Last updated: January 18, 2025
The climate of Canillo, Andorra is characterized by a Cfb Köppen-Geiger classification, indicating a temperate oceanic climate with no dry season. January witnesses the lowest temperatures, plummeting to a chilling -21°C (-6°F), while the warmth peaks in June, reaching a maximum of 28°C (82°F). On average, annual temperatures hover around 6°C (42°F), reflecting the region's distinct seasonal variation that enchants visitors with its snow-capped winters and lush, warm summers.
In Canillo, Andorra, the temperature patterns exhibit a pronounced seasonal variation characterized by cold winters and mild summers. January and February are the coldest months, with minimum temperatures dipping to -21°C (-6°F) and -19°C (-3°F), respectively, while average temperatures remain below freezing until March. As spring approaches, temperatures gradually rise, with March and April showcasing a transition into milder conditions, as averages climb to 1°C (34°F) and 3°C (38°F). By late spring and into summer, particularly in June, Canillo experiences a notable spike in warmth, with maximum temperatures reaching 28°C (82°F), signaling the peak of summer. July and August maintain this warmth, with pleasant averages around 15°C (59°F). However, as autumn arrives, the temperatures begin to decline, with October and November marking a return to cooler conditions, particularly at night, culminating in December’s chilling temperatures once again. This cyclical pattern encapsulates Canillo's distinct climate, making it a fascinating destination through all seasons.
Canillo experiences a minimum temperature of -20°C (-3°F) in January, rising to a maximum of 28°C (82°F) in June, as detailed in the monthly temperatures in Canillo. In the neighboring areas, Soldeu and El Tarter have similar temperature ranges, with January lows of -21°C (-6°F) and the same June highs of 28°C (82°F), which can be viewed in their respective links: monthly temperatures in Soldeu and monthly temperatures in El Tarter.
Canillo, Andorra, experiences a varied precipitation pattern throughout the year, peaking in the late spring and early summer months. May leads the charge with 115 mm (4.5 in) of rainfall, closely followed by June, which sees 123 mm (4.9 in). This trend is indicative of the region’s transitional period from spring into summer, where lush landscapes are nourished by frequent rain, averaging around 18 days of precipitation in May. Conversely, the winter months, particularly January and February, receive less precipitation with 79 mm (3.1 in) and 59 mm (2.3 in), respectively, though snowy conditions persist.
As the seasons shift into autumn, precipitation levels remain relatively consistent, with October recording 88 mm (3.5 in) and November slightly trailing at 87 mm (3.4 in). The fall months experience around 9 to 13 days of rainfall, maintaining moisture levels before the winter chill. Overall, Canillo’s precipitation distribution highlights a clear seasonal rhythm, with wetter conditions in the warmer months and a drier, albeit still variable, winter period, contributing to the region's diverse climatic conditions and rich biodiversity.
In Canillo, Andorra, sunshine duration reveals a clear seasonal trend marked by a gradual increase from winter to summer. January starts the year with a modest 201 hours of sunshine, followed by February, which sees a slight uptick to 260 hours. As spring unfolds, the hours of sunshine escalate dramatically, with March recording 329 hours, and by May, the region enjoys a delightful 398 hours. This upward trajectory culminates in the peak sunshine month of July, where Canillo basks in 427 hours of bright sunshine, offering ideal conditions for outdoor activities and exploration.
However, as summer transitions into autumn, sunshine hours begin to taper off. In August, the duration remains high at 397 hours, but it drops significantly to 343 hours by September, and further declines in October to 306 hours. The autumn months exhibit a notable decrease in sunlight, with November and December providing only 260 hours and 255 hours, respectively. This pattern highlights a shift in seasonal dynamics, where the vibrant summer warmth is replaced by shorter days and cooler temperatures, creating a distinct contrast that shapes the region's climate and atmosphere throughout the year.
In Canillo, Andorra, the UV Index fluctuates significantly throughout the year, reflecting the changing intensity of sunlight as the seasons progress. During the winter months, the UV Index is relatively moderate, peaking at 3 in January and 4 in February, suggesting a burn time of 30 minutes. As spring approaches, there is a noticeable increase, with March reaching a high UV Index of 6 and a reduced burn time of 25 minutes. The trend intensifies in April and May, where values escalate to 8 and 10, respectively, indicating a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure.
The summer months present the most significant UV radiation levels, with the UV Index hitting an extreme level of 11 in both June and July, necessitating protective measures within just 10 minutes of sun exposure. Even in August, the index remains high at 10, followed by a decrease in September to 8 as the season transitions to autumn. The UV Index then settles into the high category in October at 6, and gradually declines to 4 in November before reaching a low of 2 in December, where extended sun exposure can last up to 45 minutes without causing harm. This data underscores the importance of seasonal awareness and sun protection, especially during the peak summer months.
UV Risk Categories
The daylight duration in Canillo, Andorra, varies significantly throughout the year, reflecting the natural ebb and flow of the seasons. In the deep winter months of January and December, residents experience only 9 hours of daylight, with February offering a slight increase to 10 hours. As spring approaches, daylight hours steadily rise, reaching 11 hours in March and peaking at 13 hours in April. This upward trend continues into May and June, where Canillo enjoys 14 hours and even 15 hours of daylight, providing ample time for outdoor activities and exploration.
However, as summer transitions into autumn, daylight hours begin to decline once again. July witnesses a decrease to 14 hours, followed by 13 hours in August and gradually tapering off to 12 hours in September. The autumn months further decline to 11 hours in October, while November sees a steep drop back to 9 hours. This cyclical pattern of daylight duration not only enhances the beauty of Canillo’s landscapes throughout different seasons but also highlights the significance of planning recreational and outdoor events according to the fluctuating sunlight hours.
Canillo, Andorra experiences a varied climate with cold winters and mild summers. January sees temperatures ranging from -20°C to 10°C, while July enjoys a more comfortable range of 2°C to 26°C. Precipitation peaks in May and June, accumulating 111 mm and 115 mm respectively, while sunshine is abundant, particularly from May to July, with over 400 hours reported. The region's diverse weather patterns make it an intriguing destination year-round. For more detailed information, visit Canillo climate.
El Tarter, Andorra experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and mild summers. January and February see minimum temperatures dropping to around -21°C (-6°F) and -19°C (-3°F), with average highs of 11°C (52°F) and 12°C (54°F), respectively. Precipitation peaks in spring, particularly in May with 118 mm (4.6 in), while sunshine hours reach their maximum in July at 427 hours. Overall, the region's climate offers a blend of snow-capped winters and warm summers, perfect for various outdoor activities. For more details, visit El Tarter climate.
Soldeu, Andorra, experiences a varied climate throughout the year, characterized by cold winters and mild summers. January marks the coldest month, with temperatures ranging from -21°C to 11°C and significant snowfall, while July enjoys warmer temperatures between 2°C and 25°C. Precipitation peaks in late spring and early summer, with May receiving 118 mm of rain, whereas sunshine is abundant, especially in July with 427 hours. For detailed climate insights, visit Soldeu climate.
In conclusion, Canillo, Andorra, presents a captivating array of climatic features characterized by its distinct seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours. From the chilly winters with limited sunlight to sunnier, warmer summers boasting longer days, the region offers an appealing outdoor experience year-round. The substantial changes in climatic elements underscore the importance of being aware of seasonal impacts when planning activities, whether it be skiing in the winter or enjoying the lush landscapes in the summer. Embracing these trends not only enriches the experience of Canillo’s natural beauty but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the dynamic climate that shapes this enchanting alpine destination.