Weather in Ashgabat

Are you planning a trip to Ashgabat or already enjoying its hospitality? In this section, you will find the most up-to-date weather information, including detailed forecasts and convenient charts, to ensure your stay is as comfortable as possible.

Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan, is characterized by a sharply continental desert climate. This means significant temperature fluctuations both throughout the day and between seasons. The city is distinguished by hot, dry summers and cool, yet relatively mild winters.

There are four clearly defined seasons in Ashgabat. Summer, lasting from June to August, is very hot, with average temperatures around 27-30°C, and maximum values often exceeding 35°C. Precipitation is practically non-existent during the summer months. Winter (December-February) is cool, with the average temperature hovering around 3-6°C, sometimes dropping below freezing. Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are transitional seasons with more moderate temperatures. Spring sees the highest amount of rainfall, although the overall level in the city remains low.

One of the key features of the climate in Ashgabat is its aridity. Dry weather prevails for most of the year, especially during the summer period when the number of rainy days is minimal. The highest amount of precipitation and humid days occurs during the spring months, particularly in March, April, and May, but even then, rains are not prolonged.

The temperature regime in Ashgabat demonstrates a distinct annual pattern characteristic of a continental desert climate. The hottest month is July, when the average temperature reaches 29.8°C, and daily highs regularly rise to 35.5°C and above. Nights in July are also warm, with an average minimum temperature of around 24.1°C. The coldest month is considered to be January: the average temperature is only 3.7°C, while night-time lows can drop to -1.2°C, and daily highs rarely exceed 8.5°C. Thus, the annual amplitude of average temperatures is quite significant.

The summer months in Ashgabat – June, July, and August – are distinguished by scorching and dry weather. Average daytime temperatures during this period range from 33°C to 35.5°C, but the heat can be even more intense. Nights bring some relief but remain warm, with temperatures in the range of 21-24°C. A characteristic feature of the summer period is substantial diurnal temperature fluctuations: the difference between the daily maximum and the nightly minimum is often 10-12°C, which is typical for desert regions. There is practically no precipitation in summer.

Winter in Ashgabat, covering December, January, and February, is comparatively mild but cool. Average temperatures in these months vary from 3.7°C in January to 5.8°C in February. At night, the air temperature often drops to zero or slightly below, especially in January (average minimum -1.2°C). During the day, the thermometer usually rises to 8-10°C. Just like in summer, noticeable diurnal temperature changes reaching 9-10°C are observed in winter. Although winter is cool, severe and prolonged frosts are not characteristic of Ashgabat.

In Ashgabat, the distribution of precipitation clearly reflects its desert climate, with a pronounced dry season. The summer months, from June to September, are the driest: during this period, precipitation is practically absent (0 mm), and the number of days with it is minimal – from one day in August and September to three days in June. This period can safely be called a time of clear skies and scorching sun.

The greatest amount of precipitation, although quite moderate, falls during the spring months. From February to May, rainfall amounts to about 2 mm per month, and the number of days with precipitation varies from 9 days in February to 12 days in March, April, and May. This is the "wettest" period of the year for Ashgabat, when the likelihood of catching rain is highest. In the winter months (December, January), a small amount of precipitation also falls (about 1 mm), and given the average minimum temperatures dropping to -1.2°C in January, this may come in the form of light snow or sleet. October and November also bring about 1 mm of precipitation and approximately 5 days with it.

When planning a trip to Ashgabat, it is important to consider its sharply continental desert climate with pronounced seasonal fluctuations. In summer, from June to September, when the daytime temperature often exceeds 30-35°C and precipitation is practically absent (0 mm), your wardrobe should consist of light, breathable clothing made from natural fabrics such as cotton or linen. Loose fits will help you endure the heat more easily. Be sure to take sunscreen with a high protection factor, sunglasses, and headwear – for example, a wide-brimmed hat. Comfortable shoes for walking will be useful at any time of the year.

In winter, from December to February, it can be cool in Ashgabat: the average temperature hovers around 3-6°C, and night frosts are not uncommon (minimum temperatures can drop to -1.2°C). For this period, you will need a warm jacket, sweaters, warm trousers, a hat, gloves, and a scarf. Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are transitional seasons with milder weather, but the likelihood of precipitation increases in spring (about 2 mm per month and up to 12 rainy days). During these months, the principle of layering in clothing will be most practical: t-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, light jackets, and perhaps a fleece jumper. A small umbrella or a light waterproof jacket will be very handy, especially in the spring months. Given the significant daily temperature fluctuations characteristic of the region, the ability to easily adapt your outfit will ensure your comfort throughout the day.