Analysis of the Variability of Agroclimatic Conditions of Semi-Desert and Desert Landscapes in the Northern Caucasus for Agricultural Purposes

Abstract—The aim of this study is a modern assessment of the agro-climatic resources of the semi-desert and desert landscapes of the North Caucasus. The methods of mathematical statistics used in agroclimatology have been used to analyze the changes in average monthly and annual air temperatures, the growing season, the amount of precipitation, and the hydrothermal coefficient according to the data of five weather stations with a long series of observations. Within the semi-desert and desert landscapes of the North Caucasus, there is an increase in annual air temperature over the period under review by an average of 0.86°С compared to the previous period. The sum of active temperatures increased by 9–11%. The duration of the period increased when passing through 0°C for 17 days, 5°C for 15 days, 10°C for 10 days, and 15°C for 8 days. An increase in precipitation is noted at all meteorological stations except Makhachkala. On average, precipitation increased by 36 mm. The hydrothermal coefficient of Selyaninov varies from 0.5 to 0.7 and is within the limits of natural fluctuation. Modern agro-climatic changes within the semi-desert and desert landscapes of the North Caucasus are characterized by an improvement in the conditions for heat and moisture supply to the territory. These conditions are favorable for the cultivation of melons and all types of grape varieties, with the exception of very late ones.