Weather in Zhigansk

To ensure your journey is as comfortable as possible, familiarise yourself with the current weather situation in Zhigansk. Here you will find up-to-date data and forecasts to help you plan your trip wisely.

The climate of Zhigansk can be described as sharply continental and subarctic. For this remote corner, geographically located in the Russian Federation, colossal temperature fluctuations throughout the year are typical. Travellers should expect very dry air and stable weather without frequent heavy downpours, as precipitation levels remain low throughout all twelve months.

The seasons here are very clearly defined but uneven in duration. Winter is the dominant time of year: it is long, dark, and extremely cold, with average temperatures in December and January hovering around -36°C...-38°C. Summer, by contrast, is short but can be surprisingly pleasant and warm. In July, the air often warms up to +21°C, creating comfortable conditions for exploring the local nature before the cold returns.

The climate in this region is distinguished by incredible contrasts, typical of severe northern latitudes. Zhigansk demonstrates a huge annual temperature amplitude: the difference between the coldest and warmest months exceeds 50 degrees. Winter reigns supreme here, claiming most of the calendar, while summer flies by quickly but brightly.

The winter months present a true test of endurance against the cold. January and December are the frostiest periods, when the average temperature drops to -36°C... -38°C, and nighttime lows often break past the -40°C mark. Even in March and November, deep frosts below -20°C persist. Travellers should note that winter here is not just cold, but extremely frigid, requiring specialized equipment.

Summer, arriving in June, brings long-awaited but moderate warmth. The hottest month is July, with an average temperature of around +17°C. At the height of the polar day, the air can warm up to a comfortable +21°C, which feels quite pleasant. However, it is worth remembering the daily fluctuations: even on the warmest summer days, nighttime temperatures can drop to +10°C...+12°C, so warm clothing will be needed even in July.

The climate in this region is harsh and dry, so Zhigansk is not characterized by heavy precipitation. Nevertheless, the distribution of moisture across the seasons has its own distinct features. Since freezing temperatures persist for most of the year, the main form of precipitation is snow, which can fall from October to May.

The winter months—December, January, and February—are the driest of the year. During this period, minimal precipitation is recorded (about 0 mm), and snow falls on average only 4 days a month. Due to the extremely low temperatures, the air is very dry, and snowfalls are usually light, often in the form of ice needles or a light dusting.

The highest frequency of precipitation is observed during the warm season and the transition periods. The "wettest" months in terms of inclement days are September and October, when precipitation occurs up to 12 times a month. In summer, rains occur most often in July (about 10 days), but they are typically neither prolonged nor overly intense.

When packing for Zhigansk, it is important to remember that you are heading to a region with a harsh climate where winter lasts for most of the year. In the period from November to March, when temperatures drop below -35°C, and sometimes even to -40°C, specialized gear is vital. Be sure to bring high-quality thermal underwear, wool socks, insulated waterproof boots with thick soles, a hooded down jacket (parka), a warm hat, and mittens, which retain heat better than gloves. Do not forget protection for your face against the extreme frost.

Summer here is short and moderately warm: in July, the air warms up on average to +17°C, sometimes reaching +21°C. For this time of year, the principle of layering is ideal: combine t-shirts and light trousers with a fleece jumper and a windbreaker in case of cool evenings. In the off-season (May, September), the weather is changeable, so a windproof jacket and comfortable trekking shoes will be your best companions. There is little precipitation, but damp days do happen, so water-repellent clothing will be useful.

Regardless of the season, pack sunglasses in your suitcase: in winter, they will protect your eyes from the blinding light reflected off the snow, and in summer—from the bright sun. We also strongly recommend bringing a powerful portable charger (power bank), as phone and camera batteries drain very quickly in the severe cold. Moisturising cream and lip balm will help save your skin and lips from chapping in the cold air.