Last updated: January 18, 2025
The climate of Mavrovo and Rostuša, located in North Macedonia, is characterized by Csb and Cfb Koppen-Geiger climate classifications, indicating a diverse temperature range across the seasons. Winter temperatures can plummet to a frigid -28°C (-19°F) in January, while summers peak at a warm 34°C (93°F) in August. The average annual temperature hovers around a moderate 9°C (48°F), highlighting the region's distinct seasonal variations that contribute to its unique ecological landscape.
In Mavrovo and Rostuša, North Macedonia, temperature patterns exhibit distinct seasonal trends, with harsh winters and warm summers defining the climate. January marks the coldest month, with minimum temperatures plunging to -28°C (-19°F) and average values around -3°C (27°F). As spring approaches, temperatures gradually rise; by April, the average reaches 8°C (46°F), with daytime highs ascending to 23°C (73°F). Warmth continues to build through May and into the summer months, peaking in August when average temperatures climb to 20°C (68°F) and maxing out at a scorching 34°C (93°F). The onset of autumn sees a cooling trend, with temperatures reverting to more moderate levels around 15°C (60°F) in September, and dipping further as December arrives, concluding the year with average temperatures again near freezing. This seasonal fluctuation creates a dynamic climate, fostering diverse ecosystems throughout the year.
Rostusa experiences a January minimum of -26°C (-15°F) and an August maximum of 34°C (93°F), highlighting its significant seasonal temperature variation. In comparison, Mavrovi Anovi has a slightly colder January minimum of -28°C (-19°F) but a similar August maximum of 33°C (91°F). For more detailed temperature insights, you can refer to the monthly temperatures in Rostusa and monthly temperatures in Mavrovi Anovi.
Precipitation in Mavrovo and Rostuša, North Macedonia, varies significantly throughout the year, with a marked peak during the colder months. January stands out with 119 mm (4.7 in) of rainfall spread over approximately 10 days, followed closely by December, which experiences the highest monthly precipitation of 142 mm (5.6 in) over 12 days. February and March maintain a substantial amount of rainfall as well, with 107 mm (4.2 in) and 114 mm (4.5 in) respectively, creating a damp winter environment conducive to snow at higher elevations.
As the seasons change, a notable decline in precipitation occurs in the summer months, with July and August receiving their lowest totals of 60 mm (2.4 in) and 50 mm (2.0 in), respectively. During these months, rain events are less frequent, averaging around 9 to 8 days. The transition to autumn sees a mild increase in rainfall, particularly in September and October, which receive 54 mm (2.1 in) and 68 mm (2.7 in), respectively. Overall, the precipitation pattern reflects a seasonal rhythm, supporting a variety of ecosystems during both the wetter winter months and the drier summer period.
In Mavrovo and Rostuša, North Macedonia, the sunshine duration exhibits a clear seasonal trend, shifting dramatically from the cold winter months to the warm summer period. January begins the year with 185 hours of sunshine, gradually increasing to 248 hours in February. As spring unfolds, the amount of sunshine continues to rise, reaching 343 hours in April and peaking at 400 hours in May. This trend illustrates a growing optimism with the longer daylight hours, which enhances the region's natural beauty and encourages outdoor activities as winter recedes.
The summer months experience the most significant sunshine, with July boasting the highest total of 431 hours, closely followed by August at 399 hours. Following the summer peak, sunshine hours begin to taper off, with September recording 347 hours, and a further decline into autumn results in 303 hours in October. By November and December, the sunshine duration drops dramatically to 245 hours and 225 hours, respectively. This cyclical variation highlights the importance of seasonal changes in solar exposure, significantly influencing the local climate and ecosystem throughout the year.
The UV Index in Mavrovo and Rostuša shows a clear pattern of seasonal variability, with significant fluctuations throughout the year. January begins with a UV Index of 3, indicating a moderate level of solar UV radiation, which allows for a relatively safe burn time of 30 minutes. As winter progresses into February, the UV Index rises to 5, maintaining that moderate category, but transitioning into spring sees a notable increase. By March, the index reaches 7, denoting high levels of UV radiation, with a burn time reduced to 25 minutes, highlighting the need for increased sun protection as temperatures begin to rise.
The summer months pose the greatest UV exposure risk, peaking in June with an Index of 11, categorized as extreme, where the burn time drops to a mere 10 minutes. This intensity continues in July and August, both registering a UV Index of 10 under the very high category, demanding vigilance in sun safety. As autumn approaches, the UV Index gradually falls, reaching 6 in October and 4 in November, before plummeting to 2 in December's low sunlight conditions. This seasonal progression emphasizes the importance of being aware of UV levels, particularly during the sunnier months, to mitigate the risk of skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
In Mavrovo and Rostuša, the duration of daylight follows a pronounced seasonal pattern, with the lengths of days progressively increasing from winter to summer. January starts the year with just 9 hours of daylight, a trend that continues into November, reflecting the shorter days typical of winter. As February arrives, daylight extends to 10 hours, paving the way for further increases. By March, daylight reaches 11 hours, and as spring fully blossoms in April, it jumps to 13 hours, culminating in a peak of 15 hours in June, the longest day of the year.
Once summer subsides, daylight hours begin to gradually diminish, with July decreasing slightly to 14 hours, and August presenting 13 hours before the autumn months set in. September sees a slight decrease to 12 hours, while October further reduces this to 11 hours. The cycle concludes with 9 hours of daylight in both November and December, mirroring the winter months' shorter hours. This consistent fluctuation of daylight duration underscores the region's climatic shifts throughout the year, significantly impacting both the environment and daily life.
Mavrovi Anovi, North Macedonia, experiences a continental climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -28°C (-19°F), while July can reach a maximum of 31°C (88°F). Precipitation is highest in late spring, particularly in May, with 123 mm (4.8 in) of rainfall, gradually decreasing through summer. Sunshine hours peak in July at 430 hours, ensuring plenty of sunlight during the hottest month. For more detailed information, visit Mavrovi Anovi climate.
Rostusa, North Macedonia experiences a varied climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January sees the coldest temperatures, with minimums around -26°C (-15°F) and high precipitation levels of 131 mm (5.2 in). As summer approaches, temperatures rise, peaking in July and August with averages around 20°C (68°F) and a maximum of 34°C (93°F). Notably, the region enjoys abundant sunshine, especially in the summer months, reaching up to 431 hours in July. For more details, visit Rostusa climate.
In conclusion, the climate dynamics of Mavrovo and Rostuša, North Macedonia, are characterized by distinct seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours. The region experiences cold winters, with harsh temperatures and significant precipitation, transitioning into warmer summers that boast extended sunshine hours and elevated UV exposure. Understanding these climatic patterns is essential for residents and visitors alike, as they influence everything from outdoor activities to health and safety considerations. As seasons change, so too does the landscape, emphasizing the importance of adapting to local environmental conditions throughout the year.