Weather in Moscow

Find out the current weather in Moscow! In this section, we have gathered the freshest data, forecasts, and visual charts for you, so you are always aware of the weather conditions.

The climate of Moscow is characterized as temperate-continental, with clearly defined seasons. The city experiences significant temperature fluctuations throughout the year, allowing tourists to enjoy the full variety of weather conditions – from freezing winters to warm summers.

Winters in Moscow are generally cold and snowy, with average temperatures significantly below freezing, especially in January and February. Spring arrives gradually, bringing warmth and the awakening of nature. Summer, particularly in July and August, can be warm and sometimes hot, with average temperatures around +18°C to +19°C. In autumn, the temperature gradually decreases, preparing the city for the new winter season.

Precipitation in Moscow is distributed quite evenly throughout the year, although a slight increase in amount and number of rainy days is observed in the summer months, especially in July. Overall, the amount of precipitation is moderate, making a visit to the city comfortable in any season if you choose the right clothing.

The annual temperature progression in Moscow demonstrates a significant contrast between seasons, allowing one to experience the charm of both a true Russian winter and a warm summer. The coldest month is traditionally January, when the daily average air temperature is around -6.6°C. During this period, nightly lows can drop to an average of -8.8°C, and daytime highs rarely rise above -4.4°C. February also remains frosty, with an average temperature of about -6.0°C. Conversely, the peak of summer warmth occurs in July, when the average temperature reaches +18.9°C. During the day, the thermometer in July shows an average of +23.2°C, dropping to a comfortable +14.6°C at night. August also delights with warmth, with an average temperature of +18.2°C.

Summer months in Moscow, from June to August, are usually characterized by pleasant warm weather, which can at times become quite hot. In June, the average temperature settles at the +16.9°C mark, gradually increasing towards the July maximum. Daytime air temperatures in summer most often fluctuate in the range of +22°C to +23°C, creating excellent conditions for long walks and exploring the city. Nights, especially in the height of summer, remain quite warm: minimum temperatures in July and August average +13°C...+14.6°C. It is worth noting that diurnal temperature variations in summer can be quite noticeable, reaching 8-10°C, especially in June (the difference between the average maximum and minimum is about 10.1°C) and August (about 9.7°C), bringing pleasant freshness in the evening hours.

The winter season in Moscow, covering the period from December to February, is distinguished by consistently frosty weather. December brings the first significant cold spells, with an average temperature of around -4.4°C. As previously noted, January and February are the harshest winter months: night temperatures regularly drop below -8°C (average minimum in January is -8.8°C, February -8.6°C). Frost also prevails during the day in these months, and the air temperature often does not rise above -3°C...-4°C. Unlike summer, daily temperature fluctuations in winter are less pronounced and amount to approximately 4-5°C, indicating a more even and stable temperature background. Transitional months, such as March (average temperature -2.1°C) and November (average +0.1°C), clearly demonstrate the gradual change of climatic seasons in the capital.

Precipitation in Moscow is distributed throughout the year with some uniformity, although slight fluctuations are observed in both quantity and frequency. There is no clearly defined rainy season or dry period in the city, but one can distinguish months with slightly more or less precipitation. In winter, snow typically falls given the negative average temperatures, whereas in the warmer season, precipitation is mainly in the form of rain.

The highest amount of precipitation, according to the provided monthly average data, falls in July, with about 3 mm and approximately 15 days with precipitation. This makes July the wettest month in terms of moisture volume and one of the leaders in the number of "wet" days. December also stands out with a high frequency of precipitation, counting 15 days, which, given the average temperature of -4.4°C, appears as snow; the total precipitation in December is 2 mm. Precipitation is also observed quite often in January (14 days, snow) and October (14 days, predominantly rain, but the first snow is possible).

The "driest" month in terms of precipitation volume is March, when the volume is only 1 mm, and the number of days with precipitation is about 10 (mostly snow or wet snow). In terms of the lowest frequency, August is characterized by the fewest days with precipitation – only 9 days on average, with 2 mm of rain falling. Overall, precipitation in Moscow is not a rarity, and for most of the year, one can expect from 10 to 15 days with it monthly, whether it be summer rain or winter snow.

When planning a trip to Moscow, it is important to consider its clearly defined seasons, which dictate the choice of wardrobe. Winter (from December to February) is cold and snowy here, with average temperatures often dropping to -6°C and below. At this time, you will need very warm outerwear (fur coat, down jacket), insulated trousers, thermal underwear, a hat, a scarf, mittens or gloves, as well as waterproof and warm footwear with non-slip soles. Summer (from June to August) in Moscow, on the contrary, is warm, with an average temperature of around +17°C...+19°C, and sometimes hotter. For summer walks, light t-shirts, shorts, and dresses are suitable, but do not forget to bring a light jacket or sweater for the evening cool or in case of rain. Regardless of the season, comfortable footwear for long walks is your main companion in Moscow.

Spring (from March to May) and autumn (from September to November) in Moscow are transitional periods with quite changeable weather. In March, snow may still lie on the ground and sub-zero temperatures persist, while May already delights with warmth. September is often sunny and comfortable, but in October and November, it becomes noticeably colder, it rains, and the first snow is possible. For these seasons, the principle of layering in clothing is ideal: a waterproof jacket, a sweater or fleece top, jeans or thick trousers. Waterproof shoes will also be very useful, especially in April, October, and November, when the number of days with precipitation increases. Do not forget an umbrella – it can come in handy in any season, but is especially relevant from April to October when precipitation falls as rain, while July and December stand out with the highest number of precipitation days.

Besides clothing, it is worth thinking about other useful items. In the summer months, sunscreen and sunglasses will not be superfluous. If you plan to visit temples and monasteries, women may need a headscarf and clothing that covers shoulders and knees. For winter, in addition to warm clothes, you can take a thermos for hot drinks to keep warm while walking through the snow-covered city. A power adapter, if it differs from the one used in Russia, should also be included in the list. Overall, a well-packed suitcase will allow you to feel comfortable in Moscow at any time of the year and enjoy all its beauties.