Zaysan Weather Today

Zaysan, Kazakhstan: Climate and Weather Year Round

Zaysan is a beautiful town located in the Zaysan District of the East Kazakhstan Region in Kazakhstan. Situated on the banks of Lake Zaysan, this region is known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and unique climate. In this article, we will explore the climate and weather conditions in Zaysan throughout the year.

Geographical Location

Zaysan is located in the eastern part of Kazakhstan, close to the border with China. It is situated at an elevation of 420 meters (1,378 feet) above sea level. The town is surrounded by mountains, including the Altai Mountains to the east, which greatly influence its weather patterns.

Climate Classification

Zaysan experiences a continental climate, characterized by hot summers and extremely cold winters. The region is influenced by both the Siberian High and the Westerlies, resulting in distinct seasonal variations.

Temperature

Summers in Zaysan are short but relatively warm. The average high temperature in July, the warmest month, reaches around 25°C (77°F). However, temperatures can occasionally reach as high as 35°C (95°F) during heatwaves. Nights are cooler, with average lows around 12°C (54°F).

On the other hand, winter in Zaysan is long and bitterly cold. January, the coldest month, sees average high temperatures of about -17°C (1.4°F) and lows plunging to -26°C (-14.8°F). It is not uncommon for temperatures to drop even further, reaching below -30°C (-22°F) during severe cold snaps.

Spring and autumn are transitional seasons, with temperatures gradually increasing or decreasing. In spring, temperatures rise from below freezing to around 10-15°C (50-59°F) in April. Autumn brings a gradual decrease in temperatures from the summer highs to near freezing in November.

Precipitation

Zaysan receives relatively low precipitation throughout the year, with an annual average of around 300 millimeters (11.8 inches). The highest rainfall occurs during the summer months, particularly in June and July, with occasional thunderstorms. Winters are generally drier, with little to no snowfall in some years.

Sunshine Hours

Zaysan enjoys a good amount of sunshine throughout the year. In summer, the region experiences long daylight hours, with the sun staying above the horizon for more than 16 hours a day. In contrast, during winter, daylight hours are significantly shorter, with the sun being above the horizon for around 6-7 hours a day.

Wind Patterns

Due to its location near the Altai Mountains, Zaysan experiences varying wind patterns throughout the year. In winter, cold winds from the north and northeast, known as the "Siberian Express," can bring bitterly cold temperatures and heavy snowfall. In summer, winds from the southwest and west prevail, bringing milder and occasionally humid conditions.

Climate Graph

Below is a climate graph showcasing the average monthly temperatures and precipitation in Zaysan:

Conclusion

Zaysan, Kazakhstan, experiences a continental climate with hot summers and extremely cold winters. The region's proximity to the Altai Mountains influences its weather patterns, resulting in distinct seasonal variations. Summers are relatively warm, with temperatures reaching up to 35°C (95°F), while winters are bitterly cold, with temperatures dropping below -30°C (-22°F). Zaysan receives low precipitation throughout the year, with the highest rainfall occurring during the summer months. The region enjoys a good amount of sunshine, especially during the long summer days. Wind patterns vary, with cold winds from the north and northeast in winter and milder winds from the southwest and west in summer. The climate graph provides a visual representation of the average monthly temperatures and precipitation in Zaysan.