Hamgyŏng-bukto Climate

Last updated: January 18, 2025

Hamgyŏng-bukto, located in North Korea, exhibits a diverse climate characterized by the Köppen-Geiger classifications of Dwb (Cold, Dry Winter) and Dfa (Hot Summer, Humid Continental). This region endures extreme temperature variations, with a minimum plunging to -34°C (-29°F) in January, followed by a mild average of 7°C (45°F) throughout the year, and peaks reaching 36°C (97°F) during the warmer month of May. Such climatic extremes contribute significantly to the region's unique ecosystem and influence the seasonal living conditions of its inhabitants.

Hamgyŏng-bukto temperature by month

In Hamgyŏng-bukto, North Korea, temperature patterns reveal stark seasonal contrasts characterized by harsh winters and warm summers. January and February are the coldest months, with minimum temperatures dipping to -34°C (-29°F) and -29°C (-21°F) respectively, while average temperatures remain well below freezing. As spring approaches, March sees a gradual rise, with average temperatures shifting to 1°C (34°F), and maximums reaching 25°C (78°F). April brings more notable warmth, averaging 7°C (46°F) with peaks of 34°C (93°F), leading into May, which experiences the transition to summer with comforting averages of 13°C (56°F) alongside record highs of 36°C (97°F). The summer months of June through August showcase mild evenings and comfortably warm days, where averages hover around 21°C (71°F). However, as autumn arrives, temperatures begin to decline, with September's averages dropping to 16°C (62°F), before plunging back into the cold during the final months of the year, as December closes with frigid conditions once again.

Monthly Temperatures in Hamgyŏng-bukto, North Korea

The chart illustrates Hamgyŏng-bukto's temperature patterns throughout the year, with values aggregated from various locations across the region. It highlights seasonal variations and temperature changes across the months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec141934455562717061483318
Data source: Hamgyŏng-bukto temperature data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.
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The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

Namyang experiences a minimum temperature of -26°C (-14°F) in December and a maximum of 36°C (97°F) in August, showcasing a diverse climate throughout the year; detailed temperature data can be found at monthly temperatures in Namyang. Hahoe-dong has slightly milder extremes, with a December minimum of -23°C (-9°F) and an August maximum of 35°C (95°F), as noted in monthly temperatures in Hahoe-dong. Meanwhile, Chongjin records its coldest temperature in January at -22°C (-7°F) and warms up to a maximum of 30°C (86°F) in August, which can be explored in detail at monthly temperatures in Chongjin.

Precipitation Patterns in Hamgyŏng-bukto

Precipitation in Hamgyŏng-bukto displays a marked seasonal pattern, with winter months experiencing significantly lower rainfall. January records just 16 mm (0.6 in) over 2 days, followed by February, which sees a slight increase to 22 mm (0.9 in) across 4 days. As spring approaches in March, precipitation rises notably to 40 mm (1.6 in), correlating with an increase in rainy days, reaching 6 days. April continues this trend, contributing 32 mm (1.2 in), while May marks a substantial transition, with rainfall peaking at 97 mm (3.8 in) over 11 days.

The summer months witness the heaviest precipitation of the year, culminating in August with a staggering 247 mm (9.7 in) over 18 days. July and June follow closely behind with 104 mm (4.1 in) and 88 mm (3.5 in) respectively, indicating a wet and humid summer season conducive to the region’s lush vegetation. As autumn sets in, precipitation begins to decline; September sees 112 mm (4.4 in), while October and November drop further to 43 mm (1.7 in) and 42 mm (1.7 in), respectively. December rounds out the year with 26 mm (1.0 in), typically bringing an end to the wet season and setting the stage for the dry, cold months to follow.

Monthly Average Precipitation in Hamgyŏng-bukto, North Korea

The average monthly precipitation in Hamgyŏng-bukto, providing insights into seasonal rainfall patterns and the region's precipitation trends throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec162240329788104247112434226
Data source: Hamgyŏng-bukto precipitation data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.
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Sunshine Duration in Hamgyŏng-bukto

In Hamgyŏng-bukto, North Korea, sunshine duration exhibits a clear seasonal pattern marked by an increase in sunlight as winter cedes to spring and summer. January begins the year with 195 hours of sunshine, gradually increasing to 236 hours in February. The trend continues in March, where sunshine hours reach 285, and by April, the region enjoys 297 hours. May further amplifies this trend, peaking at 308 hours as nature awakens, offering longer, brighter days. This upward trajectory culminates during the summer months, with June and July boasting 311 hours and 319 hours respectively, establishing them as the sunniest periods of the year.

As summer transitions into autumn, sunshine hours begin to taper off, with August witnessing a decrease to 284 hours. The decline continues into September and October, where sunshine totals mark 281 and 264 hours respectively. November and December, however, reflect a return to lower sunlight levels, with 231 hours and 232 hours respectively, signaling the onset of winter's gloom. This cyclical nature of sunshine highlights the vibrant summers that Hamgyŏng-bukto experiences, contrasting with the shorter, darker days of winter, and underscores the important role sunlight plays in shaping the region’s climate and seasonal activities.

Monthly Sunshine in Hamgyŏng-bukto, North Korea

Monthly sunshine duration represents the total hours of direct sunlight Hamgyŏng-bukto receives each month, excluding periods when the sun is obscured by clouds or other obstructions.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec195h236h285h297h308h311h319h284h281h264h231h232h
Data source: Hamgyŏng-bukto sunshine duration data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.

Hamgyŏng-bukto UV Index Trends

The UV Index in Hamgyŏng-bukto, North Korea, varies significantly throughout the year, reflecting a distinct pattern closely aligned with seasonal changes. During the winter months of January and February, the UV Index remains at moderate levels of 3 and 4 respectively, allowing for a relatively safer sun exposure with a burn time of 30 minutes. As spring arrives, the UV levels begin to climb, peaking in March at 6—classified as high—and subsequently reaching a striking 8 by April. The transition into late spring and early summer sees a further escalation, with May’s UV Index at 9 indicating very high exposure risk, and burn times reducing to 15 minutes.

As summer unfolds, the UV Index reaches its zenith during June, July, and August, consistently recorded at 11—labelled as extreme— necessitating caution and limiting sun exposure to just 10 minutes. The autumn months bring some relief, with September recording a UV Index of 9, while October sees a drop back to 6. The winter months again embrace lower UV levels, with November showing a decrease to 3 and December further declining to 2, reflecting low exposure risk and extending burn times to 45 minutes. This cyclical variability underscores the importance of sun safety, especially in the peak summer months when the risk of skin damage is pronounced.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Hamgyŏng-bukto, North Korea

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Hamgyŏng-bukto. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec346891111119632
Data source: Hamgyŏng-bukto UV Index data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Daylight Hours in Hamgyŏng-bukto

In Hamgyŏng-bukto, North Korea, daylight duration exhibits a pronounced seasonal rhythm, delineating the stark contrasts between winter and summer. January starts the year with just 9 hours of daylight, a state that persists through November, revealing the long nights characteristic of winter. February offers a slight reprieve, as daylight extends to 10 hours, and by March, the duration increases further to 11 hours, marking the onset of spring. The transition into April sees daylight increase to 13 hours, and by May, it reaches 14 hours, pushing the region into brighter, longer days.

The peak of daylight duration occurs in June, with an impressive 15 hours of sunlight illuminating the days. Following this zenith, July slightly retreats with 14 hours of daylight and August remains similar at 13 hours. As summer transitions to autumn, daylight begins to wane, dropping to 12 hours in September and further to 11 hours in October. This gradual decrease continues into the final months of the year, with daylight once again at 9 hours in November and December, encapsulating the cyclical nature of light and darkness within the region. The rhythmic fluctuations in daylight not only shape the climate but also influence the lifestyles and activities of the inhabitants throughout the year.

Average Monthly Daylight Hours in Hamgyŏng-bukto, North Korea

This chart shows the total daylight hours Hamgyŏng-bukto receives each month, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec567h632h716h801h874h911h893h829h746h661h586h547h
Data source: Hamgyŏng-bukto daylight hours, calculated based on aggregated data for various regional locations, determined by the times between sunrise and sunset.

Climate Highlights of Hamgyŏng-bukto's Popular Destinations

Aoji, North Korea experiences a continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures can plunge to -22°C (-8°F), while July sees highs around 35°C (95°F). Precipitation peaks in August at 225 mm (8.9 in), contributing to a notable wet season, while sunshine hours are abundant during summer months, reaching up to 313 hours in July. This variability in temperature and precipitation makes Aoji a region with distinct seasonal changes. For more details, visit Aoji climate.

Chongjin, North Korea experiences a continental climate with cold, harsh winters and warm, humid summers. January's average temperature hovers around -6°C (21°F), while July sees averages of 21°C (70°F). Precipitation is most abundant in August, peaking at 360 mm (14.2 in), with the region also enjoying considerable sunshine, especially in summer months like June and July. For more detailed information on the climate, visit Chongjin climate.

Chungbong, North Korea experiences a continental climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January sees temperatures drop to a minimum of -25°C (-13°F), while July reaches a maximum of 34°C (93°F), showcasing extreme seasonal variations. Precipitation peaks in August with 264 mm (10.4 in), making it the wettest month, while sunshine hours are most abundant in July with 319 hours. The climate patterns create a significant contrast between the dry, sunny winters and the humid, rainy summers. For more details, visit Chungbong climate.

Hahoe-dong, North Korea experiences a continental climate with harsh winters and warm summers. January temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -23°C (-9°F), while July sees highs around 35°C (95°F). Precipitation varies significantly, with August being the wettest month at 225 mm (8.9 in), contributing to the majority of the annual rainfall. The region enjoys substantial sunshine, especially in late spring and summer, peaking at 313 hours in July. For more detailed information, visit Hahoe-dong climate.

Hoeryong, North Korea experiences a continental climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January sees temperatures dropping as low as -27°C (-16°F), whereas July can reach highs of 34°C (93°F). The region receives the most precipitation in August, with about 228 mm (9.0 in), while winter months like January and December are relatively dry. Sunshine hours peak in the summer, particularly in July with 319 hours, contributing to the warmer temperatures during this period. For more detailed information, visit Hoeryong climate.

Kilju, North Korea experiences a continental climate characterized by severe winters and warm summers. January temperatures can plunge to -28°C (-17°F), while July sees highs of 34°C (94°F). Precipitation peaks in August at 265 mm (10.4 in) and is relatively low during the winter months. Sunshine is abundant from May through July, averaging over 300 hours per month, which contrasts with the cloudier conditions in winter. For more detailed information, visit Kilju climate.

Kimch'aek-si, North Korea experiences a continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures can drop as low as -21°C (-6°F), while averages range from -5°C (24°F) to a maximum of 7°C (46°F). Summertime sees pleasant temperatures, peaking in August at around 31°C (89°F) alongside substantial rainfall, especially in July and August, which receive over 100 mm (4 in) of precipitation. The area enjoys significant sunshine, particularly in June and July, averaging over 325 hours during these months. For more details, visit Kimch'aek-si climate.

The climate in Kogonwon, North Korea, is characterized by stark seasonal variations. Winters are harsh, with January temperatures plummeting as low as -24°C (-10°F), while summer months can see highs reaching up to 36°C (97°F) in both May and August. Precipitation is most abundant in August, with 225 mm (8.9 in) of rainfall, contrasting sharply with the drier winter months. Sunshine hours peak in May, providing over 300 hours of sunlight, which supports the area's agricultural activities. For more detailed information, visit Kogonwon climate.

The climate in Komusan Il-tong, North Korea, is characterized by long, harsh winters and warm summers. January temperatures often drop to a minimum of -25°C (-12°F), while July sees averages around 20°C (69°F). Precipitation varies significantly, peaking in August with around 330 mm (13.0 in), contributing to a humid summer. Sunshine hours are abundant from May to July, reaching a maximum of 322 hours in July. For more detailed information, visit Komusan Il-tong climate.

Kwirak, North Korea, experiences a diverse climate with frigid winters and warm summers. January temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -24°C (-10°F) while reaching a maximum of 6°C (42°F), and average temperatures gradually rise to 22°C (72°F) in July. Precipitation peaks in August with 248 mm (9.8 in), mainly as rainfall, contrasting sharply with the drier winter months. Sunshine hours are plentiful, particularly in the summer, with July boasting 313 hours of sun. For more information, visit Kwirak climate.

Kyongsong, North Korea, experiences a continental climate with significant temperature variations throughout the year. January is extremely cold, with lows reaching -27°C (-17°F) and a maximum of 4°C (40°F), while summers are warm, particularly in July and August, with averages around 22°C (71°F). Precipitation is highest in August, with 333 mm (13.1 in), contributing to a notably wet summer season. The area enjoys abundant sunshine, peaking at 331 hours in July. For more detailed climate information, visit Kyongsong climate.

Kyongwon, North Korea experiences a continental climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures can plummet to -24°C (-10°F), with average highs reaching 5°C (41°F), while summer months like July see averages around 22°C (72°F) and maxima of 35°C (95°F). Precipitation is heaviest in August, receiving approximately 225 mm (8.9 in), while the winter months see significantly less rainfall. Sunshine hours peak in May, totaling 309 hours, providing ample daylight for the growing season. For more detailed information, visit Kyongwon climate.

Musan-up, North Korea, experiences a continental climate characterized by harsh winters and warm summers. January sees extreme lows around -29°C (-20°F) with average temperatures of -13°C (9°F), while July peaks at a warm average of 21°C (69°F). Precipitation is notably higher during the summer months, with August receiving up to 176 mm (6.9 in), contrasting sharply with drier winter months. The region enjoys abundant sunshine in the summer, with July averaging 326 hours, promoting a vibrant summer season. For more detailed information, visit Musan-up climate.

Namsan, North Korea experiences a continental climate characterized by extremely cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures can plunge as low as -29°C (-20°F), while July peaks at an average of 21°C (69°F). Precipitation is heaviest in August, reaching 176 mm (6.9 in), while the region enjoys considerable sunshine hours, especially in the summer months, with July having the most at 326 hours. The seasonal temperature variations and distinct wet and dry periods significantly influence the local environment. For more detailed information, visit Namsan climate.

Namyang, North Korea, experiences extreme seasonal temperature variations, with January lows plunging to -26°C (-14°F) and summer max temperatures reaching 36°C (97°F) in August. The region receives significant precipitation, peaking at 182 mm (7.2 in) in August, while sunshine hours are abundant during summer, exceeding 300 hours in July. Winters are harsh, characterized by limited rainfall and low temperatures, culminating in an average of -10°C (15°F) in December. For more detailed information on weather patterns, visit Namyang climate.

Onsong, North Korea experiences a continental climate characterized by harsh winters and warm summers. January temperatures can plunge to -26°C (-15°F) with an average of -12°C (11°F), while July sees warm averages around 21°C (71°F). Precipitation is sparse in winter but peaks during the summer, especially in August with 194 mm (7.6 in) of rain. The region enjoys considerable sunshine, particularly in summer months, with July offering around 311 hours. For more detailed information, visit Onsong climate.

P'ungin, North Korea experiences a continental climate characterized by harsh winters and warm summers. January sees average temperatures around -12°C (11°F), with January and December being the coldest months, while July typically reaches average highs of 21°C (71°F). The region receives most of its precipitation during the summer months, particularly in August, which can see up to 194 mm (7.6 in) of rainfall. Sunshine is abundant from May to July, with each month recording over 300 hours of sunlight. For more information on P'ungin's climate, visit P'ungin climate.

Puryong, North Korea, experiences a continental climate characterized by harsh winters and warm summers. January is the coldest month, with temperatures dropping as low as -25°C (-12°F), while August sees highs of up to 31°C (88°F). Precipitation peaks in August at 330 mm (13.0 in), indicating a monsoon-like season, while winter months receive significantly less rainfall. Sunshine is abundant during the summer months, with July receiving around 322 hours of sunshine. For more detailed information, visit Puryong climate.

The climate in Ranam, North Korea, features cold winters, with January temperatures averaging around -6°C (21°F) and dropping as low as -22°C (-7°F). The summer months are warm, with July and August seeing averages of 21°C (70°F) and 22°C (72°F) respectively. Precipitation peaks significantly in August, reaching 360 mm (14.2 in), while the region enjoys extended sunshine from April to August. Overall, Ranam experiences a continental climate marked by distinct seasonal variations. More details can be found at Ranam climate.

Rimgan-ni, North Korea, experiences a harsh continental climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January is the coldest month with temperatures dropping as low as -34°C (-29°F), while August sees the highest temperatures reaching up to 34°C (94°F). Precipitation is highest in August, totaling 171 mm (6.7 in), contributing to a relatively humid summer season. The area enjoys abundant sunshine, particularly in the summer months, peaking at 331 hours in July. For more detailed climate information, visit Rimgan-ni climate.

The climate in Ryongdang, North Korea, is characterized by long, cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -24°C (-10°F), while July sees averages around 22°C (72°F). Precipitation varies significantly throughout the year, with August receiving the most rainfall at 225 mm (8.9 in). The region also enjoys a considerable amount of sunshine, peaking in May with 309 hours. For detailed climate statistics, visit Ryongdang climate.

Sambong, North Korea experiences a continental climate with harsh winters and warm summers. January and February are particularly cold, with minimum temperatures dropping as low as -26°C (-14°F). Summer months, notably July and August, are warm, with average temperatures reaching up to 22°C (72°F) and ample rainfall, especially in August when precipitation peaks at 199 mm (7.8 in). Sunshine is abundant during the summer months, with July boasting the highest at 313 hours. For more details, visit Sambong climate.

Sech'on, North Korea experiences a highly variable climate, characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -27°C (-16°F), with annual averages around -10°C (15°F), while July sees milder conditions, averaging 21°C (70°F) and peaking at 34°C (93°F). Precipitation is heaviest in summer, particularly in August, which receives around 228 mm (9.0 in), contributing to a lush landscape. Sunshine is abundant from spring to summer, with June boasting the highest sun exposure at 311 hours. For more details on the weather patterns throughout the year, visit Sech'on climate.

The climate in Song-dong, North Korea, is characterized by cold, harsh winters and warm summers. January sees extreme temperatures with minimums reaching -27°C (-16°F) and limited precipitation of 9mm, while summer months like July experience average temperatures around 21°C (70°F) and higher rainfall, peaking at 107mm. Sunshine hours are plentiful, peaking in July with 319 hours. The transition to fall brings cooler temperatures and moderate rainfall. For more details, visit Song-dong climate.

Sungam-nodongjagu, North Korea experiences a stark continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures can plunge as low as -22°C (-7°F), while temperatures in July average around a comfortable 21°C (70°F), peaking at 30°C (86°F). Precipitation is heaviest in August, with approximately 360 mm (14.2 in), contributing to the region's humid summer season. The area enjoys the most sunshine in June and July, totaling over 330 hours each month. For more detailed information, visit Sungam-nodongjagu climate.

Undok, North Korea experiences a continental climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January sees average temperatures drop to -9°C (15°F), with extremes reaching as low as -24°C (-10°F). Precipitation is minimal in winter but peaks in August, which receives around 248 mm (9.8 in) of rain, making it the wettest month. The area enjoys ample sunshine, particularly in summer, with July recording approximately 313 hours of sun. For more detailed information, visit Undok climate.

Conclusion

In summary, the climate and seasonal dynamics of Hamgyŏng-bukto, North Korea, showcase significant fluctuations in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours throughout the year. The region experiences harsh winters characterized by extreme cold and limited sunlight, transitioning into vibrant summers with increased temperatures and ample sunshine. Notably, the peak periods of sunlight and UV exposure highlight the need for awareness and proactive measures during the summer months to protect against potential skin damage. As the seasons shift, these climatic characteristics not only influence the environment but also deeply affect the agricultural practices, local culture, and daily life of the inhabitants, underscoring the intricate relationship between climate and community in this unique region.

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