Weather in Kirkuk

Planning your visit to Kirkuk? Check out the latest forecast and climate charts to prepare for any weather conditions.

The climate in the city of Kirkuk can be described as semi-arid subtropical, with distinct contrasts between seasons. The weather here is largely determined by its geographical location: travellers can expect a long, sweltering, and very dry summer, followed by a cool and wetter winter. Overall, the region is characterized by an abundance of sunny days, especially during the warmer months.

The summer months, from June to September, are distinguished by extremely high temperatures and a total absence of rainfall. During this period, rain is an exceptional occurrence, and the thermometer regularly crosses the +40°C mark during the day. This is a time of stable heat and cloudless skies, which should be taken into account when planning excursions and outdoor walks.

Winter brings long-awaited freshness and the bulk of the annual precipitation. From December to February, the weather becomes mild and cool, with the average temperature hovering around +10...+15°C, and rainy days occur much more frequently. Spring and late autumn are transitional periods, offering the most comfortable and moderate conditions for visiting, when the exhausting heat has subsided or has not yet arrived.

An analysis of temperature indicators shows that the peak heat in Kirkuk falls in July and August. In these months, average values stay at the level of +35.7°C, and daytime maximums regularly reach an extreme +43.4°C. June is also notable for high temperatures, when the air warms up to +40.2°C. During the summer period, night-time relief is practically non-existent: even after sunset, the thermometer rarely drops below +25...+28°C.

The coldest month is January with an average temperature of +9.6°C. In winter, the difference between daylight and dark hours is particularly noticeable. While during the day the air warms up to a quite comfortable +14.3°C, at night the figures fall to +4.8°C, making warm clothes a necessary wardrobe element for evening strolls.

Pronounced daily temperature fluctuations are also characteristic of the transitional seasons. For example, in April, the daily maximum is about +27°C, whereas at night the air cools down to +13.9°C. A similar picture is observed in October: from +31.6°C at the height of the day to +18.3°C in the night hours. Such an amplitude requires travellers to be ready to change clothes during the day.

Precipitation in the city of Kirkuk is distributed extremely unevenly throughout the year, forming a climate with a clear division into dry and wet seasons. In general, the region is not distinguished by an abundance of moisture: even in the "dampest" months, rains here resemble a light drizzle rather than full-blown downpours and rarely interfere with travellers' plans.

The summer period, covering the months from June to September, is characterized by absolute drought. According to statistics, 0 mm of precipitation falls during this time, and the number of rainy days is also zero. The sky remains impeccably clear, so you definitely won't need an umbrella on your trip in summer.

The situation changes with the arrival of the cool season. The highest frequency of precipitation is observed in winter and early spring. The "cloudiest" month is considered to be January, when about 11 wet days are recorded, followed by February and March with 9 days. Nevertheless, the intensity of the rains remains low, bringing only a pleasant freshness to the city streets.

When packing for Kirkuk, it is important to consider seasonality, as the climate here changes from cool winters to sweltering summers. For a trip in the summer months (from June to September), when the temperature often exceeds +40°C, be sure to take loose-fitting clothing made from natural breathable fabrics, such as cotton or linen. Do not forget a wide-brimmed hat, quality sunglasses, and sunscreen with a high protection factor, as the sun during this period is very active and practically never hides behind clouds.

In winter and early spring, the weather becomes noticeably cooler, and night temperatures can drop to +5°C. During this period, especially in January and February, precipitation is possible, so it is worth putting a warm windproof jacket, cosy sweaters, and closed, preferably waterproof shoes in your suitcase. An umbrella will also become a useful accessory, considering that the number of rainy days increases in winter.

Spring and autumn are the ideal time to use the principle of layering in your wardrobe. During the day it can be warm like summer, while evenings bring tangible freshness, so a light windbreaker, cardigan, or hoodie will be very handy. Regardless of the season, for long walks around the city, choose maximally comfortable flat-soled shoes.