Last updated: January 18, 2025
Kaunas, Lithuania exhibits a Dfb Köppen-Geiger climate classification, characterized by its humid continental climate. The city experiences a wide temperature range, with winter lows plummeting to a frigid -25°C (-13°F) in January, while summer peaks can soar to a sweltering 34°C (94°F) in July. The annual average temperature is a moderate 8°C (47°F), illustrating the pronounced seasonal variations that define Kaunas's climate and create a dynamic environment for both residents and visitors alike.
In Kaunas, Lithuania, temperature patterns are distinctly marked by the changing seasons. Winter months, particularly January and February, experience extreme cold, with minimum temperatures plunging to -25°C (-13°F) and -25°C (-12°F) respectively, before moderating slightly in March as temperatures begin to rise. Spring sees a gradual warming, marked by average temperatures rising from 2°C (36°F) in March to 12°C (55°F) in May, signaling the transition to more temperate conditions. Summer months are warm, particularly June and July, when maximum temperatures frequently reach 34°C (93°F), providing a stark contrast to the preceding winter chill. As fall sets in, temperatures start to decline, with averages dropping to 14°C (57°F) in September and further to 5°C (40°F) in November, illustrating the cyclical nature of Kaunas's climate, where each season brings its own unique temperature profile.
Birstonas experiences winter temperatures dropping to a minimum of -23°C (-10°F) in January and summer highs reaching up to 33°C (92°F) in June, as detailed in the monthly temperatures in Birstonas. In comparison, Kaunas sees slightly colder winters with a minimum of -25°C (-13°F) in January, while its summer maximum peaks at 34°C (93°F) in June, as outlined in the monthly temperatures in Kaunas.
Kaunas, Lithuania experiences a varied precipitation pattern throughout the year, with noticeable seasonal fluctuations. The winter months of January and February are relatively drier, recording 50 mm (2.0 in) and 38 mm (1.5 in) of precipitation, respectively, often falling as snow. As the year progresses into spring, precipitation remains consistent but begins to increase slightly, with March and April both receiving around 44 mm (1.7 in). The arrival of May marks the onset of the wetter season, as rains intensify, accumulating 64 mm (2.5 in).
During the summer months, particularly July, Kaunas sees its peak precipitation, with 92 mm (3.6 in), as thunderstorms become more frequent. This trend remains through August with a substantial 84 mm (3.3 in) of rainfall. Moving into early autumn, September and October still show significant precipitation, around 65 mm (2.6 in) and 66 mm (2.6 in), respectively. The distribution of rainy days is also noteworthy, with averages ranging from 9 to 13 days per month, illustrating a climate where wet days are interspersed throughout the changing seasons.
In Kaunas, Lithuania, sunshine duration exhibits a clear seasonal trend, characterized by a steady increase from the dark winter months to the vibrant summer. January, with only 76 hours of sunshine, sets the tone for the long, gloomy winter, which gradually gives way to brighter days. By February, sunlight begins to make a more noticeable return, with hours rising to 171, and this upward trajectory continues into March, where residents enjoy 260 hours of sunshine as spring approaches. The transition into April and May marks a significant surge, with sunshine hours reaching 338 and 417 respectively, filling the days with warmth and light.
The peak for sunshine duration occurs during the summer, particularly in June, with an impressive 443 hours of sun, closely followed by July at 434 hours. This abundance of sunlight fosters an inviting atmosphere for outdoor activities. However, as summer wanes and autumn sets in, the sunlight begins to recede, highlighted by a gradual decline in August with 386 hours and further into September at 300 hours. By November, sunshine plummets to a meager 122 hours, and December closes the year with just 95 hours, illustrating the contrast between the sun-drenched summer months and the dim days of winter. This pattern emphasizes the seasonal variability in Kaunas's climate, influencing not only the natural environment but also the lifestyle of its residents.
The UV Index in Kaunas, Lithuania demonstrates notable seasonal fluctuations, reflecting the changing intensity of solar radiation throughout the year. In the winter months, both January and December register a low UV Index of 1, indicating minimal risk from sun exposure, with a burn time of 45 minutes. February sees a slight increase to 2, maintaining a low exposure category. As spring arrives, UV levels rise more significantly, escalating to 4 in March and 5 in April—both categorized as moderate—suggesting a growing need for sun protection as outdoor activities become more frequent.
The summer months bring the highest UV Index levels, peaking at 7 in June and July, aligning with the sun's strongest rays, categorized as high, where burn time diminishes to just 25 minutes. August marks a slight decrease to 6, yet the risk remains substantial until autumn begins. As the year transitions back into fall, the UV Index lowers to moderate levels, returning to 5 in September and 3 in October, before falling again to low levels for November and December. This pattern underscores the importance of UV awareness in Kaunas, particularly during the summer, ensuring sun protection strategies are in place for those enjoying the bright days.
UV Risk Categories
In Kaunas, Lithuania, daylight duration fluctuates significantly throughout the year, mirroring the progression of the seasons. During the winter months, January and December offer the least sunlight, with only 7 hours of daylight each, which can contribute to the region's crisp, cold ambiance. February sees an improvement, as daylight extends to 9 hours, while March brings an additional boost with 11 hours, hinting at the gradual arrival of spring and longer days. As the days lengthen into April and May, the increase becomes pronounced, reaching 14 hours and 16 hours respectively, providing ample light for outdoor activities.
The summer months in Kaunas are characterized by extended daylight hours, with June peaking at 17 hours—the longest day of the year—offering a vibrant backdrop for summer festivities and exploration. This abundance of daylight continues through July at 16 hours before gradually decreasing in August to 14 hours. As autumn approaches, the daylight begins to dwindle, falling to 12 hours in September and further decreasing to 10 hours in October. The shift continues into the winter months, where daylight is again reduced to 8 hours in November, emphasizing the seasonal rhythm of light that shapes daily life in the region.
Birstonas, Lithuania experiences a diverse climate, characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January and February can see minimum temperatures plunging to -23°C (-10°F) and -21°C (-6°F), respectively, while July and August enjoy warm averages around 19°C (66°F). Precipitation is highest during the summer months, with July and August each receiving about 84 mm (3.3 in). The town benefits from significant sunshine, particularly in May and June, which record over 400 hours of sunshine. For more details, visit Birstonas climate.
Kaunas, Lithuania experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures can drop as low as -25°C (-13°F), while July often sees highs of 34°C (93°F). Precipitation peaks in the summer months, especially in July with 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while sunshine is most abundant in June, averaging 444 hours. Seasonal transitions are noticeable, with spring and autumn offering mild temperatures and varying rainfall. For more detailed information, visit Kaunas climate.
In conclusion, Kaunas, Lithuania, demonstrates a dynamic climate characterized by distinct seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, sunshine, UV Index, and daylight duration. From the harsh, low-light winters with minimal sunlight and low UV exposure to the vibrant, sun-soaked summers that boast extended daylight hours and peak UV indexes, each season offers a unique experience for residents and visitors alike. Understanding these climatic patterns is essential for effectively planning outdoor activities, enhancing seasonal enjoyment, and promoting health and safety practices, particularly regarding UV exposure during the sunny months. As climate patterns continue to change, the ability to adapt and appreciate the distinct cycles of Kaunas's climate remains vital for both personal and community well-being.