Turkmenistan is a Central Asian nation located between Kazakhstan and Iran. It is a vast country with diverse terrain, ranging from the Kara Kum desert in the south to the mountains of the Kopet Dag range in the north. As a result, the climate of Turkmenistan is quite varied, with temperatures and weather patterns ranging from extremely hot and dry in the desert regions to cold and snowy in the mountainous areas. In this article, we will take a comprehensive look at the weather of Turkmenistan, including the average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events.
Average Temperatures
The average temperatures in Turkmenistan vary greatly depending on the region and time of year. In the desert regions of the south, temperatures can reach as high as 45°C (113°F) in the summer months, while the mountainous regions of the north can experience temperatures as low as -20°C (-4°F) in the winter months. The average temperatures in the capital city of Ashgabat range from -2°C (28°F) in January to 34°C (93°F) in July.
Precipitation
The average annual precipitation in Turkmenistan is quite low, ranging from 100-200 millimeters (4-8 inches) in the desert regions of the south to 500-600 millimeters (20-24 inches) in the mountainous regions of the north. The majority of the precipitation falls in the winter months, with the driest months being July and August.
Extreme Weather Events
Turkmenistan is prone to extreme weather events such as dust storms, thunderstorms, and flash floods. Dust storms are common in the desert regions of the south, and can cause significant disruption to transportation and daily life. Thunderstorms are also common in the summer months, and can cause heavy rain and hail. Flash floods are also a risk in the mountainous regions of the north, particularly during the spring snowmelt.
Overall, Turkmenistan has a wide range of weather conditions, from hot and dry in the desert regions to cold and snowy in the mountains. The average temperatures and precipitation levels vary greatly depending on the region and time of year, and the country is prone to extreme weather events such as dust storms, thunderstorms, and flash floods. Despite the challenges posed by the weather, Turkmenistan remains a beautiful and fascinating country, and a great destination for those seeking to experience the culture and history of Central Asia.