Bukhtarminskoye Vodokhranilishche
Reservoir Large reservoir on the Irtysh, regional water storage
A large reservoir in East Kazakhstan, Bukhtarminskoye Vodokhranilishche is used for hydroelectric regulation; visitors and locals come for fishing, boating and birdlife along its shoreline.
Bukhtarminskoye Vodokhranilishche, commonly known in English as the Bukhtarma Reservoir, is a large artificial reservoir on the Irtysh River in East Kazakhstan Region. It was impounded by the Bukhtarma Dam to provide hydroelectric power and regulate the river for regional uses.
The reservoir is a significant landscape feature used for power generation, water regulation, fishing and local recreation. Its shoreline and basin alter river flows downstream and support infrastructure related to the Bukhtarma hydroelectric facility.
Construction of the dam and the reservoir took place in the Soviet period to supply electricity and manage water resources in eastern Kazakhstan. The impoundment changed local riverine conditions and created a sizeable freshwater body used by nearby communities.
The reservoir lies in East Kazakhstan Region, northeast of the city of Oskemen (Ust-Kamenogorsk), and extends across river valleys formed by the Irtysh within a mixed lowland and hilly landscape.
- Purpose: Created by a large dam on the Irtysh River, it is an important regional hydroelectric reservoir and is used for power production, irrigation and local navigation.
How to Get to Bukhtarminskoye Vodokhranilishche #
Access by road from the city of Ust-Kamenogorsk (Oskemen) or other regional hubs in East Kazakhstan. Driving is the most practical option; check local maps for access points and seasonal road conditions.
Tips for Visiting Bukhtarminskoye Vodokhranilishche #
- Plan water-based travel carefully and book any local charters in advance.
- Check seasonal reservoir levels and regional fishing regulations if engaging in angling.
- Summer can see high recreational use - seek quieter coves for overnight camping (where permitted).
Best Time to Visit Bukhtarminskoye Vodokhranilishche #
Summer months for recreation and boating; shoulder seasons for quieter visits.
Weather & Climate near Bukhtarminskoye Vodokhranilishche #
Bukhtarminskoye Vodokhranilishche's climate is classified as Cold Semi-Arid - Cold Semi-Arid climate with warm summers (peaking in July) and freezing winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -22°C to 27°C. Semi-arid with limited rainfall.
January
January is the coldest month with highs of -12°C and lows of -22°C. Light rainfall and partly cloudy skies.
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February
February is freezing with highs of -10°C and lows of -22°C. Light rainfall and partly cloudy skies.
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March
March is freezing with highs of -3°C and lows of -17°C. The driest month with just 13 mm and partly cloudy skies.
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April
April is cold with highs of 9°C and lows of -1°C. Moderate rainfall (30 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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May
May is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 6°C. Moderate rainfall (45 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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June
June is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 11°C. Moderate rainfall (39 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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July
July is the warmest month with highs of 27°C and lows of 14°C. The wettest month with 47 mm of rain and partly cloudy skies.
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August
August is mild with highs of 26°C and lows of 12°C. Moderate rainfall (32 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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September
September is cool with highs of 20°C and lows of 7°C. Moderate rainfall (30 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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October
October is cold with highs of 12°C and lows of 2°C. Moderate rainfall (32 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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November
November is freezing with highs of 3°C and lows of -7°C. Moderate rainfall (32 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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December
December is freezing with highs of -6°C and lows of -16°C. Light rainfall and partly cloudy skies.
