Last updated: January 18, 2025
Shymkent, Kazakhstan, exhibits a Dsa Köppen-Geiger climate classification, characterized by distinct seasonal variations. The region endures frigid winters, with temperatures plunging to a minimum of -19°C (-2°F) in February. This is juxtaposed with scorching summer months, where temperatures can soar to 41°C (107°F) in July. The overall average temperature hovers around 14°C (57°F), highlighting the significant temperature range that defines Shymkent's climatic conditions.
Shymkent, Kazakhstan, experiences pronounced seasonal temperature patterns, marked by cold winters and hot summers. In January and February, the city endures bitterly cold temperatures, with January averaging around 1°C (33°F) and February dipping to a minimum of -19°C (-2°F). As spring approaches, temperatures gradually rise, peaking in April with an average of 15°C (59°F), signaling the transition into much warmer months. The summer reaches its zenith in July, boasting a scorching average temperature of 28°C (83°F) and maximums soaring to 41°C (107°F). As autumn sets in, temperatures begin to cool, with notable declines in October and November, where averages drop back to around 5°C (40°F) by November. The cyclical nature of Shymkent's climate thus oscillates dramatically between extremes, typifying the region's continental climate characteristics.
Shymkent experiences a significant temperature range throughout the year, with February temperatures dipping to a minimum of -19°C (-2°F) and soaring to a maximum of 41°C (107°F) in July. For more detailed monthly temperature information, visit monthly temperatures in Shymkent.
Shymkent, Kazakhstan, exhibits a distinct seasonal variation in precipitation, with notable peaks during the early months of the year. January begins with 47 mm (1.8 in) of rainfall over 8 days, gradually escalating to 86 mm (3.4 in) in February and reaching a maximum of 108 mm (4.2 in) in April. This spring surge is significant, as the intense precipitation during these months supports local agriculture and fills water reservoirs, largely influenced by the melting of winter snow and increased moisture in the atmosphere.
As the summer months approach, precipitation experiences a sharp decline, with June receiving just 15 mm (0.6 in) of rain, followed by a mere 3 mm (0.1 in) in July, marking the driest period of the year. August and September see minimal rainfall as well, contributing only 8 mm (0.3 in) and 5 mm (0.2 in), respectively. The autumn months witness a gradual increase in rainfall again, with October recording 24 mm (1.0 in) and November 41 mm (1.6 in), while December experiences 58 mm (2.3 in). Overall, this precipitation pattern showcases Shymkent's climatic characteristics, with a clear wet season fluctuating with a dry summer, promoting a semi-arid environment.
Shymkent, Kazakhstan, experiences a significant variation in sunshine duration throughout the year, with a clear progression from the frigid, low-light months of winter to the bright, sun-soaked days of summer. January sees a modest 195 hours of sunshine, which gradually increases with the arrival of spring—rising to 307 hours in March and reaching 338 hours in April. This trend continues into May, where sunshine hours peak at 407 hours, showcasing the region's transition towards warmer weather and longer days as nature comes alive.
As summer unfolds, Shymkent enjoys its sunniest months, with July boasting 435 hours of brilliant sunlight, just before a slight drop in August to 403 hours. The abundance of sunshine during these months not only enhances the vibrant summer landscape but also supports outdoor activities and agriculture. However, as autumn sets in, daylight hours begin to wane, with September receiving 351 hours, followed by a significant decline through October (307 hours) and into the winter months, where December records only 233 hours of sunshine. This seasonal shift highlights Shymkent's climatic character, where the intensity of sunlight is a defining feature, fostering a vibrant summer contrasted by the subdued light of winter.
Shymkent, Kazakhstan, exhibits a pronounced variation in UV Index levels throughout the year, reflecting significant seasonal changes in solar intensity. In the winter months of January and December, the UV Index remains low, with values of 2, allowing for safer sun exposure with burn times of 45 minutes. As winter transitions into spring, February sees a slight increase to a moderate UV Index of 3, indicating a need for cautious sun protection, while by March, the index skyrockets to 7, categorizing the sun exposure as high. This shift signals the onset of stronger sunlight, urging residents to adjust their sun safety practices.
The summer months are particularly intense in Shymkent, with the UV Index peaking at 10 during June and July, classified as very high, necessitating minimal sun exposure for only 15 minutes without protection. August and September maintain high values of 9 and 8 respectively, emphasizing persistent sun intensity even as temperatures begin to decline. As autumn approaches, the UV Index drops back to moderate levels by October (5) and November (3), before reverting to low levels in December. This yearly cycle underscores the importance of awareness regarding UV exposure in Shymkent, particularly during the summer months, when the risks of sunburn and long-term skin damage are significantly heightened.
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In Shymkent, Kazakhstan, daylight duration varies significantly throughout the year, reflecting the region's continental climate. January and December feature the shortest days, with just 9 hours of daylight, providing limited sunlight during the winter months. As February rolls in, daylight increases to 10 hours, and by March, it reaches 11 hours, heralding the approach of spring. The transition to longer days becomes even more pronounced in April, when daylight extends to 13 hours, and May brings an impressive 14 hours of sunshine, invigorating the landscape and activities as nature begins to bloom.
The summer months are marked by the maximum daylight duration, with June achieving 15 hours of bright sunlight, allowing for extended outdoor activities and longer evenings. Following a slight decrease in July to 14 hours, daylight begins to taper off in August (13 hours) and September (12 hours), signaling the onset of autumn. As the days continue to shorten, October returns to 11 hours, and the daylight diminishes once again to 9 hours in both November and December. This cyclical shift in daylight hours not only influences daily life in Shymkent but also highlights the interplay between seasonal changes and the region's climatic conditions.
Shymkent, Kazakhstan experiences a continental climate with distinct seasons. Winter temperatures can drop as low as -19°C (-2°F) in February, while summer highs reach up to 41°C (107°F) in July. Precipitation is highest in spring, particularly in April (108 mm), while summer months are comparatively drier, with only 3 mm in July. Shymkent enjoys significant sunshine throughout the year, peaking at 435 hours in July. For more detailed information, visit Shymkent climate.
In conclusion, Shymkent, Kazakhstan, presents a distinct climatic profile characterized by notable variations in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV index, and daylight hours across the seasons. With frigid winters transitioning into hot, sun-drenched summers, the city experiences significant shifts that impact daily life and local agriculture. The rich sunshine hours during peak summer months, coupled with high UV levels, underscore the importance of sun safety during this season. Conversely, shorter daylight hours and lower UV exposure in winter necessitate a different approach to outdoor activities. Understanding these climatic nuances is essential for residents and visitors alike as they navigate the diverse weather conditions in Shymkent throughout the year.