Yelets Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Russia

Monthly Average Temperatures and Precipitation

Yelets, Russia, experiences a humid continental climate with warm summers and cold winters. January is the coldest month, with average temperatures ranging from -13.9°C to -7.8°C. July is the warmest month, with average temperatures between 17.8°C and 24.4°C. Precipitation is relatively evenly distributed throughout the year, with an average monthly rainfall of 40-60 mm. The driest months are January and February, while the wettest months are June and July.

Seasonal Variation

Spring in Yelets (March-May) is characterized by gradually rising temperatures and occasional rainfall. Summers (June-August) are warm and sunny, with frequent thunderstorms. Autumn (September-November) brings cooler temperatures and increased precipitation, often in the form of rain or snow. Winters (December-February) are long, cold, and snowy, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. The city receives an average of 40-50 cm of snowfall per year. The city may experience severe weather events such as blizzards and ice storms during the winter season.

Average Temperature in Yelets, Russia

Yelets, a city in southern Russia, experiences a humid continental climate with significant seasonal temperature variations. Summers are typically warm, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C in July, the warmest month. However, winters are long and cold, with average temperatures below freezing from November to March. January, the coldest month, has an average temperature of -11°C.

Throughout the year, the temperature in Yelets fluctuates greatly. In winter, temperatures can drop below -20°C, especially during cold snaps. On the other hand, during the summer months, temperatures can occasionally soar above 30°C during heatwaves. The city’s location in the Central Russian Upland contributes to these extreme temperature variations, as it can experience both the influence of continental air masses from the east and maritime air masses from the west.

Cloud Types and Formations

The cloud formations observed in Yelets, Russia, exhibit a diverse range of shapes and characteristics. Cumulus clouds, known for their fluffy and detached appearance, are frequently encountered in the region. These clouds typically indicate fair weather and can range in size from small to towering. Stratus clouds, on the other hand, are characterized by a flat and uniform gray layer that covers the sky. They often produce drizzle or light rain and are associated with overcast conditions.

Cloud Cover and Weather Patterns

The amount of cloud cover in Yelets, Russia, varies significantly throughout the year. During the summer months, the region experiences higher cloud cover due to increased moisture levels and convective activity. Cumulus clouds are common during this season, as well as towering cumulonimbus clouds that can produce thunderstorms. In contrast, the winter months tend to have less cloud cover due to lower temperatures and reduced atmospheric moisture. The sky often appears clear or partly cloudy during this time, with occasional periods of snowfall or mist.

Annual Precipitation

Yelets, Russia experiences a moderate amount of precipitation throughout the year, averaging around 550 millimeters (22 inches). The city’s climate is classified as humid continental, with warm summers and cold winters. Precipitation is relatively evenly distributed throughout the year, with the driest month being February and the wettest being July. However, the city is prone to occasional heavy rainfall events, particularly during the summer months.

Seasonal Precipitation Patterns

During the summer months, from June to August, Yelets receives an average of around 60-70 millimeters (2.4-2.8 inches) of precipitation per month. Thunderstorms and heavy rainfall are common during this time of year, and the city can experience flash flooding in some areas. In the winter months, from December to February, precipitation is typically in the form of snow and sleet, with an average of 20-30 millimeters (0.8-1.2 inches) of precipitation per month. Snow cover can persist for several months during the winter, although it is not uncommon for the city to experience periods of mild weather with little to no snowfall.

Average Annual Rainfall

Yelets, Russia receives an average of 520 millimeters (20.5 inches) of rainfall per year. This amount is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year, with slightly higher precipitation during the summer months. The average temperature in Yelets is 4.5 degrees Celsius (40 degrees Fahrenheit), and the average humidity is 75%.

Seasonal Variation

Rainfall in Yelets is influenced by the city’s location in the temperate climate zone. During the summer months, the prevailing winds are from the west and southwest, bringing moist air from the Atlantic Ocean. This results in higher rainfall during these months. In contrast, the winter months are characterized by drier conditions, as the prevailing winds are from the east and northeast, carrying cold, dry air from Siberia.

Snowfall in Yelets, Russia

The city of Yelets in Russia experiences significant snowfall during the winter months. The average annual snowfall in Yelets is around 50 centimeters (20 inches), with most of the snow falling between November and April. The snowpack typically lasts for several months, creating a picturesque winter landscape. The heavy snowfall can sometimes cause disruptions to transportation and other activities, but it also provides opportunities for winter sports and recreation.

The snowfall in Yelets is influenced by its location in the temperate continental climate zone. The city is located in the central part of Russia, which experiences cold, snowy winters and warm, humid summers. The snowfall in Yelets is also affected by the topography of the surrounding region. The city is located in a relatively flat area, which allows cold air and moisture to accumulate and produce snow.

Sunrise and Sunset in Yelets

In the city of Yelets, Russia, the timing of sunrise and sunset varies throughout the year due to the Earth’s tilt and its orbit around the Sun. Generally, the earliest sunrise occurs around June 21st, the summer solstice, with the Sun rising before 4:00 AM. Conversely, the latest sunrise occurs around December 21st, the winter solstice, when the Sun rises after 9:00 AM. Similarly, the earliest sunset occurs around June 21st, around 10:00 PM, while the latest sunset happens around December 21st, close to 4:00 PM.

Daylight Duration in Yelets

The duration of daylight in Yelets also varies significantly throughout the year. During the summer months, from May to August, the days are long, with over 16 hours of daylight. In June, the longest day of the year, Yelets experiences nearly 18 hours of daylight. Conversely, during the winter months, from November to February, the days are short, with less than 8 hours of daylight. In December, the shortest day of the year, Yelets has only around 6 hours of daylight. The contrasting day lengths between summer and winter are a noticeable aspect of life in Yelets and influence the daily routines and activities of its residents.

Moon Visibility and Phases in Yelets

In Yelets, Russia, the moon’s visibility and phases vary throughout the month and year. The city’s location at 52.6° north latitude means that the moon’s altitude above the horizon changes significantly over the course of the year. During summer months, the moon can reach altitudes of up to 60 degrees, while in winter months, it may barely rise above the horizon. The moon’s phases, from new moon to full moon and back again, follow a predictable cycle of approximately 29.5 days. The exact times and dates of each phase vary slightly from year to year.

Moonrise and Moonset Times in Yelets

The times of moonrise and moonset in Yelets also change throughout the month and year. Moonrise typically occurs earlier in the evening during the summer months and later in the evening during the winter months. Similarly, moonset typically occurs earlier in the morning during the summer months and later in the morning during the winter months. The exact times of moonrise and moonset can be found in astronomical tables or online moon phase calculators.

Relative Humidity in Yelets: Seasonal Variations

Yelets, situated in the Lipetsk Oblast of Russia, experiences significant variations in relative humidity levels throughout the year. During the cold winter months (December to February), the average relative humidity can range from 75% to 85%, reflecting the influence of cold air that holds less moisture. As temperatures rise in spring (March to May), the relative humidity typically decreases to around 65% to 75%. This drop is attributed to the increased evaporation of moisture from the ground and bodies of water.

Summer and Autumn Humidity: Impacts of Precipitation and Temperature

During the summer months (June to August), Yelets experiences its highest relative humidity levels. The combination of warm temperatures and frequent precipitation elevates the average relative humidity to between 75% and 85%. However, during dry spells or periods of high heat, the relative humidity can temporarily drop to around 60%. As autumn approaches (September to November), the relative humidity gradually decreases again, reaching levels similar to those observed in spring. This decrease is influenced by the cooling temperatures and reduced evaporation.

Wind Speed and Direction

Yelets, Russia experiences moderate wind speeds throughout the year. The annual average wind speed is about 4.5 meters per second (10 miles per hour). The prevailing wind direction is from the west-southwest, although it can vary depending on the season. In the winter months, winds tend to be stronger and come from the north-northeast, while in the summer, winds are generally lighter and come from the south-southwest.

Seasonal Variations

The wind speed and direction in Yelets vary significantly throughout the year. During the winter months (December to February), the average wind speed is about 6 meters per second (13 miles per hour), and the prevailing wind direction is from the north-northeast. This is due to the influence of the Siberian High, a large area of high atmospheric pressure that forms over Siberia during the winter. In the summer months (June to August), the average wind speed drops to about 3 meters per second (7 miles per hour), and the prevailing wind direction shifts to the south-southwest. This is due to the influence of the Azores High, a large area of high atmospheric pressure that forms over the Azores Islands during the summer.

Summer (June-August)

For those seeking warm and sunny weather, summer is the optimal time to visit Yelets, Russia. The average temperatures range from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius (59 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit), with occasional heat spikes. The city becomes vibrant, with locals and tourists enjoying outdoor activities such as picnicking in the parks, strolling along the scenic embankment, and attending music festivals. Additionally, a visit to the Yelets State Museum of Local Lore is highly recommended, showcasing the city’s rich history and culture.

Autumn (September-November)

As the summer heat subsides, autumn in Yelets transforms the landscape into a kaleidoscope of colors. The average temperatures hover between 5 and 15 degrees Celsius (41 to 59 degrees Fahrenheit), providing comfortable conditions for exploration. The parks and gardens burst with vibrant hues of red, orange, and gold, creating breathtaking scenery. This season is also ideal for a leisurely walk through the old town, where historical buildings line the cobblestone streets. The Yeletskiy Krasnyy Dvor Museum-Estate offers a glimpse into the city’s past as a center of trade and commerce.

Solar Potential in Yelets

Yelets, Russia, is located in the temperate climate zone, characterized by ample sunshine and moderate temperatures. The city receives an average of 4.5-5.5 peak sun hours per day, making it suitable for solar energy utilization. The region’s relatively low humidity and clear skies further enhance the potential for solar power generation throughout the year.

Solar Energy Development

Despite its solar potential, Yelets has yet to fully harness this renewable energy source. Currently, there are only a handful of small-scale solar installations in the city. However, there is growing interest in solar energy development, particularly among businesses and individuals seeking to reduce their carbon footprint and energy costs. The city government is also exploring the possibility of implementing large-scale solar projects to supplement its energy supply. With its favorable solar conditions and increasing demand for sustainable energy, Yelets has the opportunity to become a hub for solar energy in Russia.

Rivers and Lakes

Yelets is situated in the basin of the Don River, which flows about 70 km to the east. The city is located on the Bystraya Sosna River, a tributary of the Don. The Bystraya Sosna meanders through the city center and divides it into two parts. Several other smaller rivers, such as the Veduga and Khopër, also flow through the Yelets district. There are several lakes in the vicinity of Yelets, including Lake Srednee and Lake Bolshoe. These lakes are popular destinations for recreation and fishing.

Terrain and Soil

The terrain in the Yelets area is mostly flat or gently rolling. The city lies on the southwestern slopes of the Central Russian Upland. The soil in the region is primarily chernozem, a fertile black soil that is well-suited for agriculture. The chernozem soil in the Yelets district supports a variety of crops, including wheat, rye, barley, and sunflowers. The region also has a number of forests, which are mainly composed of oak, birch, and pine trees. The forests provide a habitat for a variety of animals, including deer, wild boar, and foxes.

Lipetsk Airport

Lipetsk Airport (LPK) is the closest airport to Yelets, Russia. It is located approximately 150 kilometers (93 miles) north of the city and offers limited domestic flights to Moscow, St. Petersburg, and other major cities within Russia. The airport is relatively small and does not handle international flights. Passengers can expect basic amenities and services, including a small terminal building, a few shops, and a currency exchange.

Voronezh International Airport

Voronezh International Airport (VOZ) is another option for air travel to Yelets, although it is slightly further away than Lipetsk Airport. It is located approximately 200 kilometers (124 miles) northwest of Yelets and offers a wider range of domestic and international flights. The airport is larger and more modern than Lipetsk Airport, with a larger terminal building, more shops and restaurants, and improved amenities. International flights are primarily limited to destinations in Europe and the Middle East.

History of Yelets

Yelets, a city in Lipetsk Oblast, Russia, has a rich and storied history dating back to the 12th century. Initially established as a fortress on the Ivtsevaya River, Yelets played a significant role in protecting the Russian borders from nomadic invasions. Throughout the centuries, it was successively under the rule of various principalities, including the Ryazan, Lipetsk, and Moscow. During the 17th and 18th centuries, Yelets became a major trading center, renowned for its leather and wool products.

Cultural and Architectural Heritage

Yelets boasts a diverse array of cultural and architectural attractions. The city is home to numerous churches and monasteries, most notably the Assumption Cathedral, built in the 19th century and considered a masterpiece of Russian Orthodox architecture. Other architectural landmarks include the Yelets Drama Theater, the Historical and Archaeological Museum, and the Merchant’s Mansion, which showcase the city’s cultural and historical heritage. Yelets also has a thriving arts scene, with several art galleries and performance venues, making it a vibrant cultural hub in the region.