Grand Est Climate

Last updated: January 18, 2025

Grand Est, France, is characterized by a Cfb Köppen-Geiger climate, reflecting a temperate maritime influence. This region experiences a notable temperature range, with winter lows plummeting to a frigid -17°C (1°F) in January, while summer highs can soar to a sweltering 43°C (109°F) in July. The annual average temperature rests at a mild 11°C (52°F), highlighting the climate's seasonal variation and its impact on local ecosystems and agricultural practices.

Grand Est temperature by month

In Grand Est, France, temperature patterns exhibit distinct seasonal variations, showcasing a typical continental climate. Winter months, particularly January and February, are characterized by harsh cold with minimum temperatures plunging to -17°C (1°F) and -17°C (2°F), respectively. As spring approaches, temperatures gradually rise, allowing for a notable increase in averages from 2°C (37°F) in January to 10°C (51°F) in April, with March introducing highs reaching 25°C (77°F). The transition into summer brings warmer days, peaking in July, where temperatures can soar to a maximum of 43°C (109°F). August maintains similarly high values, while September begins a gradual cooling trend. Autumn marks a return to milder temperatures, with averages dipping back to 6°C (43°F) by November, culminating in the return of cold winter conditions by December, where the cycle starts anew.

Monthly Temperatures in Grand Est, France

The chart illustrates Grand Est's temperature patterns throughout the year, with values aggregated from various locations across the region. It highlights seasonal variations and temperature changes across the months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec364044505766686861534340
Data source: Grand Est temperature data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.
Choose your preferred temperature unit
The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

Reims experiences a temperature range from a minimum of -10°C (15°F) in March to a maximum of 43°C (109°F) in July, showcasing significant seasonal variation monthly temperatures in Reims. In comparison, Strasbourg records slightly colder weather with a minimum of -12°C (11°F) in February and peaks at 39°C (102°F) in July monthly temperatures in Strasbourg. Colmar sees even lower temperatures, hitting a minimum of -13°C (9°F) in March, while its maximum reaches 37°C (98°F) in August monthly temperatures in Colmar.

Precipitation Patterns in Grand Est

Precipitation in Grand Est, France, displays notable seasonal patterns, with the heaviest rainfall occurring in the winter and early spring months. December leads with a substantial 126 mm (5.0 in) of precipitation, spread over 18 days, marking it as the wettest month of the year. In January and February, rainfall remains significant at 86 mm (3.4 in) and 80 mm (3.2 in), respectively, with 12 days of precipitation each month. March also sees considerable levels at 85 mm (3.3 in) over 13 days, maintaining the trend before a marked decrease in April to 44 mm (1.7 in).

As spring transitions into summer, precipitation amounts fluctuate, with May experiencing an increase to 88 mm (3.5 in), while June and July witness slight decreases at 81 mm (3.2 in) and 72 mm (2.8 in), respectively. Late summer sees further reductions, with August and September recording 65 mm (2.6 in) and 60 mm (2.4 in). October brings a resurgence in rainfall at 79 mm (3.1 in) over 12 days, while November remains similar at 73 mm (2.9 in). Overall, the region's precipitation patterns reflect a typical temperate climate, with maximum precipitation in winter and gradual decreases through the summer months.

Monthly Average Precipitation in Grand Est, France

The average monthly precipitation in Grand Est, providing insights into seasonal rainfall patterns and the region's precipitation trends throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec8680854488817265607973126
Data source: Grand Est precipitation data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

Sunshine Duration in Grand Est

In Grand Est, France, sunshine duration exhibits a clear seasonal pattern, with a distinct increase from the winter months into summer. January sees the lowest levels, with only 121 hours of sunshine, reflecting the region's shorter days and overcast conditions typical of winter. As February arrives, sunlight begins to amass, reaching 202 hours, while March witnesses a significant leap to 268 hours. This progressive rise continues into April, accumulating 347 hours, and marks a notable shift towards longer and brighter days as spring takes hold.

The trend culminates in summer, where July shines as the peak sunshine month with 411 hours, closely followed by August at 386 hours. This abundance of sunlight fosters a vibrant environment, enhancing outdoor activities and agricultural productivity. However, as September ushers in autumn, sunshine hours decline to 321 hours, and this decreasing pattern persists through October and November, returning to 185 hours in November. By December, the region experiences a drop to 136 hours, signaling the onset of winter's grayness, yet the yearly cycle assures a return to brighter days ahead.

Monthly Sunshine in Grand Est, France

Monthly sunshine duration represents the total hours of direct sunlight Grand Est receives each month, excluding periods when the sun is obscured by clouds or other obstructions.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec121h202h268h347h384h405h411h386h321h253h185h136h
Data source: Grand Est sunshine duration data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.

Grand Est UV Index Trends

The UV Index in Grand Est, France, reveals a compelling seasonal cycle, greatly influenced by the changing weather patterns and solar angle throughout the year. During the winter months, particularly in January and February, the UV Index remains relatively low, with values of 2 and 3, respectively, categorizing sun exposure as low to moderate. This translates to longer burn times of 45 minutes in January and 30 minutes in February, allowing residents to enjoy the outdoors with minimal risk of sunburn. As spring approaches, March experiences a noticeable increase in UV levels to 5, indicating moderate exposure, which continues to rise until April when it reaches 6, marking the start of a high exposure category.

The peak UV Index occurs during the summer months, with June and July both recording a value of 9, categorized as very high. This necessitates greater caution, as the recommended burn time drops to a mere 15 minutes. August also maintains a high UV Index of 8, while September sees a decline to 6, signifying the gradual transition into autumn. October follows with a drop to 4, and the UV Index returns to low levels by November (2) and December (1). This seasonal fluctuation highlights the importance of UV awareness, especially in the summer months, where protective measures are essential to prevent sun damage.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Grand Est, France

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Grand Est. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec235689986421
Data source: Grand Est UV Index data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Daylight Hours in Grand Est

In Grand Est, France, daylight duration follows a clear seasonal rhythm, reflecting the region’s transition from winter to summer and back again. January struggles with only 8 hours of daylight, gradually increasing to 10 hours in February as the days grow longer. The trend continues into March, where daylight extends to 11 hours, and further expands in April, reaching 13 hours. By May, the region enjoys 15 hours of daylight, setting the stage for the height of summer.

June marks the peak daylight duration at an impressive 16 hours, allowing for ample opportunities to engage in outdoor activities. However, as summer wanes in July, daylight recedes slightly to 15 hours, and continues to decline in August and September, with 14 hours and 12 hours respectively. October brings a return to 10 hours, while November and December see the days shorten further back to 9 hours and 8 hours. This cyclical pattern emphasizes the contrast between the long, bright summer days and the shorter winter periods, shaping the annual lifestyle and activities of inhabitants in the region.

Average Monthly Daylight Hours in Grand Est, France

This chart shows the total daylight hours Grand Est receives each month, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec525h610h715h822h915h963h938h855h751h644h549h499h
Data source: Grand Est daylight hours, calculated based on aggregated data for various regional locations, determined by the times between sunrise and sunset.

Climate Highlights of Grand Est's Popular Destinations

Amneville, France experiences a continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures can drop to -10°C (15°F), while July can reach up to 39°C (102°F), highlighting the seasonal contrasts. Precipitation is relatively consistent throughout the year, with December being the wettest month at 115 mm (4.5 in). The area enjoys significant sunshine from March to August, peaking in July with 414 hours, making it a delightful time for outdoor activities. For more detailed information, visit Amneville climate.

The climate in Colmar, France, features a wide range of temperatures throughout the year, with January averages around 2°C (35°F) and July peaking at 20°C (69°F). The region experiences significant precipitation, particularly in May (115 mm) and December (116 mm), while sunshine hours are highest in July (415 hours). Winter temperatures can drop as low as -13°C (9°F) in March, but warmer months can see highs reaching 37°C (98°F) in August. Overall, Colmar's climate presents a mix of cold winters and warm summers, ideal for varied seasonal activities. For more detailed information, visit Colmar climate.

Eguisheim, France experiences a diverse climate characterized by chilly winters and warm summers. January temperatures range from a frigid -11°C to a maximum of 13°C, while July sees highs reaching up to 36°C. Precipitation varies throughout the year, with May being notably wet at 115 mm, and sunshine peaks in July with 415 hours. Overall, Eguisheim offers a pleasant climate for both winter enthusiasts and summer explorers. For more details, visit Eguisheim climate.

Epernay, France, experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasonal variations. Winters can be quite cold, with January temperatures ranging from -8°C to 14°C, while summers can be quite warm, with July highs reaching up to 42°C. Rainfall is fairly consistent throughout the year, peaking in December with 110 mm of precipitation, and the region enjoys the most sunshine from June to July, averaging over 400 hours. For more detailed information, visit Epernay climate.

Gerardmer, France, experiences a varied climate with cold winters and warm summers. January sees temperatures ranging from -14°C to 12°C, accompanied by significant precipitation (116 mm). As the year progresses, temperatures rise, peaking in July and August at 36°C, while rainfall decreases in the summer months. Sunshine is abundant, especially from May to July, with over 380 hours of sunshine in each month. For more detailed information about the climate, visit Gerardmer climate.

Hautvillers, France experiences a diverse climate throughout the year, with warm summers and cold winters. Average temperatures range from a chilly 4°C (39°F) in January to a hot 20°C (69°F) in July, peaking at 42°C (107°F) in summer months. The area receives moderate precipitation, with October being the wettest month at 84 mm (3.3 in) and June to September generally drier. Sunshine hours are plentiful in the summer, peaking at 409 hours in July, while winter months see fewer sunny days. For more detailed information, visit Hautvillers climate.

Kaysersberg, France, experiences a varied climate with cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures can drop as low as -16°C (4°F), while July typically peaks at around 36°C (97°F). Precipitation is generally abundant, especially in the summer months, reaching up to 119 mm (4.7 in) in June. Sunshine hours fluctuate throughout the year, with the peak in July at 413 hours and a low of 129 hours in January. For more details, visit Kaysersberg climate.

The climate in Metz, France, is characterized by a wide range of temperatures throughout the year, from chilly winters with January lows around -10°C (15°F) to hot summers reaching up to 40°C (104°F) in July. Precipitation is fairly consistent, with December being the wettest month at 115 mm (4.5 in), while April sees a drop to 42 mm (1.7 in). Sunshine hours peak in summer, especially in July with 414 hours, contrasting with the winter months that average around 113 hours. For more detailed information, visit Metz climate.

Nancy, France experiences a diverse climate, with temperatures ranging from a chilling -11°C (12°F) in March to a sizzling 40°C (104°F) in July. The city sees its highest rainfall in December, totaling 116 mm (4.6 in), while sunshine peaks in July with 413 hours. Spring and early summer offer a pleasant mix of mild temperatures and moderate precipitation, making it an inviting season for visitors. For more comprehensive data, refer to Nancy climate.

Obernai, France, experiences a varied climate with cold winters and warm summers. Temperatures range from a minimum of -11°C (12°F) in February to a maximum of 38°C (101°F) in July, averaging around 20°C (67°F) during the warmest months. Precipitation is highest in December with 112 mm (4.4 in) and relatively drier during spring, particularly in April, with only 45 mm (1.8 in). The region enjoys a good amount of sunshine, peaking at 411 hours in July, making it a pleasant summer escape. For more detailed information, visit Obernai climate.

The climate in Reims, France, is characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January sees minimum temperatures around -8°C (19°F) and average highs of 14°C (58°F), while July can reach maximums of 43°C (109°F). Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, with December receiving the most precipitation at 110 mm (4.3 in). Sunshine hours peak in summer, with July witnessing 409 hours of sunlight, while winter months, like January, record only 113 hours. For more detailed information, visit Reims climate.

Ribeauville, France experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasonal variations. Winter months see temperatures ranging from -16°C (4°F) in February to 13°C (56°F) in January, combined with significant precipitation, particularly in December with 123 mm (4.8 in). In contrast, summer months like July and August can reach maximums of 36°C (97°F) along with ample sunshine, averaging over 400 hours. The spring and fall transition periods provide mild temperatures and moderate rainfall, making Ribeauville an attractive destination year-round. For more details, visit Ribeauville climate.

Riquewihr, France experiences a varied climate with cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures can drop to -11°C (13°F) while reaching a maximum of 13°C (56°F), with significant snowfall totaling 93 mm (3.7 in). Summer months, particularly July and August, see average highs of 36°C (97°F) and substantial rainfall around 100 mm (4.0 in). The region enjoys ample sunshine, peaking at 413 hours in July, and gradually decreasing to 129 hours in January. For more detailed information, visit Riquewihr climate.

Strasbourg features a temperate climate with significant seasonal variation in temperature and precipitation. Winters can be quite cold, with January lows around -10°C (14°F) and average temperatures of 3°C (37°F), while summers are warm, peaking in July with averages of 21°C (70°F) and highs reaching up to 39°C (102°F). Precipitation varies throughout the year, with December being the wettest month at 110 mm (4.3 in), and sunshine hours peak in July with 411 hours. For more detailed information, visit Strasbourg climate.

The climate in Verdun, France, features a significant temperature range throughout the year, with January temperatures dipping as low as -9°C (16°F) and July peaking at 40°C (104°F). Precipitation varies, with the wettest month being December, receiving 134 mm (5.3 in) of rain, while April is relatively drier with 41 mm (1.6 in). Sunshine is abundant in summer, with July enjoying up to 412 hours of sunlight, but this decreases in the winter months. For a detailed overview, visit Verdun climate.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the climate of Grand Est, France, is characterized by distinct seasonal variations that profoundly influence local weather patterns, sunshine duration, precipitation, and UV Index levels throughout the year. The region experiences cold winters with shorter daylight hours and lower UV exposure, transitioning into warmer summers with extended daylight and higher UV Index values. This dynamic climate supports a rich variety of ecosystems and agricultural practices while prompting residents to adapt their outdoor activities according to seasonal changes. Understanding these climatic trends is essential for making informed decisions about health, leisure, and environmental sustainability in this vibrant region.

Discover the Climate of Grand Est's Places

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