Last updated: April 14, 2025
Ukraine's climate exhibits a diverse range of temperatures and precipitation patterns that influence its distinct seasons. Winter temperatures can plunge to a chilling minimum of -28°C (-18°F) in January, recorded in Luhansk, while summers can reach scorching highs of 41°C (106°F) in August, as seen in Mykolayiv Oblast. Monthly precipitation varies significantly, with minimal rainfall of just 16 mm (0.6 in) in August in Sevastopol City contrasting sharply with the deluge of 140 mm (5.5 in) experienced in June in Ivano-Frankivsk Oblast. Humidity levels also fluctuate dramatically, averaging a dry 40% in August in Zaporizhzhya Oblast and rising to a staggering 94% in December in Sumy, reflecting the country's dynamic and varied climate throughout the year.
Ukraine showcases a diverse tapestry of climate zones, primarily classified according to the Köppen-Geiger Climate System. The majority of the country, including regions like Cherkasy Oblast, Chernihiv, and Kyiv City, falls under the Dfb category, characterized by warm summers and cold winters. Meanwhile, areas such as Chernivtsi Oblast and Transcarpathia enjoy a mix of Dfb, Cfb, and Dfc climates, which allow for lush vegetation and milder temperatures. The southern regions, notably Crimea and cities like Odessa and Sevastopol City, embrace a warm Cfa and Cfb climate, perfect for agricultural activities and a vibrant coastal lifestyle. Observing these zones reveals how Ukraine's varied climate influences its culture, agriculture, and natural beauty.
| Climate Zone | Description |
|---|---|
| Cfa | Humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. |
| Cfb | Oceanic climate with mild temperatures and moderate rainfall year-round. |
| Dfa | Humid continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. |
| Dfb | Humid continental climate with warm summers and cold winters. |
| Dfc | Subarctic climate with cold, long winters and short, mild summers. |
Ukraine's climate reflects an intriguing tapestry of temperatures throughout the year, showcasing extremes from biting cold to sweltering heat. January kicks off with frigid lows, plunging to -28°C (-18°F) in Luhansk, while Crimea enjoys milder temperatures peaking at 16°C (61°F). As winter wanes into February, temperatures slightly rise, with Kirovohrad Oblast recording a minimum of -27°C (-15°F) and the coastal city of Odessa reaching up to 19°C (67°F). March heralds the onset of spring, revealing a notable warmth with highs of 25°C (78°F) in Crimea and lows of -25°C (-12°F) in the Ivano-Frankivsk Oblast. As the months roll on, temperatures steadily rise, peaking in July with scorching highs of 39°C (103°F) in Luhansk and August witnessing a staggering 41°C (106°F) in Mykolayiv Oblast. The warmer months invite pleasant shifts, with cool nights reflected in September and October, where nighttime lows drop to as low as -7°C (19°F). As autumn dwindles into winter, December brings chill again, with Donetsk Oblast experiencing lows of -25°C (-12°F) but still maintaining a mild peak of 19°C (66°F) in Crimea. This diverse range of temperatures showcases Ukraine's incredible seasonal contrast, making it a land of both harsh winters and vibrant summers.
In Ukraine, precipitation patterns reveal a notable seasonal variation, with June typically showcasing the highest rainfall, averaging around 140 mm (5.5 in) in Ivano-Frankivsk Oblast. This month is characterized not just by its abundance of water but also by an increased frequency of precipitation days, particularly pronounced in May when Lviv Oblast experiences up to 18 rainy days. On the other end of the spectrum, August marks a drier period, especially in Sevastopol City, with minimal rainfall of just 16 mm (0.6 in) and only 3 days of precipitation. This trend illustrates a clear shift from a wet spring into a comparatively dry summer, highlighting the diverse climate dynamics present across Ukraine’s regions throughout the year.
In Ukraine, humidity levels show notable seasonal variation, reflecting the diverse climate across the regions. In the summer, August in Zaporizhzhya Oblast experiences a relatively benign minimum humidity of 40%, providing a comfortable atmosphere that contrasts sharply with the winter months. In stark contrast, December sees humidity soar to a staggering maximum of 94% in Sumy, creating a damp and chilly environment. This fluctuation highlights the significant impact of Ukraine's continental climate, where air moisture transitions from dry summer days to the heavy, moisture-laden atmosphere of winter.
In June, Ukraine experiences notable variations in its ultraviolet index (UVI) across different regions. Kyiv City sees an average daily maximum UVI of 8, indicating a strong potential for sun exposure that residents should be mindful of. In comparison, Chernivtsi Oblast boasts an even higher average daily max UVI of 9, reflecting increased UV intensity in that area. These trends highlight the importance of sun safety practices for Ukrainians, particularly during the peak summer months when protective measures become essential to mitigate the effects of UV radiation.
UV Risk Categories
Sunshine duration across Ukraine reveals a striking contrast between the cold winter months and the warm summer days. In December, Sumy experiences a modest 74 hours of sunshine, while Chernivtsi Oblast enjoys significantly more at 152 hours, showcasing regional variations even in the depths of winter. However, the tables turn dramatically in July, with both Ivano-Frankivsk Oblast and Poltava Oblast basking in substantial sunlight—416 hours and 441 hours, respectively. This trend underscores the vibrant summer climate in Ukraine, where longer daylight hours foster a lively atmosphere, in stark contrast to the gloom of winter's shorter days.
In Ukraine, the likelihood of sunny weather varies dramatically across the seasons and regions. In the colder month of January, cities like Kharkiv experience a mere 7% chance of sunny days, reflecting the harsh winter conditions typical of this time. In stark contrast, July brings a vibrant 76% likelihood of sunshine in Sevastopol City, highlighting the country's warm summer appeal. This stark seasonal shift underscores Ukraine's diverse climate, making it a fascinating destination for those yearning to bask in the summer sun or embrace the winter chill.
Daylight hours in Ukraine exhibit a striking contrast between the seasons, particularly evident in Chernihiv. In December, residents experience a mere 7 hours of daylight, as winter's grip shortens the sun's presence. However, come June, this changes dramatically, with daylight extending to an impressive 16 hours, allowing for vibrant summer evenings. This clear trend highlights the seasonal variations that shape daily life in Chernihiv, influencing everything from outdoor activities to energy consumption.
Nestled in central Ukraine, Cherkasy Oblast experiences a continental climate marked by cold winters and warm summers. In January, temperatures can plummet to -24°C (-11°F), while July enjoys highs around 36°C (97°F), illustrating the region's significant seasonal variation. Precipitation peaks during the summer months, with July and June receiving around 70 mm (2.7 in) of rainfall, while winter months remain less humid, hovering around 89% to 92%. The climate fosters a unique landscape, vibrant with seasonal changes that invite exploration throughout the year. For more detailed information, visit Cherkasy Oblast climate.
Chernihiv experiences a distinct continental climate, characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January brings biting temperatures, often plunging to a chilling -26°C (-14°F), while the summer months see averages around 21°C (69°F), peaking at a steamy 38°C (101°F) in June. Precipitation varies across the year, with July typically being the wettest month, receiving about 80 mm (3.2 in), while drier months like February average only 42 mm (1.7 in). During winter, high humidity levels of 92% contribute to a frosty feel, whereas the summer air, though still humid, becomes more bearable. For more detailed insights, explore the Chernihiv climate.
Chernivtsi Oblast experiences a dynamic climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January and February see chilling temperatures, dipping as low as -24°C (-11°F), while May and August bring more pleasant highs, reaching up to 38°C (100°F). With varying precipitation throughout the year, moisture peaks in June at 117 mm (4.6 in), contributing to a humid atmosphere that typically descends from 93% in January to a comfortable 60% by August. This region's unique weather patterns create a vibrant, ever-changing landscape; for more detailed insights, visit Chernivtsi Oblast climate.
The climate in Crimea showcases a diverse range of temperatures throughout the year, from the brisk chill of January, with lows plunging to -17°C (2°F), to the sweltering summer months of July and August, where highs can reach up to 40°C (104°F). While winters are characterized by high humidity around 85%, summers offer a more pleasant climate with humidity dropping to about 56%. Rainfall varies, peaking in June at 58 mm, ensuring vibrant landscapes. As the seasons change, Crimea transitions from enchanting snowy vistas to sun-kissed beaches, making it a captivating destination year-round. For detailed insights, visit Crimea climate.
Dnipropetrovsk Oblast experiences a continental climate with stark contrasts between the chilly winters and warm summers. January and February bring biting cold, with temperatures sometimes plummeting to -26°C (-15°F), while summer months, particularly July and August, can soar to a sweltering 38°C (100°F). Throughout the year, humidity varies significantly, peaking during the winter at 90% and dipping as low as 47% in August, creating a noticeable difference in comfort levels. Precipitation is fairly consistent, with May and June being the wettest months, accumulating around 55 mm (2.2 in) and 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, respectively. For an in-depth look at the region's climate, visit Dnipropetrovsk Oblast climate.
The climate in Donetsk Oblast experiences a striking contrast throughout the year, with bitterly cold winters and sweltering summers. January temperatures can plummet to a chilling -28°C (-18°F), while July showcases highs reaching 39°C (102°F), making it one of the hottest months. Precipitation varies, with January receiving about 50 mm (2.0 in), gradually tapering off toward the late summer months; August experiences the least rain at just 33 mm (1.3 in). Humidity levels fluctuate significantly, peaking around 90% in February and dipping to 42% in August, contributing to the region's diverse weather experience. For a comprehensive overview, visit Donetsk Oblast climate.
The climate in Ivano-Frankivsk Oblast showcases a dramatic range of temperatures throughout the year, with January bringing frigid lows of -24°C (-12°F) and July heating up to a sizzling 35°C (95°F). Humidity levels fluctuate, peaking at 92% in January and dropping to a more comfortable 60% in August, while precipitation is highest in May and June, with around 132 mm (5.2 in) and 140 mm (5.5 in) respectively. These varied weather patterns offer a picturesque backdrop for exploring the stunning natural landscapes of the region. For a deeper dive into local climate characteristics, visit Ivano-Frankivsk Oblast climate.
Kharkiv experiences a continental climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January and February can bring frigid temperatures as low as -27°C (-17°F), while summer months, particularly July and August, see highs reaching up to 38°C (100°F). The city is quite humid in winter, with levels peaking at 92% in February, but it significantly drops to around 47% during the hotter months. Precipitation varies throughout the year, with May and July typically receiving the most rain, totaling up to 62 mm (2.4 in). Discover more about the intriguing complexities of Kharkiv's weather in detail at Kharkiv climate.
The climate in Kherson Oblast, Ukraine, is characterized by its stark seasonal contrasts, with January temperatures plummeting to a minimum of -20°C (-4°F), then gradually warming to an average of 10°C (51°F) by April. The region enjoys a notable warm spell from May to August, where highs can reach up to 39°C (102°F), particularly in July. Rainfall varies throughout the year, peaking in June with 58 mm (2.3 in), while the summer months experience lower humidity, dropping to 45% in August. For a more detailed overview of this dynamic climate, visit Kherson Oblast climate.
Khmelnytskyy Oblast experiences a distinct continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. January's temperatures can plunge to a frigid -27°C (-16°F), while July peaks at a hot 34°C (93°F), perfect for sun-seekers. Precipitation is heaviest in late spring to summer, with May receiving up to 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, contributing to lush landscapes. The humidity varies throughout the year, starting high in winter at around 93% and easing to about 60% in the warmest months. For more detailed information, explore the Khmelnytskyy Oblast climate.
Kiev's climate showcases a stark contrast between its frigid winters and warm summers. January and February bring chilling temperatures, often plummeting to around -26°C (-15°F), while the average temperature hovers just below freezing. As spring approaches, temperatures gradually rise, reaching a pleasant 9°C (49°F) in April and culminating in delightful 15°C (59°F) by May. The summer months see highs around 35°C (95°F) in July and August, accompanied by moderate humidity that offers relief from the heat. For a detailed look into the city's yearly weather patterns, explore the full details on Kiev climate.
Kirovohrad Oblast experiences a continental climate marked by significant seasonal contrasts. Winters are harsh, with January temperatures reaching as low as -25°C (-12°F) and high humidity, while summers are warm, peaking in July with temperatures soaring to 38°C (101°F). The region sees a fair amount of precipitation, especially in late spring and early summer, with June averaging 67 mm (2.6 in). As humidity levels fluctuate throughout the year, the crisp air of winter gives way to the lush warmth of summer, making the climate uniquely vibrant. For more detailed information, visit the Kirovohrad Oblast climate.
Kyiv experiences a continental climate characterized by stark seasonal contrasts. Winters are notably cold, with January temperatures plummeting to -25°C (-13°F), while summers can be quite warm, peaking at around 35°C (95°F) in June and July. Precipitation varies throughout the year, with July often taking the crown, receiving about 88 mm (3.5 in) of rainfall. Humidity typically remains high in winter, averaging around 92%, but drops significantly during the warmer months, making those sunny days feel pleasantly refreshing. For a closer look at seasonal patterns, visit Kyiv City climate.
Luhansk, Ukraine, experiences a diverse climate that showcases both extremes and mild interludes throughout the year. Winters can be particularly harsh, with January temperatures plunging as low as -28°C (-18°F), while summers can sizzle, reaching highs of 39°C (102°F) in July. Precipitation varies seasonally, peaking in late spring, and the air remains damp, especially in winter, with humidity levels often exceeding 90%. As the seasons shift, locals enjoy the refreshing bloom of spring and the vibrant hues of autumn, each adding a unique charm to this resilient city. For more about the fluctuating climate of Luhansk, visit Luhansk climate.
Lviv Oblast experiences a dynamic climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. In January, temperatures can plunge to a chilling -25°C (-12°F), while the summer months of June and July bring much warmer days, often reaching up to 36°C (97°F). Precipitation varies throughout the year, peaking in May with 119 mm (4.7 in), making it the wettest month. The region’s humidity also shifts dramatically, with January witnessing 92% humidity, signaling the damp chill of winter. For a more detailed look at the weather patterns throughout the year, check out the Lviv Oblast climate.
Mykolayiv Oblast experiences a continental climate marked by cold winters and warm summers. In January, temperatures can plunge to a chilling -23°C (-10°F), while July sees the mercury soar to a scorching 39°C (102°F). The region witnesses a fluctuation in humidity, peaking at 88% in January and dropping to a pleasant 47% in August, contributing to a diverse weather experience year-round. Precipitation varies throughout the seasons, with July typically receiving the highest rainfall at 52 mm (2.0 in). For a deeper exploration of the weather patterns, visit Mykolayiv Oblast climate.
Odessa, Ukraine, experiences a diverse climate marked by cold winters and warm summers. In January, temperatures dip to a brisk average of -1°C (31°F), but by July, the mercury can soar to an impressive 37°C (99°F). Alongside these temperature shifts, the city witnesses varying humidity levels, peaking at 88% in winter months and dropping to 50% during the summer, which can create a humid tropical feel during hot days. Precipitation is also noteworthy, with June being the wettest month, receiving 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain. To delve deeper into the seasonal nuances of this vibrant coastal city, explore more about its climate at Odessa climate.
The climate in Poltava Oblast, Ukraine, exhibits a striking contrast between frigid winters and warm summers. January and February can bring chilling temperatures as low as -25°C (-13°F), accompanied by high humidity, making the cold feel even more biting. As the seasons transition into spring, temperatures rise, with April averaging 9°C (49°F) and May basking in the warmth of 16°C (60°F). By summer, the region can sizzle under maximum temperatures reaching up to 36°C (97°F) in July and August, while precipitation varies, peaking in lush May and December. For a deeper dive into the nuances of the weather throughout the year, visit the Poltava Oblast climate.
Rivne, Ukraine, experiences a diverse climate, shifting dramatically between winter's biting cold and summer's warmth. January starts off with frigid temperatures, dipping as low as -24°C (-11°F), while July sees averages around a comfortable 20°C (68°F), peaking at 35°C (96°F). The city is characterized by significant humidity, especially in winter months, often reaching 93% in January and 90% in February. Precipitation is plentiful, particularly in the summer when July averages 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain, ensuring Rivne's lush landscapes thrive. For more insights on weather patterns throughout the year, visit Rivne climate.
Sevastopol City, nestled on the picturesque coast of Ukraine, experiences a highly varied climate that showcases the beauty of all four seasons. Winters can be quite chilly, with January temperatures dipping to a frosty -13°C (9°F), while summers bring warmth and sunshine, reaching sizzling highs of 34°C (94°F) in July and 38°C (101°F) in August. The city enjoys relatively low precipitation during the summer months, with August averaging just 16 mm (0.6 in), while winters, particularly December, can be quite wet with 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain. Humidity levels shift throughout the year, ranging from a low of 57% in August to a high of 85% in January, creating a unique atmosphere that enchants visitors and locals alike. For more details on Sevastopol's climate, check the Sevastopol City climate.
Sumy's climate is characterized by cold winters and warm summers, providing a diverse range of temperatures throughout the year. In January, temperatures can plunge to a chilling -27°C (-16°F), while July brings the heat with highs reaching 35°C (95°F). Precipitation varies, with the wettest months being May and July, which see about 71 mm (2.8 in) and 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, respectively. Despite the humidity being quite high during the winter months, July and August offer more comfortable conditions with levels dropping to around 50%. For a detailed overview of what to expect throughout the seasons, check out Sumy climate.
Ternopil Oblast experiences a dynamic climate shaped by distinct seasons. Winters can be quite severe, with January temperatures plunging as low as -21°C (-6°F), while summer showcases a more vibrant side, boasting maximums reaching 37°C (98°F) in August. This region is characterized by a high humidity level, averaging around 90% in the winter months and decreasing to about 61% in the summer. Precipitation varies throughout the year, with a notable peak in May, making it one of the wetter months. For more insights into the region’s weather patterns, visit the detailed Ternopil Oblast climate.
Transcarpathia, Ukraine, experiences a diverse climate that showcases both the chill of winter and the warmth of summer. January and February bring frigid temperatures, with averages hovering around -3°C (27°F) and peaks reaching 12°C (54°F). As spring approaches in March and April, the region begins to warm, with highs soaring up to 30°C (87°F) by the end of April. However, the summer months of July and August can be intense, boasting temperatures that peak effortlessly at 39°C (103°F) and high humidity levels that create a sultry atmosphere. For those interested in exploring this region’s climate, a detailed overview can be found at Transcarpathia climate.
Nestled in Ukraine, Vinnytsya Oblast experiences a dynamic climate marked by stark seasonal contrasts. Winters, from January to February, can plunge to as low as -24°C (-10°F), enveloped in high humidity, while summers sizzle with temperatures reaching up to 36°C (97°F) in August. The region sees a moderate amount of precipitation, particularly in May and June, contributing to lush greenery. The transitional months of spring and autumn bring milder temperatures and an invigorating freshness, making them delightful times to explore. For an in-depth look at the area's weather patterns, visit Vinnytsya Oblast climate.
Volyn, Ukraine, experiences a diverse climate, marked by cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures can plunge to -24°C (-11°F), while July often brings sweltering highs of up to 38°C (100°F). Rainfall is heaviest in the summer months, peaking in July with 97 mm (3.8 in), creating a lush landscape, while spring and autumn see milder conditions with moderate humidity levels. Overall, the region's annual cycle provides a unique blend of seasonal beauty, making it a captivating destination. For more detailed insights, check the Volyn climate.
The climate in Zaporizhzhya Oblast showcases a dramatic seasonal range, with winter temperatures plummeting as low as -26°C (-14°F) in January and gradually warming to a comfortable 32°C (89°F) by May. Summers can be quite hot, especially in July and August, where highs can reach up to 39°C (102°F), making the region perfect for those who enjoy the warmth. Precipitation varies throughout the year, peaking in late spring and early summer, with humidity levels dropping to their lowest during the summer months. This diversity in climate makes Zaporizhzhya Oblast an intriguing destination, offering distinct experiences across all four seasons. For more details, check out the Zaporizhzhya Oblast climate.
Zhytomyr, Ukraine, experiences a varied climate characterized by its cold winters and warm summers. January and February see frigid temperatures, with averages around -3°C (28°F) in January, while highs can reach up to 12°C (53°F) in February. As spring arrives, temperatures gradually climb, peaking in July and August at a warm average of 20°C (69°F) amidst the highest humidity levels. Rainfall is most abundant in May and July, contributing to the lush greenery of the region. For more detailed information about the weather patterns throughout the year, check out the Zhytomyr climate.
The climate of Ukraine showcases a striking contrast between its extremes, with temperatures plummeting to a chilly -28°C (-18°F) in January in Luhansk and soaring to a sweltering 41°C (106°F) in August in Mykolayiv Oblast. This variability is reflected not only in temperature but also in precipitation patterns, where June brings a deluge of up to 140 mm (5.5 in) in Ivano-Frankivsk Oblast, contrasting sharply with the drier August months that see as little as 16 mm (0.6 in) in Sevastopol City. Additionally, humidity levels peak at a staggering 94% in December in Sumy, while dropping to a more comfortable 40% in the height of summer in Zaporizhzhya Oblast. These trends highlight not only the diverse weather patterns across the nation but also the impact of seasonal changes on daily life in Ukraine.