Because of their continental climate, the interior of Turkey and the central Anatolian plateau endure harsh winters and intense summers. Temperatures can reach up to 40 °C in the summer months and drop below freezing in winter. The region also experiences considerable temperature fluctuations between day and night.
The country’s warmest area is southeast Anatolia, which borders Syria and Iraq and has a semi-arid climate. Summertime temperatures frequently reach over 45°C, and extended stretches without rain are common. Less than 600 ml of precipitation per year makes for a pronounced steppe climate.
The Black Sea region on Turkey’s north coast, which is largely protected from Mediterranean influences by the surrounding mountains, is the country’s coolest location. The Black Sea ensures a balanced and temperate climate throughout the year without major temperature fluctuations. Rainfall is high all year round, which leads to particularly lush vegetation. Summers are therefore warm and humid, but do not reach extreme levels. Winter is also mild but rainy and snow can also fall at higher altitudes.
The eastern mountain regions of the Taurus and Zagros Mountains have a harsher climate, with long, cold, snowy winters and short summers. ›.
Turkey, a land of captivating history and vibrant culture, also boasts a diverse climate that varies significantly across its regions. From the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean to the lush mountains of the Black Sea, understanding Turkey’s climate is key to planning your perfect adventure.
A Tale of Two Coasts: Mediterranean and Black Sea
The Mediterranean and Black Sea regions offer a stark contrast in climate experiences The Mediterranean coast, encompassing areas like Antalya and Izmir, enjoys a warm and dry summer with temperatures often exceeding 30°C This makes it a haven for sun-seekers and beach lovers, with ample opportunities to soak up the sun and indulge in water activities. Winters in this region are mild and rainy, providing a welcome respite from the summer heat.
The Black Sea region on the other hand presents a cooler and more humid climate. Summers are warm but not scorching, with temperatures averaging around 25°C. This creates a comfortable environment for outdoor activities and exploration. Winters in this region are mild but rainy, with occasional snowfall at higher altitudes.
The Interior: Embracing Continental Extremes
Venturing away from the coasts, Turkey’s interior reveals a continental climate with distinct seasonal variations The central Anatolian plateau experiences hot and dry summers, with temperatures reaching up to 40°C. Winters in this region are cold and snowy, with temperatures dropping below freezing This stark contrast in temperatures showcases the dramatic seasonal shifts in Turkey’s interior.
Southeastern Anatolia: Arid and Hot
In southeastern Anatolia, bordering Syria and Iraq, the climate takes on a semi-arid character. Summers are scorching, with temperatures often exceeding 45°C. Rainfall is scarce, creating a steppe-like landscape. This region experiences long periods of drought, making water a precious resource.
The Black Sea’s Temperate Embrace
Because of the surrounding mountains’ protection, the Black Sea region experiences a moderate climate all year round. The Black Sea’s influence ensures balanced and moderate temperatures, with minimal fluctuations. Rainfall is abundant year-round, contributing to lush vegetation. Warm and muggy summers alternate with mild, rainy winters that occasionally see snowfall at higher altitudes.
Eastern Mountains: A Harsh Reality
The mountainous areas in the east, such as the Taurus and Zagros Mountains, have a severe climate. Winters are long, cold, and snowy, while summers are short and cool. This rugged terrain presents a challenging environment for both humans and wildlife.
Temperature Records: Extremes of the Past
The hottest temperature ever recorded in Turkey was 52. 8°C, measured at the Finike weather station in October 2010. The bone-chilling -36°C was the lowest temperature ever recorded at the Erzurum weather station in January 2009.
Recent Months: A Glimpse into the Present
August 2023 witnessed the warmest August in 13 years, with an average temperature of 27.18°C. November 2023, with 4.18 liters of precipitation, was the wettest November in 22 years.
Long-Term Temperature Trends: A Warming World
Turkey has witnessed a significant increase in average annual temperature over the past 75 years. From 12.6°C in the early years, the average annual temperature has risen to 14.7°C in recent years, indicating a warming trend.
Understanding Turkey’s Climate: A Key to Planning Your Adventure
Turkey’s diverse climate offers a unique experience for every traveler. Whether you seek sun-drenched beaches, lush mountain trails, or arid landscapes, understanding the climate of each region is crucial for planning your ideal trip. By considering the seasonal variations and regional differences, you can choose the perfect time and destination to suit your preferences.
Additional Resources:
- World Data Info: https://www.worlddata.info/asia/turkey/climate.php
- World Bank Climate Change Knowledge Portal: https://climateknowledgeportal.worldbank.org/country/turkiye/climate-data-historical
Record months last yearWe compared the record values of the past months with those of the same months in previous years. We used the same criteria to examine the respective maximum and minimum values in the categories of average temperature, precipitation, hours of sunshine and the maximum and minimum temperatures measured throughout the country. We have listed all measured values that have not been reached in Turkey for 10 or more years.
- With 4. November 2023 produced 18 liters of precipitation, the most in 22 years (4 48 l/m² in 2001).
- At 27. The highest temperature of 18°C was recorded in August 2023—the highest in 13 years (27 38°C in 2010).
- With just 0. August 2023 saw 27 liters of precipitation, the least amount in 17 years (0 14 l/m² in 2006).
- With 10. More than any other August in the preceding 13 years, August 2023 boasted 19 hours of sunshine per day (10 31 hours in 2010).
- With 0. The most precipitation in July 2023 was 81 liters, the most in 14 years (6 98 l/m² in 2009).
- At 16. With 36°C, May 2023 was the coldest May in the previous twelve years (15). 68°C in 2011).
- With 3. In April of 2023, there was 3,00 liters of precipitation, the most precipitation in 12 years (337 l/m² in 2011).
- With 5. There were 83 fewer hours of sunshine in April 2023 than there were in any of the preceding 12 years (4 73 hours in 2011).
- With 3. March 2023 was the wettest in 27 years, with 9. 9 liters of precipitation (3 14 l/m² in 1996).
- With 4. There were 60 hours of sunshine in March 2023, fewer than in any other March in the preceding 14 years (449 hours in 2009).
- At 5. At 11°C in January 2023, it was the warmest temperature in 20 years (5 45°C in 2003).
- With just 1. January 2023 was the driest month in 22 years, with 47 liters of precipitation (1 10 l/m² in 2001).
The most recent months after December 2023 are not yet available here. We only calculate climatic comparisons after a large number of weather stations on a continent have checked and published their data.
Regions in TurkeyAll figures per year. For detailed climate data click on the name of the region.
The coldest day in these 74 years was reported by the Erzurum weather station. Here the temperature dropped to -36. 0 °C in January 2009. Erzurum lies at an altitude of 1,758 meters above sea level. The coldest winter (December to February) was in 1992 with an average temperature of 0. 7 °C. In Turkey, it is usual to have about 3. 8 degrees more at 4. 5 °C for this three-month period.
The most precipitation fell in July 2009. With 322. 5 mm per day, the Izmir weather station recorded the highest monthly average of the last 74 years. Incidentally, the region with the most rainfall for the whole year is around Rize. The driest region is near Konya.
Seasons in Turkey: Temperature and Climate by Month
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