Last updated: January 18, 2025
Atyraū, Kazakhstan, is characterized by a semi-arid climate (BSk) and cold desert climate (BWk) according to the Köppen-Geiger classification system. The region experiences extreme temperature fluctuations, with winter lows plunging to a frigid -30°C (-22°F) in December, while summer can soar to an intense 44°C (112°F) in July. The average temperature throughout the year hovers around a moderate 11°C (52°F), highlighting Atyraū's distinct seasonal variations and its climatic diversity.
In Atyraū, Kazakhstan, temperature patterns exhibit pronounced seasonal trends, showcasing a dramatic shift from extreme winter cold to intense summer heat. Winter months, particularly January and February, are marked by frigid temperatures, with January averaging around -6°C (22°F) and February slightly warmer at -4°C (25°F), as lows can dip to -29°C (-20°F). As spring approaches, temperatures gradually rise, with March experiencing the first positive averages, ultimately reaching a pleasant 12°C (54°F) in April. The transition into summer is swift and striking, with May temperatures reaching an average of 20°C (69°F), culminating in highs of 44°C (112°F) during June and July. As autumn arrives, temperatures begin to cool again, with October averaging 10°C (51°F) and November experiencing a drop to 1°C (34°F). By December, the cycle completes as the region returns to its winter chill, reinforcing Atyraū's characteristic continental climate and its significant temperature extremes throughout the year.
Atyrau experiences significant temperature fluctuations throughout the year, with a chilling minimum of -26°C (-14°F) in February and a scorching maximum of 40°C (104°F) in June. For more detailed information on monthly temperatures in Atyrau, visit monthly temperatures in Atyrau.
Precipitation in Atyraū, Kazakhstan, reveals a low annual total marked by distinct seasonal variations. The winter months of January through March exhibit minimal rainfall, with January receiving just 12 mm (0.5 in) and February slightly increasing to 21 mm (0.8 in). The highest precipitation occurs in April, at 24 mm (0.9 in), before tapering off in May to 16 mm (0.6 in). Typically, winter and spring see around 3 to 6 days of rainfall, establishing a dry climate during these colder months.
As summer unfolds, precipitation further decreases, with June registering a mere 7 mm (0.3 in) and July maintaining a low level of 14 mm (0.6 in), albeit over only 2 days of rain. This trend continues into August, where rainfall drops to 8 mm (0.3 in). The fall months see slight increases in rainfall, with October at 15 mm (0.6 in), while November and December both return to levels around 16 mm (0.6 in) and 18 mm (0.7 in) respectively. Overall, Atyraū experiences a pronounced aridity, characteristic of its semi-arid climate.
In Atyraū, Kazakhstan, sunshine duration exhibits a notable seasonal progression, characterized by a steady increase from the depths of winter to the peak of summer. January sees the least amount of sunshine, with only 133 hours illuminating the chilly days. As winter transitions to spring, hours of sunlight rise significantly, reaching 206 hours in February and escalating to 344 hours in April. This upward trend continues into May, where the sun shines for 406 hours, establishing a foundation for the approaching summer months.
The summer period truly showcases Atyraū’s abundant sunshine, peaking in July with an impressive 436 hours of sunshine, shortly followed by 406 hours in August. This delightful stretch of light allows for vibrant outdoor activities and agricultural growth, capitalizing on the sun’s energy. However, as autumn arrives, sunshine hours begin to recede, with September offering 339 hours and further declining to 215 hours in November and 169 hours in December. This seasonal shift emphasizes the continental climate of Atyraū, where the sun's presence dramatically shapes the weather, lifestyle, and ecology throughout the year.
In Atyraū, Kazakhstan, the UV Index exhibits significant seasonal variability, reflecting the interplay between sunlight intensity and atmospheric conditions. During the winter months, particularly in January and December, the UV Index remains low at 2, indicating minimal risk for sunburn with a burn time of 45 minutes. This trend continues into February, where the index rises to 3, categorized as moderate. However, the real shift occurs in the spring when UV exposure escalates rapidly, peaking at 6 in March and 7 in April, both categorized as high, with shorter burn times of just 25 minutes.
As summer approaches, Atyraū experiences its highest UV levels, with readings reaching 8 in May and 9 in both June and July, categorized as very high. During this period, sunburn risk increases significantly, with recommended maximum exposure times dropping to just 15 minutes. Despite the slight decline in August to 8, the UV levels remain critical, indicating continued vigilance for sun protection is essential. The trend decreases again in the autumn, with September showing a UV index of 7 and dropping further to 4 in October. Finally, the cycle completes as UV levels return to low in November and December, signaling a need for increased sun safety awareness during the intense summer months.
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In Atyraū, Kazakhstan, daylight duration follows a clear seasonal rhythm, heavily influenced by the geographical location. During the winter months, daylight is at its shortest, with approximately 8 hours in both January and December. As the year progresses into spring, daylight steadily increases, reaching 10 hours in February and climbing to 13 hours in April. By May, the days become notably longer, providing 15 hours of daylight, which marks a significant shift towards the brighter months ahead.
The summer months of June and July maintain this extended daylight, offering a consistent 15 hours that enables vibrant outdoor activities and agricultural productivity. As summer wanes, daylight begins to gradually decrease, with August providing 14 hours of sunlight and September tapering to 12 hours. The autumn months see further reductions, as daylight shrinks to 10 hours in October and drops to 9 hours in November. This cyclical pattern highlights Atyraū's notable changes in daylight throughout the year, emphasizing both the cozy charm of its winters and the long, sunlit days of summer.
Atyrau, Kazakhstan experiences a stark continental climate with significant seasonal variations. Winters are harsh, with January temperatures dropping as low as -21°C (-6°F) and averaging around -4°C (25°F), while summers can be hot, with July highs reaching 40°C (104°F). Precipitation is relatively low throughout the year, peaking in spring, and the region enjoys ample sunshine, particularly in the summer months, with July receiving around 436 hours of sunlight. For more detailed information, visit Atyrau climate.
In conclusion, Atyraū, Kazakhstan, presents a fascinating climate characterized by precipitation patterns, temperature fluctuations, sunshine duration, and UV exposure that distinctly define each season. The region's semi-arid climate brings cold winters with minimal rainfall and extended daylight during summer, creating an environment that thrives under long hours of sunlight and intense UV conditions. Understanding these climatic nuances is essential for residents and visitors alike, providing insights into the best times for outdoor activities and the necessary precautions to ensure safety from UV exposure. Overall, Atyraū's dynamic climate underscores the intricate interplay between natural elements, shaping not only the local ecology but also the lifestyle and cultural practices of its inhabitants.