Tashkent Weather Guide: Climate through the Seasons

Known as the "City of Sun," Tashkent features a sharply continental climate characterized by significant seasonal shifts and extreme temperature variations. While it technically falls into the Mediterranean warm climate zone, its distance from any ocean means it experiences far more intense temperature swings than typical coastal cities.

Typical Weather Patterns and Daily Behavior

Tashkent's climate is defined by its aridity and abundance of sunshine—nearly 2,800 hours annually. In the summer, the city operates on a "siesta-style" schedule; the morning air is crisp and clear, but by noon, the sun is positioned almost vertically (70 degrees), leading to a rapid spike in temperature. Due to low humidity, the heat is "searching" and dry rather than muggy. In the winter, the pattern is reversed: mornings often begin with heavy fog or a dusting of snow, with the air feeling piercingly cold despite often moderate humidity levels (60-70%).

Seasonal Trends

• Spring (March – May): This is the wettest and most volatile period. March is traditionally the rainiest month, but the rain often comes in short, refreshing bursts rather than long, gray spells. Temperatures climb quickly from an average of 10°C (50°F) in March to a warm 25°C (77°F) by May. Nature thrives here as apricot and cherry trees bloom across the city.
• Summer (June – August): Intense, dry heat dominates. July is the hottest month, with daytime highs regularly reaching 36°C to 40°C (97°F to 104°F). Rainfall is virtually non-existent during this period. The peak of summer is marked by the "Chilla" (see below).
• Autumn (September – November): Widely considered the most pleasant season, autumn sees a steady decline in heat. September remains dry and warm, while October brings golden foliage and crisper evenings. By November, the air becomes significantly cooler (average highs of 14°C/58°F) and the first winter rains begin.
• Winter (December – February): Winters are short but can be biting. Average January temperatures hover around 2°C (35°F), but cold waves from Siberia can occasionally plunge the city to -15°C (5°F) or lower. Snowfall is common but rarely stays on the ground for more than a few days.

The "Chilla" and Local Adaptation

A definitive weather phenomenon in Tashkent is the Chilla—a 40-day period from late June to early August when the heat is at its most relentless. Locals adapt by retreating to "Chaykhanas" (tea houses) near the many canals that crisscross the city, where the flowing water helps lower the immediate air temperature. Traditional architecture also plays a role; many local homes are built around shaded, verdant courtyards that act as natural cooling islands.

Microclimates and Mountain Influence

Tashkent’s proximity to the Tian Shan mountains creates a unique regional variation. While the city center can suffer from the "Urban Heat Island" effect—where concrete surfaces retain heat late into the night—the northern districts near the Chirchiq River and the foothills stay several degrees cooler. Just an hour's drive away, the mountain resorts like Chimgan and Amirsoy offer a completely different climate, remaining snow-covered from December to March while the city might experience only light rain.

Historical Context and Modern Trends

Historically, Tashkent's weather was predictable, but the city has seen a temperature increase nearly three times the global average over the last 60 years. While the record high is around 44.6°C (112°F), recent years have seen more frequent and prolonged heatwaves. Conversely, winter "anomalies" still occur, such as the 2023 cold snap that saw record-breaking freezes, reminding travelers that despite its sun-drenched reputation, the continental influence can still bring extreme cold.