Ankara Climate

Last updated: January 18, 2025

Ankara, Turkey, is characterized by a diverse climate classified under the Köppen-Geiger system as Cfb, Csb, and Csa. This unique climate presents a rich temperature range, with winter lows reaching a chilling -23°C (-9°F) in February, juxtaposed against soaring summer highs of 42°C (107°F) in July. The average annual temperature hovers around 12°C (54°F), capturing the essence of Ankara's distinct seasonal variations. This interplay of temperatures not only shapes the local ecosystem but also influences the cultural and social dynamics of the city throughout the year.

Ankara temperature by month

Ankara, Turkey, experiences pronounced seasonal temperature shifts, reflecting its continental climate. The winter months, particularly January and February, present frigid conditions with minimum temperatures plummeting as low as -23°C (-9°F), while average temperatures remain around 0°C (33°F). As spring approaches in March and April, temperatures gradually rise, showcasing a transition marked by warmer days and an increase in maximums that can reach 31°C (88°F). The city enters summer with July and August peaking at extreme highs of 42°C (107°F) and 41°C (105°F), accompanied by more consistently warm averages. By September, a shift back to cooler weather begins, culminating in October and November, where temperatures decrease significantly, highlighting the cycle of seasonal variation. By December, winter returns with average temperatures hovering around 3°C (39°F), embracing Ankara's distinct and dynamic climate throughout the year.

Monthly Temperatures in Ankara, Turkey

The chart illustrates Ankara's temperature patterns throughout the year, with values aggregated from various locations across the region. It highlights seasonal variations and temperature changes across the months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec333842526167747568574538
Data source: Ankara temperature data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.
Choose your preferred temperature unit
The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

Kizilcahamam experiences a temperature range from a minimum of -19°C (-2°F) in February to a maximum of 36°C (97°F) in September, making it one of the cooler locations in the region. In comparison, both Ankara and Cankaya record a similar minimum temperature of -16°C (4°F) in January and reach peaks of 38°C (101°F) in September. For more detailed monthly temperatures, refer to the links: monthly temperatures in Kizilcahamam, monthly temperatures in Ankara, and monthly temperatures in Cankaya.

Precipitation Patterns in Ankara

Ankara, Turkey, experiences a distinct precipitation pattern that reflects its continental climate, with the majority of rainfall concentrated in the winter and spring months. January sees the highest precipitation at 55 mm (2.1 in), followed closely by December with 63 mm (2.5 in), emphasizing the wet season's dominance. March also contributes significantly with 58 mm (2.3 in), while April and May continue the trend with 35 mm (1.4 in) and 52 mm (2.1 in), respectively. These months typically witness around 8 to 10 days of precipitation, creating a lush environment before the hotter summer months.

As summer approaches, the rainfall dramatically decreases, with July receiving only 10 mm (0.4 in) and August slightly higher at 12 mm (0.5 in), along with minimal rainy days—just 1 to 2 during this period. The trend of reduced precipitation persists into early autumn, with September and October each recording only 12 mm (0.5 in) and 22 mm (0.9 in), before a slight uptick in November to 31 mm (1.2 in). Overall, Ankara's precipitation is marked by a clear seasonal variation, with a wet winter and spring giving way to a dry summer, encapsulating the region's climatic character.

Monthly Average Precipitation in Ankara, Turkey

The average monthly precipitation in Ankara, providing insights into seasonal rainfall patterns and the region's precipitation trends throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec553858355253111212223163
Data source: Ankara precipitation data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.
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Sunshine Duration in Ankara

Ankara, Turkey, experiences a notable variation in sunshine duration throughout the year, showcasing a clear seasonal trend that reflects its continental climate. During the winter months, sunshine is relatively sparse, with January receiving only 190 hours of bright sunlight. This gradually increases, peaking in the spring; February sees 249 hours, and by March, the city enjoys 310 hours of sunshine, culminating in April with 329 hours. These months are crucial for the transition from the cold winter to the warmer spring, offering an increase in daylight that contributes to the blooming of local flora.

As summer approaches, sunshine reaches its zenith in July, providing an impressive 427 hours of sunlight, making it the sunniest month of the year. August maintains substantial sunlight with 399 hours, while September begins a steady decline, dropping to 348 hours. The decrease continues into the autumn months, with October and November recording 316 hours and 268 hours, respectively. This overall pattern illustrates a vibrant cycle of increasing daylight during the warmer months, followed by a gradual retreat as winter sets in, underscoring Ankara’s dynamic climatic conditions and the influence of sunshine on the city’s activities and lifestyle.

Monthly Sunshine in Ankara, Turkey

Monthly sunshine duration represents the total hours of direct sunlight Ankara receives each month, excluding periods when the sun is obscured by clouds or other obstructions.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec190h249h310h329h393h404h427h399h348h316h268h234h
Data source: Ankara sunshine duration data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.

Ankara UV Index Trends

The ultraviolet (UV) index in Ankara, Turkey, varies significantly throughout the year, reflecting seasonal changes in sunlight and atmospheric conditions. Starting in January and February, the UV index is moderate at 4 and 5, respectively, allowing for a burn time of 30 minutes. As spring unfolds, there is a dramatic increase in UV intensity, with March surging to 8 and April reaching 9, both categorized as very high. This trend continues into May, where the UV index peaks at 10, indicating the necessity for protective measures during outdoor activities, as burn time decreases to 15 minutes.

Summer in Ankara witnesses the highest UV levels, with the index reaching an extreme 12 in June and maintaining values of 11 in both July and August. During this period, the burn time shortens to just 10 minutes, prompting a heightened awareness of sun safety. As September rolls in, the index drops to 9, followed by a decline in October to 7, moving into high exposure territory. The UV index then reverts to moderate levels in November and December, registering 4 and 3 respectively. This annual cycle illustrates the importance of vigilance against UV radiation, particularly during the peak summer months when sun exposure is most intense.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Ankara, Turkey

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Ankara. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4589101211119743
Data source: Ankara UV Index data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Daylight Hours in Ankara

In Ankara, Turkey, daylight duration exhibits a pronounced seasonal variation throughout the year, beginning with shorter days in the winter months. January and December each provide just 9 hours of daylight, while February offers a slight increase to 10 hours. As spring approaches, the length of daylight begins to extend more significantly, peaking in April with 13 hours of sunlight, and reaching 14 hours in both May and June. This increase not only enriches the environment but also enhances outdoor activities and the overall quality of life during these warmer months.

As summer transitions to autumn, daylight gradually shortens, with July maintaining 14 hours of light before descending to 13 hours in August. By September, daylight decreases to 12 hours, followed by a further reduction to 11 hours in October, signaling the onset of shorter days. November returns to 9 hours, mirroring the winter months. This rhythmic pattern of daylight duration underscores the cyclical nature of the seasons in Ankara, shaping daily routines and outdoor pursuits throughout the year.

Average Monthly Daylight Hours in Ankara, Turkey

This chart shows the total daylight hours Ankara receives each month, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec580h640h717h796h862h896h878h819h744h665h597h561h
Data source: Ankara daylight hours, calculated based on aggregated data for various regional locations, determined by the times between sunrise and sunset.

Climate Highlights of Ankara's Popular Destinations

Ankara, Turkey experiences a continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. January is the coldest month, with average temperatures around 1°C (34°F) and significant precipitation of 55 mm. Summers, particularly in July and August, can reach maximum temperatures of up to 38°C (100°F) while experiencing minimal rainfall. The city enjoys a substantial amount of sunshine, peaking in July with 428 hours. For more detailed information, visit Ankara climate.

Beypazari, Turkey experiences a diverse climate with cold winters and warm summers. January and February are notably chilly, with average temperatures around 0°C (32°F) and 3°C (37°F) respectively, while summer months like July and August peak at average temperatures of 23°C (73°F) to 37°C (99°F). Precipitation varies throughout the year, with the wettest months being January and December, receiving 60 mm and 71 mm of rainfall respectively. The region enjoys ample sunshine, particularly in the summer, where July boasts approximately 424 hours of sun. For more detailed information, visit Beypazari climate.

Cankaya, Turkey, experiences a diverse climate with cold winters and hot summers. January temperatures can drop to -16°C (4°F) while reaching up to 18°C (65°F), with an average of 1°C (34°F). In contrast, July sees highs of 38°C (100°F), accompanied by significantly less rainfall of only 8 mm (0.3 in). The area enjoys abundant sunshine, particularly in the summer months, peaking at 428 hours in July. For more details, visit Cankaya climate.

The climate in Guvem, Turkey, is characterized by cold winters and warm summers. Winter months, particularly January and February, see minimum temperatures dropping as low as -19°C (-2°F), while summers experience maximum temperatures soaring to 36°C (97°F) in July and September. Precipitation is highest in late spring and early summer, peaking at 90 mm (3.5 in) in June, while sunshine hours are abundant during the summer months, reaching up to 426 hours in July. Overall, Guvem offers a diverse climate appealing to various seasonal activities. For more detailed information, visit Guvem climate.

Kizilcahamam, Turkey experiences a varied climate throughout the year, characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January sees temperatures ranging from -18°C to 15°C, with significant snowfall and average precipitation peaking at 62 mm in March. As summer approaches, July and August deliver warmer conditions, with highs around 36°C and less rainfall at 18 mm and 21 mm, respectively. The region enjoys ample sunshine, particularly in the summer months, with July averaging 426 hours. For more detailed information, visit Kizilcahamam climate.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Ankara, Turkey, presents a dynamic climate characterized by significant seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV index, and daylight hours. The city experiences cold winters with ample precipitation and moderate sunshine, transitioning into warm summers marked by high temperatures, extended daylight, and extreme UV levels. These climatic and environmental factors not only influence the city's natural landscape but also dictate the lifestyle and activities of its residents. Understanding these seasonal patterns is crucial for both locals and visitors, ensuring that they can fully appreciate and adapt to the unique climate of Ankara throughout the year.

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