Last updated: April 14, 2025
Turkmenistan's climate is marked by extreme temperatures and variable precipitation, creating a unique environmental backdrop. In December, temperatures can plummet to a biting -21°C (-6°F) in Daşoguz, while the summer heat soars to a scorching 48°C (119°F) in Ahal. Rainfall is scarce, with August witnessing a stark 0 mm (0.0 in) of precipitation in Mary, yet April brings a notable peak of 76 mm (3.0 in) in Ahal. Humidity levels also fluctuate significantly, plummeting to an average minimum of 16% in July in Mary and rising to a maximum of 71% in December in Balkan. This diverse climatic range shapes the region's ecosystems and influences daily life for its inhabitants.
Turkmenistan's climate is characterized by a range of Köppen-Geiger climate classes, primarily falling into semi-arid (BSk) and arid (BWk) categories. The Ahal region blends BSk and BWk climates, while the capital city, Ashgabat, embraces a predominantly BSk classification. In the Balkan region, visitors encounter both BWk and BSk climates, contributing to its diverse weather patterns. The Daşoguz area also showcases the BWk climate, reflecting the harsh desert conditions. Meanwhile, Lebap features a mix of BSk and BWk, and Mary offers an intriguing combination of BWk, BSk, and Csa climates, revealing a slight variation towards a Mediterranean influence. Each region's unique climate influences its landscape and livability, making Turkmenistan a fascinating country to explore.
| Climate Zone | Description |
|---|---|
| BSk | Cold semi-arid climate with low rainfall and significant temperature variation. |
| BWk | Cold desert climate with low rainfall and cold temperatures. |
| Csa | Hot-summer Mediterranean climate with dry summers and wet winters. |
Turkmenistan's temperatures showcase a striking range throughout the year, reflecting the country's diverse climate. January ushers in the coldest conditions, with lows plunging to -20°C (-4°F) in Daşoguz and highs of 25°C (78°F) in Mary. As winter fades into February, temperatures start to rise, peaking at 30°C (87°F) in Ahal. March marks a notable shift, with highs reaching 40°C (104°F) in Ahal while still experiencing lows of -13°C (9°F) in Balkan. By April, the heat becomes more pronounced, maintaining highs around 40°C (103°F) in Lebap. May sizzles with maximum temperatures soaring to a blistering 46°C (115°F), while the summer months of June and July see a consistent grip of extreme heat, especially in Ahal, where thermometers can reach 48°C (119°F). The gradual cooling trend begins in September, though highs remain robust at 42°C (108°F). October and November see a dip, with lows reaching -15°C (5°F), while December closes the year with the coldest recorded temperatures of -21°C (-6°F) in Daşoguz and highs of 28°C (83°F) in Ahal. Overall, Turkmenistan experiences a dramatic climate transformation, fluctuating from chilling winter lows to scorching summer highs, illustrating the intensity of its continental climate.
Precipitation patterns in Turkmenistan reveal a striking contrast throughout the year. The driest month, August, records a complete lack of rainfall in Mary, while the wettest month, April, brings a peak of 76 mm (3.0 in) in Ahal. This notable fluctuation is further highlighted by the number of rainy days, with March experiencing up to 10 days of precipitation in Ahal, juxtaposed against June, which sees no rainfall at all. Such trends underscore the variability of Turkmenistan’s climate, marked by distinct wet and dry seasons that influence both the environment and the lifestyles of its inhabitants.
Turkmenistan experiences a significant range in humidity levels throughout the year, with July showcasing the driest conditions at a minimum of 16% in Mary. This stark contrast shifts dramatically in December, where humidity peaks at 71% in Balkan, reflecting the country's seasonal variations. The transition from the arid heat of summer to the moist winter months highlights the diverse climatic conditions across the region, which can impact both daily life and agricultural practices.
Turkmenistan experiences notable variations in UV Index (UVI) trends, particularly during the peak summer month of July. In the northern region of Daşoguz, the average daily maximum UVI reaches a significant 10, indicating a high level of solar intensity that demands sun protection. Meanwhile, the central city of Mary surpasses this figure, with an average daily maximum UVI soaring to 12. This trend highlights not only the intensity of sunlight during the summer months but also the variation across different regions, emphasizing the importance of awareness and protective measures against UV exposure as temperatures soar.
UV Risk Categories
Turkmenistan enjoys a significant variation in sunshine duration throughout the year, showcasing the country's distinct seasonal character. In January, the sun shines 187 hours in Daşoguz and a more generous 219 hours in Ashgabat, hinting at the capital's slightly milder winter climate. However, the real brilliance comes in July, when sunshine peaks dramatically; Balkan basks under 406 hours of sun while Daşoguz surpasses this with an impressive 417 hours. This striking difference emphasizes not only the intensity of summer days but also the geographical diversity within the country, making Turkmenistan a sun-lover's paradise in the warmer months.
In Turkmenistan, the likelihood of sunny weather varies significantly throughout the year and across regions. For instance, March in Lebap offers a modest 42% chance of sunny skies, hinting at the transition from winter to spring. However, as the year progresses into September in Mary, the sunny weather reaches its peak, boasting an impressive 100% likelihood. This clear trend illustrates the warm embrace of sunshine that envelops the country as it moves into late summer, making autumn an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploration.
In Turkmenistan, the variation in daylight hours is quite notable, with significant changes throughout the year. In December, residents of Daşoguz experience only about 9 hours of daylight, casting a shorter, more subdued atmosphere as winter prevails. Conversely, by June, the situation transforms dramatically, providing nearly 15 hours of sunlight each day, which invites a vibrant and energetic summer vibe. This stark contrast between the winter and summer months underscores the region's diverse seasonal shifts, shaping both daily life and activities throughout the year.
Ahal, Turkmenistan experiences a dramatic climate that shifts from icy winters to scorching summers. January chills with temperatures plunging to -13°C (8°F), while July swelters at highs of up to 48°C (119°F), presenting a stark contrast in seasonal extremes. Rainfall is scarce, especially from June to August, where it drops to almost negligible levels, leading to a dry and arid summer. Humidity levels also fluctuate significantly, from 66% in January to a mere 19% in July, enhancing the region's continental feel. For a deeper dive into Ahal's climate specifics, visit Ahal climate.
Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, experiences a starkly continental climate, characterized by hot summers and cold winters. In January, temperatures can plummet to a chilling -13°C (9°F), while July brings sweltering highs that often reach 46°C (115°F). Precipitation varies significantly throughout the year, with the wettest months occurring in early spring, yet summer remains virtually rain-free, contributing to the parched landscape. Humidity levels also fluctuate, dropping to a mere 19% in the sweltering summer, while winter months see a much higher moisture content. For a more detailed understanding, visit Ashgabat climate.
The climate in Balkan, Turkmenistan experiences striking contrasts, with temperature variations that can be extreme throughout the year. Winters are frigid, dipping as low as -15°C (6°F) in January, while summers sizzle, with highs reaching an astonishing 48°C (118°F) in July. The region has a relatively low annual precipitation, primarily occurring in the cooler months, with March typically being the wettest month at 35 mm (1.4 in). Humidity levels also fluctuate significantly, from a moist 70% in January to a dry 32% in August, creating a sharp distinction between seasons. Despite the dramatic conditions, this climate fosters a unique and resilient landscape, making it a fascinating subject for exploration—more details can be found at Balkan climate.
Daşoguz, Turkmenistan experiences a dramatic climate that shifts from bitterly cold winters to sweltering summers. In January, temperatures can plunge to a chilling -20°C (-4°F), while July often sees highs reaching up to 46°C (116°F). Precipitation is minimal throughout the year, with the driest months being July and August, where rain is almost nonexistent. Despite the extreme temperature variations, humidity levels fluctuate significantly, peaking at 68% in January and dipping to as low as 21% during the peak of summer. For more detailed insights on this fascinating climate, visit Daşoguz climate.
Lebap, Turkmenistan, experiences a dramatic climate marked by extreme temperature fluctuations. In January, temperatures can plummet to a chilling -19°C (2°F), transitioning to sweltering summer highs of 47°C (118°F) in July. Humidity varies significantly throughout the year, reaching a comfortable low of 17% in July but climbing to 69% in December. Precipitation is scarce, with the driest months occurring during the height of summer, where rain is almost nonexistent. For a more in-depth look at this fascinating climatic profile, visit Lebap climate.
Nestled in the heart of Turkmenistan, Mary experiences a climate characterized by stark contrasts. Winters can plunge to a chilling -17°C (1°F) in January, while summer months see soaring temperatures that can reach an astonishing 47°C (118°F) in July. With precipitation peaking in early months, Mary remains predominantly dry from June through September, boasting humidity levels dropping as low as 16% during those hot summer days. For an extensive insight into temperature variations and seasonal trends, check out the detailed Mary climate. Amid this vibrant range of weather, Mary offers a unique charm and scenic beauty that changes with the seasons.
The climate of Turkmenistan exhibits striking extremes, characterized by a wide temperature range and variability in precipitation. In December, temperatures can plummet to a frigid -21°C (-6°F) in Daşoguz, while the scorching heat of July can soar to a blistering 48°C (119°F) in Ahal. Amidst this temperature fluctuation, precipitation patterns reveal their own trends: with April experiencing the highest rainfall, reaching 76 mm (3.0 in) in Ahal, contrasting sharply with the dry spells of August, where Mary sees no precipitation at all. Humidity levels add another layer to the climate’s complexity—July in Mary can feel parched with average humidity dropping to just 16%, while December in Balkan sees a rise in humidity levels to 71%. Together, these elements create a landscape of climatic extremes that define life in Turkmenistan.