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Does it snow in Baku, Azerbaijan?

Baku’s climate and weather patterns

Baku experiences a semi-arid climate due to the effects of the presence of the Caspian Sea on western side. Winter months are mild and to some extent wet, whereas the summer months are hot and dry. The city is also notoriously windy - hence its popular name, The City of Winds.

Being situated along the coast along with moderate altitude, Baku is less snowy especially compared to inland and higher altitude areas of the territory of Azerbaijan. When it snows they usually last a relatively short period of time because the temperatures are not so low.

How often does it snow?

Baku registers approximately 7 to 8 snowfall days on average each year, with a total annual accumulation of around 35 mm (1.38 inches) of snow. In some years, the city experiences only a few light snowfalls, and in some years the snow measured during the entire winter can amount to zero.

The most prevalent snowfall happens in January and February and lasts only several days. Light snows in November, December or March are the rarest of all and occur in some years, too.

Typical winter temperatures

Winter temperatures in Baku generally range from 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). While cold snaps can occur, extreme lows are rare. Historical records show that in rare cases, temperatures have dropped to -13°C (about 9°F), but such extremes are extremely uncommon—possibly only once in several decades.

When and where snow is more likely

  • Within the city: snow in Baku itself can be light and it lasts a day or two before melting. It does not reach levels to disrupt travel to a great degree.
  • Fringe destinations: Leave the city behind and enter mountainous terrain and snowfall will be much better higher up (such as in the Caucasus mountains of northern Azerbaijan) and more often falls in winter. The areas possess very beautiful snow-covered sceneries and people throng them during the winters.

December snowfall snapshot

In December, Baku averages 0.7 days of snow and about 2 mm (0.08 inches) of accumulation. This means snow is possible but not guaranteed during the start of the winter season.

What to expect if visiting in winter

If your visit to Baku is between late November and early March, you might see snow; however, it is not guaranteed. During the winter in Baku it would tend to be cold winds and sometimes light rain. Nevertheless, when the snow finally comes it gives a magical sense of life to classical streets and the sea views in the city.

Final thoughts

Baku, Azerbaijan, does get snow but usually it is light, rare and of short duration. There are usually a few snowy days; most often in January or February, but in many winters, there may be none at all. People who want to spend their winter time in a real winter wonderland will have a considerably higher possibility of seeing lots of snow by traveling towards the mountainous areas of Azerbaijan.

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