Last updated: January 18, 2025
Corsica, France, exhibits a diverse climate characterized by the Mediterranean classification of Csa and Csb. The island experiences a broad temperature range, with winter lows plummeting to a crisp -10°C (13°F) in March, while summer peaks soar to a scorching 39°C (102°F) in August. The annual average temperature hovers around a mild 16°C (61°F), creating an inviting environment for visitors year-round and supporting a rich array of flora and fauna unique to this Mediterranean paradise.
The temperature patterns in Corsica, France, showcase striking seasonal contrasts. Winter months, particularly January and February, experience notable lows, with minimum temperatures dipping to -10°C (14°F) and -10°C (15°F), leading to average temperatures around 9°C (48°F) and 10°C (50°F), respectively. As spring approaches, temperatures gradually rise, peaking in April with maximums reaching 25°C (78°F), signaling a transition towards warmer weather. By late spring and early summer, Corsica experiences its warmest months, with July and August boasting maximums of 36°C (97°F) and an astonishing 39°C (102°F), coupled with lush seasonal averages of 24°C (75°F) and 25°C (77°F). The arrival of autumn brings a slight cooling, with September still retaining summer warmth, before temperatures begin to drop again in November and December, as winter sets in with minimums ranging from -2°C (28°F) to -6°C (21°F). This dynamic climatic rhythm contributes to Corsica's unique charm and biodiversity throughout the year.
In Corsica, Porto-Vecchio and Bonifacio experience similar temperature ranges, with minimums of 2°C (36°F) in February and maximums reaching 31°C (89°F) in August, making them warm summer destinations. In contrast, Bastia is slightly cooler, recording a minimum of 1°C (35°F) in February and a maximum of 29°C (84°F) in August. For more detailed monthly temperature information, visit monthly temperatures in Porto-Vecchio, monthly temperatures in Bastia, and monthly temperatures in Bonifacio.
Corsica's precipitation patterns reveal significant seasonal variation, with the winter months of January and February experiencing substantial rainfall, accumulating 70 mm (2.8 in) and 75 mm (3.0 in), respectively. March and April maintain similar levels, while May marks a notable increase with 81 mm (3.2 in), hinting at the approaching spring flush. The rainy days during these months typically range from 7 to 9 days, contributing to the lush landscapes that characterize the island in spring. As the summer months arrive, June, July, and August see a sharp decrease in precipitation, dropping to 39 mm (1.5 in), 27 mm (1.1 in), and 20 mm (0.8 in), respectively, creating a notably drier environment conducive to outdoor activities.
With the onset of autumn, precipitation begins to rise again, particularly in November, which stands out with a remarkable 146 mm (5.8 in) of rain spread over 15 days. October also sees significant rainfall at 74 mm (2.9 in), while September experiences a moderate 55 mm (2.2 in). This increase in rainfall not only replenishes the region's water sources but also facilitates the regeneration of flora after the dry summer months. The pattern of precipitation throughout the year highlights Corsica's climatic diversity, supporting its rich ecosystems and agricultural practices.
Corsica experiences a notable seasonal variation in sunshine duration, displaying a steady increase from winter to summer. In January, the island basks in a modest 203 hours of sunshine, which gradually ascends through the early months of the year. By March, sunshine hours have climbed to 334 hours, and in April, they reach 357 hours, highlighting the transitional period towards spring. This trend culminates in May, when Corsica enjoys a robust 406 hours of sunshine, laying the groundwork for the abundant sunlight of summer months.
The peak of sunshine arrives in July, with an impressive 433 hours, followed closely by August, which still offers 401 hours. This abundant sunlight is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and tourism, contributing to Corsica's allure as a summer destination. However, as autumn sets in, sunshine hours begin to dwindle, resulting in 345 hours in September and further decreasing to 316 hours in October. By the time winter returns in December, sunshine duration drops to 247 hours, reminding residents and visitors alike of the island's cyclical rhythm between vibrant summers and quieter, grayer winters. This seasonal dance of light not only informs lifestyle choices but also shapes the region's unique agricultural landscapes.
The UV Index in Corsica exhibits a distinctive seasonal pattern, reflecting the shifting intensity of sunlight throughout the year. In the winter months of January and February, the UV Index remains moderate at 3 and 4, with recommended burn times of 30 minutes. As spring unfolds, the index escalates dramatically; by March, it peaks to 6 (high), and April sees a jump to 8 (very high), necessitating more vigilant sun protection in just 15 minutes. This upward trend symbolizes the approach of summer, with May reaching a UV Index of 9, indicating heightened risk for unprotected skin.
During the peak summer months of June and July, Corsica experiences a critical UV Index of 10—the highest level on the scale—wherein even brief exposure can lead to skin damage in as little as 15 minutes. The index begins to gradually decline in August and September, yet remains in the very high category at 9 and 8, respectively. As autumn progresses, the UV Index transitions back to moderate levels, highlighted by 6 in October, declining further to 4 in November, and finally dropping to a low 2 in December, where outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy longer burn times of 45 minutes without significant risk. This fluctuation emphasizes the importance of sun safety measures, especially during the peak months, as Corsica's sun can be both invigorating and unforgiving.
UV Risk Categories
Daylight duration in Corsica displays a clear seasonal rhythm, reflecting the changing length of days throughout the year. In January, the island experiences just 9 hours of daylight, gradually increasing to 10 hours in February and 11 hours in March. April marks a significant shift towards longer days with 13 hours of daylight, leading up to the longer, sun-filled days of summer. May reaches 14 hours of daylight, while June tops out at 15 hours, representing the peak of summer when daylight is abundant and ideal for outdoor activities.
As summer wanes, daylight duration begins to subtly retreat, with July still enjoying 14 hours, but falling to 13 hours in August. September sees a further decrease to 12 hours, as the island transitions into autumn. October and November reflect shorter days, returning to 11 hours and 9 hours, respectively. By December, Corsica once again experiences 9 hours of daylight, completing the annual cycle. This variation not only influences the daily rhythm of life on the island but also highlights the interplay between light and seasonal activities, making every moment of daylight precious in Corsica's picturesque landscape.
Ajaccio, France, enjoys a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild winters and hot summers. January temperatures range from 2°C to 15°C, while July sees a warm range of 16°C to 30°C. Precipitation peaks in November with 154 mm, whereas the summer months of July and August are relatively dry, receiving about 21 mm each. The city boasts a good amount of sunshine, especially from May to July, with over 400 hours recorded in those months. For more detailed information, visit Ajaccio climate.
Bastia, France, experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from 5°C (41°F) in January to 29°C (84°F) in August, with June and July seeing the highest temperatures. Precipitation is highest in November (137 mm) and lowest in August (9 mm), while sunshine is abundant from May to July, peaking at 434 hours in July. Overall, Bastia's climate offers a pleasant environment year-round, ideal for visitors. For more details, visit Bastia climate.
Bonifacio, France, enjoys a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild winters and warm summers. Monthly average temperatures range from 11°C (52°F) in January to 26°C (79°F) in June, peaking at 31°C (89°F) in August. Rainfall is most prevalent in November at 131 mm (5.2 in), while summer months like July and August see minimal precipitation. The city also basks in abundant sunshine, especially from May to July with over 400 hours each month. For more detailed information, visit Bonifacio climate.
Calvi, France experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild winters and warm summers. January temperatures range from 1°C to 15°C, while July peaks at 31°C. Precipitation is highest in November with 134 mm, and June sees the least at 30 mm, contributing to a relatively dry summer season. The region enjoys abundant sunshine, particularly in July with 433 hours, making it an appealing destination for outdoor activities. For more details, visit Calvi climate.
Cargese, France, enjoys a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from a low of 2°C (36°F) in February to a high of 30°C (87°F) in August. Precipitation is heaviest in November and December, with about 155 mm (6.1 in) of rainfall, while summer months like July and August see minimal rain, with only 13 mm (0.5 in) and 5 mm (0.2 in) respectively. The region also benefits from ample sunshine, peaking at 434 hours in July. For more details, visit Cargese climate.
Corte, France experiences a varied climate with distinct seasons. Winter months (December to February) can be cold, with average temperatures ranging from 5°C to 7°C, and increased precipitation peaking in November at 151 mm. Spring brings gradual warming, with average highs reaching 22°C in April and 29°C in May, accompanied by moderate rainfall. The summer months of June to August are the warmest, with average temperatures between 20°C and 23°C and significantly less rainfall, particularly in August. For more detailed information, visit Corte climate.
L'Ile-Rousse, France experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. January temperatures range from a minimum of 4°C (39°F) to a maximum of 16°C (61°F), while July months see warmer extremes, with averages around 25°C (77°F) and peak temperatures reaching 29°C (85°F). The region enjoys significant sunshine, particularly during the summer, with July providing up to 434 hours of sun. Precipitation is highest in November, accumulating 115 mm (4.5 in), while the driest months are July and August. For more details on the climate of this charming coastal town, visit L'Ile-Rousse climate.
Macinaggio, France experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild winters and warm summers. Temperatures range from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) in February to a maximum of 29°C (84°F) in August, with the most pleasant weather found in late spring and early summer. Precipitation is fairly distributed throughout the year, peaking in November at 126 mm (5.0 in), while June and August are the driest months. The region enjoys substantial sunshine, with July offering the most hours at 434. For more detailed information, visit Macinaggio climate.
Porto-Vecchio, France experiences a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and warm summers. January temperatures range from 5°C to 16°C, gradually warming to 21°C to 31°C in August. Rainfall is more frequent in winter, particularly in November with 131 mm, while summer months see significantly less, often below 10 mm. Sunshine hours peak in July with around 431 hours, contributing to a pleasant atmosphere during the warm season. For more details, visit Porto-Vecchio climate.
Propriano, France experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild winters and hot summers. January temperatures range from -4°C to 16°C, while August sees highs of up to 37°C. Precipitation is notably high from November to February, with November recording 163 mm, while July and August are the driest months with only 16 mm and 29 mm respectively. The area enjoys ample sunshine, peaking in July with 432 hours. For more details, visit Propriano climate.
Saint-Florent, France, experiences a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and warm summers. January temperatures range from a cool 3°C to a mild 16°C, while summer months see highs reaching up to 31°C in August. Precipitation is moderate throughout the year, peaking in November with 124 mm, while August remains the driest month with only 14 mm. Abundant sunshine is characteristic, especially in July, which boasts 434 hours. Overall, the climate is conducive for outdoor activities nearly year-round, making it a delightful destination—learn more at Saint-Florent climate.
Sari-Solenzara, France, experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by warm summers and mild winters. Average temperatures range from a low of -2°C (29°F) in January to a high of 39°C (102°F) in August, with the peak warm months seeing minimal rainfall. Precipitation varies throughout the year, with November being the wettest month at 143 mm (5.6 in), while July and August have significantly less, at 12 mm (0.5 in) and 14 mm (0.6 in), respectively. Sunshine is abundant, especially in the summer, reaching up to 431 hours in July. For more detailed information, visit Sari-Solenzara climate.
In conclusion, Corsica's climatic and environmental characteristics—ranging from temperature and precipitation patterns to sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight—underscore the island's dynamic and diverse ecological tapestry. The seasonal shifts bring about notable variations in light, warmth, and moisture, shaping not only the natural landscapes but also influencing local agriculture, tourism, and everyday life for residents and visitors alike. Understanding these patterns is vital for enjoying the beauty of Corsica while navigating its unique weather conditions. Whether basking in the long summer days or savoring the shorter, crisp winters, Corsica offers an engaging backdrop for exploration and appreciation of the Mediterranean climate throughout the year.