Last updated: January 18, 2025
Ulsan, South Korea, exhibits a Cfa climate classification, characterized by its distinct seasonal variations. The region experiences a minimum temperature of -12°C (11°F) in January, emphasizing the cold winter months. As the year progresses, average temperatures reach a comfortable 15°C (59°F), culminating in hot summer peaks with maximum temperatures soaring to 36°C (98°F) in August. This combination of cold winters and warm, humid summers underpin Ulsan's unique climatic identity.
In Ulsan, South Korea, temperature patterns reveal a clear seasonal rhythm. The year begins with the coldest winter months of January and February, where minimum temperatures can plummet to -12°C (11°F) and -9°C (15°F), respectively, before gradually warming through early spring. March marks a transition with monthly averages rising to 9°C (49°F), setting the stage for a pleasant spring. By April and May, temperatures escalate significantly, with average highs reaching 26°C (80°F) and 33°C (92°F), ushering in the summer heat. The peak summer months of July and August see maximum temperatures consistently hitting 36°C (98°F), accompanied by high humidity. As autumn arrives, temperatures begin to dip again in September, with averages of 22°C (73°F), before cooler trends dominate in October and November. The year closes with the return of colder temperatures in December, continuing the cycle of Ulsan's climate.
Ulsan experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year, with January seeing lows dip to a frigid -12°C (11°F) and August peaking at a scorching 36°C (98°F). This significant temperature variation highlights the continental climate of the region, making it essential to prepare for both extreme cold and heat. For detailed monthly temperature information, refer to the link: monthly temperatures in Ulsan.
Ulsan, South Korea, experiences a distinctive precipitation pattern throughout the year, characterized by sharply varying monthly totals. The year starts relatively dry, with January and February receiving 32 mm (1.2 in) and 39 mm (1.5 in), respectively, and only a handful of rainy days. As spring approaches, March and April bring a noticeable increase in rainfall, reaching approximately 86 mm (3.4 in) and 87 mm (3.4 in), correlated with an uptick in rainy days (8 days each month). This trend continues into May, albeit with slight decreases in total rainfall, highlighting a transition into the wetter summer months.
The summer months of June, July, and August are Ulsan's wettest, with precipitation peaking in July at an impressive 244 mm (9.6 in). This period is marked by frequent rain, accompanied by significant humidity, as evidenced by an average of 14 to 15 rainy days. September retains high rainfall levels at 236 mm (9.3 in) before transitioning into drier autumn conditions, with only 100 mm (3.9 in) in October. As the year concludes, November and December see reduced precipitation, with totals dropping to 21 mm (0.8 in) and 23 mm (0.9 in), aligning with fewer rainy days, thus closing the cycle of Ulsan's climatic variability.
In Ulsan, South Korea, sunshine duration follows a clear seasonal progression, with a notable increase from winter to summer. The year begins with relatively low sunshine hours, with January offering just 197 hours of sunlight. As February arrives, this figure rises to 242 hours, signaling the gradual approach of spring. March continues this upward trend, reaching 272 hours, while April and May emerge as the peak months for sunshine. May stands out with a remarkable 307 hours of sun, making it one of the brightest months, just slightly eclipsed by April’s average of 284 hours.
As summer unfolds, Ulsan maintains a robust sunshine presence, with June providing 306 hours followed by July and August, which still offer considerable sunshine at 283 hours and 299 hours, respectively. However, as autumn sets in, the daylight hours begin to decline, dropping to 248 hours in September and further to 238 hours by November. Despite this decrease, the year concludes with 244 hours of sunshine in December, reflecting a stable, albeit lesser extent of sunlight as winter approaches. Overall, the climate of Ulsan showcases vibrant summer days contrasted by the quieter, less sunny months of winter and late autumn.
In Ulsan, South Korea, the UV Index demonstrates significant seasonal fluctuations, reflecting the region's varying exposure to solar radiation throughout the year. Early in the year, January and December register a moderate UV Index of 3, allowing for approximately 30 minutes of safe sun exposure. As winter transitions into spring, February experiences an increase to an Index of 5, still categorized as moderate. However, March ushers in a notable shift, with a peak to 7, indicating a high level of UV radiation and a reduced burn time of 25 minutes. The intensity climbs further in April and May, reaching a very high UV Index of 10, where sunburns can occur in as little as 15 minutes.
The summer months present the highest UV exposure, with June, July, and August all experiencing an extreme UV Index of 11 to 12. During this peak period, individuals should be cautious, as they can incur damage in just 10 minutes of sun exposure. As autumn approaches, the UV Index gradually declines, yet September retains a very high level at 10, still necessitating vigilant sun protection. By October, the Index drops back to 7, signaling a return to high UV exposure while November and December return to moderate levels. This seasonal variation underscores the importance of UV awareness and sun safety practices, particularly during the intense summer months.
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In Ulsan, South Korea, daylight duration exhibits notable seasonal variations, reflecting the changing length of days throughout the year. The year begins with a consistent 10 hours of daylight in both January and February, providing ample light for winter activities. As spring arrives, daylight hours gradually increase, with March experiencing an uptick to 11 hours. This rise continues into April, where days extend to 13 hours, and further into May, which boasts a maximum of 14 hours of daylight—perfect for outdoor pursuits.
As summer approaches, Ulsan maintains the 14 hours of daylight in June, July, and even through August, ensuring long and bright days for residents and visitors alike. However, as autumn sets in, daylight duration begins to decline, with September dropping to 12 hours and further reducing to 11 hours by October. The year concludes with shorter days, with November reverting to 10 hours of daylight and December, the shortest month, offering only 9 hours. This pattern of daylight duration highlights Ulsan’s distinct seasonal transitions, shaping daily life and activities throughout the year.
Ulsan, South Korea experiences a diverse climate throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from a frigid -12°C (11°F) in January to a warm 36°C (98°F) in July and August. The city sees considerable rainfall, particularly during the summer months, with July averaging 244 mm (9.6 in) of precipitation. Ulsan enjoys substantial sunshine, peaking at 307 hours in May, contributing to its vibrant seasonal changes. Overall, the climate offers a mixture of cold winters and hot summers, ideal for various outdoor activities. For more details, visit Ulsan climate.
In summary, Ulsan, South Korea, presents a diverse and dynamic climate characterized by distinct seasonal trends in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours. The city experiences cold winters with significant fluctuations in sunshine and UV exposure, transitioning to warm and humid summers abundant in sunlight and elevated UV levels. This seasonal rhythm not only influences local weather patterns but also shapes the lifestyles and activities of Ulsan’s residents. Understanding these climatic characteristics is essential for effective planning, outdoor activities, and health precautions throughout the year, ensuring a harmonious interaction with the natural environment.