Erzincan is located in the Eastern Anatolia Region of Turkey and has a typical continental climate. The city's climate is characterized by harsh winters and hot summers. Temperatures often drop below zero in winter, while in summer they can reach up to 30°C. These seasonal temperature fluctuations have a significant impact on the people living in the city and on agricultural activities.
The winter months are very cold and harsh in Erzincan. January is usually the coldest month, with temperatures ranging between -4°C and -20°C. During this period there is heavy snowfall, which can make life in the city difficult, with transportation disruptions and slowdowns in some services. Road closures can disrupt connections with rural areas, which can create problems, especially in accessing emergency health services.
The summer months are generally hot and dry, with temperatures generally ranging between 25°C and 35°C. These temperatures are particularly favorable for agricultural activities. However, high temperatures and low humidity can increase the risk of fire, which is a major concern for local communities and management. Rainfall is very low in summer, so pressure on water resources can increase, which can lead to problems, especially for agricultural irrigation.
Winds in Erzincan usually blow from the north and west, and in the winter months cold and strong winds can make life even more difficult. These winds bring cold waves of air, and this phenomenon, called "caraway", lowers temperatures even further. Wind-driven temperatures can be lower than the temperatures actually measured, making extra protection necessary for people working outside.
Rainfall varies throughout the year, with the highest rainfall in late spring and early summer. The average annual rainfall is usually between 400-500 mm. This distribution of precipitation is an important factor in the planning of agricultural activities and the management of water resources. While spring rainfall is vital for agriculture, decreasing rainfall in summer increases the need for irrigation.
The climate of Erzincan has a great impact on general living conditions and especially on agricultural activities. Characterized by cold and snowy winters and hot and dry summers, this climate shapes both daily life and economic activities. Therefore, a good understanding of climatic conditions and the development of strategies to adapt to these conditions are of great importance for those living in Erzincan.