Trabzon Weather & Climate Guide: A Year-Round Journey

Trabzon, a historic port city on the northeastern coast of Turkey, is defined by its unique humid subtropical climate. Unlike the arid heat of southern Turkey or the continental cold of the interior, Trabzon is a land of perennial moisture, dense mists, and vibrant greenery caused by its position between the Black Sea and the steep Pontic Mountains.

Typical Weather Patterns

Rain is the pulse of the city. Trabzon is one of the wettest regions in Turkey, receiving approximately 830mm to 1,800mm of precipitation annually depending on proximity to the mountains. Even in the "driest" months of July and August, light showers are common. The sky is frequently overcast, especially in winter when cloud cover can exceed 60%. This consistent moisture creates the Yeşil Trabzon (Green Trabzon) aesthetic, where moss and tea plantations thrive year-round.

Daily Climate Behavior

Days in Trabzon often follow a predictable maritime rhythm. Mornings near the coast frequently begin with a light haze or mist rising from the sea. As the sun warms the land, this mist usually dissipates by midday, though humidity remains high (often between 70% and 80%). By late afternoon, the interaction between sea breezes and the rising mountain slopes frequently triggers brief orographic rainfall or a surge in cloud density. Evenings are generally cool and damp, with the sea acting as a thermal regulator, preventing sharp temperature drops.

Seasonal Trends

• Spring (March–May): This is the season of birth and mist. Temperatures rise slowly, ranging from 8°C (46°F) to 20°C (68°F). March remains winter-like and wet, while May brings the peak of the blooming season, though it is also when humidity starts to feel more palpable.
• Summer (June–August): Summers are warm but rarely scorching, with highs averaging 25°C to 27°C (77°F–81°F). However, the high humidity often makes the "real feel" 3°C to 5°C higher. This is the sunniest period, yet the Black Sea remains temperamental, often sending sudden, cooling rain showers.
• Autumn (September–November): Often considered the most beautiful season, autumn turns the landscape into a tapestry of gold and deep green. October is historically the wettest month. Temperatures are comfortable, sitting between 12°C and 22°C (54°F–72°F).
• Winter (December–February): Winters are mild by Turkish standards but very damp. Average temperatures hover around 7°C (45°F). While the city center sees little snow, it is frequently pelted by cold rain. Heavy snowfall is reserved for the inland plateaus.

Microclimates and Variations

There is a stark contrast between coastal Trabzon and the inland highlands (Yayla). Just 30-40 minutes of driving inland can result in a temperature drop of 10°C. While the city may be basking in humid 28°C (82°F) summer heat, the Yaylas like Uzungöl or Maçka can be foggy and 15°C (59°F). In winter, the coast stays above freezing while the mountains are buried under meters of snow, creating an alpine climate just miles from the salt air.

Historical Context & Local Adaptation

Historically, Trabzon's weather dictated its architecture; traditional houses are built with steep roofs to shed heavy rain and often sit on stone foundations to resist ground moisture. Locals have adapted to the "surprising" weather by embracing a culture of patience. Life rarely stops for rain; the locals are known for carry-on umbrellas and a "wait five minutes" attitude toward the frequent shifts in the sky.

Specific Weather Phenomena

• The Sea Mist: A thick, low-lying fog can suddenly roll in from the Black Sea, seemingly "swallowing" the coastline and reducing visibility to a few meters within minutes.
• Orographic Lift: Because the mountains rise so sharply from the sea, air is forced upward rapidly, leading to localized heavy downpours in specific districts while another part of the city remains dry.

What the Weather Feels Like

To visit Trabzon is to experience "soft" weather. The air rarely feels sharp or dry; instead, it feels heavy and oxygen-rich. In summer, the air can feel "glassy" or oppressive due to the moisture. In winter, the cold is a "wet cold" that seeps into your bones more than a dry, sub-zero wind would. It is a climate that feels alive, constantly shifting between the scent of salty sea spray and the earthy dampness of the mountain forests.