Has it Ever Snowed in Ashgabat?

While snow in Ashgabat is a rare sight, it does happen. The capital of Turkmenistan often experiences cold winters, but snow does not fall frequently. According to my research, snow rarely graces the city, and when it does, it usually brings little more than a few flurries. In this piece, we will explore snowfall in Ashgabat, as well as in other northern cities, and the climate conditions that make such weather events rare.

Understanding Snow in the Northern Climates

When considering regions where snowfall is uncommon, it's important to understand the climate patterns that govern these areas. Ashgabat, situated in a subtropical arid climate zone, rarely experiences snow due to its low altitude and relatively mild winters. However, there have been rare instances when Ashgabat has experienced a snowy spell.

Historical Snowfall in Ashgabat

Beyond the occasional flurries, there have been instances where Ashgabat has seen significant snowfall. One notable event occurred in 2017, when a rare snowstorm brought heavy snowfall to the region. This event was a rare spectacle for the city, which is not accustomed to such conditions.

Other Cities: Snow in Morocco

In contrast to Ashgabat, many cities in Morocco experience snowfall, especially in higher altitude regions. In the Middle Atlas and Rif mountains, for example, snow is a common occurrence during the winter months. However, on the coast of Morocco, such as in Rabat, snow is extremely rare.

Rare Snowfall in Rabat: A quick glance into historical records reveals that there has been only one instance of significant snowfall in Rabat, which occurred about a century ago. This historical event proves that while snow may be a rare occurrence, it is not entirely unheard of.

Winter in Nur Sultan (Astana)

While snowfall in Ashgabat is rare, Nur Sultan (Astana), the capital of Kazakhstan, witnesses much more significant snowfall. Known for its frigid winters, Astana is one of the coldest capital cities in the world, with temperatures dropping to as low as minus 40 degrees Celsius. The season of snow typically lasts for almost six months, making it a major part of the winter experience in the city.

Recent Snowfall in Kyrgyzstan's Bishkek

Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, experiences significant snowfall during its long, harsh winters. Located in a continental climate zone, Bishkek receives substantial snow cover. The city just experienced a light snowfall on March 7th, which is unusual for its time of year, but not unheard of. In contrast, New York City, which is often compared to the snowy climes of Bishkek, generally receives less snow.

A Brief Instance of Snow in Asilah, Morocco

While not as common as in the higher altitudes of Morocco, Asilah, a coastal town south of Tangier, occasionally experiences snowfall. A few years ago, a light dusting of snow was observed in the early morning, although it melted quickly. This serves as a testament to the changing climate patterns in the region.

The Effects of Global Warming on Snowfall

The changing climates of these regions are a matter of increasing concern, particularly in terms of snowfall. As global warming continues to affect weather patterns, it is becoming increasingly uncommon for snow to fall even in those areas that have traditionally experienced significant snowfall. The impacts of this are felt not just in the absence of snow, but also in the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events.

Finding Warmth in the Uncommon

No matter how rare, snowfall in these regions is a special event. It brings a sense of joy and wonder, especially when it is experienced in areas where such conditions are not typical. For those who have witnessed snowfall in these regions, it remains a cherished memory of the beauty that nature can offer.