Zhytomyr Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Ukraine

Summer (June-August)

Summer in Zhytomyr is typically warm and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 16°C to 25°C (61°F to 77°F). Precipitation is moderate, with an average of 60-80mm (2.4-3.1in) per month. Days are often sunny, with an average of 7-8 hours of sunshine per day. Humidity levels are generally moderate, ranging from 60-70%. Occasional thunderstorms or heavy rainfall may occur, but these are typically short-lived.

Winter (December-February)

Winter in Zhytomyr can be cold and snowy, with average temperatures ranging from -5°C to -10°C (23°F to 14°F). Precipitation is mostly in the form of snow, with an average of 50-70mm (2.0-2.8in) per month. Days are typically short, with an average of 4-5 hours of sunshine per day. Humidity levels are generally low, ranging from 30-40%. Strong winds and blizzards can occasionally occur, especially during the coldest months of January and February.

Average Temperature in Zhytomyr, Ukraine

Zhytomyr, a city in northern Ukraine, experiences a continental climate with warm summers and cold, snowy winters. The average annual temperature in Zhytomyr is 7.8 degrees Celsius (46 degrees Fahrenheit). The warmest months are July and August, with average temperatures around 19 degrees Celsius (66 degrees Fahrenheit), while the coldest months are January and February, with average temperatures below freezing at -5 degrees Celsius (23 degrees Fahrenheit).

During the summer months, temperatures in Zhytomyr can reach up to 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit) or higher, providing pleasant conditions for outdoor activities. The city receives an average of 630 millimeters (25 inches) of precipitation annually, with the majority falling during the spring and summer months. Winter snowfall is common in Zhytomyr, with an average of 50 centimeters (20 inches) of snow cover during the coldest months. The snowpack typically melts away by the end of March, signaling the arrival of spring.

Current Cloud Cover and Conditions

At present, the cloud cover in Zhytomyr, Ukraine is predominantly clear, with low amounts of cirrus clouds. Visibility is unimpeded, and there are no reports of precipitation or significant cloud formations. The skies are generally blue with intermittent streaks of white, indicating minimal cloudiness. The clear skies allow for ample sunshine and a relatively high UV index.

Forecast for the Day

Throughout the day, the cloud cover in Zhytomyr is expected to remain mainly clear. There is a slight chance of isolated showers or drizzle in the morning, but these are unlikely to develop into significant precipitation. As the day progresses, cloudiness will likely remain minimal, with a mix of clear skies and occasional high-altitude clouds. By evening, the cloud cover is forecast to be mostly clear, allowing for clear night skies and potentially optimal conditions for stargazing.

Annual Precipitation

Zhytomyr, Ukraine experiences a humid continental climate with moderate annual precipitation. On average, the city receives approximately 600 millimeters (23.6 inches) of precipitation per year, which is distributed relatively evenly throughout the year. The wettest month is June, with an average rainfall of 90 millimeters (3.5 inches). The driest month is October, with an average rainfall of 40 millimeters (1.6 inches).

Seasonal Precipitation Patterns

Zhytomyr’s precipitation patterns vary with the seasons. During the winter months, from December to February, precipitation is typically in the form of snow or sleet, with average monthly totals ranging from 40 to 50 millimeters (1.6 to 2 inches). In the spring, from March to May, precipitation increases slightly, with average monthly totals ranging from 50 to 60 millimeters (2 to 2.4 inches). The summer months, from June to August, are the wettest, with average monthly totals ranging from 70 to 90 millimeters (2.8 to 3.5 inches). In the fall, from September to November, precipitation decreases gradually, with average monthly totals ranging from 50 to 60 millimeters (2 to 2.4 inches).

Monthly Rainfall Distribution

Zhytomyr, Ukraine, experiences a moderate amount of rainfall throughout the year, with a total annual precipitation of around 600 mm (24 inches). The wettest months are July and August, each receiving an average of over 100 mm (4 inches) of rain. The driest months are February and March, with less than 30 mm (1 inch) of rainfall on average. The majority of the precipitation falls as rain, with snowfall being relatively uncommon in Zhytomyr.

Seasonal Variations in Rainfall

The distribution of rainfall in Zhytomyr varies significantly with the seasons. During the spring and fall, there is a gradual increase in rainfall, reaching a peak in July and August. This is due to the influence of the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO), a weather pattern that brings frequent cyclones to Northern Europe during these months. During the winter, rainfall decreases as the NAO weakens and the region experiences colder and drier conditions.

Snowfall Impact on Transportation and Infrastructure

The heavy snowfall has severely impacted transportation and infrastructure in Zhytomyr. Road closures and treacherous conditions have made travel dangerous, stranding vehicles and disrupting public transportation. The city’s main roads have been deemed impassable, leaving thousands of commuters stuck. The closure of major highways has also limited access to neighboring cities and regions.

In addition to road closures, the snowfall has also caused power outages and damage to infrastructure. The weight of the snow has caused power lines to snap, leaving thousands of homes and businesses without electricity. The city’s water system has also been affected, as frozen pipes have reduced water pressure and caused disruptions in service. The snowfall has also damaged buildings and structures, particularly roofs and walls, posing a risk to public safety.

Sunrise and Sunset in Zhytomyr

Zhytomyr, Ukraine experiences varying sunrise and sunset times throughout the year due to its latitude and the Earth’s tilt. During the summer months, the days are longer, and the sun rises earlier and sets later. In June, the longest day of the year, the sun rises at around 4:45 AM and sets at around 9:20 PM, providing approximately 16 hours of daylight. In contrast, during the winter months, the days are shorter, and the sun rises and sets earlier. In December, the shortest day of the year, the sun rises at around 8:30 AM and sets at around 4:15 PM, resulting in only about 8 hours of daylight.

Annual Sunshine and Cloud Cover

Zhytomyr has a moderate amount of annual sunshine, with an average of around 2,000 hours per year. However, the amount of sunshine varies significantly throughout the year. The sunniest months are May and June, with an average of over 8 hours of sunshine per day. The cloudiest months are November and December, with an average of less than 4 hours of sunshine per day. In addition to sunshine, Zhytomyr also experiences a fair amount of cloud cover. The average annual cloud cover is around 65%, which means that the sky is partially or mostly covered with clouds for much of the year.

Moon’s Appearance in Zhytomyr, Ukraine

The appearance of the moon in Zhytomyr, Ukraine, undergoes distinct changes throughout the lunar cycle. During the new moon phase, the moon remains largely invisible from Earth as it aligns closely with the sun. As the moon progresses through its phases, it gradually becomes more prominent in the night sky.

During the first quarter phase, the moon appears as a half-lit crescent shape, with its illuminated portion gradually increasing with each passing day. As it approaches the full moon phase, the moon takes on a more complete circular appearance, casting a bright glow over Zhytomyr’s urban landscape. The full moon marks the peak of the lunar cycle, when the moon’s entire surface is illuminated by the sun’s rays.

Impact on Lunar Observation

The clarity with which the moon can be observed in Zhytomyr is influenced by various atmospheric conditions and urban factors. On clear nights with minimal light pollution, the moon appears with exceptional detail, allowing for observations of its craters, mountains, and other geological features. However, dense cloud cover and high levels of urban lighting can obscure the moon’s visibility and diminish its overall appearance.

Seasonal Variations of Humidity

The humidity in Zhytomyr, Ukraine varies significantly throughout the year. During the cold and snowy winters, the average relative humidity is around 80%, with occasional dips below 70%. As the weather warms in spring, the humidity gradually decreases to around 65-70%. Summer brings the most moderate humidity levels, with an average of 60-65%. However, during periods of heavy rainfall, the humidity can spike to 80% or even higher. In autumn, humidity levels rise again, averaging between 70-75%, as the weather cools and fog becomes more frequent.

Impact on Human Comfort and Health

The humidity in Zhytomyr can greatly impact human comfort and health. During the summer, high humidity levels can make the heat feel more oppressive, leading to discomfort and heat-related illnesses. Conversely, low humidity in winter can cause dry skin, eyes, and respiratory irritation. Additionally, high humidity can exacerbate respiratory conditions like asthma and allergies. Therefore, it is important for residents to take measures to manage humidity levels in their homes and workplaces to ensure comfort and good health. This can be achieved through the use of humidifiers, dehumidifiers, or air conditioners, depending on the season and specific humidity levels.

Wind Patterns and Climate Influence

Zhytomyr, located in northern Ukraine, experiences a temperate continental climate with moderate temperatures and significant precipitation throughout the year. The wind patterns in Zhytomyr are influenced by the prevailing westerly winds and the region’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. During the winter months, cold northwesterly winds dominate, bringing cold and sometimes snowy weather. In the summer, southwesterly and westerly winds prevail, bringing warmer and more humid air.

Wind Speeds and Impacts

Wind speeds in Zhytomyr vary seasonally and throughout the day. During the winter, average wind speeds range from 2 to 4 meters per second (4-9 miles per hour), while in the summer, they typically range from 3 to 5 meters per second (6-11 miles per hour). Occasionally, strong winds can occur, especially during thunderstorms or when low-pressure systems pass through the region. These winds can cause damage to infrastructure and uproot trees. The wind in Zhytomyr also plays a role in dispersing air pollution and influencing local vegetation.

Summer (June-August)

Summer in Zhytomyr is a season of warm and sunny weather, with average temperatures ranging from 18°C (64°F) to 25°C (77°F). The skies are often clear, making it an ideal time to explore the city’s parks and gardens. The days are long and provide ample opportunity for outdoor activities such as picnics, kayaking, and cycling. The city also hosts various festivals and events during the summer, including the Zhytomyr Music Festival and the International Airshow.

Autumn (September-November)

Autumn in Zhytomyr brings a picturesque display of changing leaves, with vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow adorning the trees. The temperatures are mild, ranging from 10°C (50°F) to 18°C (64°F), making it a comfortable time to visit the city. The air becomes crisp and invigorating, inviting visitors to take leisurely strolls through Zhytomyr’s historical center or along the scenic banks of the Teteriv River. The autumn months also offer opportunities for fall foliage tours and pumpkin picking at local farms.

Solar Energy Potential in Zhytomyr, Ukraine

Zhytomyr, a city in northern Ukraine, possesses significant potential for solar energy development. The region receives ample sunlight, with an average of around 1,100-1,200 hours of sunshine annually. This solar irradiation is comparable to many other regions in Europe that have successfully implemented solar power systems. Additionally, Zhytomyr has a relatively flat topography, making it suitable for large-scale solar photovoltaic (PV) installations.

Economic and Environmental Benefits

Investing in solar energy offers numerous economic and environmental advantages for Zhytomyr. The city could reduce its dependence on imported fossil fuels, such as natural gas and coal. This would enhance energy security and potentially result in lower energy costs for businesses and residents. Furthermore, solar energy is a clean and sustainable source of electricity, contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and promoting a healthier environment in Zhytomyr. By embracing solar power, the city can also attract new industries and businesses that prioritize sustainability.

Elevation and Relief

Zhytomyr is situated in the northwestern part of Ukraine, within the Volyn-Podilska Upland. The city’s elevation ranges from 180 to 250 meters (590 to 820 feet) above sea level. Zhytomyr lies on a series of low hills and valleys, with the Teterev River winding through the city. The slopes of the hills are generally gentle, creating a relatively flat landscape. However, some areas within the city limits have steeper slopes, particularly near the riverbanks.

Geomorphology

Zhytomyr falls within the Ukrainian Shield, a geological region characterized by ancient crystalline rocks. The city’s underlying bedrock consists primarily of granites, gneisses, and schists. These rocks have been subjected to millions of years of erosion and weathering, resulting in the formation of rolling hills and valleys. The Teterev River has also played a role in shaping Zhytomyr’s topography, creating a floodplain and alluvial terraces along its banks. The city’s topography is further influenced by the presence of numerous glacial deposits, remnants of past ice ages. These deposits contribute to the undulating nature of the landscape and provide valuable insights into the region’s geological history.

Zhuliany International Airport (IEV)

Zhuliany International Airport (IEV) is the closest airport to Zhytomyr, Ukraine, located approximately 140 kilometers (87 miles) to the southwest. It is the second-largest airport in Ukraine and serves domestic and international flights. IEV offers direct connections to major cities within Ukraine, including Kyiv, Lviv, and Odesa, as well as international destinations such as Istanbul, Warsaw, and Vienna. The airport is well-connected to Zhytomyr by bus and train services, with journey times ranging from two to three hours.

Boryspil International Airport (KBP)

Boryspil International Airport (KBP) is another major airport serving Zhytomyr, located approximately 170 kilometers (106 miles) to the southeast. It is the largest and busiest airport in Ukraine, handling both domestic and international flights. KBP offers a wide range of direct connections to destinations within Ukraine, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. While it is farther away from Zhytomyr than Zhuliany Airport, KBP provides a greater choice of flights and international connections. The airport is accessible from Zhytomyr via bus and train services, with journey times ranging from three to four hours.

History and Architecture

Zhytomyr has a rich history dating back to the 9th century, and its architectural heritage reflects this diverse past. The city boasts magnificent cathedrals, including the Holy Protection Cathedral, with its distinctive blue domes and intricate frescoes, and the Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, a towering Gothic structure with ornate spires. Zhytomyr is also home to the Old Town, a charming district that preserves the city’s traditional wooden houses and cobblestone streets.

Culture and Education

Zhytomyr is a vibrant cultural center, hosting numerous festivals and events throughout the year. The city’s theater, the Lesya Ukrainka Music and Drama Theater, stages a wide range of performances, from classical dramas to modern comedies. Zhytomyr is also an educational hub, boasting several universities and colleges, including the Zhytomyr Ivan Franko State University, renowned for its strong academic programs in the sciences and humanities. The city’s museums, such as the Zhytomyr Regional Museum and the Korolenko Literary Memorial Museum, offer insights into the region’s history, culture, and literary heritage.