Last updated: January 18, 2025
The climate of Kabardino-Balkariya Republic, Russian Federation, showcases a diverse range of conditions classified under the Köppen-Geiger climate classes, including Dfb, Cfa, ET, and Dfc. This region experiences a striking temperature gradient, with an average temperature of 9°C (49°F), and extremes ranging from a frigid minimum of -33°C (-27°F) in February to a blistering maximum of 40°C (104°F) in July. These climatic variations underline the region's unique environmental characteristics and highlight the importance of understanding its climatic patterns for both local communities and broader ecological studies.
In the Kabardino-Balkariya Republic, temperature patterns exhibit significant seasonal variation, characterized by harsh winters and warm summers. January and February witness the coldest extremes, with minimum temperatures dipping as low as -33°C (-27°F), gradually giving way to milder conditions by March, where temperatures begin to rise. The transition to spring sees April temperatures averaging 9°C (48°F), while May marks a dramatic warming trend, with averages reaching 14°C (57°F) and maximums soaring to 37°C (99°F). The summer months of June and July are particularly warm, with July peaking at 40°C (104°F). As autumn approaches, temperatures begin to decline again, with September experiencing average values around 16°C (61°F). The year closes out with a return to cold, as November and December temperatures fall once more, highlighting the Republic's stark seasonal contrasts and the dynamic nature of its climate.
El'brus experiences a minimum temperature of -33°C (-27°F) in February and a maximum of 24°C (75°F) in August, highlighting its extreme seasonal variations monthly temperatures in El'brus. Similarly, Terskol records a minimum of -31°C (-24°F) in February and reaches the same maximum of 24°C (75°F) in August, showcasing comparable climate patterns in the region monthly temperatures in Terskol.
Precipitation in the Kabardino-Balkariya Republic exhibits a distinct seasonal pattern, with the highest levels occurring during the spring and early summer months. January and February experience relatively low rainfall, with January receiving 37 mm (1.5 in) and February increasing slightly to 43 mm (1.7 in). As the year progresses, March sees a significant rise to 96 mm (3.8 in), followed closely by April with 89 mm (3.5 in). This upward trend culminates in May, where precipitation peaks at 150 mm (5.9 in), coinciding with the highest number of rainy days — a total of 17.
In the summer months, precipitation decreases, yet remains substantial, with July and August recording 101 mm (4.0 in) and 86 mm (3.4 in), respectively. September maintains a similar level at 86 mm (3.4 in), while October sees a decrease to 68 mm (2.7 in). The late autumn months of November and December witness further reductions in rainfall, each receiving 50 mm (2.0 in), signaling the approach of winter. This variability in precipitation underscores the region's climatic diversity and its impact on local ecosystems and agriculture.
In the Kabardino-Balkariya Republic, sunshine duration reveals a clear seasonal progression, characterized by a steady increase from winter to summer. Beginning with 193 hours of sunshine in January, the days gradually lengthen as February sees an uptick to 241 hours and reaches 295 hours by March. This upward trend accelerates in the spring months, with April enjoying 332 hours and May peaking at 364 hours, signaling the arrival of brighter days. As summer approaches, June's sunshine spikes further to 397 hours, culminating in July, the sunniest month of the year, boasting an impressive 413 hours of sun.
Following the summer peak, sunshine hours begin to taper off, with August recording 386 hours and September decreasing to 326 hours. The decline continues into the autumn months, with October at 296 hours, and further diminishing in November and December, where sunshine drops to 249 hours and 226 hours, respectively. This cyclical variation not only underscores the region's climatic changes throughout the year but also emphasizes the importance of sunlight for local agriculture and tourism, especially during the vibrant summer months.
The UV Index in the Kabardino-Balkariya Republic illustrates significant variations throughout the year, reflecting the changing intensity of sun exposure. In the winter months of January and February, the UV Index remains relatively low, ranging from 3 to 5, indicating a moderate exposure category with a burn time of 30 minutes. As spring unfolds, March sees a notable increase to a UV Index of 8, and by April, it reaches 10, both classified as very high. This trend continues into the summer months, where May and June peak at an extreme UV Index of 12, necessitating short burn times of just 10 minutes for unprotected skin.
As summer wanes, the UV Index slightly declines but remains high, with July at 11 and August at 10, both still within the extreme category. September sees a marginal decrease to 9, while October brings a shift to a high exposure category with a UV Index of 7 and a burn time of 25 minutes. Finally, the values descend again in November and December, returning to moderate levels of 4 and 3, identical to those observed at the beginning of the year. These fluctuations underscore the necessity for appropriate sun protection, particularly during the late spring and summer months when UV radiation is at its most intense.
UV Risk Categories
Daylight duration in the Kabardino-Balkariya Republic exhibits a clear seasonal rhythm, beginning with shorter days in the winter months. January offers just 9 hours of daylight, slightly increasing to 10 hours in February. As spring approaches, daylight hours steadily lengthen, reaching 11 hours in March and expanding further to 13 hours in April. This trend continues into May, where daylight peaks at 14 hours, paving the way for the longest days of the year in the summer months.
In June and July, the region experiences 15 hours of daylight, maximizing sunlight exposure for outdoor activities and vegetation growth. However, as August approaches, daylight begins to taper off, decreasing to 13 hours, followed by a gradual decline to 12 hours in September. The transition into autumn and winter months sees daylight hours diminish more significantly, with October offering only 10 hours and November reducing to 9 hours. December marks the shortest day of the year with just 8 hours of daylight, encapsulating the annual cycle of light that influences both lifestyle and ecosystems in this diverse region.
El'brus, located in the Russian Federation, experiences a predominantly cold climate with significant seasonal variations. January sees average temperatures around -13°C (10°F) and considerable snowfall, while summer months, particularly July, can reach average highs of 11°C (52°F) and up to 423 hours of sunshine. Precipitation peaks in May at 119 mm (4.7 in), contributing to a lush environment in warmer months. Visitors can expect a snowy landscape in winter and pleasant conditions during summer, making it a unique destination year-round. For more details, visit El'brus climate.
Terskol, located in the Russian Federation, experiences a subarctic climate characterized by harsh winters and mild summers. January and February see minimum temperatures dropping to around -27°C to -31°C, while July and August boast milder averages of 11°C to 11°C and maximums reaching 23°C to 24°C. Precipitation peaks in late spring and summer, with July recording the highest at 155 mm. The region enjoys ample sunshine, particularly in the summer months, with July receiving about 424 hours. For more detailed information, visit Terskol climate.
In conclusion, the climate, temperature patterns, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV index, and daylight duration in the Kabardino-Balkariya Republic present a rich tapestry of seasonal variations that significantly influence the local environment and human activities. The transition from cold winters with limited daylight and moderate UV levels to warm summers characterized by prolonged sunlight and heightened UV exposure underscores the region's climatic dynamics. Understanding these patterns is essential for effective agricultural practices, tourism planning, and public health awareness regarding sun safety. As the region continues to exhibit these characteristics, ongoing research and adaptation will be vital to navigate the challenges and opportunities posed by its unique climate.