild with average temperatures ranging from 5°C (42°F) in January to 8°C (47°F) in December. The region enjoys abundant sunshine, particularly between May and August, with up to 424 hours in July, making it ideal for outdoor activities. For more detailed climate information, visit Paralia climate.
Pefkochori, Greece, experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, humid winters. Average temperatures range from 10°C (50°F) in January to 26°C (80°F) in August, with the warmest months being July and August, where temperatures can rise to a maximum of 33°C (92°F). Precipitation is highest in the winter, particularly in December with 94 mm (3.7 in), and lowest during the summer months, reaching a minimum in August with just 18 mm (0.7 in). Sunshine is abundant, especially from May to August, peaking in July with 427 hours, promoting a lively, sun-drenched atmosphere. For more information, visit Pefkochori climate.
Portaria, Greece experiences a varied climate throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from an average low of -5°C (24°F) in January to highs of 36°C (98°F) in August. Precipitation is relatively moderate, with the driest months being July and August, receiving only 41 mm (1.6 in) and 24 mm (0.9 in) of rain respectively, while November sees the highest rainfall at 82 mm (3.2 in). The region enjoys abundant sunshine, peaking in July with 426 hours, making it ideal for summer activities. Despite cooler and wetter months, especially from November to March, the overall climate remains pleasant. For more detailed information, explore the Portaria climate.
Sarti, Greece experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The warmest months are July and August, with average temperatures around 26°C (78-80°F), while winter months, like January, see averages around 10°C (50°F). Precipitation is highest in December with 106 mm (4.2 in) and lowest in August at just 12 mm (0.5 in), reflecting typical dry summer conditions. Sunshine hours peak in July with 427 hours, providing ample sun for beachgoers, whereas December offers the least with 240 hours. For more detailed climate information, visit the Sarti climate page.
Thessaloniki, Greece, experiences a diverse climate characterized by hot, dry summers and cold, wet winters. Average temperatures peak in July and August, reaching up to 40°C (105°F), while the coldest months, January and December, can see minimums dropping to -10°C (14°F). Rainfall is heaviest from June to December, with June alone receiving about 100 mm (3.9 in) of precipitation, whereas September is driest with only 27 mm (1.1 in). The city enjoys abundant sunshine, especially in summer, with July seeing up to 424 sunshine hours. For more detailed information, visit the Thessaloniki climate page.
Vergina, Greece experiences a diverse climate with temperatures ranging from chilly winters to hot summers. The winter months, particularly January, can see temperatures dropping to as low as -12°C (10°F), with December and November also being notably cold. In contrast, summer months like July and August are considerably warm, with average highs reaching up to 40°C (104°F) and 41°C (107°F), respectively. Precipitation is highest in November at 142 mm (5.6 in), while August is the driest with only 24 mm (0.9 in). Sunshine peaks in July, offering up to 424 hours, providing a bright and lively summer season. For more details, please visit Vergina climate.
In conclusion, the climate dynamics of Central Macedonia, Greece, reveal a region characterized by significant seasonal variations, from temperature and precipitation patterns to sunshine duration and UV Index levels. The transition from cold winters to hot summers not only affects the day-to-day weather but also influences outdoor activities, agricultural practices, and health considerations. With peak sunshine in the summer alongside elevated UV Index values, residents and visitors must prioritize sun protection during these months. Conversely, the decrease in daylight duration in the winter months underscores the region's dramatic seasonal shifts. Overall, understanding these climatic patterns is essential for adapting to the unique environmental conditions of Central Macedonia, enhancing both lifestyle choices and safeguarding well-being throughout the year.