Last updated: January 18, 2025
Hwanghae-namdo, located in North Korea, is characterized by a Dwa Köppen-Geiger climate classification, indicative of a humid continental climate with distinct seasonal variations. In the depths of winter, temperatures can plunge to a frigid -19°C (-2°F) in January, while the summer months can see sweltering highs reaching up to 38°C (101°F) in August. The annual average temperature hovers around 12°C (54°F), underscoring the region's marked temperature fluctuations throughout the year, which significantly influence its ecological and agricultural dynamics.
In Hwanghae-namdo, North Korea, temperature patterns exhibit pronounced seasonal shifts, reflecting its humid continental climate. The year begins with harsh winters, where January and February see minimum temperatures falling as low as -19°C (-2°F) and -16°C (3°F), respectively, gradually warming into early spring. March marks a significant transition, with temperatures rising to an average of 5°C (42°F), and April brings more comfortable conditions, peaking at 27°C (82°F). As spring gives way to summer, temperatures soar, reaching their zenith in August with average highs of 26°C (79°F) and maximums of 38°C (101°F). By September, a mild cooling occurs, leading back into cooler autumn months of October and November, where temperatures drop again, signaling the approach of winter. Thus, the climate of Hwanghae-namdo not only showcases extreme seasonal contrasts but also highlights the region's dynamic weather patterns throughout the year.
Kaesong experiences significant temperature variation throughout the year, with January temperatures plunging to a minimum of -18°C (1°F) and August highs soaring to a maximum of 38°C (101°F). This wide range underscores the continental climate characteristic of the region, making it essential to prepare for extreme conditions. For more details on the monthly temperatures, visit monthly temperatures in Kaesong.
Precipitation patterns in Hwanghae-namdo, North Korea, reflect the distinct seasonal variations typical of its humid continental climate. During the winter months of January and February, the region experiences relatively low precipitation, receiving just 18 mm (0.7 in) per month over an average of three days. As the season transitions into spring, precipitation begins to increase, peaking in May with a noteworthy 94 mm (3.7 in), coinciding with a rise in the number of rainy days. June and July mark the onset of the monsoon season, with July seeing a dramatic spike in rainfall to 164 mm (6.4 in) over 13 days, followed closely by August, which records the highest monthly total of 228 mm (9.0 in) in just 14 days.
As summer wanes and autumn approaches, precipitation levels decline but remain significant. September experiences a reduction to 130 mm (5.1 in), with an average of seven rainy days, signaling the gradual transition back to drier conditions. By October, rainfall decreases to 36 mm (1.4 in), followed by November and December, which see 41 mm (1.6 in) and 24 mm (0.9 in), respectively. Throughout the later months, the number of rainy days begins to stabilize as Hwanghae-namdo prepares for another winter season, resulting in a yearly precipitation cycle shaped by both the summer monsoons and winter dryness.
In Hwanghae-namdo, North Korea, sunshine duration exhibits a clear seasonal trend, with hours of sunlight steadily increasing from the depths of winter into the summer months. Beginning with 195 hours of sunshine in January, the region experiences a gradual climb in sunny days through February and March, reaching 287 hours by the end of March. This upward trajectory culminates in the peak months of May and June, where sunshine duration levels off at an impressive 320 hours each, providing ample sunlight for flourishing vegetation and enhancing outdoor activities.
As summer transitions into autumn, the amount of sunshine remains relatively high, with July and August maintaining 314 hours and 299 hours respectively. However, by September, a noticeable decline manifests, with sunshine dipping to 277 hours as the days begin to shorten. This trend continues into the fall months, where October sees 262 hours, followed closely by November and December, which drop to 231 hours and 232 hours respectively. Overall, the region's sunshine duration reflects not only its continental climate but also the distinct shift in daylight hours across the seasonal spectrum, contributing to the region's vibrant ecosystems and varying agricultural practices.
The UV Index in Hwanghae-namdo, North Korea, reveals significant seasonal variations that are important for outdoor activities and health. Starting the year, January and February present a moderate UV Index of 3 and 4, respectively, allowing for safe sun exposure of around 30 minutes before sunburn occurs. As spring approaches, the UV levels rise sharply, reaching 6 in March, indicative of a high exposure risk with a reduced burn time of 25 minutes. By April and May, the Index escalates to 8 and 9, marking very high levels of UV radiation, with recommended burn times decreasing to just 15 minutes, emphasizing the need for adequate sun protection as daylight lengthens and direct sunlight increases.
The summer months highlight the most intense UV exposure, with the Index peaking at 10 in June and reaching 11 in both July and August—classified as extreme—where burn times plummet to 10 minutes. As autumn settles in, the UV Index begins to taper off, dropping back to 9 in September and subsequently to 6 in October, indicating a return to high exposure risk but still necessitating precautions. November and December see a return to moderate UV levels with indices of 4 and 3, respectively. This seasonal progression emphasizes the need for awareness regarding sun safety, particularly during the high and extreme UV Index months, to mitigate potential skin damage and health risks associated with overexposure.
UV Risk Categories
In Hwanghae-namdo, North Korea, daylight duration exhibits a clear seasonal rhythm, reflecting the region's continental climate. During the winter months, daylight is shortest, with just 9 hours in January and December, followed by an increase to 10 hours in February. As spring arrives, daylight begins to lengthen noticeably; by March, residents benefit from 11 hours of light, and this trend continues through April, when daylight extends to 13 hours. May marks a pivotal point, with 14 hours of daylight, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities as nature begins to flourish.
The summer months maintain a consistent 14 hours of daylight in both June and July, fostering vibrant ecosystems and agricultural productivity. However, as summer fades into autumn, daylight gradually decreases, starting with 13 hours in August and declining to 12 hours in September. This decrease continues into October with 11 hours, before returning to the shorter daylight periods of November with 10 hours. The cyclical nature of daylight duration in Hwanghae-namdo not only shapes the local climate but also influences daily life and seasonal activities throughout the year.
Kaesong, North Korea experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and warm, humid summers. Winter months, particularly January and February, see average temperatures ranging from -3°C (27°F) to -1°C (31°F) and relatively low precipitation, while the summer months of July and August can reach up to 38°C (101°F) with significant rainfall, peaking at 266 mm (10.5 in). Sunshine is abundant, especially from May to June, making these months the sunniest, with around 321 hours of sunlight. For more detailed climate information, visit Kaesong climate.
In conclusion, the climate of Hwanghae-namdo, North Korea, characterized by its distinct seasonal patterns, plays a pivotal role in shaping the region's natural environment and human activities. The marked temperature fluctuations, combined with varied precipitation and sunshine duration, illustrate the challenges and advantages of this humid continental climate. Additionally, the UV Index and daylight duration further emphasize the need for seasonal adaptations in practices ranging from agriculture to leisure. Understanding these climatic elements is crucial for both residents and policymakers, as they navigate the complexities of life in Hwanghae-namdo while working towards sustainable practices that harmonize with their unique environment.