Summer 2026 is drawing to a close, and the Ukrainian Hydrometeorological Center (UkrGMC) has published its traditional climate characteristic for September — the transitional month from summer to autumn. As reported by RBC-Ukraine, citing the agency's press service, September in Ukraine has historically been characterized by a gradual decline in the temperature background, an increased likelihood of frosts, and the formation of an autumn precipitation regime. Experts noted that it is precisely during this period that meteorological indicators begin to deviate from summer maxima, and the climate system shifts into its autumn phase.
Temperature Range: From +38.8 °C to Frost
According to the brief climate characteristic by UkrGMC, the absolute maximum air temperature in September across Ukraine ranges from +30.7 to +38.8 °C. In mountainous areas (excluding Chernivtsi Oblast), the maximum values are somewhat lower — around +24.3 to +36.0 °C. As for the absolute minimum, throughout September across the country it can drop from 1 to 8.8 degrees below zero. At the same time, in certain regions higher absolute minimums have been recorded in the range of 0 to +1 °C above zero, while in Crimea — up to +5.5 °C, which is the highest figure among all oblasts.
Frosts: When to Expect the First Cold Spells
Forecasters emphasized that air frosts in September are observed predominantly in the second and third decades of the month. However, air frosts are also not ruled out in the first decade, making the start of autumn potentially cool. This is an important reference point for farmers and gardeners who are planning the harvest of late crops and the preparation of plants for the winter period.
Precipitation and Preliminary Forecast for September 2026
In closing the publication, UkrGMC experts shared a preliminary (tentative) forecast for September 2026. The average monthly air temperature is expected to be at +11 to +18 °C, which, according to meteorologists, is close to the climate norm. As for precipitation, the agency indicates that it is expected "within the norm (80–120%)" of long-term average values. Thus, no sharp deviations — neither toward abnormal heat nor toward prolonged heavy rains — are currently forecast.
Context: What This Means for Residents
The published data is of a reference and indicative nature and is based on long-term statistical observations rather than operational numerical modeling of specific weather. Nevertheless, it allows for forming a general idea of what the first month of autumn 2026 may be like: moderately warm, with a gradual transition to cool nights and a normal-for-the-season amount of precipitation. Previously, RBC-Ukraine also reported on the rapid shallowing of Ukraine's rivers in August and on how forecasters actually work when producing weather forecasts.
