Last updated: January 18, 2025
Dolj, Romania is characterized by a temperate oceanic climate, classified under the Köppen-Geiger system as Cfa and Cfb. This region experiences a significant range of temperatures, with winter lows plunging to a frigid minimum of -21°C (-6°F) in January, while summer peaks can soar to an extreme maximum of 43°C (109°F) in July. The average annual temperature floats around a mild 13°C (56°F), illustrating the diverse climatic conditions that define Dolj's weather patterns throughout the year.
Dolj, Romania showcases a distinct seasonal temperature pattern, beginning with harsh winters that plunge to extreme lows of -21°C (-6°F) in January and February, while the average temperatures hover around the freezing point. As spring approaches, temperatures gradually rise, with March and April displaying promising warmth, culminating in average temperatures of 13°C (56°F) in April. By late spring into summer, temperatures soar significantly, reaching their peak in July with an impressive maximum of 43°C (109°F). The warm conditions persist into August before the onset of autumn brings cooler temperatures, marked by September's average of 21°C (69°F). As the year progresses, November and December signal a return to winter, with temperatures dropping significantly again, creating a cyclical rhythm of climatic extremes that define Dolj's yearly weather.
Craiova experiences a significant temperature range throughout the year, with January seeing minimum temperatures plummet to -20°C (-4°F) and the peak of summer in August reaching maximums of 41°C (107°F). This variation highlights the diverse climate conditions in the region, making it essential for residents and visitors alike to prepare for both extremes. For more detailed information, you can explore the monthly temperatures in Craiova.
Dolj, Romania experiences a varied precipitation pattern throughout the year, with a noticeable increase during the late spring and early summer months. Starting from January to April, rainfall is relatively moderate, with January receiving 46 mm (1.8 in) and April slightly lower at 38 mm (1.5 in). However, May marks a shift, peaking at 86 mm (3.4 in) and gradually escalating to 94 mm (3.7 in) in June, indicating the transition into the wettest period of the year. This late spring and early summer peak is complemented by a few remaining months of significant precipitation before the drier season approaches.
As summer transitions to autumn, rainfall begins to taper off, with July experiencing 67 mm (2.6 in) but quickly declining to just 26 mm (1.0 in) in August and 15 mm (0.6 in) in September. The precipitation levels rise again in October to 60 mm (2.4 in), followed by November and December, which maintain similar amounts of 48 mm (1.9 in) and 60 mm (2.4 in), respectively. Overall, Dolj sees a pronounced rainy season from late spring into early summer, followed by relatively drier conditions in late summer and fluctuating precipitation during the autumn and winter months.
In Dolj, Romania, sunshine duration exhibits a pronounced seasonal trend, with a steady increase from winter to summer. January, marked by just 170 hours of sunshine, gives way to February's modest rise to 230 hours. However, as spring unfolds in March, the sun begins to shine more brightly, boasting 293 hours. This upward trajectory continues through April and May, with sunshine hours reaching 343 and 394 hours, respectively, culminating in the summer months where June sees 405 hours and July peaks at an impressive 425 hours. This period not only signifies the height of warmth but also boasts the highest levels of sunshine, offering residents the brightest days of the year.
As summer wanes into autumn, sunlight begins to decline, albeit gradually. In August, sunshine remains abundant at 403 hours, but September witnesses a noticeable drop to 342 hours. This decline continues into October, where only 287 hours are recorded. The trend further diminishes in the late fall and winter months, with November and December providing a less sunny atmosphere, at 202 and 201 hours, respectively. Overall, Dolj's sunshine profile is characterized by vibrant summers filled with long, sunny days, contrasting sharply with the shorter, cloudier days of winter, emphasizing the region's diverse climatic conditions throughout the year.
The UV Index in Dolj, Romania exhibits a clear seasonal pattern, providing insights into the intensity of ultraviolet radiation throughout the year. In the colder months, such as January and December, the UV Index remains low at 2, allowing for a burn time of 45 minutes, indicating minimal sun exposure risks. As winter transitions into spring, February sees a moderate rise to 4, signifying increased UV exposure that necessitates caution. March and April witness further escalation, reaching 6 and 7 respectively, where the exposure category shifts to high, and burn times decrease to just 25 minutes, emphasizing the need for sun protection during these months.
The summer months display a marked intensification in UV radiation, with May initiating the very high category at a UV Index of 8 and burn time dropping to 15 minutes. This trend peaks in June at 10, followed closely by July and August, which maintain a high level of 9. These months underscore the importance of protective measures as the risk of UV-related harm significantly increases, making sun safety a priority. As fall approaches, a gentle decline ensues, with September at 7, October dropping to 5, and November returning to a moderate 3. Overall, Dolj's UV Index illustrates the necessity for varying sun exposure strategies throughout the year, reflecting both seasonal changes and the corresponding need for sun safety awareness.
UV Risk Categories
In Dolj, Romania, daylight duration shows a distinct seasonal rhythm, reflecting the transition from winter to summer and back again. Starting in January, the region experiences a brief daylight span of 9 hours, gradually increasing to 10 hours in February. By March, the length extends to 11 hours, and this progression continues into April with a noticeable surge to 13 hours. The peak of daylight arrives in June and July, where residents enjoy a generous 15 hours of sunlight. This abundant daylight creates ideal conditions for outdoor activities and contributes to the overall vibrancy of the summer season.
However, as summer gives way to autumn, daylight hours begin to wane. August sees a slight decrease to 13 hours, followed by a further decline to 12 hours in September. The downward trend continues into October, where daylight drops to 10 hours. By November, daylight is reduced to 9 hours, signaling the approach of winter. December marks the shortest day, offering only 8 hours of daylight. This cyclical pattern highlights the contrasting experiences of light and darkness in Dolj throughout the year, showcasing the influence of seasonal changes on daily life and the natural environment.
Craiova, Romania experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and hot summers. January temperatures range from a minimum of -20°C to a maximum of 15°C, while July sees highs reaching 41°C. Precipitation is most notable in May and June, accumulating 78 mm and 88 mm respectively, while August tends to be drier with only 19 mm. Sunshine hours peak in July at 424 hours, providing ample warmth during the summer months. For more detailed information, visit Craiova climate.
In conclusion, the climate of Dolj, Romania, is characterized by distinct seasonal variations that influence temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV index, and daylight hours. With freezing winters giving way to warm, sun-soaked summers, residents experience an array of climatic conditions that shape their lifestyle and environment. The region's precipitation patterns reveal peaks during late spring and early summer, while sunshine duration reaches its zenith in the warmer months, prompting the necessity for sun safety due to higher UV levels. Ultimately, Dolj's multifaceted climate not only enriches its natural beauty but also poses challenges and opportunities for the local community, emphasizing the importance of seasonal awareness and preparedness throughout the year.