Weather overview
The weather in Кисловодск shifts noticeably with the seasons, offering a mix of crisp winters and warm summers. Winters here are mild compared to much of Russia, though nights can still bring frost. From December to February, temperatures hover around 0 °C, with occasional dips below freezing. Spring arrives gradually, with March and April bringing more sunshine and a slow rise in warmth.
Summer in Кисловодск is pleasant, with daytime temperatures rarely exceeding 23 °C, making it a comfortable escape from the heat of southern Russia. The warmest months, July and August, see averages around 20–21 °C, while evenings remain cool. Autumn sets in by September, with temperatures dropping steadily, though October can still feel mild before the chill of winter returns.
Temperature
Winter in Кисловодск is cool but not harsh, with average temperatures ranging from -2.3 °C in January to 0.8 °C in December. Nighttime lows can reach -7 °C, so layers are essential. By March, the cold eases, though frosts may linger into early spring. April marks a clear shift, with averages climbing to 8.2 °C and daytime highs near 10 °C.
Summer brings the most stable warmth, with June averaging 17.8 °C and July peaking at 20.6 °C. Even in the hottest months, nights cool down to around 10 °C, offering relief. September sees a gradual decline, with averages dropping to 14 °C, while October and November bring a sharper chill, settling around 8.9 °C and 5.4 °C respectively.
| Month | Minimum | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| January | -7.2 | -0.8 |
| February | -5.8 | 2.8 |
| March | -4.4 | 3.9 |
| April | 0.8 | 10.2 |
| May | 4 | 14.5 |
| June | 8.5 | 19.9 |
| July | 10.4 | 22.6 |
| August | 10.7 | 23.2 |
| September | 6.4 | 17.7 |
| October | 1.8 | 12.2 |
| November | -1.9 | 6.3 |
| December | -5 | 1.8 |
Precipitation
Rainfall in Кисловодск is spread throughout the year, with no truly dry season. The wettest months are October (228.3 mm) and January (196.1 mm), while February is the driest at 89 mm. Snow is possible in winter, though it rarely accumulates heavily. Spring and early summer see consistent rain, with April and May each receiving around 180–190 mm.
Summer months like July and August still see significant precipitation (196 mm and 171.6 mm), though storms are often brief. Autumn brings the heaviest rains, particularly in October, which can make outdoor plans unpredictable. Packing a light rain jacket is wise year-round, especially if visiting in November or December, when damp weather is common.
| Month | Precipitation |
|---|---|
| January | 196.1 |
| February | 89 |
| March | 165.1 |
| April | 194.9 |
| May | 186.4 |
| June | 134.3 |
| July | 196 |
| August | 171.6 |
| September | 193.6 |
| October | 228.3 |
| November | 155.5 |
| December | 204.7 |
What to pack
For winter visits to Кисловодск, pack warm layers, including a coat, gloves, and a hat, as temperatures can drop below freezing. Waterproof footwear is useful for slushy conditions in January and February. Spring travelers should bring a mix of light sweaters and a jacket, as mornings and evenings remain cool even in May.
Summer in Кисловодск calls for breathable clothing, but evenings can be chilly, so a light sweater or shawl is handy. A compact umbrella or rain jacket is practical for sudden showers, especially in June or July. Autumn visitors should prepare for variable weather: layers for September’s mild days and warmer clothing for November’s crisp air.
| Month | Wind speed |
|---|---|
| January | 1.1 |
| February | 1.1 |
| March | 1.1 |
| April | 1.2 |
| May | 1.2 |
| June | 1 |
| July | 1 |
| August | 1 |
| September | 0.9 |
| October | 1.2 |
| November | 1.2 |
| December | 1.4 |