Slovenia Climate

Climate of Slovenia

Slovenia lies at the interface between subtropical and temperate zones. A large influence on the formation of the climate in different regions of the country is the relief of the terrain and the great geographical diversity. We can distinguish as many as three distinct climatic areas, which are briefly described below.

The temperate climate zone includes the central and eastern parts of the country, lowlands and mid-mountain basins. It is characterized by warm summers and not too cold winters. Air temperatures on the warmest days oscillate between 20°C and 25°C on average, and on the coldest days the bar of the mercury drops a few degrees below 0°C. Precipitation ranges from 800 mm to 1,000 mm per year, with an increase in spring (March-April) and autumn (October-November).

The subtropical Mediterranean climate zone covers the western part of the country lying on the Adriatic Sea. It is characterized by sunny weather for most of the year and mild winters. During the coldest months, temperatures usually reach several degrees above 0°C, and frosts are extremely rare. However, the "bora," a cold and dry northeast wind blowing from the Adriatic Sea, can be annoying. In summer it is hot (about 25°C - 35°C). Precipitation, as in the center and east of the country, oscillates between 800 mm - 1000 mm per year, but is concentrated in the autumn and winter.

The mountain climate, on the other hand, is dominant in the northwest and includes the alpine part of Slovenia (Julian Alps). These areas are considerably cooler and rainier than the rest of the country. There is a climatic stacked pattern; the higher above sea level, the colder it gets. Summer is cool, with temperatures rising to a maximum of 10°C. Winter is snowy and cold (about -9°C). Precipitation oscillates between 2,500 mm - 3,500 mm per year and occurs throughout the year, of which in winter it usually takes the form of snow, which in the higher parts of the mountains lasts until April.