Last updated: January 18, 2025
Karnali Pradesh, located in the mountainous regions of Nepal, exhibits a diverse climate characterized by Koppen-Geiger climate classifications of ET (Tundra), Dwc (Warm-summer continental), and Cwa (Monsoon-influenced humid subtropical). Temperature variations in the area are striking, featuring a minimum of -33°C (-28°F) in January, accompanied by an average temperature of 10°C (51°F) throughout the year, while summers can peak at 39°C (103°F) in June. This climatic diversity significantly influences the region's ecology, agriculture, and human settlement patterns, making it a crucial focus for climate studies and sustainable development initiatives.
Karnali Pradesh, Nepal, experiences distinct seasonal temperature patterns, with harsh winters and warm summers. In January, the region witnesses its coldest temperatures, plummeting to a minimum of -33°C (-28°F), while averages hover around 0°C (33°F). As winter progresses into February and March, temperatures gradually increase, with maximums reaching 34°C (94°F) by the end of March, indicating the transition towards warmer months. April marks a significant shift, peaking at 38°C (100°F), alongside rising minimum and average temperatures. The warmth continues into May and June, where maximums can reach as high as 39°C (103°F). The monsoon season begins in July and August, offering milder minimums while maintaining similar maximum temperatures around 34°C (93°F). As autumn approaches in September and October, temperatures begin to cool again, with October averaging 12°C (54°F). The year culminates with the return of extreme cold in December, where minima dip once more, illustrating the region's pronounced seasonal variability and showcasing the challenge of adapting to such temperature extremes throughout the year.
Surkhet experiences a minimum temperature of 2°C (36°F) in January and a maximum of 38°C (100°F) in June, while Birendranagar has slightly cooler minimums, reaching 3°C (37°F) in December and a peak of 39°C (103°F) in June. In contrast, Besisahar records even lower temperatures, with a minimum of -1°C (30°F) in January and a maximum of 32°C (90°F) in June. For more details, visit the monthly temperatures in Surkhet, Birendranagar, and Besisahar.
Karnali Pradesh, Nepal, exhibits a distinct precipitation pattern throughout the year, characterized by a marked increase during the monsoon season. From January to April, monthly rainfall averages remain relatively modest, starting at 65 mm (2.5 in) in January and peaking at 70 mm (2.8 in) in April, with rainfall days gradually increasing from 7 to 10 days. However, May marks the onset of significant precipitation, escalating to 113 mm (4.5 in) as the region prepares for the heavy rains of summer. This trajectory culminates in June, which witnesses an impressive 273 mm (10.8 in), setting the stage for the monsoon season.
The monsoon period, spanning July and August, brings the peak rainfall, with 457 mm (18.0 in) in July and 427 mm (16.8 in) in August, with precipitation occurring on nearly every day (30 days in both months). Following this peak, September experiences a decrease to 231 mm (9.1 in), while October and November see further reductions, with only 63 mm (2.5 in) and 29 mm (1.2 in), respectively. The year concludes with December receiving 37 mm (1.4 in) of rainfall, resulting in a total shift from the heavy monsoon months to much drier conditions, underscoring the seasonal contrast in precipitation across Karnali Pradesh.
In Karnali Pradesh, Nepal, sunshine duration exhibits a clear seasonal trend, characterized by a steady increase from winter into summer. The year begins with January receiving 244 hours of sunshine, gradually rising to 289 hours in February and 345 hours in March. This upward trajectory continues into April, with 353 hours, and culminates in May, which sees the peak sunshine duration of 368 hours. This consistent increase not only signifies the arrival of warmer temperatures but also highlights the region's transition from the cold, darker winter months into a brighter spring.
As the summer months progress, sunshine hours begin to decline, albeit slightly, with 347 hours recorded in June. This shift signals the onset of the monsoon season, which continues into July and August, where sunlight further diminishes to 285 hours and 274 hours, respectively. However, as the monsoon recedes, sunshine duration recovers in September with 315 hours, and October follows suit with 331 hours, providing ample daylight before the year closes out with 301 hours in November and 298 hours in December. The comparative decline during the monsoon months coupled with the peak in late spring demonstrates the intricate relationship between climatic conditions and sunshine availability in Karnali Pradesh.
Karnali Pradesh, Nepal, experiences a notably high UV index throughout the majority of the year, particularly from late winter to early summer. January starts with a UV Index of 9, categorized as very high, allowing for a burn time of just 15 minutes. As the months progress into February and March, the index escalates to 11 and 16, respectively, both classified as extreme exposure levels, reducing burn time to just 10 minutes. The peak occurs in May and June, where the UV Index reaches 19, maintaining extreme conditions, which necessitates diligent sun protection due to the razor-thin burn time.
Even during the monsoon season, which spans July through September, the UV index remains elevated, recorded consistently at 17, reflecting the resilient intensity of sunlight despite increased cloud cover. Following the monsoon, the index declines slightly to 15 in October before dropping to 10 in November, categorized as very high again. December marks a notable reduction to a 7, classified as high, resulting in an extended burn time of 25 minutes. This annual trend highlights the importance of sun safety measures and awareness in Karnali Pradesh, given the region's consistently high UV exposure, particularly during the spring and summer months.
UV Risk Categories
In Karnali Pradesh, Nepal, daylight duration varies noticeably throughout the year, reflecting the region's transition from winter to summer. Starting in January, the daylight lasts for 10 hours per day, gradually increasing to 11 hours in both February and March. As spring approaches in April, daylight reaches 12 hours, and by May, it peaks at 13 hours. This extended daylight during late spring and early summer facilitates agricultural activities and outdoor pursuits, maximizing the use of natural light.
As the summer months progress into June, July, and August, daylight remains consistent at 13 hours, providing ample opportunities for both work and leisure. However, as autumn arrives, daylight begins to taper off, decreasing to 12 hours in September and reverting to 11 hours in October. The year concludes with shorter days in November and December, both returning to 10 hours of daylight. This cyclical pattern of daylight duration not only influences local lifestyle and customs but also plays a significant role in ecological processes and seasonal agricultural planning in the region.
Besisahar, Nepal experiences a diverse climate throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -1°C (30°F) in January to a maximum of 32°C (90°F) in June. The wettest months are June and July, with precipitation peaking at 550 mm (21.6 in) in July, while January remains the driest with only 37 mm (1.4 in). Sunshine is abundant, particularly from March to May, reaching up to 366 hours in May. Despite the heavy rainfall during the summer months, Besisahar enjoys a significant amount of sunshine, making it a vibrant location year-round. For more detailed information, visit Besisahar climate.
Birendranagar, Nepal experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year, with January averaging 12°C (54°F) and peaking at 39°C (103°F) in June. The region sees significant rainfall, particularly during the monsoon months of July and August, receiving up to 588 mm (23.2 in) of precipitation. Sunshine hours vary, with May boasting the most at 367 hours, while July has the least due to heavy rains. This combination of warm temperatures and seasonal rainfall shapes the unique climate of Birendranagar, making it distinct. For more details, visit Birendranagar climate.
Surkhet, Nepal experiences a diverse climate characterized by warm summers and mild winters. January sees average temperatures of 11°C (52°F), while May peaks at 25°C (78°F). The region receives substantial rainfall, particularly in July, with a staggering 590 mm (23.2 in). Additionally, Surkhet enjoys a good amount of sunshine throughout the year, reaching up to 367 hours in May. For more details, visit Surkhet climate.
In conclusion, Karnali Pradesh, Nepal, exhibits distinct climatic and environmental patterns that significantly influence its ecology, agriculture, and daily life. The region's temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV index, and daylight hours exhibit remarkable seasonal fluctuations, highlighting the challenges and adaptations necessary for its inhabitants. From the extreme cold and short daylight hours in winter to the prolonged warmth and heightened UV exposure during the summer months, these variables underscore the importance of understanding and preparing for the local climate. Emphasizing sustainable practices and awareness of environmental changes will be crucial for fostering resilience and ensuring the well-being of communities in Karnali Pradesh as they navigate the complexities of their dynamic climate.