The climate of Muş province is typical of a continental climate, which means that temperature differences are quite pronounced throughout the year. Summers are hot and dry, while winters are cold and snowy. The spring and fall seasons are generally short and transitional.
In summer, temperatures can often reach up to 30°C, especially in July and August. Rainfall is very low during this period and there can be prolonged periods of drought. The winter months are very cold, with temperatures often dropping below -10°C. December and January are usually the coldest months. Snowfall is heavy, especially in the higher elevations, and snow covers the ground for most of the winter season.
In Muş, winds blow mainly from the north and west. In winter, cold north winds further reduce the feeling of warmth and cause cold waves. In summer, westerly winds can alleviate some of the heat, bringing a slight coolness in the midday hours. Humidity is generally low, making hot summer days more tolerable.
Rainfall is irregular throughout the year and occurs mostly in spring and fall. Annual rainfall is lower than in the western regions of Turkey. The lack of precipitation, especially in summer, puts pressure on agricultural activities and increases the need for irrigation. The snow that falls in winter is an important source of water, especially for agriculture, because the melting snow water is used to irrigate agricultural land in the spring.
The climatic conditions of Muş have significant impacts on daily life and economic activities. Cold and snowy winters increase the need for heating, and fuel consumption in homes and workplaces increases accordingly. High temperatures in summer can pose health risks, especially for the elderly and people with chronic diseases. Agricultural activities are shaped according to these climatic conditions; the need for irrigation increases due to summer drought and this creates additional pressure on water resources. The impact of winds can also lead to soil erosion and dust transport, which can have negative consequences for both agricultural land and general environmental health.