Kosovo (UNSCR 1244/1999) experiences Mediterranean-continental and European-continental climatic influences. Local factors affecting climate include geography, water bodies, terrain, and vegetation. Eastern Kosovo (UNSCR 1244/1999), including Fushegropa e Kosova, Llapi, Drenica, and Ana-Morave, is colder than the western Dukagjin Plain. The average annual temperature is 9.5°C, with July being the hottest month (19.2°C) and January the coldest (-1.3°C). Precipitation varies across Kosovo (UNSCR 1244/1999), with eastern regions receiving around 600 mm annually and western areas over 700 mm. Snowfall occurs primarily in the mountains for over 100 days. Wind speeds range from 1.3 m/s (Peja) to 2.4 m/s (Ferizaj), with maximum speeds in March and April. Kosovo (UNSCR 1244/1999) enjoys an average of 2,066 hours of sunshine annually, with Prishtina receiving the most (2,140 hours) and Peja the least (1,958 hours). Temperatures have shown an increasing trend since 1900.
Precipitation Trends
Precipitation data from 1930 to the present indicate a decreasing trend in Kosovo (UNSCR 1244/1999), with annual rainfall amounts decreasing. Seasonal analysis shows normal to near-normal moisture conditions from October 2014 to September 2015.
Climate Change Scenarios
Kosovo (UNSCR 1244/1999)’s climate change scenarios suggest reduction in frost days, fewer ice days, and more very hot days in the near future (2016-2035). Temperatures are expected to increase, with the greatest impact in western Kosovo (UNSCR 1244/1999).
Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs)
Kosovo (UNSCR 1244/1999), is not part of the Paris Agreement and it is working on a voluntary NDC to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 16.3% compared to 2016 levels by 2030. It aims to increase renewable energy’s share to 32% in the energy mix. The voluntary NDC will also address adaptation measures in various sectors. In 2019, Kosovo (UNSCR 1244/1999)’s annual greenhouse gas emissions were around 9.6 million tons of CO2 eq, with the energy sector contributing 86% and agriculture, forestry, and land use at 8%. Reducing coal use, adopting renewable energy, and implementing energy-efficient measures are key opportunities to mitigate emissions.