Weather in Makhachkala

Stay up to date with the latest weather conditions in Makhachkala. Below you will find current data, forecasts, and useful weather charts to help you plan your day.

The climate in Makhachkala can be described as temperate continental, with distinct seasons and relatively low annual rainfall. The city is typically characterised by hot, sunny summers and cool winters, while spring and autumn serve as comfortable transitional periods with gradual temperature changes.

The summer months, especially July and August, delight visitors with warm weather featuring average temperatures around 25°C and minimal precipitation, making them attractive for those who love the sun. Winters in Makhachkala are relatively mild, with average temperatures just above freezing (around 3-5°C). An important feature of the local climate is that, despite the presence of rainy days throughout the month (from 5 to 10 days), the total amount of moisture remains small year-round, usually not exceeding 1-2 mm per month.

The temperature regime in Makhachkala demonstrates a clear change of seasons, offering guests of the city diverse weather conditions throughout the year. The annual range of average temperatures extends from a cool +3.0°C in January to a warm +25.1°C in July. The hottest months are traditionally July and August, when the thermometer regularly rises during the day to an average of +28°C and above (average July maximum +28.5°C, August +28.2°C). The coldest weather settles in January and February, with average daily highs around +5°C (January +5.2°C, February +5.8°C) and nightly lows approaching freezing (average January minimum +0.7°C, February +0.5°C).

Summer in Makhachkala is characterised by truly warm and sunny weather. From June to August, average daytime temperatures confidently stay above +25°C (June +26.1°C, July +28.5°C, August +28.2°C as average highs). Nights also remain very warm, with average minimum temperatures around +19.2°C in June and up to +21.8°C in July. The difference between day and night temperatures in summer is approximately 6-7 degrees, ensuring comfortable warmth even after sunset, ideal for evening walks along the Caspian Sea promenade.

Winter in Makhachkala is relatively mild, without severe or prolonged frosts. Average temperatures in December, January, and February fluctuate in the range from +3°C to +5.2°C. Daytime highs usually do not exceed +5°C to +7°C (for example, the December average maximum is +7.2°C), and nightly lows can drop to +0.5°C, especially in February. Diurnal temperature fluctuations in winter are less pronounced than in summer, amounting to about 4-5 degrees. Spring and autumn delight with pleasant warmth: for instance, in April the average temperature already reaches +11.6°C (with highs up to +14.8°C), and in October it still holds at a comfortable level of +14.7°C (with highs up to +17.5°C), creating excellent conditions for excursions and exploring the city.

Makhachkala is characterised by low levels of precipitation throughout the year, without a distinct rainy season or dry period. The total amount of precipitation per month remains consistently small, usually fluctuating within 1-2 mm. This means that even on days when precipitation occurs, it is generally not heavy.

Despite the low volume, the frequency of days with precipitation varies slightly. The highest number of "wet" days is observed in March – on average about 10 days. Precipitation can also occur relatively frequently in May, November, and December (about 9 days in each of these months). The "driest" month in terms of rainy days is August, when their number drops to approximately 5 days. In other months, the number of days with precipitation ranges from 6 to 8.

Precipitation in Makhachkala falls predominantly in the form of light rain or drizzle, given the small volume of moisture. In the winter months, especially in January and February, when average minimum temperatures drop to +0.7°C and +0.5°C respectively, light snowfall or wet snow is possible. During the warm season, from spring to autumn, precipitation falls exclusively as rain.

When planning a trip to Makhachkala, it is important to consider the peculiarities of the local climate so that your wardrobe is comfortable and appropriate for the weather. Since the weather can be changeable, especially in the off-season, the principle of layering in clothing will be your best friend. Always take comfortable shoes for walking around the city. Despite the low total amount of precipitation, the presence of "wet days" throughout the year (from 5 to 10 per month) makes a light umbrella or waterproof jacket a useful addition to your luggage. Also, considering the coastal location, a light windbreaker may come in handy at any time of the year.

In summer (from June to August), hot and sunny weather settles in Makhachkala. Average daytime temperatures often exceed +25°C, and sometimes reach +28°C. Therefore, the basis of your summer wardrobe should be light, breathable items made from natural fabrics: T-shirts, shorts, sundresses, thin trousers. Don't forget headwear, sunglasses, and SPF cream for protection against the active sun. If you plan to relax on the Caspian coast, swimwear is a must. Evenings are usually warm, but a light cardigan or stole may be useful for walks.

In winter (from December to February), the weather in Makhachkala becomes cool, with average temperatures ranging from +3°C to +5°C, and nightly lows can drop close to freezing. During this period, you will need a warm jacket or coat, sweaters, a hat, gloves, and a scarf. Waterproof shoes will also be appropriate, as light precipitation in the form of rain or wet snow is possible. In spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), the weather is changeable: from cool in early spring and late autumn to quite warm in May and September. Layering is especially relevant in these seasons: T-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, jumpers, a transitional jacket, or a trench coat will allow you to easily adapt to temperature changes throughout the day.