The National Hydrometeorological Service has released the official weather forecast for the upcoming Novruz holiday period in Azerbaijan, covering March 20-22.
According to the Operative Information Center-OMM, unstable weather conditions are expected across the country, with rain projected in several regions and snow anticipated in mountainous areas. In Baku and the Absheron Peninsula, March 20 will see changeable cloudy skies with occasional rain in some areas during the day. Temperatures in the capital will range from 6-8°C at night to 10-14°C during the day. On March 21-22, conditions in Baku are expected to be mostly dry, with daytime temperatures rising to a high of 17°C.
Regional Outlook: Garabagh, Nakhchivan, and East Zangizur
In Nakhchivan, as well as the cities of Khankendi, Shusha, Aghdam, and Fuzuli, precipitation is expected on March 20, with snow likely in higher elevations. The Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources warns of potential lightning and hail in specific districts. In East Zangizur, including Zangilan, Kalbajar, Qubadli, Lachin, and Jabrayil, similar conditions will prevail on March 20, followed by a break in precipitation from the morning of March 21 through March 22. Temperatures in these regions will fluctuate between 0-5°C at night and up to 14°C during the day.
Forecast for Northern and Central Districts
In Ganja, Goranboy, Shamkir, and Naftalan, rainy conditions on March 20 will give way to warmer, dry weather by March 22, with temperatures potentially reaching 20°C. Similar patterns are expected in the northern regions of Quba, Qusar, and Sheki, where initial snow and rain will be replaced by clear skies during the latter half of the holiday. In the central Aran regions, including Mingachevir, Shirvan, and Sabirabad, March 20 may bring intensive rain and lightning, while March 21-22 will remain mostly rainless with highs of 20°C.
The Novruz holiday, which marks the arrival of spring and the vernal equinox, is one of the most significant national celebrations in Azerbaijan. During this period, the Cabinet of Ministers typically declares several non-working days, leading to increased domestic travel to the regions. The National Hydrometeorological Service regularly provides these specialized forecasts to ensure public safety and assist in holiday planning for citizens and visitors across the Republic of Azerbaijan.
