Last updated: January 18, 2025
The Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of France showcases a diverse climate characterized by several Köppen-Geiger climate classes, including Csb, Cfb, Csa, Dfc, Cfc, and ET. This geographical variety contributes to a wide range of temperature extremes, with winter months plunging to a minimum of -27°C (-16°F) in January, while summer peaks reach an impressive 42°C (107°F) in July. The region's annual average temperature hovers around 11°C (52°F), highlighting significant seasonal contrasts that shape the local environment and influence both biodiversity and human activities.
In Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France, temperature patterns reveal marked seasonal trends characterized by distinct contrasts between winter and summer. January and February experience the region's coldest temperatures, with minimums plunging to -27°C (-16°F) and -23°C (-10°F), respectively, while average temperatures remain below 5°C (41°F). As spring approaches, March sees a gradual warming, reaching average temperatures of 7°C (45°F) and daytime highs of 25°C (77°F) by the end of the month. The rise continues through April and May, with notable increases in both average and maximum temperatures, culminating in highs of 35°C (94°F) in May. The summer months of June and July bring peak temperatures, with maximums soaring to 42°C (107°F), while averages stabilize around 21°C (69°F). As autumn sets in, September to November illustrates a cooling trend, with temperatures dropping and winter's chill reemerging by late November, as averages return to around 6°C (43°F). This cyclical pattern highlights the region's dynamic climate, influenced by its diverse topography.
Grenoble experiences a minimum temperature of -21°C (-6°F) in January, rising to a maximum of 33°C (92°F) in July, making it a location with considerable seasonal variation in climate monthly temperatures in Grenoble. In contrast, Meribel and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc both see a colder January minimum of -25°C (-13°F) and share similar maximum temperatures of 28°C (83°F) in July and June, respectively monthly temperatures in Meribel and monthly temperatures in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc.
Precipitation in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes exhibits a distinct seasonal pattern, with winter months typically experiencing higher rainfall. January leads the year with 87 mm (3.4 in) of precipitation over 11 days, while December sees a peak of 153 mm (6.0 in) across 16 days, suggesting a wet end to the year. As the colder months transition into spring, March shows an increase to 97 mm (3.8 in), although April experiences a dip to 64 mm (2.5 in). May marks a significant rise to 132 mm (5.2 in), indicating that spring is particularly wet, setting the stage for the summer period.
During the summer months, precipitation remains substantial but begins to taper off slightly. June records 104 mm (4.1 in), followed by a decrease in July with 83 mm (3.3 in) and 75 mm (2.9 in) in August. The onset of autumn brings a rebound in precipitation, with September dropping to 66 mm (2.6 in), while October and November each receive about 100 mm (4.0 in) and 101 mm (4.0 in), respectively. This variation in rainfall highlights the region’s complex climatic conditions, influenced by its mountainous terrain, which plays a crucial role in local weather patterns.
In Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, the sunshine duration follows a clear seasonal progression, beginning with the winter months where sunlight is at its lowest. January records only 152 hours of sunshine, gradually increasing to 227 hours in February. As spring approaches, a notable surge is seen, with March delivering 294 hours and April climbing to 345 hours. This upward trend continues into May, where residents bask in 367 hours of sunlight, indicating a significant transition into longer and brighter days.
The true peak of sunshine occurs during the summer months, with June and July showcasing maximum duration at 405 hours and 419 hours, respectively. August sees a slight decline to 392 hours, yet remains comfortably high, emphasizing the region's vibrant summer. As autumn sets in, sunshine hours begin to recede, falling to 329 hours in September and dropping further to 274 hours in October. The trend continues into winter, with November and December offering only 216 hours and 187 hours, respectively. This seasonal cycle highlights not only the region's sunny summers but also the stark contrast with the dimmer winter months, shaping the local climate and lifestyle.
The UV Index in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes illustrates significant fluctuations throughout the year, reflecting the region's changing sun exposure. During the winter months, both January and February experience moderate UV levels, with indices of 3 and 5, respectively, allowing for a longer burn time of 30 minutes. However, as spring approaches, UV exposure escalates rapidly, with March and April seeing very high ratings of 8 and 9. These months demand more caution, with burning times decreasing to just 15 minutes as the sun's intensity increases.
The peak of UV radiation occurs during the summer, with June and July reaching an extreme UV Index of 11. Under these conditions, individuals are advised to limit unprotected sun exposure to only 10 minutes to prevent skin damage. As late summer transitions into autumn, the UV levels gradually drop, with August at 10 and September at 8, maintaining a warning for high exposure. By October, the index decreases to 6, marking a high exposure that allows for a longer burn time of 25 minutes. As the year winds down, November and December exhibit a marked reduction in UV radiation, with indices of 4 and 2 respectively, indicating safe levels that permit more extended exposure times without significant risk.
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In Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, the duration of daylight varies significantly across the seasons, starting with a relatively short average of 9 hours in January. As February arrives, there is a modest increase to 10 hours, signaling the gradual approach of spring. March continues this trend with 11 hours, and by April, daylight reaches 13 hours, providing more time for outdoor activities and sunshine. The peak of daylight occurs during the summer months, where June and July each enjoy 15 hours of bright, sunlit hours, fostering vibrant summer experiences.
As summer transitions into autumn, daylight hours begin to wane, with August still retaining 14 hours, but September sees a rapid decrease to 12 hours. By October, daylight is reduced to 10 hours, marking the onset of shorter days and signaling the impending winter months. November follows suit with 9 hours, and December culminates in just 8 hours of daylight, representing the briefest periods of illumination throughout the year. This cyclical shift in daylight duration profoundly influences both the climate and the lifestyle in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, from winter hibernation to summer activities.
Aix-les-Bains, France, experiences a varied climate with cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures can dip as low as -11°C (13°F) and peak at 15°C (59°F), while July sees highs around 35°C (96°F). Precipitation is highest in December with 240 mm (9.4 in) and tends to decrease by summer, while sunshine hours peak in July with 418 hours. This seasonal contrast makes Aix-les-Bains an appealing destination year-round. For more detailed information, visit Aix-les-Bains climate.
The climate in Annecy, France, exhibits a significant variation throughout the year, with winter temperatures ranging from -19°C to 11°C in January and milder summers peaking between 18°C and 33°C from June to August. Precipitation is highest in May and December, with 199 mm and 239 mm respectively, while sunshine reaches its peak in July with 418 hours. Generally, the region enjoys a good amount of sun, particularly in late spring and summer. For detailed climate statistics, visit Annecy climate.
Belle-Plagne, France experiences a cold mountain climate with significant seasonal variations. Winter temperatures can plunge as low as -27°C (-16°F) in January, while summer sees averages around 12°C (54°F) in July. Precipitation is highest in December at 230 mm (9.0 in), with a notable winter snowfall, while drier months occur in late summer and early fall. The region enjoys ample sunshine, particularly in July with 423 hours, making summer the sunniest season. For more detailed information, you can visit Belle-Plagne climate.
Bourg-Saint-Maurice experiences a varied climate characterized by cold winters and mild summers. January temperatures can plunge to -27°C (-16°F) with significant snowfall, averaging around -10°C (15°F). Summers are relatively warm, reaching up to 25°C (78°F) in July, while precipitation peaks in December at 230 mm (9.0 in). Sunshine hours are plentiful, especially in the summer months, with July enjoying 423 hours of sun. For more detailed information, visit Bourg-Saint-Maurice climate.
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc experiences a distinct alpine climate characterized by cold winters and mild summers. January temperatures range from a frigid -25°C to a mild 6°C, with significant snowfall averaging 171 mm. During the summer months, especially July, the temperature can peak at 27°C, while precipitation is comparatively lower. The area enjoys abundant sunshine, particularly from March to July, with the sun shining for over 400 hours in July. For more detailed information, visit Chamonix-Mont-Blanc climate.
The climate in Chamrousse, France is characterized by cold winters and mild summers. January temperatures can plunge to a minimum of -25°C (-13°F) and feature significant snowfall, with an average of 127 mm of precipitation. As summer approaches, temperatures rise, peaking in July and August at around 30°C (86°F) with considerable sunshine, boasting up to 430 hours in July. The region experiences variable rainfall throughout the year, with the wettest month being December, receiving 247 mm (9.7 in). For a detailed overview, visit Chamrousse climate.
Courchevel, France experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and mild summers. January sees minimum temperatures drop to -27°C (-16°F), with January being one of the wettest months at 145 mm of precipitation. As summer approaches, temperatures rise, peaking in July with averages around 12°C (54°F) and maximums near 25°C (78°F). The region enjoys substantial sunshine, especially in the summer months, with July receiving up to 423 hours of sunlight. For more detailed climate information, check the Courchevel climate.
Evian-les-Bains, France experiences a diverse climate with cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures range from -5°C to 13°C, while July sees maxima of up to 33°C. Precipitation is highest in May and December, with average monthly rainfall around 147 mm and 186 mm, respectively. The region enjoys significant sunshine, particularly in summer, reaching 414 hours in July. For more detailed information, visit Evian-les-Bains climate.
Grenoble experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures can drop as low as -21°C (-6°F), while July sees maximums reaching 33°C (92°F). Precipitation is highest in May, averaging 174 mm (6.9 in), and December also witnesses significant rainfall at 229 mm (9.0 in). Sunshine is most abundant in July, boasting 427 hours, although winter months receive substantially less. For more detailed information, visit Grenoble climate.
Huez, France experiences a diverse climate throughout the year, characterized by cold winters and mild summers. January temperatures can plunge to a minimum of -26°C (-14°F), with significant precipitation peaking at 228 mm in December. The sunshine hours increase steadily from 178 in January to a maximum of 430 in July, contributing to warmer average temperatures that reach 15°C (59°F) in the summer months. Visitors to Huez can expect a mix of snow and sunshine, perfect for winter sports and summer activities alike. For more detailed information, check the Huez climate.
La Clusaz, France, experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and mild summers. January is the coldest month, with temperatures dipping to -22°C (-8°F), while July sees highs of 31°C (88°F). Precipitation is highest in December with 250 mm (9.9 in), and May receives substantial rainfall at 213 mm (8.4 in). The region enjoys ample sunshine from late spring to summer, peaking at 418 hours in July. For more details on the weather patterns, visit La Clusaz climate.
Le Grand-Bornand, France, experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. Winter temperatures can dip as low as -22°C (-8°F) in January, while summers peak at around 31°C (88°F) in July. Precipitation is highest in December with 250 mm (9.9 in) and lowest in April at 84 mm (3.3 in). The region enjoys significant sunshine, particularly from June to August, where it can exceed 400 hours monthly. For more details, check the Le Grand-Bornand climate.
Le Puy-en-Velay, France experiences a temperate climate with significant variations in temperature and precipitation throughout the year. Winter months see minimum temperatures dropping as low as -15°C (5°F) in February and average highs around 16°C (61°F) in January. In contrast, summer brings warmer temperatures, peaking at 35°C (95°F) in June and providing plenty of sunshine, with over 400 hours in July. Rainfall is predominant in the spring and autumn, with May averaging 117 mm (4.6 in) and October and November both receiving about 107 mm (4.2 in). For more details, visit Le Puy-en-Velay climate.
Les Contamines-Montjoie experiences a varied climate characteristic of a mountain region, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -26°C (-15°F) in January to a maximum of 27°C (81°F) in July. Precipitation is notably high in December (279 mm), while April sees the least at 73 mm. The area enjoys substantial sunshine during the summer months, peaking at 423 hours in July. For a detailed overview, visit the Les Contamines-Montjoie climate.
Les Deux Alpes, France experiences a varied climate throughout the year, characterized by cold winters and mild summers. January sees minimum temperatures plummeting to -26°C (-14°F) with average highs around 6°C (43°F), while July brings milder conditions with daytime averages of 13°C (55°F) and highs reaching 25°C (78°F). Precipitation is highest in December (218 mm) and peaks again in June (133 mm), contributing to a rich winter landscape. The region enjoys a substantial amount of sunshine, particularly in summer, with July boasting 431 hours of sun. For more details, visit the Les Deux Alpes climate.
Les Gets, France experiences a diverse climate throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from a frigid -19°C (-2°F) in winter to a warm 30°C (87°F) in summer. January and February are the coldest months, characterized by significant snowfall, while summer months like June and July enjoy longer sunshine hours, peaking at 418 hours in July. Notably, May and June are the wettest months, receiving over 200 mm of precipitation, contrasting with the drier periods in autumn. For more detailed information, visit Les Gets climate.
Les Houches, France, experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and mild summers. January sees the coldest temperatures, with lows reaching -25°C (-13°F) and an average of -8°C (19°F), while July enjoys milder weather, averaging 14°C (57°F) with highs of 27°C (81°F). Precipitation varies throughout the year, peaking in December at 295 mm (11.6 in) and generally higher in spring and early summer. Sunshine levels are notable, particularly in July with 422 hours, contributing to the region's appeal for outdoor activities. For more detailed information, visit Les Houches climate.
Loudes, France experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January and February see minimum temperatures dropping to -15°C (5°F), while July and August reach maximums of up to 34°C (93°F). Precipitation is highest in May at 104 mm (4.1 in), with an average of around 90 mm (3.5 in) during the summer months. The area enjoys significant sunshine, particularly in the summer, with July boasting 425 hours of sunshine. For more detailed information, visit Loudes climate.
Lyon experiences a continental climate with distinct seasons, characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January sees average temperatures around 3°C (38°F) and substantial precipitation, while July can soar to an average of 22°C (73°F) with maximums reaching 39°C (102°F). The city enjoys the most sunshine from May to July, with June offering about 412 hours. Rainfall peaks in May and December, making these months particularly wet. For more details, visit Lyon climate.
Macot-la-Plagne experiences a distinct alpine climate with cold winters and mild summers. January sees temperatures ranging from -27°C to 6°C, while July peaks at a comfortable 25°C. Precipitation is highest in December with 230 mm, contributing to a snowy winter landscape, whereas May is also quite wet, registering 161 mm. Sunshine hours peak in July, boasting around 423 hours, ensuring plenty of daylight during the summer months. For more detailed climate information, visit Macot-la-Plagne climate.
Megeve, France experiences a diverse climate, characterized by cold winters and mild summers. January and December are the coldest months, with average temperatures around -5°C (24°F) and significant snowfall, as demonstrated by December's high precipitation of 264 mm (10.4 in). In contrast, July is the warmest month, averaging 16°C (61°F) with 423 hours of sunshine, making it ideal for outdoor activities. The region enjoys moderate rainfall throughout the year, peaking in May with 203 mm (8.0 in). For more detailed information, visit Megeve climate.
Meribel, France experiences a varied climate throughout the year, characterized by cold winters and mild summers. January and February feature low temperatures, with averages around -6°C (21°F) and -2°C (28°F) respectively, while December is notably wet with 261 mm of precipitation. By summer months like July, temperatures rise to a comfortable average of 14°C (58°F) and enjoy abundant sunshine, peaking at 423 hours. The area sees a moderate amount of rainfall, with May receiving the highest at 194 mm. For more detailed information, visit Meribel climate.
Mont-de-Lans, France, exhibits a distinct alpine climate characterized by cold winters and mild summers. January temperatures range from a minimum of -26°C to a maximum of 6°C, while July sees more temperate conditions with averages around 13°C. Precipitation levels are significant, peaking in December at 218 mm, and the region enjoys ample sunshine, particularly in the summer months, reaching up to 431 hours in July. For more details, you can visit the Mont-de-Lans climate.
Morzine, France experiences a varied climate throughout the year, with cold winters and mild summers. January sees temperatures ranging from -19°C to a maximum of 9°C, while summer months like July have an average around 16°C, peaking at 30°C. Precipitation is highest in the summer months, particularly in May and June, with over 200 mm recorded, but winters also see substantial snowfall. Sunshine hours are plentiful from March to August, peaking at 418 hours in July, providing a bright backdrop for outdoor activities. For more detailed information, visit Morzine climate.
The climate in Perouges, France, features distinct seasonal variations, with January temperatures ranging from a chilly -11°C to a mild 15°C. Summers are warm and can reach highs of 39°C in July and August, while winter months see significant precipitation, peaking in December at 175 mm. The region experiences the most sunshine in June with 406 hours, contributing to a pleasant outdoor atmosphere during the warmer months. For more detailed information, visit Perouges climate.
Pralognan-la-Vanoise experiences a diverse climate with cold winters and mild summers. January and February see temperatures plummet to as low as -27°C, while July and August peak at around 25°C. Precipitation is significant in the winter months, particularly December with 230 mm, and is coupled with ample sunshine, especially in July, which boasts 423 hours. This combination creates a unique environment perfect for both winter sports and summer activities. For more detailed information, visit Pralognan-la-Vanoise climate.
Romans, France experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and hot summers. January temperatures range from -10°C to 15°C, while July sees a peak of up to 39°C. Rainfall is common, particularly in May and December, with precipitation levels reaching 120 mm and 150 mm, respectively. Sunshine hours are abundant during the summer months, peaking in July with 418 hours, which contrasts with the winter months, where January only sees 145 hours. For more detailed information, visit Romans climate.
The climate in Roussillon, France, features cold winters and warm summers, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -12°C (10°F) in March to a maximum of 38°C (100°F) in July. Precipitation peaks in May at 130 mm (5.1 in), while the sunniest months include June and July, boasting over 400 hours of sunshine each. As the year progresses, the temperature gradually increases, leading to pleasantly warm summers followed by mild autumns. The region experiences significant rainfall during the winter months, making it essential for visitors to prepare for varying weather conditions. For more details, visit Roussillon climate.
Saint-Gervais-les-Bains experiences a diverse climate with cold winters and mild summers. January sees temperatures ranging from -25°C to 6°C, while July enjoys a more temperate range of 2°C to 27°C. Precipitation peaks in December with 295 mm, contributing to significant snowfall, ideal for winter sports. The area benefits from ample sunshine, especially in the summer months, achieving up to 422 hours in July. For more details, visit Saint-Gervais-les-Bains climate.
The climate in Saint-Martin-de-Belleville, France, features cold winters and moderate summers. Temperatures range from a minimum of -25°C (-13°F) in January to a maximum of 28°C (83°F) in July, with average monthly temperatures gradually warming from -6°C (21°F) to 14°C (58°F). Precipitation peaks in December at 261 mm (10.3 in), while May is the wettest month overall with 194 mm (7.6 in). The region enjoys abundant sunshine, particularly in July, which boasts 423 hours. For more detailed information, visit Saint-Martin-de-Belleville climate.
Saint-Nectaire, France experiences a diverse climate characterized by significant seasonal variations. Winters can be quite cold, with January lows averaging -13°C (10°F) and December highs reaching 13°C (56°F), while summers are warmer, peaking at 36°C (96°F) in June. Precipitation is abundant, particularly in spring and early summer, with May receiving 110 mm (4.3 in) and June 127 mm (5.0 in). The region enjoys ample sunshine during the summer months, particularly in July with 405 hours. For more detailed information, visit Saint-Nectaire climate.
Samoens, France, experiences a varied climate, characterized by cold winters and mild summers. January sees temperatures ranging from a minimum of -25°C to a maximum of 6°C, while July offers a much warmer climate with temperatures between 2°C and 27°C. The region receives significant precipitation, particularly in December (295 mm) and May (224 mm), with the driest month being April (84 mm). Sunshine hours peak in July with 422 hours, providing ample brightness during the summer months. For more detailed information, visit Samoens climate.
Talloires, France, experiences a varied climate with seasonal temperature fluctuations, ranging from -18°C (1°F) in January to a warm 33°C (91°F) in July. The region receives significant precipitation, peaking at 255 mm (10.0 in) in December, while summer months see relatively moderate rainfall. Sunshine hours vary throughout the year, with July boasting the highest at 423 hours, promoting ample outdoor activity. For more detailed information, visit Talloires climate.
The climate in Tignes, France, is characterized by cold winters and mild summers. Average temperatures range from a frigid -25°C (-12°F) in January to a comfortable 24°C (76°F) in June. Precipitation is notable, with May receiving the highest rainfall at 181 mm (7.1 in), while sunshine hours peak in July at 423 hours, offering plenty of daylight during the summer months. This alpine destination experiences significant weather variations, making it essential for visitors to prepare accordingly. For more details, check the Tignes climate.
Val-d'Isère, France experiences a harsh alpine climate with cold winters and mild summers. January temperatures can drop to a minimum of -25°C (-12°F), while average temperatures in July reach a comfortable 12°C (54°F). The region receives significant precipitation, particularly in the warmer months, with May experiencing the highest levels at 181 mm (7.1 in). Abundant sunshine characterizes the summer, peaking at 423 hours in July, while winter months see significantly less sun. For more information, visit Val-d'Isere climate.
Valloire, France, experiences a mountain climate characterized by cold winters and mild summers. January and February are the coldest months, with average temperatures ranging from -7°C (19°F) to -4°C (26°F) and notable snowfall, peaking in December with 217 mm (8.5 in) of precipitation. Sunshine hours peak in July with 431 hours, while summer temperatures can reach up to 26°C (79°F). Precipitation is relatively high in late spring and early summer, with May receiving 172 mm (6.8 in). For more detailed information, visit Valloire climate.
Vallon-Pont-d'Arc, France experiences a diverse climate characterized by warm summers and chilly winters. January temperatures range from a low of -5°C to a high of 17°C, while July sees averages between 11°C and 37°C. Precipitation peaks in October and November, with October receiving 151 mm, and sunshine is most abundant in July, boasting 436 hours. This combination of varied temperatures and precipitation makes it essential to consider weather conditions when visiting. For more details, visit Vallon-Pont-d'Arc climate.
Valmeinier, France experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and mild summers. January temperatures range from a minimum of -24°C (-11°F) to a maximum of 6°C (43°F), while July sees more comfortable averages between 13°C (56°F) and 26°C (79°F). Precipitation is highest in December at 217 mm (8.5 in), with notable rainfall throughout the summer months as well. Sunshine peaks in July with 431 hours, contributing to pleasant outdoor conditions. For more details, visit Valmeinier climate.
Villard-de-Lans experiences a diverse climate with significant seasonal variations. Winter temperatures can drop as low as -19°C in January, while summers can reach up to 34°C in July. Precipitation averages around 150 mm in May, peaking at 198 mm in December, contributing to a green landscape. Sunshine is abundant, especially in the summer months, with July receiving 427 hours of sun. For more detailed information, visit Villard-de-Lans climate.
Volvic, France experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures can drop to -11°C (12°F) with an average of 2°C (36°F), while July sees highs around 36°C (97°F). Precipitation varies throughout the year, peaking at 116 mm (4.6 in) in June, with June and July also offering the most sunshine, reaching over 400 hours. The region's yearly weather patterns make it a unique destination for both winter sports and summer leisure activities. For more detailed climate information, visit Volvic climate.
Yvoire, France experiences a diverse climate throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from a frigid -13°C (8°F) in January to a warm 34°C (93°F) in July. Precipitation peaks in December at 203 mm (8.0 in), contributing to a generally wet winter season, while May stands out as the wettest month. Sunshine hours are abundant in summer, reaching up to 414 hours in July, but decrease significantly in the winter months. For more detailed information, visit Yvoire climate.
In conclusion, the climate characteristics of Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France, reveal a dynamic interplay of temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV index, and daylight. With marked seasonal variations, the region experiences cold winters and warm summers, complemented by variable rainfall patterns that enrich its diverse landscapes. The increasing hours of sunlight from winter to summer enhance outdoor activities, while the UV index serves as a reminder of the need for sun safety during peak solar intensity. As daylight hours fluctuate throughout the year, residents and visitors alike can appreciate the unique climate rhythms that define this beautiful region, shaping not only its natural environment but also the lifestyle and culture of its inhabitants.