Last updated: January 18, 2025
East Azerbaijan, Iran exhibits a diverse climate characterized by various Köppen-Geiger climate classes, including Cfa, Csa, Dsb, Dsa, Dfa, and BSk. The region's temperature spectrum is striking, with frigid winters plunging to a minimum of -27°C (-16°F) in January, contrasted by scorching summers that can soar to a maximum of 42°C (108°F) in July. This significant variation results in an overall average temperature of 11°C (53°F), reflecting the complex interplay of climatic factors that shape the region's unique environmental landscape.
In East Azerbaijan, Iran, temperature patterns exhibit significant seasonal variation, reflecting the region's diverse climate. Winter months from January to February feature frigid conditions, where temperatures plummet to lows of -27°C (-16°F) and -23°C (-9°F), respectively, with average temperatures hovering around freezing. As spring approaches in March and April, temperatures begin to rise, with March seeing a minimum of -19°C (-3°F) and an average of 5°C (41°F), and April achieving more temperate conditions, peaking at 10°C (51°F) on average. The transition to summer is marked by a striking increase in warmth, particularly in June and July, where maximum temperatures reach as high as 42°C (108°F). In August, while still hot, temperatures begin to recede slightly, transitioning into the cooler autumn months of September and October, where averages drop to around 20°C (68°F) and 13°C (55°F), respectively. Late autumn and early winter return with cold snaps, culminating in December's lows of -24°C (-11°F), signaling the cyclic nature of this region's climate.
Tabriz experiences a minimum temperature of -19°C (-2°F) in January and a maximum of 39°C (102°F) in July, providing a significant temperature range throughout the year (monthly temperatures in Tabriz). In contrast, Maragheh sees even colder winter conditions with a minimum of -22°C (-7°F) in January, though its maximum in July is slightly lower at 37°C (98°F) (monthly temperatures in Maragheh). Kandovan, on the other hand, has a minimum of -19°C (-2°F) in February and reaches a maximum of 35°C (94°F) during the summer months (monthly temperatures in Kandovan).
Precipitation in East Azerbaijan, Iran, demonstrates a clear seasonal pattern, with the majority of rainfall concentrated in the early months of the year. January marks the beginning of this wet season, receiving 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain over approximately 5 days. This trend continues to gain intensity through March and April, where precipitation peaks at 75 mm (2.9 in) and 83 mm (3.3 in), respectively, with each month characterized by about 13 days of rainfall. May sees a decrease in both total rainfall and rainy days, accumulating 67 mm (2.6 in) over 12 days, yet still remains part of the wetter spring season.
As the region transitions into summer, precipitation sharply declines, reaching its lowest recorded levels in July and August with only 17 mm (0.7 in) and 12 mm (0.5 in) of rainfall, respectively. This dry spell continues into September, reflecting the characteristic aridity of the season. However, as autumn arrives, moisture levels begin to rise again, with October and November receiving 32 mm (1.3 in) and 39 mm (1.6 in). December also contributes to this trend with 43 mm (1.7 in), bringing the annual cycle full circle as precipitation re-emerges in preparation for the upcoming winter.
In East Azerbaijan, Iran, sunshine duration exhibits a distinct seasonal trend, with a steady increase from winter to summer. Beginning in January with 218 hours of sunshine, daylight hours gradually lengthen through February and March, culminating in a notable peak of 344 hours in April. The transition into summer further enhances this upward trajectory, with May reaching 395 hours and June hitting 406 hours. July stands as the pinnacle of sunshine duration, amassing an impressive 413 hours, making it the sunniest month of the year. This period of abundant sunlight provides favorable conditions for agriculture and outdoor activities, highlighting the region's vibrant summer climate.
As summer transitions to autumn, a gradual decrease in sunshine hours occurs, yet the sun still shines brightly in August with 395 hours. September begins to signal the onset of shorter days, dropping to 346 hours, followed by October with 316 hours. The decline continues into November and December, with fewer hours of sunshine recorded—264 in November and 257 in December. This seasonal fluctuation underscores the contrast between the sun-drenched summer months and the relatively gloomier winter periods, ultimately shaping the lifestyle and activities of the residents in East Azerbaijan throughout the year.
The UV Index in East Azerbaijan, Iran, displays a clear seasonal pattern, reflecting the changing intensity of sun exposure throughout the year. Starting in January, the UV Index registers a moderate level of 4, allowing for a burn time of approximately 30 minutes without sunscreen. As winter yields to spring, the index rises dramatically, peaking at 10 in March and April, categorized as "very high." This sharp increase demands greater sun protection, as the burn time during these months decreases to just 15 minutes, highlighting the need for caution as residents and visitors engage in outdoor activities.
The onset of summer brings the highest UV Index ratings, reaching an extreme level of 13 in May and June, with a burn time of only 10 minutes, signifying a serious risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. In July and August, the index remains elevated, although it drops to 12 and 11, respectively. As autumn approaches, the UV Index begins to decline, falling to 7 in October, and returning to a moderate level of 4 in November. By December, it further decreases to 3. These trends underscore the importance of sun safety measures during the peak UV months, particularly in the intense summer period, while also providing residents with a clear understanding of seasonal sun exposure risks.
UV Risk Categories
In East Azerbaijan, Iran, daylight duration reveals a clear seasonal rhythm, showcasing the natural progression of the year. Beginning with just 9 hours of daylight in January, the days gradually lengthen as winter transitions into spring. February sees an increase to 10 hours, while March stretches to 11 hours, marking a shift towards longer daylight hours. By April, the average daylight duration reaches 13 hours, and this trend continues into May as it peaks at 14 hours. June sustains this maximum level, allowing residents ample time to engage in outdoor activities as the warmer months approach.
As summer progresses into late summer and early autumn, daylight duration remains consistently high, with 14 hours recorded in July and 13 hours in August. However, the onset of September signals the beginning of a gradual decline, with daylight reducing to 12 hours. This decrease continues into October (11 hours) and November (10 hours), ultimately cycling back to 9 hours by December. These patterns not only highlight the summer's dominance in daylight hours but also serve as a reminder of the natural ebb and flow of light throughout the year, influencing daily life, agriculture, and seasonal activities in the region.
Kandovan, Iran experiences a diverse climate with significant variations in temperature and precipitation throughout the year. Winters are harsh, with January temperatures dropping as low as -19°C (-1°F) and averaging -5°C (23°F), while summers see milder conditions, peaking in July with an average of 23°C (73°F). The region receives most of its rainfall from March to May, reaching up to 120 mm (4.7 in) in April. Sunshine hours are abundant from April to July, with June offering the most at 409 hours. For more detailed information, visit Kandovan climate.
Maragheh, Iran experiences a diverse climate with cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures range from a minimum of -22°C to a maximum of 12°C, while July sees highs reaching up to 37°C. Precipitation peaks in early spring, with March recording 87 mm, but drops significantly during the summer months. The region enjoys abundant sunshine, particularly in July, with 415 hours noted. For more details, visit Maragheh climate.
Tabriz, Iran, experiences a diverse climate with cold winters and warm summers. January and February see frigid temperatures, with averages around -4°C (26°F) and 0°C (33°F), respectively, and significant precipitation peaking in March at 72 mm (2.8 in). The summer months of June and July are notably hot, with average temperatures reaching 22°C (72°F) and 25°C (77°F), and sunshine averaging over 400 hours. The city sees minimal rainfall from June to September, making it the driest period of the year. For more detailed information on the weather patterns, visit Tabriz climate.
In conclusion, the climatic and environmental characteristics of East Azerbaijan, Iran, are profoundly influenced by the region's temperature fluctuations, precipitation patterns, sunshine duration, UV index, and daylight variation throughout the year. The transition from harsh, cold winters to sweltering summers creates a dynamic landscape that significantly impacts the lifestyle and activities of its residents. Understanding these climatic elements is crucial for effective planning in agriculture, tourism, and public health, especially during periods of extreme UV exposure and varying daylight hours. As global climate change continues to alter weather patterns worldwide, maintaining awareness of these local climatic trends will remain essential for fostering resilience and adaptability in East Azerbaijan's communities.