Climate of Ukraine: useful information for motorists
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- Climate of Ukraine: useful information for motorists
Most of Ukraine has a moderate continental climate with distinct seasons. Some areas of the southern region are close to a subtropical climate. The temperature and weather behavior are greatly affected by the geographical location: traditionally, the northwestern part of the country receives humid cyclones and anticyclones from the Atlantic Ocean, while the southeastern regions are affected by dry air masses from Asia. The average January temperature in the country is from 2 to 10 degrees below zero Celsius, and the average July temperature ranges from + 20 to + 25 degrees. The annual amount of precipitation varies greatly depending on the location. In the west of Ukraine, in the Carpathian Mountains, this figure is 1600 mm, while in the Black Sea region - 300-400 mm. On average, precipitation in the country is up to 700 mm per year. Ukraine is one of the countries with the most favorable climate. It is relatively predictable, stable, and its remoteness from any tectonic collision centers makes destructive earthquakes impossible. Pronounced snowy winters (especially in the northwest of the country) and warm summers make Ukraine particularly attractive to tourists. The situation with road and recreational infrastructure is different, but this issue is
for a separate article. It is worth noting that the western part of the country is characterized by the most diverse weather. This is primarily influenced by the altitude and its contrast: the flat areas of the region are located at an altitude of 150 m, while the mountainous areas are up to 2061 m. This factor also affects the average air humidity. The January temperature is about -7 degrees Celsius, which is ideal for those who like active recreation in the mountains. In autumn, as a rule, there is a gradual transition from an average temperature of +15 ° C to +10 ° C. This period can last from 25 to 40 days and often lasts until mid-October: the country enjoys relatively warm and mild weather. Such days are accompanied by a sharp contrast between night and day temperatures. Sometimes night frosts of -3°C are replaced by sunny days up to +12°C. The period of a decrease in the average daily temperature from +5°C to 0°C falls at the end of October - beginning of December and lasts 20-25 days. During this time, the number of prolonged showers and fogs increases significantly. For this reason, since 2015, the government of Ukraine has introduced a headlights-on mode from October 1 to May 1. Winter is considered the most unpredictable time of the year, it comes and goes at different periods. A characteristic feature of the winter season in the country is a thaw, which can occur 2-3 times a month. Warm air masses come from the west or south: from the Atlantic or the Mediterranean; arctic cold air gives cold cyclones to the entire territory. At such times, it is very important to put winter tires on your car, since it is the summer bare tires that are the culprit of accidents that are so often observed in Ukraine in winter.
