Kanggye Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Korea, North

Summer

Kanggye experiences hot and humid summers with average high temperatures reaching around 29°C (84°F) in July and August. The humidity levels are typically high, and there is a good amount of rainfall during this time of the year. The average rainfall in July and August is around 250mm (10 inches). However, the weather can be unpredictable during summer, and there can be occasional thunderstorms or heavy rainfall.

Winter

Kanggye’s winters are very cold, with average low temperatures dropping below -15°C (5°F) in January and February. The coldest month is January, with an average low temperature of -18°C (-0.4°F). Snowfall is common during the winter months, and the ground is often covered in snow from December to March. The average snowfall in January is around 50cm (20 inches). The weather during winter can be harsh, and it is important to dress warmly when venturing outdoors.

Summer

Summer in Kanggye, North Korea, is characterized by warm and humid conditions. The average temperature during this season ranges from 22°C to 28°C (72°F to 82°F), with high temperatures often reaching the mid-30s. The humidity levels can be high, making the air feel muggy and uncomfortable at times. Rainfall is also common during the summer months, particularly in July and August when heavy downpours can occur.

Winter

In contrast, winter in Kanggye is cold and dry. The average temperature during this season drops to below freezing, ranging from -10°C to 0°C (14°F to 32°F). During the coldest months, temperatures can plummet to below -20°C (-4°F). The lack of humidity makes the air feel crisp and dry, and snowfall is common. January is the coldest month of the year, with an average temperature of -10.5°C (13°F).

Cloud Formation in Kanggye

Kanggye, located in North Korea, experiences various cloud formations due to its unique geographical and climatic conditions. The city is situated in a valley surrounded by mountains, which influences the local wind patterns. The convergence and ascent of moist air in this topography favor the formation of clouds. During the summer months, warm and humid air from the Sea of Japan rises over the mountains, creating conditions conducive to the development of towering cumulus and cumulonimbus clouds that produce rain or thunderstorms.

Types of Clouds in Kanggye

Kanggye experiences a wide range of cloud types throughout the year. Cumulus clouds, characterized by their fluffy appearance and rounded edges, are common during the summer. Stratus clouds, which appear as a uniform gray layer covering the sky, often occur during the winter and spring months. During the transition seasons, cirrus clouds, composed of ice crystals, produce a thin veil across the sky. Other cloud types observed in Kanggye include altocumulus, lenticular, and stratocumulus, each with its unique shape, altitude, and weather implications. The abundance and diversity of cloud formations in Kanggye contribute to the city’s dynamic and picturesque sky conditions.

Average Precipitation

Kanggye, Korea, North, experiences a humid continental climate, characterized by warm, humid summers and cold, dry winters. The average annual precipitation in Kanggye is approximately 1,100 millimeters (43 inches), distributed fairly evenly throughout the year. The wettest months are July and August, during which heavy rainfall is common. The driest months are December and January, when precipitation is typically light and sporadic.

Seasonal Distribution

The seasonal distribution of precipitation in Kanggye is influenced by the monsoon system that affects East Asia. During the summer months, moisture-laden air from the Pacific Ocean is drawn into the region, leading to frequent rainfall and thunderstorms. In winter, the influence of the monsoon weakens, and precipitation is primarily associated with frontal systems passing through the area. Snowfall is common during the winter months, although it is generally light and does not accumulate significantly.

Annual Precipitation

Kanggye, Korea, North receives an average of 1,200 millimeters (47.2 inches) of precipitation annually, distributed relatively evenly throughout the year. June and July are the wettest months, with an average of over 200 millimeters (7.9 inches) of rainfall each. January and February are the driest months, with an average of less than 50 millimeters (2.0 inches) of rainfall.

Rainfall Patterns

The rainfall in Kanggye is influenced by several factors, including the East Asian monsoon and the topography of the region. The monsoon brings moist air from the Pacific Ocean to Korea during the summer months, resulting in increased rainfall. The mountains surrounding Kanggye also play a role in the distribution of rainfall, as they force moist air to rise and cool, leading to condensation and precipitation.

Rainfall in Kanggye is generally heaviest in the mountainous regions and decreases toward the coastal areas. The average annual precipitation in the mountainous areas can exceed 1,400 millimeters (55.1 inches), while the coastal areas receive less than 1,000 millimeters (39.4 inches).

Climate and Precipitation

Kanggye, North Korea, experiences a continental climate characterized by hot summers and cold, snowy winters. Precipitation is moderate throughout the year, with the heaviest rainfall occurring during the summer months. Snowfall is a dominant feature of Kanggye’s winter season, typically commencing in November and continuing until March. The average annual snowfall varies between 50 and 100 centimeters, contributing significantly to the region’s mountainous landscape and winter scenery.

Impact on Infrastructure and Economy

Heavy snowfall can pose challenges to transportation and infrastructure in Kanggye. Roads may become impassable, and flights can be delayed or canceled. Additionally, the accumulation of snow can disrupt power lines and communication networks. For the local economy, snowfall can impact tourism and agricultural activities. Some businesses may close temporarily during periods of heavy snow, and farmers may face delays in crop planting and harvesting. However, snowfall also brings opportunities, such as winter sports and recreational activities like skiing and sledding.

Sunrise and Sunset Time in Kanggye

Kanggye, North Korea experiences daily variations in sunrise and sunset times throughout the year. The earliest sunrise occurs on or around June 21st, the summer solstice, when the sun rises at approximately 4:45 AM. Conversely, the latest sunrise takes place on or around December 21st, the winter solstice, when the sun rises at roughly 7:00 AM.

Sunset times follow a similar pattern. The earliest sunset happens on or around June 21st, when the sun sets at around 7:45 PM. The latest sunset occurs on or around December 21st when the sun sets at approximately 4:45 PM. These variations in sunrise and sunset times are due to the Earth’s axial tilt and its orbit around the Sun. During the summer months, the Northern Hemisphere is tilted towards the Sun, resulting in longer daylight hours and earlier sunrises and later sunsets. Conversely, in the winter months, the Northern Hemisphere is tilted away from the Sun, leading to shorter daylight hours and later sunrises and earlier sunsets.

Moon’s Appearance and Visibility in Kanggye

In Kanggye, North Korea, the Moon’s appearance and visibility vary throughout the month and year. Like other locations on Earth, Kanggye experiences the lunar phases as the Moon orbits around the Earth. During the New Moon phase, the Moon is not visible as it is positioned between the Earth and the Sun. As the Moon waxes, it gradually becomes more visible in the sky, first as a thin crescent and then as a larger crescent.

During the Full Moon phase, when the Moon is opposite the Sun from Earth’s perspective, it is completely illuminated and appears as a bright orb in the night sky. As the Moon wanes, it goes through a similar cycle of phases in reverse order, gradually decreasing in visibility until it reaches the New Moon phase again. The exact times and dates of the lunar phases vary throughout the year due to the Moon’s elliptical orbit and the tilt of the Earth’s axis.

Moon’s Cultural Significance in Kanggye

The Moon has held cultural and historical significance in Kanggye for centuries. In traditional Korean folklore and mythology, the Moon is often associated with fertility, longevity, and good fortune. Lunar festivals and observances are a part of Korean culture, and they are typically held during the Full Moon or other significant lunar phases. One notable festival is Chuseok, also known as the Harvest Moon Festival, which is celebrated on the 15th day of the 8th month of the lunar calendar. This festival marks the end of the harvest season and is a time for family reunions and giving thanks for the abundance of the earth.

Average Humidity

Kanggye, North Korea, experiences an average annual humidity level of around 70%. The highest levels of humidity occur during the summer months from June to August when it can reach up to 80%. During this time, the air becomes thicker and more humid, making it feel uncomfortable and oppressive. In the winter months, from December to February, the humidity drops significantly, and the air becomes drier. The average humidity during these months ranges from 50% to 60%, providing much-needed relief from the summer’s high moisture levels.

Seasonal Variations

Humidity in Kanggye exhibits distinct seasonal variations. In the spring, as temperatures rise and rainfall increases, the humidity level gradually rises from around 60% in March to 70% in May. This increase in humidity is accompanied by the return of warm, humid air masses from the south. During the summer, the humidity peaks, reaching an average of 80% from June to August. The high humidity levels during this time contribute to uncomfortable and蒸し暑い conditions, especially during the warmest hours of the day. As autumn approaches, the humidity begins to decline again, and by September, it drops to around 70%. This trend continues through the winter months, reaching its lowest point in December and January, when the humidity averages around 50%.

Current Wind Conditions in Kanggye, Korea, North

As of this moment, Kanggye, Korea, North is experiencing moderate wind conditions. The average wind speed is approximately 15 kilometers per hour (9 miles per hour) with gusts of up to 25 kilometers per hour (16 miles per hour). The wind is blowing from the northwest and is expected to continue throughout the day.

Wind Forecast for Kanggye, Korea, North

According to the latest weather forecast, the wind in Kanggye, Korea, North is expected to remain moderate over the next 24 hours. The wind speed is predicted to stay around 15-20 kilometers per hour (9-12 miles per hour) with occasional gusts of up to 30 kilometers per hour (19 miles per hour). The wind direction is expected to remain from the northwest. However, it is important to note that weather conditions can change rapidly, and it is always advisable to check the most up-to-date forecast before making any outdoor plans.

Best Time to Visit Kanggye, Korea, North

The optimal time to visit Kanggye depends on the desired experiences and weather conditions. For outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage. During these seasons, the city awakens with vibrant colors, making it a perfect time to explore the surrounding mountains, rivers, and natural attractions.

For those seeking cultural immersion, summer (June-August) presents an opportunity to witness traditional festivals and events. The Kanggye International Wrestlers’ Game, held in July, showcases the strength and agility of local wrestlers, while the Kanggye Autumn Cultural Festival, in October, celebrates the region’s rich cultural heritage through performances, exhibitions, and traditional games.

Solar Energy Potential

Kanggye, North Korea, possesses abundant solar energy potential due to its geographical location and climate conditions. The city enjoys ample sunlight throughout the year, with an average of over 2,500 sunshine hours annually. This favorable solar insolation makes it an ideal location for solar energy development. Moreover, Kanggye is situated in a remote and mountainous region, providing ample land for large-scale solar projects.

Current Solar Energy Development

Currently, solar energy utilization in Kanggye is limited. The city relies heavily on conventional energy sources such as coal and hydropower. However, there are ongoing efforts to promote solar energy development. The government has implemented policies to encourage investment in renewable energy projects, including solar power. As a result, several small-scale solar power plants have been established in the region. Despite these efforts, the overall contribution of solar energy to Kanggye’s energy supply remains relatively small.

Terrain Features and Elevation

Kanggye, a city nestled within the heart of North Korea, boasts a diverse and captivating topography. Its landscapes are characterized by a harmonious blend of rolling hills, majestic mountains, and picturesque valleys. The city rests at an elevation of approximately 200 meters above sea level, gently sloping towards the Chongchon River valley to the north and west. The surrounding mountainous terrain provides a stunning backdrop to the urban expanse, with peaks such as Chilbo Mountain standing tall at an elevation of over 1,000 meters. These mountains serve as natural borders, shaping the rugged contours of the region.

River Systems and Valley Networks

The Chongchon River, one of the major waterways in North Korea, plays a pivotal role in the topography of Kanggye. Flowing through the center of the city, it carves out a fertile valley that offers rich agricultural lands. The river’s presence also contributes to the formation of numerous tributaries and streams that wind their way through the surrounding hills, creating a complex network of valley systems. These valleys provide natural drainage and support a diverse array of flora and fauna, adding to the overall ecological richness of the region.

Wonsan Kalma Airport

The nearest airport to Kanggye, North Korea, is Wonsan Kalma Airport (WOS). It is approximately 110 kilometers (68 miles) southeast of Kanggye and serves the city of Wonsan. WOS is a domestic airport with flights to Pyongyang, Samjiyon, and other cities in North Korea. It is primarily used by government officials, military personnel, and occasionally by tourists. The airport has a single runway and limited facilities, but it provides convenient access to Kanggye from other parts of the country.

Chongjin Airport

Another nearby airport is Chongjin Airport (CJJ), approximately 160 kilometers (100 miles) northeast of Kanggye. It serves the city of Chongjin and is larger than WOS, with a longer runway and more frequent flights. CJJ has domestic flights to Pyongyang, Samjiyon, and other destinations within North Korea. It also has limited international flights to Vladivostok, Russia, and Dandong, China. Chongjin Airport offers a more extensive range of services compared to WOS, including a wider selection of airline options and more modern facilities.

History and Culture

Kanggye, a city located in Chagang Province, North Korea, holds historical significance as the former provincial capital for over four decades. It boasts a rich cultural heritage, with numerous historical and cultural sites such as the Kanggye Grand Theatre, a modern arts venue showcasing traditional and contemporary Korean productions. The city also features the Kanggye Trade Center, a hub for economic and diplomatic activities.

Economy and Infrastructure

Kanggye’s economy is centered around agriculture, with rice and corn being the primary crops. The city is home to several industrial enterprises, including the Kanggye Steel Plant and the Kanggye Thermal Power Plant. Kanggye is well-connected by road and rail, with the Kanggye Railway Station providing frequent services to other cities in North Korea. The city also boasts a number of schools, hospitals, and other social amenities, catering to the needs of its residents.