Last updated: January 18, 2025
Jelgava, Latvia, exhibits a Dfb (Temperate Oceanic) climate characterized by a distinct seasonal temperature variation. Winter months can plunge to a minimum of -23°C (-8°F) in January, while the summer season brings a maximum of 33°C (91°F) in June. The annual average temperature hovers around 8°C (47°F), reflecting the region's temperate conditions that influence both the local ecosystem and human activities. This climate profile underscores the importance of understanding seasonal shifts and their impacts on Jelgava's environment.
Jelgava, Latvia, experiences marked seasonal temperature fluctuations throughout the year, reflecting its temperate climate. The harsh winters to start the year often see January and February with minimum temperatures plunging to around -23°C (-8°F) and -21°C (-6°F) respectively, while average January temperatures remain just below freezing at -1°C (30°F). As spring approaches, March sees a gradual warming trend, with average temperatures creeping up to 2°C (35°F) and maximums reaching 15°C (58°F). The transition to summer brings a significant increase in warmth, with June boasting an average of 18°C (64°F) and peak temperatures soaring to 33°C (91°F). The summer months of July and August maintain warm conditions, averaging 19°C (66°F) and 18°C (64°F) respectively. As autumn sets in, temperatures begin to decline, with October's averages dropping to 9°C (48°F) by the end of the month. The year concludes with cool to cold conditions in November and December, as temperatures dip once again, highlighting the clear seasonal cycles that define Jelgava's climate.
Jelgava experiences a significant temperature range throughout the year, with minimums plummeting to -23°C (-8°F) in January and soaring to a maximum of 33°C (91°F) in June. This dramatic variation highlights the continental climate influences on the region, where winters can be harshly cold and summers uncomfortably warm, making it essential for residents and visitors to prepare accordingly. For more detailed monthly temperatures in Jelgava, visit monthly temperatures in Jelgava.
Jelgava, Latvia, experiences a relatively consistent pattern of precipitation throughout the year, with monthly rainfall varying but generally accompanying a distinct seasonal rhythm. January and February record lower levels of precipitation at 41 mm (1.6 in) and 35 mm (1.4 in), respectively, and these months typically have around 10 and 8 days of rain. As spring arrives, March sees a slight increase with 46 mm (1.8 in) of precipitation, followed by April's 37 mm (1.5 in). May marks a notable uptick, with rainfall reaching 59 mm (2.3 in), laying the foundation for the wetter summer months ahead.
The summer period brings the highest levels of precipitation, with July peaking at 84 mm (3.3 in) over approximately 13 days of rainfall, closely followed by August, which records 79 mm (3.1 in). As the seasons transition into autumn, September and October maintain significant rainfall at 67 mm (2.6 in) and 65 mm (2.6 in) respectively. The year concludes with November and December featuring 51 mm (2.0 in) and 47 mm (1.8 in) of precipitation, reflecting a return to cooler conditions, while maintaining about 10 to 12 days of rain. This pattern highlights the moist nature of Jelgava's climate, especially during the summer months, thereby shaping local agriculture and water resources.
In Jelgava, Latvia, sunshine duration displays a clear and engaging seasonal pattern, reflecting the region's transition from winter to summer. The year begins with limited sunlight, as January only sees 82 hours of sunshine, which nearly doubles in February to 165 hours. As spring unfolds, a remarkable increase occurs, with March reaching 260 hours and April escalating to 348 hours. This upward trend continues into May, where sunshine duration peaks at 429 hours, heralding the arrival of summer's generous light.
The summer months of June and July represent the zenith of sunshine in Jelgava, with June offering 455 hours and July just slightly lower at 450 hours. As the year progresses, a gradual decline begins, with sunshine hours tapering off in August to 386 hours and continuing to decrease in September (306 hours) and October (225 hours). The transition back to winter is evident in the final months of the year, with November and December providing only 117 hours and 82 hours of sunshine, respectively. These seasonal trends not only underline the stark contrast between the bright summer months and the dark winter period but also illustrate the significant impact of sunlight on the region's climate and lifestyle throughout the year.
In Jelgava, Latvia, the UV Index varies significantly throughout the year, reflecting the seasonal changes in sun exposure. During the winter months of January, February, and December, the UV Index remains low, peaking at 1 and 2, which indicates minimal risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure; residents can safely spend around 45 minutes outdoors without significant risk of sunburn. As spring arrives, the UV Index begins to climb, with March registering a moderate level of 3 and further increasing to 5 in April, prompting individuals to be more mindful of sun protection as exposure times decrease to 30 minutes.
Summer months exhibit the highest UV Index values, with both June and July reaching 7, categorized as high, necessitating protective measures during prolonged outdoor activities, as the burn time shortens to 25 minutes. August follows with a slightly lower index of 6, indicating that attention to sun safety remains prudent. As fall approaches, the UV Index begins to drop, returning to moderate levels in September (4) before settling back into low values for October (2) and November (1). This seasonal pattern emphasizes the importance of adjusting sun protection practices in response to the changing UV Index throughout the year.
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In Jelgava, Latvia, daylight duration experiences a dramatic fluctuation throughout the year, reflecting the distinct seasonal changes characteristic of the region. The year begins with the shortest days in January, providing only 7 hours of daylight, which gradually increases to 9 hours in February. As spring approaches, March sees a notable rise to 11 hours, further advancing to 14 hours in April. The arrival of May ushers in longer days, offering 16 hours of daylight, culminating in the summer peak of 17 hours in both June and July, when daylight hours are at their maximum.
As summer transitions into autumn, daylight hours begin to taper off, with August experiencing 15 hours of sunlit time, followed by a decrease to 12 hours in September. October brings further reduction, with daylight lasting only 10 hours, while November and December see the return of significantly shorter days, featuring just 8 hours and 6 hours of daylight, respectively. This cyclical pattern of daylight duration highlights the shifting rhythms of Jelgava's seasons, encouraging both residents and visitors to adapt their activities and lifestyles in harmony with the changing light throughout the year.
Jelgava, Latvia, experiences a continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures can drop as low as -23°C (-8°F), while summer highs in July and August reach around 32°C (90°F). Precipitation is relatively high during summer months, peaking at 84 mm (3.3 in) in July, and sunshine hours vary significantly, with May enjoying the most at 429 hours. The transition from winter to spring sees a quick rise in temperatures and sunshine, making the area more vibrant and pleasant. For more detailed information, visit Jelgava climate.
In conclusion, the climate of Jelgava, Latvia, is characterized by its distinct seasonal patterns, encompassing temperature fluctuations, variation in precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours. The cold winters transition into warm summers, highlighting the region's temperate nature and resulting impacts on lifestyle, agriculture, and outdoor activities. The remarkable shift in daylight duration throughout the year underscores the importance of adjusting daily routines with the seasons, while varying UV Index levels emphasize the need for sun protection during peak exposure months. Understanding these climatic characteristics is essential for residents and visitors alike to fully appreciate and adapt to the unique environmental conditions of Jelgava, ensuring a healthy and enjoyable experience throughout the year.