Gaziantep is located in the southeastern region of Turkey and has a typical continental climate. The city's climate is characterized by harsh winters and hot summers. The summer months usually start in June and last until September, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C. In July, the hottest month, the average temperature is around 33°C, with occasional highs in excess of 40°C. The winter months are milder, with average temperatures ranging between 5°C and 10°C between December and February. Night temperatures can drop below zero, but frost is usually rare.
Humidity is generally low, which makes hot summer days a little more bearable. However, low humidity can cause health problems, especially for the elderly and people with chronic respiratory problems. The city's year-round winds are generally from the north and northeast, helping to alleviate some of the heat in the summer. In winter, however, these winds can bring cold waves of air.
In terms of precipitation, Gaziantep has a dry climate for most of the year. The most precipitation usually occurs in the winter months, especially in December and January. There may also be mild rainfall in the spring and fall seasons, but these periods are short. The summer months are almost without rainfall. Total annual rainfall is usually around 400 mm. This low rainfall increases the need to irrigate agricultural activities and increases the pressure on water resources.
Gaziantep's climatic conditions significantly affect life and economic activities in the city. Hot and dry summers necessitate the management of water resources and increase the need for irrigation, especially for the agricultural sector. Mild winters offer a more comfortable life for residents, but cold winds from the north can sometimes cause harsh winter conditions. The city's generally dry climate requires landscaping and urban planning to favor plant species with low water consumption. These climatic characteristics are among the important factors shaping Gaziantep's social and economic structure. By adapting to these conditions, Gaziantep continues its development and increases its potential in various sectors.