Last updated: January 18, 2025
Aksaray, Turkey, showcases a diverse climate characterized by the Köppen-Geiger classifications of Csb (Mediterranean with wet winters) and BSk (semi-arid). Temperature fluctuations are notable, with winter lows plunging to -21°C (-5°F) in January, while summer peaks can reach a scorching 40°C (104°F) in September. The average annual temperature of 13°C (56°F) reflects the region's significant seasonal variations, making Aksaray a typical representation of Southern Europe's transition between temperate and arid climate zones.
The temperature patterns in Aksaray, Turkey, reveal distinct seasonal trends, characterized by harsh winters and warm summers. January and February stand out with extreme minimums dropping to -21°C (-5°F), while daytime highs remain mild, peaking at 21°C (70°F). As spring approaches in March and April, temperatures gradually rise, culminating in May, where averages reach 17°C (63°F) and maximums soar to 35°C (96°F). The summer months of June, July, and August experience peak warmth, with July often recording maximums around 39°C (102°F). In September, the transition to autumn begins, with temperatures cooling but still averaging 21°C (70°F). The fall sees further declines, and by December, Aksaray endures colder spells once again, as minimums descend to -16°C (3°F), signifying the cyclical nature of its climate.
Ortakoy experiences a diverse climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -18°C (0°F) in January to a maximum of 38°C (100°F) in September. This significant variation highlights the region's distinct seasonal changes, making it a unique destination throughout the year. For more detailed information, refer to the monthly temperatures in Ortakoy here.
Precipitation in Aksaray, Turkey, demonstrates a clear seasonal pattern, with the majority of rainfall occurring during the fall and winter months. January leads the way with 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain over approximately 9 days, followed closely by December, which sees the highest monthly total of 61 mm (2.4 in). Notably, March brings a substantial 54 mm (2.1 in), illustrating the importance of spring in the region's hydrology. These wetter months contrast sharply with the dry summer period, particularly in July and August, which register negligible rainfall—3 mm (0.1 in) and 7 mm (0.3 in), respectively.
As the year progresses, a marked decline in precipitation is observed from late spring through late summer. By mid-year, monthly rainfall dips to the lowest levels, with July seeing no measurable precipitation. However, autumn reintroduces rainfall, albeit in modest amounts. By the time October and November arrive, precipitation totals increase again, albeit much lower than winter peaks, contributing to the region's semi-arid classification. Overall, Aksaray’s precipitation patterns reflect a marked shift from wet winters to dry summers, significantly impacting local agriculture and ecosystem dynamics.
Sunshine duration in Aksaray, Turkey, exhibits a clear seasonal progression, reflecting the region's continental climate. The year begins with a modest average of 202 hours of sunshine in January, gradually increasing as spring approaches. By March, sunlight extends to 317 hours, peaking in April with 339 hours, and then hitting a notable milestone in May when the hours soar to 402. This uplifting trend continues into the summer months, culminating in July—Aksaray's sunniest month—boasting 429 hours of bright sunshine, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and agriculture.
As summer wanes, sunshine hours begin to decline, yet remain relatively generous. August still offers 401 hours of sunshine, but by September, this falls to 354 hours. The descent continues into autumn, with October seeing 322 hours and November further diminishing to 273 hours. Although December brings a drop to 248 hours, the overall pattern highlights Aksaray's sunny disposition during the warmer months, making it a notable feature of its climate. This progression not only enhances the beauty of the landscape but also significantly influences local lifestyles and agricultural practices.
The UV Index in Aksaray, Turkey, showcases significant seasonal variations that highlight the importance of sun safety throughout the year. During the winter months of January and February, the UV Index remains moderate at 4 and 5, respectively, allowing for controlled sun exposure with a burn time of 30 minutes. However, as the season shifts toward spring, there is a marked increase in UV radiation, with March and April both recording a very high UV Index of 9, necessitating protective measures with a reduced burn time of just 15 minutes. This trend underscores the need for heightened awareness as outdoor activities increase with the warmer weather.
Summer months present the highest UV Index levels, peaking at 12 in June, when exposure is categorized as extreme and burn time is just 10 minutes. July and August maintain this extreme rating at 11, emphasizing the critical need for adequate sun protection during these peak months. As autumn arrives, there is a gradual decline, with September falling back to a very high index of 9 and October to a high index of 7. By November and December, the UV levels revert to moderate, at 4 and 3, respectively, allowing for safer outdoor exposure as winter approaches. Aksaray's UV Index data illustrates the necessity of adjusting sun protection strategies according to seasonal changes, ensuring health and safety year-round.
UV Risk Categories
Daylight duration in Aksaray, Turkey, exhibits a rhythmic pattern throughout the year, closely tied to the changing seasons. The year starts with shorter days in January, offering just 9 hours of daylight, which gradually increases to 10 hours in February. March marks the transition towards spring, with daylight extending to 11 hours. As the days grow longer, April sees a notable rise to 13 hours, peaking in May and June at 14 hours. This maximum daylight period allows for extended outdoor activities and contributes positively to agricultural practices.
As summer progresses into late July and August, daylight duration remains steady at 14 hours, before tapering off in the fall. September witnesses a slight decrease with 12 hours of daylight, followed by October and November, which see further reductions to 11 and 10 hours, respectively. The cycle completes as December returns to 9 hours of daylight, signaling the onset of winter. This natural ebb and flow of daylight highlights the region's climatic shifts, influencing not only daily life and mood but also the timing of agricultural activities throughout the year.
Ortakoy, Turkey experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures hover between -18°C to 19°C, while July sees highs reaching 37°C. Precipitation varies throughout the year, with the wettest month being December at 64 mm, and significantly low rainfall in July and August. Sunshine is abundant, peaking at 430 hours in July, providing a bright summer experience. For more detailed information, visit Ortakoy climate.
In conclusion, the climatic patterns of Aksaray, Turkey, reveal a dynamic interplay of temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours that significantly shape the region's environment and lifestyle. With noticeable seasonal variations, Aksaray experiences harsh winters with cold temperatures and moderate UV Index levels, transitioning into warm summers defined by extreme sunlight and a heightened need for sun protection. Additionally, the fluctuation in daylight hours—from shorter days in winter to the prolonged daylight of summer—affects both agricultural practices and recreational activities. Understanding these climatic trends is essential for residents and visitors alike, guiding them in adapting to Aksaray's distinctive weather throughout the year.