Weather in Kars

Find out everything about the weather conditions in the city of Kars right now. Below are the latest forecasts and clear charts to help you plan the perfect trip.

The climate in Kars differs significantly from the usual perception of hot resort Turkey. A sharp continental climate prevails here, due to the city's high-altitude location. Winters are severe, snowy, and long, while summers are moderately warm and fresh, making the region an excellent destination for those preferring to avoid exhausting heat.

Distinct seasonality is the main feature of the local weather. In winter, especially in January, the temperature often drops below -10°C, turning the city into a real winter wonderland. Summer delights with mild warmth: in July and August, the air warms up to a comfortable average of +24°C during the day, however, nights remain cool even at the height of the season.

Travellers should note that spring and early summer in Kars can be quite humid. May and June lead in the number of cloudy days, when rains occur quite frequently. Autumn arrives rapidly, and by November the temperature approaches the freezing mark again, reminding of the imminent return of the cold.

The temperature regime in Kars is characterized by distinct seasonality and quite severe winters. The coldest month of the year is January, when the average temperature drops to -6.4°C, and night frosts often reach -11.4°C. The cold period lasts from December to March and is distinguished by stable sub-zero values, so travellers planning a visit at this time should stock up on truly warm clothing.

The summer season in the region is a comfortable time for those who cannot stand intense heat. The warmest month is considered to be August with an average temperature of 18.1°C and daytime highs of around 24.9°C. July also offers pleasant warmth, warming up to 23.8°C during the day. Such weather is ideal for long walks and excursions, as there is practically no stifling heat here.

An important feature of the local climate is the noticeable temperature fluctuations throughout the day. Even at the height of summer, when the air warms up to comfortable levels during the day, nights remain cool: in July and August, the temperature after sunset drops to 10–11°C. Spring and autumn are cool here, with a gradual increase in warmth in May and a sharp cooling as early as November, when night temperatures dip into the negative again.

Precipitation patterns in Kars change significantly depending on the time of year, which is directly linked to the region's harsh continental climate. In winter, when the average temperature drops well below freezing (down to -6.4°C in January), precipitation falls exclusively as snow. Although the total volume of snow mass in millimetres might seem small, snowfalls happen regularly: from December to February, 8 to 10 days with precipitation are recorded per month, ensuring a stable snow cover.

Spring and early summer are the wettest periods of the year. The peak of precipitation falls on May, which is the record holder for rain frequency: statistics indicate 21 rainy days. March and April are also distinguished by high precipitation activity (about 17 days), and in early spring, rains often alternate with wet snow. If you plan a trip at this time, having waterproof clothing and footwear will be a mandatory condition for a comfortable holiday.

Summer begins with quite frequent precipitation in June (about 19 days), but its intensity is usually low. The weather gradually stabilizes, and by August the number of days with precipitation decreases to 11. Autumn in Kars is relatively calm and dry: in September and October, it rains less often, on average about 9 days a month, and as a rule, these rains are not prolonged.

Given the high-altitude climate of Kars, the choice of wardrobe depends directly on the time of year. Winters here are long, snowy, and frosty, with temperatures often dropping below -10°C, so during the cold season, be sure to bring high-quality thermal underwear, woollen sweaters, and a reliable windproof down jacket. A warm hat, scarf, gloves, and, most importantly, insulated waterproof shoes with thick soles will be the key to your comfort during walks.

Spring and autumn are characterized by changeable weather and a significant number of cloudy days, especially in May when it rains frequently. In the off-season, it is best to stick to the principle of layering: combine T-shirts with fleece jumpers and light jackets to easily adapt to temperature changes. Do not forget to put a compact umbrella or a high-quality raincoat in your suitcase, as precipitation can catch you by surprise.

Summer in Kars is mild and pleasant, without exhausting heat, however, nights remain cool even in July and August. During the day, you will need light clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen — the mountain sun can be very active. For evenings, be sure to grab a windbreaker or a warm cardigan. Regardless of the season, for exploring ancient ruins and city streets, you will need maximally comfortable and sturdy walking shoes.