Last updated: January 18, 2025
Province 1 in Nepal exhibits a diverse climate characterized by three Köppen-Geiger classifications: Cwa (humid subtropical), Cwb (warm temperate), and ET (tundra). With a remarkable temperature range, this region experiences minimum extremes of -33°C (-27°F) in January, while the average temperature stabilizes around 15°C (60°F). The hottest month, April, can surge to a scorching 41°C (106°F), illustrating the significant thermal variability that shapes the local environment. This climatic diversity influences not only the ecosystem but also the socio-economic activities of the province.
Temperature patterns in Province 1, Nepal, reveal marked seasonal trends characterized by significant variability throughout the year. The winter months of January and February showcase frigid conditions with minimum temperatures plummeting to around -33°C (-27°F), gradually warming to approximately -29°C (-20°F). Average temperatures rise from 6°C (44°F) in January to 9°C (48°F) in February, indicating a slow transition towards spring. As spring unfolds in March and April, temperatures experience a notable increase, peaking with maximums of 41°C (106°F) in April, highlighting a stark contrast to the cold winter months. The arrival of summer in May, June, and July sees average temperatures stabilizing around 21°C (70°F), while maximum values hover near 38°C (100°F), providing a warm climate ideal for growth. The latter half of the year witnesses a gradual decline in temperatures, as autumn settles in with October and November showcasing lower averages and minimums dropping to -21°C (-6°F) in November, before the cycle begins anew with the cold of December.
In Biratnagar, temperatures range from a chilly 6°C (44°F) in January to a scorching 41°C (106°F) in April, showcasing the region's significant seasonal variations, as detailed in the monthly temperatures in Biratnagar. Similarly, Dharan experiences minimum temperatures of 5°C (41°F) in December and peaks at 36°C (98°F) in April, as outlined in the monthly temperatures in Dharan. In contrast, Namche Bazar presents a much colder climate, with extreme lows of -26°C (-15°F) in January and a maximum of 14°C (57°F) in August, as highlighted in the monthly temperatures in Namche Bazar.
Precipitation patterns in Province 1, Nepal, exhibit a distinct seasonal cycle, with rainfall peaking during the summer months and tapering off in winter. Starting the year with relatively low levels, January records 39 mm (1.5 in) of rainfall, gradually increasing to 67 mm (2.7 in) in February and escalating to 100 mm (3.9 in) by March. As spring transitions to summer, April sees a marked rise in precipitation to 133 mm (5.2 in), culminating in May with 228 mm (9.0 in) as the region prepares for the monsoon. June continues this trend, with precipitation reaching 383 mm (15.1 in), setting the stage for the peak monsoon month of July, which records a staggering 658 mm (25.9 in).
The intensity of the monsoon carries into August with 499 mm (19.6 in), followed by a decline in September to 342 mm (13.5 in). The autumn months bring further reductions, as October receives 129 mm (5.1 in), while November and December drop significantly to 33 mm (1.3 in) and 36 mm (1.4 in), respectively. The distribution of rainy days reflects this trend, with July and August experiencing the highest frequency of precipitation, averaging around 30 days of rain, compared to just 4 days in November and December. This seasonal variability not only shapes the region's hydrology but also impacts agriculture and local ecosystems.
In Province 1, Nepal, sunshine duration reveals a clear seasonal pattern, characterized by a progressive increase from winter to summer. Beginning with 241 hours of sunshine in January, the region experiences a steady rise throughout the early months of the year. By February, sunshine hours increase to 280 hours, and March sees a further boost to 333 hours. The transition into spring continues in April and May, where the sunshine hours peak at 336 hours and 347 hours, respectively, marking the months with the most abundant sunlight. This surge in sunshine not only enhances the natural beauty of the landscape but also supports agricultural activities in the region.
As summer approaches, a slight dip in sunshine occurs in June, with 321 hours, but this is still relatively high compared to the winter months. A significant reduction in sunlight is observed during the monsoon season, particularly in July, when sunshine duration plummets to 237 hours. Despite a gradual recovery in August and September, with 256 hours and 272 hours, the hours of sunlight remain notably lower than those seen earlier in the year. As the year transitions into autumn, sunshine durations improve again, averaging around 317 hours in October and remaining relatively stable through November and December. This fluctuation highlights the interplay between seasonal weather patterns and sunshine, contributing to a dynamic climate that influences both the environment and local livelihoods.
The UV Index in Province 1, Nepal, exhibits a significant seasonal variation, with levels reaching extreme categories during the core months of the year. Beginning in January, the UV Index starts at 10, categorized as very high, with a burn time of just 15 minutes. However, as the months progress into February and March, the index escalates sharply to 12 and 15, respectively, both classified under the extreme exposure category, and maintaining a burn time of only 10 minutes. This upward trend culminates in the peak UV Index of 22 during July, emphasizing the extreme conditions that characterize the region's summer.
As late summer transitions into autumn, UV Index readings begin to decline, yet they remain notably high. August sees a slight decrease to 20, followed by 18 in September and 16 in October, all classified as extreme. The trend continues into November and December, where the UV Index drops to 10 and 8, respectively, transitioning back to very high exposure categories with a slightly longer burn time of 15 minutes. This data underscores the importance of sun safety measures, particularly during the intense summer months when even minimal sun exposure can lead to skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
In Province 1, Nepal, daylight duration exhibits a seasonal cycle closely tied to the patterns of the sun's path across the sky. In January, the region experiences 10 hours of daylight, gradually increasing to 11 hours in February. As spring approaches in March, the length of daylight reaches 12 hours, and this trend of extended daylight continues into April. The month of May marks the transition into early summer, where daylight peaks at 13 hours, a duration that remains consistent through the summer months of June, July, and August, providing ample time for outdoor activities and agricultural pursuits.
As summer wanes and autumn begins, daylight hours begin to taper off. In September, daylight returns to 12 hours before decreasing to 11 hours in October. The rhythm of shortening days persists into November and December, where daylight again settles at 10 hours. This cyclical pattern, characterized by longer days during the warmer months and shorter durations in winter, reflects the region's geographical position and climatic influences. Understanding this variation in daylight is essential for planning agricultural cycles and daily activities in Province 1.
Bhojpur, Nepal experiences a diverse climate, characterized by chilly winters and warm, humid summers. January sees temperatures range from a minimum of -4°C to a maximum of 21°C, while July can reach up to 28°C. The region receives significant rainfall, especially from June to August, peaking in July with over 1000 mm of precipitation. Despite the heavy rains, sunshine hours are relatively good, especially from March to May. For detailed information, visit Bhojpur climate.
Biratnagar, Nepal experiences a tropical climate characterized by hot summers and a monsoon season. Temperatures range from a mild 6°C (44°F) in January to a peak of 41°C (106°F) in April, with notable precipitation from June to August, peaking at 440 mm (17.3 in) in July. The city enjoys substantial sunshine hours, particularly in the pre-monsoon months, with May recording up to 339 hours. Winters are cooler and relatively dry, making December and January the months with the least rainfall. For more details, visit Biratnagar climate.
Dharan, Nepal experiences a subtropical highland climate characterized by distinct seasonal variations. Temperatures range from a chilly 5°C (41°F) in January to a warm 36°C (98°F) in April, with average monthly temperatures hovering between 14°C (58°F) and 28°C (82°F). Rainfall peaks during the monsoon months of June and July, accumulating 311 mm (12.2 in) and 535 mm (21.1 in), respectively. Sunshine hours are abundant, particularly in the spring and early summer, with May receiving up to 342 hours of sunlight. For more detailed information, visit Dharan climate.
Ilam, Nepal experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasonal variations. The temperature ranges from a cold winter minimum of -1°C (31°F) in February to a warm summer maximum of 30°C (86°F) in July and August. Precipitation peaks in July, receiving approximately 940 mm (37.0 in), while the summer months also see ample sunshine, with May having the most at 337 hours. The months of March through October typically provide a pleasant climate for outdoor activities, making it an attractive destination throughout the year. For more detailed information, visit Ilam climate.
Lobuche, Nepal experiences a harsh climate characterized by extremely low temperatures, particularly in winter months, where January averages around -17°C (1°F) with minimums dropping to -33°C (-27°F). Summer months, particularly July and August, bring significant rainfall, with July averaging 261 mm (10.3 in) and temperatures peaking at around 8°C (47°F). The region enjoys ample sunshine, especially in spring, with March and April receiving over 350 hours of sunlight each. For a detailed understanding of Lobuche's climate patterns, visit Lobuche climate.
Namche Bazar, Nepal, experiences a harsh alpine climate characterized by cold temperatures and significant seasonal variation. January and February see minimum temperatures plummeting to as low as -26°C (-15°F), while July and August are milder, averaging around 8°C (46°F). Precipitation peaks during the monsoon months of June and July, with over 500 mm (20 in) recorded, contrasting with the dry conditions in winter. Despite the chill, sunshine hours are plentiful, especially from March to May, creating an intriguing interplay between weather conditions. For more detailed information, visit Namche Bazar climate.
In summary, the climate of Province 1, Nepal, showcases a fascinating interplay of temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV index, and daylight hours throughout the year. The region experiences significant seasonal shifts, from the chilling temperatures and low sunshine of winter to the intense heat and abundant sunlight of summer. These climatic features greatly influence local ecosystems, agricultural practices, and daily life. With the UV index reaching its peak during the summer months, awareness and protective measures against sun exposure are crucial for residents and visitors alike. Understanding these climatic patterns not only enhances the appreciation of Province 1's natural beauty but also informs sustainable practices that support the livelihoods of its communities.