Weather in Dushanbe

Planning your day in Dushanbe or simply want to stay up to date with the weather conditions? In this section, you will find the most current information, including detailed forecasts and useful weather charts.

The climate in Dushanbe is characterised as sharply continental, with clearly defined seasons. Visitors to the capital of Tajikistan can expect hot and predominantly dry summers, as well as relatively cool winters. Spring and autumn are transitional periods with more moderate temperatures and changeable weather.

The summer months, especially July and August, are distinguished by high temperatures and minimal precipitation, often approaching zero. This is the sunniest and driest period of the year. Winter, from December to February, brings negative average temperatures and some precipitation, including snow. Spring (March-May) is a time of nature’s awakening, gradually rising temperatures, and the highest number of rainy days, particularly in March and April. Autumn (October-November) is characterised by gradual cooling and an increased likelihood of precipitation as winter approaches.

In Dushanbe, there is a significant annual temperature variation, typical of a sharply continental climate. The hottest month is usually July, when the average temperature reaches 22.0°C, and daytime highs often rise to 29.4°C and above. This is followed by August with an average temperature of 20.3°C and maximum values around 27.5°C. The coldest period falls in January, when the average temperature drops to -2.5°C, with overnight lows averaging -7.9°C, and daytime highs around 2.9°C.

Summer months in Dushanbe, from June to August, are characterised by hot and dry weather. Daytime temperatures in June average 25.6°C, in July 29.4°C, and in August 27.5°C. However, the nights bring a pleasant coolness: minimum temperatures during these months range from 11.1°C to 14.7°C. Such a substantial difference between day and night temperatures, reaching 14-15°C, is a distinctive feature of the summer period in the Tajik capital, making evenings and nights comfortable after the daytime heat.

Winter in Dushanbe, covering December, January, and February, brings cool and occasionally frosty weather. Monthly average temperatures during this period range from -2.5°C in January to 0.0°C in February. Nighttime temperatures consistently drop below freezing, reaching -7.9°C in January and -5.6°C in February. During the day, the thermometer usually stays around or slightly above the freezing mark: 2.9°C in January, 5.6°C in February, and 4.9°C in December. Daily temperature fluctuations in winter are less pronounced than in summer, but still perceptible.

Dushanbe observes a clearly defined seasonality in precipitation distribution throughout the year. The city experiences a wet period, primarily in spring and early winter, and a very dry summer-autumn season. The total amount of precipitation is low, which is typical for a continental climate.

The wettest months in Dushanbe are March and April, when 5 mm of precipitation falls in each, with March having the highest number of rainy days — on average 19, and April — 16. February is also quite wet with 4 mm of precipitation and 15 rainy days. In winter, in January and December, precipitation (3 mm and 2 mm respectively) often falls as snow, given the average temperatures around and below freezing. Spring precipitation consists primarily of rain.

Summer in Dushanbe is a pronounced dry season. In July, August, and September, there is practically no precipitation (0 mm), and the number of days with precipitation is minimal: 2 days in July and September, and just 1 day in August. June marks the transition to the arid period with 1 mm of precipitation and 6 rainy days. In autumn, the amount of precipitation gradually increases: 2 mm falls in October (7 rainy days), and 3 mm in November (11 rainy days), signalling the approach of the wetter winter season.

When packing your suitcase for a trip to Dushanbe, it is important to consider the city's characteristic sharply continental climate with distinct seasons. In summer, especially in July and August, when the average temperature stays above +20°C, and daytime highs can reach +29°C and above with practically no rainfall, you will need light, breathable clothing made from natural fabrics. Do not forget sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Despite the daytime heat, evenings can be cooler, so a light cardigan or shawl will be very useful. Comfortable walking shoes are a must-have for any time of year.

In winter (from December to February), Dushanbe can be cold, with average temperatures hovering around freezing or below, and snowfall is possible. During this period, warm layered clothing is necessary: thermal underwear, sweaters, fleece tops, as well as a warm windproof and water-resistant jacket, a hat, gloves, and a scarf. Spring (March-May) and autumn (October-November) are transitional periods with moderate but changeable temperatures and an increased likelihood of precipitation, especially in March and April when the number of rainy days is at its peak. For these seasons, the principle of layering is ideal: a light jacket that can be removed in warm weather, a sweater, and an umbrella or light raincoat to be prepared for potential rain.