Weather in Minsk

Are you planning a trip or are you already in the city of Minsk? In this section, you will find the most up-to-date weather information, including detailed forecasts and visual charts, to ensure your stay is as comfortable as possible.

The climate in Minsk, the capital of Belarus, is moderate continental with four clearly defined seasons. This means that travellers can expect significant weather changes throughout the year, ranging from freezing winters to warm summers. The city offers diverse experiences depending on the time of your visit, so it is worth checking the weather conditions in advance.

Winters in Minsk are typically cold, with an average January temperature of around -3.5°C, often accompanied by snow and a fairly large number of cloudy days. Summer, by contrast, is warm and pleasant, with peak temperatures in July and August, when the average maximums reach +22.5°C and +23.1°C respectively. Spring and autumn are transitional seasons with milder but changeable weather. In spring, the temperature gradually rises, while in autumn it smoothly declines, preparing the city for the winter cold.

Precipitation in Minsk is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year, although the total amount is small – on average 2-3 mm per month. However, it is worth paying attention to the number of days with precipitation: it is quite high, especially in the winter months (up to 16 days in December) and in July (15 days). This suggests that light rain or snow can be frequent occurrences, so an umbrella or raincoat will be useful at any time of the year.

The temperature regime in Minsk demonstrates a classic change of seasons typical of a moderate continental climate. The annual temperature progression transitions smoothly from freezing winter to warm summer. The coldest months are traditionally January and February. In January, the average temperature is around -3.5°C, with night-time lows dropping on average to -5.6°C, and daytime highs around -1.5°C. February is slightly warmer, with an average temperature of -2.8°C. Gradual warming begins in March, and by May the average temperature reaches +12.1°C. The peak heat occurs in July and August, with average temperatures of +18.2°C and +18.4°C respectively. In autumn, starting from September, the temperature gradually decreases, preparing the city for the arrival of winter.

The summer months in Minsk are a time of pleasant warmth, ideal for exploring the city. From June to August, average daily maximum temperatures range from +22.4°C in June to +23.1°C in August. This creates comfortable conditions for walking and outdoor recreation. Evenings and nights bring refreshing coolness: average minimum temperatures during the summer months stay in the range of +12.7°C to +14.0°C. Such daily temperature fluctuations, amounting to approximately 8-10 degrees, are quite perceptible, so a light sweater or jacket may be handy for evening activities.

Winter in Minsk is characterised by sustained sub-zero temperatures. From December to February, the city is enveloped in frosty weather. The average temperature in December is -1.6°C, in January it drops to -3.5°C, and in February it rises slightly to -2.8°C. Night-time temperatures during these months can regularly fall to -5°C and lower (January average minimum is -5.6°C), while daytime highs often remain below zero, for example, around -1.5°C in January or -0.3°C in February. Unlike summer, daily temperature fluctuations in winter are less pronounced and usually amount to 3-5 degrees. Snowfalls are common during this period, lending the city a special winter charm.

In Minsk, precipitation is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year in terms of total volume, which averages 1-3 mm per month. There is no distinct rainy season or dry period here. The highest amount of precipitation, 3 mm, falls in July, while March is the driest month with a figure of just 1 mm. However, despite the small amount of precipitation in millimetres, the frequency of its occurrence can be quite high.

The nature of precipitation in Minsk depends directly on the time of year. In winter, especially from December to February, when average temperatures drop below zero, precipitation mainly falls as snow. December leads in the number of days with precipitation – there are on average 16, followed by January with 15 days. This indicates frequent, though usually not very heavy, snowfalls. In transitional months, such as November and March, both snow and rain are possible.

With the arrival of warmth, from April to October, precipitation in Minsk falls as rain. July, being the warmest month, is also distinguished by a high frequency of precipitation – on average 15 rainy days. These can be short summer downpours or prolonged drizzling rains. The lowest number of days with precipitation is observed in March and September – 9 days in each. Overall, when heading to Minsk, it is worth being prepared for changeable weather and keeping an umbrella or raincoat with you, especially if your trip falls during the winter months or the middle of summer.

When planning a trip to Minsk, it is important to consider the variability of the weather and be prepared for different conditions depending on the season. A key principle when packing your suitcase should be layering your clothes, which will allow you to easily adapt to temperature changes. An indispensable item at any time of the year will be comfortable shoes for long walks around the city, as well as an umbrella or a light raincoat, since precipitation, though not always heavy, happens quite often throughout the year.

In winter (December-February), real frosty weather awaits you in Minsk with average temperatures below zero and frequent snowfalls. Be sure to bring warm outerwear (a down jacket or winter coat), a hat, scarf, and gloves. Thermal underwear and warm sweaters will not go amiss. In summer (June-August), the weather is generally warm and pleasant, with average temperatures around +18°C to +23°C. You will need light clothing, t-shirts, and shorts. However, considering the possibility of rain and cool evenings, it is worth grabbing a light jacket or cardigan. On sunny days, do not forget sunscreen and headwear.

Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) in Minsk are transitional seasons with quite changeable weather. It can still be cool in March and November, with temperatures close to zero, while May and September will delight you with milder weather. For these seasons, a mid-season jacket (preferably waterproof), sweaters, jeans, or thick trousers are ideal. Layering is especially relevant here: a t-shirt, shirt, and light jumper will allow you to feel comfortable both indoors and outdoors. Regardless of the season, remember the frequent days with precipitation, so a compact umbrella will always come in handy.