Last updated: January 18, 2025
The climate of Lääne, Estonia is characterized by a Dfb Köppen-Geiger classification, indicative of a humid continental climate. Temperature extremes are notable, with minimum fluctuations dropping to -25°C (-13°F) during the harsh February months, while averages hover around a mild 8°C (46°F). The summer months bring respite with maximum temperatures reaching a warm 32°C (89°F) in June, showcasing the region's dramatic seasonal contrasts. This unique climatic profile underpins the ecological and cultural dynamics of Lääne, influencing everything from agriculture to recreational activities.
Lääne, Estonia experiences distinct seasonal temperature patterns that reflect its humid continental climate. Winter months present significant cold, with January and February averaging around -2°C (29°F) and reaching extreme lows of -25°C (-13°F). As spring approaches in March and April, temperatures rise gradually; March sees averages climb back to 0°C (33°F), while April experiences a marked increase, with an average of 4°C (40°F) and maximums peaking at 21°C (70°F). The summer months of June through August bring warmth and some of the highest temperatures, averaging between 16°C (60°F) and 18°C (65°F), with maximums reaching about 32°C (89°F) in June. As the season transitions into autumn, temperatures begin to cool once again, with September averaging 14°C (57°F) and dropping to 5°C (42°F) in November, before the cycle repeats in the cold of winter. This annual temperature variation highlights Lääne's fluctuating climate and its impact on the local environment and lifestyle.
In the climate comparison of three Estonian locations, Haapsalu and Uuemoisa exhibit identical temperature extremes, with a minimum of -16°C (4°F) in February and a maximum of 26°C (78°F) in July, as detailed in their respective links: monthly temperatures in Haapsalu and monthly temperatures in Uuemoisa. Hullo has slightly milder winter temperatures, with a minimum of -15°C (6°F) in February and a similar peak of 25°C (78°F) in July, as noted in monthly temperatures in Hullo.
Precipitation in Lääne, Estonia exhibits a distinct seasonal pattern, with winter months generally receiving consistent, albeit moderate amounts. In January and February, precipitation is relatively low, totaling 48 mm (1.9 in) and 50 mm (2.0 in), respectively, often falling as snow. This trend continues into March, where a slight increase brings total precipitation to 53 mm (2.1 in). As spring transitions into summer, April experiences a decrease to 36 mm (1.4 in), but precipitation levels rebound in May, averaging 44 mm (1.7 in), setting the stage for wetter months ahead.
The summer season brings a significant uptick in rainfall, with July and August receiving the highest monthly totals of 76 mm (3.0 in) and 108 mm (4.3 in), respectively. This trend persists into September, where precipitation remains high at 81 mm (3.2 in). October records the peak for the year with 116 mm (4.6 in), marking it as the wettest month. Following the peak, rainfall decreases slightly in November and December, totaling 70 mm (2.8 in) and 61 mm (2.4 in), accompanied by around 14 to 15 rainy days. This climatic variability underscores the importance of precipitation in shaping the lush landscapes of Lääne throughout the year.
In Lääne, Estonia, sunshine duration exhibits a clear seasonal trend, with a gradual increase from the dark days of winter to the bright months of summer. January sees a modest 66 hours of sunshine, making it one of the least luminous months of the year. As winter yields to spring, February experiences a significant jump to 166 hours, followed by a steady rise through March, where sunshine hours reach 273 hours. By April, the sun begins to shine more vigorously, delivering 368 hours, while May heralds the arrival of longer days, contributing 457 hours of bright light.
The peak of sunshine occurs during the summer months, with June leading the charge at 484 hours, closely followed by July with 482 hours. This period is characterized by nearly continuous daylight, fostering an inviting atmosphere for outdoor activities. As summer transitions to autumn, the sunshine begins to recede; August provides a still-sunny 409 hours, but by September this number diminishes to 314 hours. The decline continues through the fall, where October records 212 hours and November drops to 132 hours. Ultimately, December ends the year on a somber note with just 70 hours, signaling the return of winter's gloom. This annual cycle of changing sunlight not only influences the climate but also profoundly impacts the lifestyle and activities of Lääne's residents throughout the year.
In Lääne, Estonia, the UV Index reveals a clear seasonal pattern that reflects the varying intensity of ultraviolet radiation throughout the year. During the winter months of January and February, the UV Index remains at a low level of 1, indicating minimal risk for sunburn with a safe exposure time of 45 minutes. As spring approaches, there is a notable increase in UV levels; March sees a rise to 3, categorized as moderate, with a burn time of 30 minutes. By April, the UV Index reaches 4, maintaining the moderate level, while May further elevates the index to 5, signaling a growing need for sun protection as outdoor activities become more frequent.
The peak months for UV exposure occur during the summer, with June and July each recording a UV Index of 7, classified as high, and a significantly reduced burn time of just 25 minutes. This increase emphasizes the importance of sun safety measures during the summer months, particularly for those engaged in outdoor pursuits. As summer fades into autumn, the UV Index decreases; August drops back to 5, and September sees a further decline to 4. Heading into fall and winter, the UV levels return to low, with October at 2 and both November and December back down to 1, underscoring a season of minimal UV exposure. These variations highlight the importance of adjusting sun safety practices according to the season in Lääne.
UV Risk Categories
In Lääne, Estonia, daylight duration displays a striking seasonal shift, typifying the region's northern latitude. During the winter months, January and December offer only 7 hours and 6 hours of daylight respectively, creating long, dark nights that characterize this time of year. February begins to show a ray of hope with a modest increase to 9 hours, while March provides more light at 11 hours, signaling the gradual transition toward spring. This increase signals a revival of outdoor activities as daylight becomes more accessible.
As spring unfolds into summer, daylight hours reach their peak, with April enjoying 14 hours and May illuminating the days with up to 16 hours. The longest days occur in June, when Lääne basks in 18 hours of daylight, enabling a vibrant summer lifestyle. Following this peak, daylight begins to taper off, with July still providing a substantial 17 hours, but gradually decreasing in August to 15 hours and further to 12 hours in September. The descent continues into autumn, culminating in 10 hours in October before reverting back to the short days of winter, with 7 hours of daylight in November. This cyclical change in daylight dramatically influences not only the climate but also the cultural and recreational activities throughout the year.
Haapsalu, Estonia experiences a temperate maritime climate with distinct seasons. Winters can be harsh, with January and February temperatures dipping as low as -16°C (4°F), while summers are pleasantly warm, reaching up to 26°C (78°F) in July. Precipitation peaks in late summer and autumn, particularly in October, when it can reach 127 mm (5.0 in). Despite the rain, Haapsalu enjoys abundant sunshine from late spring to summer, with May averaging 458 hours of sunlight. For more detailed information, visit Haapsalu climate.
Hullo, Estonia experiences a distinct continental climate with cold winters and mild summers. January temperatures fluctuate between -10°C and 7°C, while July sees averages ranging from 12°C to 25°C. Precipitation varies throughout the year, peaking in August with 105 mm, while January and February receive around 50 mm. The region enjoys the most sunshine in June with 486 hours, gradually decreasing to only 67 hours in January. For more information, visit Hullo climate.
Palivere, Estonia experiences a varied climate with cold winters and mild summers. January and February are the coldest months, with temperatures dropping to a minimum of -25°C (-13°F) and averaging around -2°C (28°F). As spring approaches, April sees warmer temperatures averaging 5°C (41°F), while summer months like July and August can reach highs of 31°C (88°F). Precipitation peaks in late summer, particularly in August with 98 mm (3.9 in), contrasting with the drier winter months. For more detailed information, visit Palivere climate.
Taebla, Estonia experiences a temperate climate with cold winters and mild summers. January and February see the lowest temperatures, averaging around -1°C (31°F) and -2°C (29°F) respectively, with January recording up to 46 mm (1.8 in) of precipitation. As spring approaches, temperatures rise, peaking in July with averages of 18°C (65°F) and substantial rainfall, particularly in August which sees about 106 mm (4.2 in). The region enjoys the most sunshine in June, with 484 hours, before daylight diminishes in autumn. For more detailed information, visit Taebla climate.
Uuemoisa, Estonia experiences a continental climate with cold winters and mild summers. January sees temperatures ranging from -10°C to 7°C, while July enjoys warmer averages of 18°C to 26°C. Precipitation peaks in August with 115 mm and decreases in winter months, though January through March still receive around 50-54 mm. Sunshine peaks in May and June, with up to 484 hours, significantly brightening the summer months. For more detailed information, visit Uuemoisa climate.
In conclusion, the climate of Lääne, Estonia, is marked by distinct seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours. From the harsh winters with minimal daylight and low UV exposure to the vibrant, sun-filled summers, the region's climate fosters unique ecological patterns and influences the lifestyle of its residents. As daylight gradually increases from January to June, the corresponding rise in sunshine and UV Index highlights the importance of adapting outdoor activities and sun protection measures throughout the year. Understanding these climatic dynamics not only enhances appreciation for Lääne's natural environment but also informs sustainable practices that align with seasonal changes, ensuring a harmonious relationship between the community and its landscape.