Last updated: January 18, 2025
Bitola, located in North Macedonia, exhibits a Cfb climate according to the Köppen-Geiger classification, characterized by a temperate feel with mild temperatures year-round. The region experiences minimum temperatures as low as -22°C (-8°F) in January, while the summer months can soar to maximums of 38°C (100°F) in July. With an average annual temperature around 12°C (53°F), Bitola showcases a significant seasonal temperature variation, offering a unique blend of both cold winters and warm summers, ideal for a diverse range of ecosystems and activities.
In Bitola, North Macedonia, distinct seasonal temperature patterns reveal a dynamic climate throughout the year. The winter months of January and February present the harshest conditions, with minimum temperatures dropping to -22°C (-8°F) and -20°C (-3°F), respectively, followed by gradual warming in March. As spring progresses into April and May, temperatures rise significantly, showcasing a shift from chilly averages to comfortable warmth that culminates in the summer heat of July and August, where maximum temperatures peak at 38°C (100°F). This warming trend is accompanied by increasingly mild nights as the region transitions from winter into summer. As autumn approaches in September through November, temperatures begin to moderate, although early fall still experiences maximums around 34°C (94°F) before descending into the cooler temperatures of late fall, where averages drop to approximately 8°C (46°F) in November. Finally, December marks the return to winter, restarting the cycle with slightly milder temperatures compared to earlier months, yet still retaining a distinctly cold character.
Bitola experiences a diverse climate with temperatures ranging from a chilly minimum of -19°C (-1°F) in January to a scorching maximum of 35°C (96°F) in August, showcasing the significant seasonal variations. For more detailed insights into the monthly temperatures in Bitola, visit monthly temperatures in Bitola.
Bitola, North Macedonia experiences a varied precipitation pattern throughout the year, with the heaviest rainfall occurring in the spring and late autumn months. May leads this trend with an average of 86 mm (3.4 in) of precipitation over approximately 12 days, closely followed by November, which also sees significant rainfall totaling 85 mm (3.3 in) across 9 days. During the colder months, January and March are relatively wet as well, receiving 71 mm (2.8 in) and 75 mm (2.9 in), respectively, while winter conditions dominate with substantial precipitation averages.
As summer rolls in, the rainfall diminishes sharply, particularly in July and August, which record only 49 mm (1.9 in) and 40 mm (1.6 in) respectively, reflecting a trend of decreased precipitation days—only 7 days in July and 6 days in August. The pattern shifts back towards moderate rainfall in September and October as the region transitions into autumn, bringing 23 mm (0.9 in) and 51 mm (2.0 in), respectively. This seasonal fluctuation underscores the diverse climatic conditions Bitola experiences, blending wet winters and springs with drier, warmer summers.
In Bitola, North Macedonia, the annual sunshine duration showcases a remarkable seasonal progression, where the depth of winter contrasts sharply with the brightness of summer. Starting with 179 hours in January, daylight hours gradually increase, reaching 232 hours in February and steadily climbing into spring. By April, the region enjoys 330 hours of sunshine, culminating in May with an impressive 397 hours. The trend continues into June and July, where Bitola basks in 398 hours and 427 hours of sunlight, respectively, marking the peak brightness of the year.
As summer transitions to autumn, sunshine hours begin to decline, though September still offers a substantial 345 hours. The decrease becomes more pronounced in October, dropping to 288 hours, as the days shorten. Notably, November and December capture the least sunshine, with 221 hours and 203 hours, respectively, as the cold grip of winter sets in once more. This cyclical pattern of increasing and decreasing sunlight not only highlights the vibrant summer months but also emphasizes the stark contrast experienced during the winter, painting a vivid picture of Bitola’s climatic rhythms.
The UV Index in Bitola, North Macedonia, presents a distinct seasonal variation, indicating the intensity of ultraviolet radiation throughout the year. During the winter months of January and February, the UV Index remains relatively low, at 3 and 4 respectively, categorized as moderate, with a burn time of 30 minutes. As spring arrives, a noticeable increase occurs in March, with the UV Index rising to 6, signifying high exposure, which requires shorter burn times of just 25 minutes. April and May experience a sharp escalation, reaching a very high level of 8 and 10 respectively, with burn times decreasing to 15 minutes, reflecting the approach of summer and the increased necessity for sun protection.
The peak of UV radiation occurs during the summer months, particularly in June, when the UV Index hits an extreme level of 11, allowing for only 10 minutes of safe sun exposure before risking burns. This extremely high UV Index persists through July and August at 10, emphasizing the crucial need for adequate sun protection strategies during these months. As autumn sets in, the UV Index decreases to 8 in September and further declines to 6 in October, returning to a moderate 4 in November. By December, the UV Index falls to 2, categorized as low, allowing for longer safe exposure times of 45 minutes. Understanding these trends is vital for residents and visitors alike to ensure appropriate sun safety measures year-round.
UV Risk Categories
The daylight duration in Bitola, North Macedonia, reflects a pronounced seasonal rhythm, with notable variations throughout the year. Starting in January, the city experiences only 9 hours of daylight, which gradually increases as winter gives way to spring. By February, daylight extends to 10 hours, and further increases to 11 hours in March. This upward trend continues into April and May, peaking at 14 hours in May, showcasing the delightfully longer days that accompany the warming temperatures.
As summer approaches, June offers the longest days with 15 hours of daylight, providing ample time for outdoor activities. However, this abundance of daylight begins to wane as the seasons shift; July and August see a slight decrease to 14 and 13 hours, respectively. Autumn signals a further decline, with daylight duration dropping to 12 hours in September and continuing to decrease to 11 hours in October, before returning to 9 hours by November and December. This cyclical pattern of daylight duration highlights the changing seasons in Bitola, influencing both lifestyle and natural rhythms across the year.
Bitola, North Macedonia experiences a continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures can drop to -19°C, while July sees highs of up to 35°C. Precipitation is moderate throughout the year, peaking in May and November, with January typically receiving around 74 mm of rainfall. The city enjoys ample sunshine, particularly in the summer months, with July averaging 427 hours. For more detailed information, visit Bitola climate.
In conclusion, Bitola, North Macedonia, exhibits a unique climatic and seasonal profile characterized by its temperature fluctuations, precipitation patterns, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight variation. The region transitions from chilly winters with modest daylight and UV exposure to vibrant summers marked by high temperatures, abundant sunshine, and a significant increase in UV radiation. This seasonal diversity not only shapes the local ecosystem but also influences the lifestyle and activities of its residents. Understanding these climatic trends is essential for promoting effective sun safety practices, guiding agricultural practices, and enhancing the overall quality of life in this picturesque city. As Bitola continues to flourish, awareness of its climatic cycles will remain vital for both locals and visitors.