Last updated: January 18, 2025
Satakunta, Finland, exhibits a temperate continental climate, classified under the Köppen-Geiger system as Dfb and Dfc. This region experiences a wide temperature range, with winter lows plummeting to a frigid -28°C (-18°F) in March and summer highs reaching a sweltering 33°C (92°F) in July. The annual average temperature hovers around a mild 6°C (43°F), reflecting the distinct seasonal variations characteristic of this northern locale. Such climatic extremes contribute to the unique environmental landscape and biodiversity that define Satakunta.
In Satakunta, Finland, temperature patterns reveal a pronounced seasonal cycle, characterized by cold winters and warm summers. During the winter months of January and February, average temperatures remain frigid, typically around -3 to -4°C (28 to 25°F), with minimums dropping to -27°C (-17°F) and -25°C (-13°F), respectively. March heralds the transition to spring, as temperatures begin to rise, featuring warmer averages that peak at -1°C (31°F) and highs reaching 13°C (57°F). The warming trend continues into April and May, with average temperatures climbing to 4°C (39°F) and 9°C (49°F), respectively, and maximums that can soar to 22°C (72°F) and 29°C (84°F). Summer months, particularly June and July, showcase the region's warmth, with average temperatures around 16°C (60°F) and 17°C (64°F), and maximums hitting an impressive 33°C (91°F) to 33°C (92°F). As autumn approaches, temperatures gradually decline, with September seeing averages of 11°C (53°F), while November and December reintroduce colder conditions, averaging around 3°C (37°F) and -1°C (31°F), respectively. This clear seasonal variation underscores the distinct climatic characteristics of Satakunta.
Rauma experiences a significant temperature range throughout the year, with a minimum of -17°C (1°F) in March and a maximum of 26°C (79°F) in July. This variation highlights the harsh winters and mild summers typical of the region, making it essential for residents and visitors to prepare for these seasonal shifts. For more detailed information, refer to the monthly temperatures in Rauma here.
Precipitation patterns in Satakunta, Finland, exhibit a distinct seasonal rhythm, with variations in both volume and frequency throughout the year. The winter months of January, February, and March see relatively consistent rainfall, averaging around 43 mm (1.7 in) to 44 mm (1.7 in) over roughly 10-7 rainy days. As temperatures warm into April and May, precipitation remains steady, with amounts increasing slightly to 40 mm (1.6 in) and 45 mm (1.8 in), respectively, while the number of rainy days fluctuates between 8 and 9.
The summer months bring significant increases in both precipitation and the frequency of rain. Notably, July and August are the wettest months, recording 83 mm (3.3 in) and 95 mm (3.7 in) of rainfall over 11 and 13 rainy days. As the season transitions into autumn, September sees a considerable drop in rainfall to 70 mm (2.8 in) followed by October at 80 mm (3.2 in), maintaining frequent rain days from 12 to 14. Moving into winter, November and December experience 61 mm (2.4 in) and 67 mm (2.6 in) of precipitation, with approximately 10 to 13 rainy days each month, maintaining a noticeable wetness amidst the cooling temperatures.
In Satakunta, Finland, sunshine duration exhibits a striking seasonal progression, transitioning from the bleakness of winter to the brightness of summer. January offers a mere 52 hours of sunlight, reflecting the long, dark days synonymous with the Arctic winter. However, this pattern begins to shift dramatically in February, where sunshine hours nearly triple to 156 hours. By March, the increase continues with 264 hours, paving the way toward the longer days of spring. April marks a significant turning point, as total sunshine climbs to 354 hours, and May further enhances this trend, boasting 452 hours of sun, heralding the advent of summer.
The peak of sunshine occurs in the summer months, with June leading the way at 495 hours, closely followed by July at 486 hours. This abundance of sunlight during the summer creates a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for outdoor activities. However, as autumn approaches, sunshine hours begin to decline sharply; August still holds 416 hours, but September drops to 292 hours, indicating the gradual retreat of daylight. The trend continues into the fall, with October yielding 189 hours and November plummeting to just 105 hours, culminating in December's brief 59 hours of sunlight, as the cycle of diminished daylight returns. This clear shift in sunshine duration not only illustrates the seasonal changes in Satakunta but also highlights the substantial impact of latitude on daily life and activities throughout the year.
The UV Index in Satakunta, Finland, showcases notable variability throughout the year, reflecting seasonal changes in the sun's intensity. During the winter months of January and February, the UV Index remains low at 1, indicating minimal risk for sunburn with an extended burn time of 45 minutes. As spring approaches, the index begins to climb, reaching 3 in March, signifying a moderate level of UV radiation which necessitates some precautions for prolonged sun exposure. April sees a further increase to 4, and by May, the index reaches 5, maintaining a moderate risk level with about 30 minutes of safe exposure time.
The summer months bring the highest UV Index values, peaking at 6 in both June and July, categorized as high exposure risk, where burn time reduces to just 25 minutes. This heightened UV level encourages individuals to take protective measures such as wearing sunscreen and protective clothing during outdoor activities. As summer fades into autumn, the index gradually decreases; August registers a 5, followed by a decline to 3 in September. The UV Index then drops to 2 in October and returns to low levels of 1 from November through December, reinforcing the importance of awareness regarding UV exposure as the seasons change and sunlight intensity fluctuates.
UV Risk Categories
Daylight duration in Satakunta, Finland, reveals a striking seasonal contrast, particularly marked between the winter and summer months. In January, residents experience a mere 6 hours of daylight, which gradually increases to 8 hours in February. By the time March arrives, the duration significantly improves to 11 hours, signaling the onset of spring as days lengthen rapidly. In April, sunlight extends to 14 hours, and by May, it reaches 17 hours, creating a vibrant environment where outdoor activities become more appealing as natural light becomes abundant.
The peak of sunlight occurs during the summer months, with June enjoying an impressive 19 hours of daylight, followed closely by July at 18 hours. This extended daylight fosters a lively atmosphere, perfect for summer gatherings and exploration. However, as autumn arrives, daylight begins to wane, dropping to 15 hours in August and 12 hours in September. The decline continues into the fall, with October yielding just 9 hours, and November further decreasing to 7 hours. By December, daylight is reduced to 5 hours, highlighting the profound seasonal shifts that characterize this northern region and underscoring the importance of maximizing daylight during the long winter months.
Rauma, Finland experiences a cold, temperate climate with significant seasonal variations. Winter months, particularly January and February, see minimum temperatures reaching -15°C (5°F) and an average that hovers around -1°C (31°F). As spring arrives, temperatures gradually increase, peaking in summer with averages of 17°C (63°F) in July and August. Rainfall is most abundant in summer, particularly in July and August, while sunshine hours reach their peak during the same months. For more detailed information, visit Rauma climate.
In conclusion, the climatic conditions and daylight variations in Satakunta, Finland, create a distinctive environmental experience that significantly influences daily life throughout the year. With its pronounced seasonal changes, the region witnesses dramatic shifts in temperature, precipitation, UV Index, and daylight duration. From the stark, dim days of winter with minimal sunlight to the vibrant, sun-filled summers that foster outdoor activities, residents must adapt to each season's unique offerings and challenges. Understanding these climatic patterns not only enhances appreciation for Satakunta's natural beauty but also emphasizes the importance of preparing for varying weather and sunlight levels as the year progresses.