Last updated: January 18, 2025
Occitanie, located in southern France, exhibits a diverse range of climates classified under the Köppen-Geiger system as Cfb, Csa, Cfa, and Csb. The region experiences a remarkable temperature spectrum, with frigid minimums reaching -21°C (-5°F) in January, while scorching maximums can soar to 44°C (112°F) in June. Averaging around 14°C (57°F) annually, Occitanie's climate showcases the intriguing contrasts between its cooler and warmer seasons, shaping both its natural landscapes and human activities.
In Occitanie, France, temperature patterns illustrate a distinct seasonal progression, marked by stark contrasts between the winter and summer months. January and February witness harsh cold, with minimum temperatures plummeting to -21°C (-5°F) and -20°C (-4°F), respectively, yet they warm slightly by March with average temperatures rising to 10°C (49°F). As spring unfolds, April sees further mildness with averages of 12°C (54°F), peaking towards the end of May, where temperatures can climb to 16°C (61°F). The region transitions into the sweltering heat of summer, with June reaching maximums of 44°C (112°F) and high averages around 20°C (68°F). July and August maintain this warmth, displaying strikingly high temperatures consistently surpassing 40°C (104°F). As autumn approaches, September marks a gradual cooling, with averages descending to 19°C (66°F), then dipping further in October and November, where winter's chill reasserts itself, leading to minimums around -14°C (7°F) in November. This cyclical warming and cooling not only define the climate but also influence the region’s agricultural and ecological rhythms.
In Montpellier, temperatures range from a minimum of -2°C (29°F) in February to a maximum of 35°C (95°F) in June, making it a pleasant spot in the warmer months monthly temperatures in Montpellier. Toulouse experiences colder winters with a minimum of -8°C (18°F) in February and reaches higher summer peaks, maximizing at 39°C (102°F) in June monthly temperatures in Toulouse. Carcassonne has similar winter lows of -8°C (18°F) in January, while its summer temperatures peak at 37°C (98°F) in August monthly temperatures in Carcassonne.
Precipitation in Occitanie, France, exhibits a marked seasonal pattern, predominantly concentrated during the late autumn and winter months. January and February experience a relatively moderate rainfall of 74 mm (2.9 in) and 65 mm (2.5 in), respectively, with precipitation occurring over approximately 9 days each month. This trend continues into March and April, where precipitation remains steady at 80 mm (3.2 in), while May brings a notable increase to 98 mm (3.9 in), spanning 12 days of rainfall. By June, rainfall begins to taper off slightly to 82 mm (3.2 in), heralding the transition to the drier summer months.
The summer sees a significant reduction in precipitation, with July and August registering 57 mm (2.2 in) and 54 mm (2.1 in), respectively, and only 7 days of rainfall each. However, the onset of autumn reverses this trend, as September marks a moderate 66 mm (2.6 in), followed by a substantial rise in precipitation during the last months of the year. October experiences 98 mm (3.9 in), with the heaviest rainfall occurring in November and December at 102 mm (4.0 in) and 104 mm (4.1 in), over 12 and 13 days, respectively. This cyclical distribution not only fosters a lush environment but also significantly influences agricultural practices and water resource management in the region.
In Occitanie, France, sunshine duration exhibits a clear seasonal progression, with notable increases as the region transitions from winter to summer. Starting with 179 hours of sunshine in January, daylight gradually expands through February, reaching 241 hours. This upward trend accelerates in spring, where March and April bask in 310 hours and 342 hours of sunshine, respectively. By May, the region experiences a robust 385 hours of sunlight, foreshadowing the luminous days ahead. The peak sunshine month arrives in July, boasting an impressive 424 hours, followed closely by August with 397 hours. These summer months offer abundant light, promoting outdoor activities and agricultural ripening.
As autumn unfolds, sunshine hours gradually decline, reflecting the shift in seasons. September retains a respectable 339 hours, while October dips to 292 hours, signaling the onset of shorter days. The decline becomes more pronounced in November and December, with only 239 hours and 218 hours of sunshine, respectively. This shift underscores the contrast between the sun-drenched summer months and the subdued light of winter, shaping both the climate and lifestyle in Occitanie. The clear distinction in sunshine duration serves as a reminder of the region's diverse climatic appeal, influencing everything from tourism to agriculture throughout the year.
In Occitanie, France, the UV Index demonstrates seasonal fluctuations that highlight the variations in solar radiation throughout the year. Beginning with a moderate UV Index of 3 in January and December, exposure remains relatively safe with a burn time of 30 minutes. As winter transitions into spring, the UV Index gradually increases, reaching 5 in February and then climbing to 6 in March, signaling a shift to higher sun intensity. April marks a significant rise to a very high UV Index of 8, paired with a reduced burn time of 15 minutes, indicating the need for increased sun protection as outdoor activities ramp up with warmer weather.
The arrival of summer in Occitanie sees the UV Index peak at 11 in both June and July, categorized as extreme, where even brief exposure can result in sunburn in just 10 minutes. The intensity remains high in August at 10, before tapering off in September with a UV Index of 8. As autumn sets in, levels drop back to 6 in October and 4 in November, ultimately returning to 3 in the winter months. This seasonal variability underscores the importance of sun safety practices, especially during the summer months when UV exposure is at its highest, emphasizing the need for protective measures during outdoor activities.
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In Occitanie, France, daylight duration reveals a striking seasonal pattern that reflects the shifting position of the sun throughout the year. Starting with a modest 9 hours in January, daylight gradually increases as the winter months progress, reaching 10 hours in February and 11 hours in March. The arrival of spring brings a notable surge, with April featuring 13 hours of daylight, and May further extending this to 14 hours as the days grow warmer and longer. June marks the pinnacle of daylight duration at 15 hours, offering ample opportunities for outdoor activities during the bright summer days.
As summer wanes, Occitanie begins to see a gradual decrease in daylight hours. July maintains the 15-hour mark before transitioning to 13 hours in August, signaling the approach of autumn. Daylight continues to diminish through September and October, with 12 hours and 10 hours, respectively. By November, daylight returns to 9 hours, and December experiences the shortest days of the year, with only 8 hours of daylight. This annual cycle of daylight not only influences the climate but also plays a significant role in the lifestyle and agricultural practices of the region, emphasizing the connectedness of nature's rhythms and human activities.
Agde, France experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by warm summers and mild winters. Average temperatures range from a cool 9°C (49°F) in January to a warm 23°C (74°F) in July. While precipitation peaks in November at 114 mm (4.5 in), summer months see significantly less rain, with July averaging only 12 mm (0.5 in). The region enjoys abundant sunshine, particularly in July with 433 hours, making it a desirable location for outdoor activities. For more detailed information, visit Agde climate.
Aigues-Mortes, France, experiences a varied climate throughout the year, with warm summers and mild winters. January sees temperatures ranging from 1°C to 17°C, while July peaks at a comfortable 32°C. Precipitation is highest in November with 138 mm, contrasting with the dry summer months, particularly July, which receives only 11 mm. Sunshine hours peak in July at 435 hours, providing ample light during the summer, while winter months have fewer sunny days. For more detailed information, visit Aigues-Mortes climate.
Albi, France, experiences a temperate climate characterized by warm summers and cool winters. Average temperatures range from a chilly 4°C (40°F) in January to a peak of 22°C (72°F) in July, with maximums reaching up to 37°C (100°F) in June and July. Precipitation varies throughout the year, with December being the wettest month at 133 mm (5.3 in) and July the driest at 47 mm (1.8 in). Sunshine is abundant from April to August, highlighting the region's pleasant weather during these months. For more detailed information, visit Albi climate.
Argelès, France experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild winters and hot summers. January temperatures range from -2°C to 20°C, with a peak average of 8°C, while July sees averages of 25°C, reaching up to 37°C. Precipitation varies throughout the year, with October being the wettest month at 104 mm, and July the driest at 14 mm. Sunshine is abundant, peaking in July with 426 hours, ideal for outdoor activities. For more detailed statistics, visit Argeles climate.
Arles, France, experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild winters and hot summers. January temperatures range from -5°C to 18°C, while July can reach up to 35°C. The area receives the most rainfall in October, with 111 mm, and enjoys substantial sunshine, peaking at 426 hours in July. This favorable climate contributes to Arles' charm as a year-round travel destination. For more details, visit Arles climate.
Ax-les-Thermes, France, experiences a varied climate characterized by cold winters and mild summers. January sees temperatures ranging from -21°C to 14°C, with significant snowfall (91 mm) and about 194 hours of sunshine. The warmest months, July and August, have average highs around 27°C to 28°C, accompanied by moderate rainfall and plenty of sunshine (426 hours in July). As autumn approaches, temperatures gradually drop, and precipitation remains steady, with October recording an average of 98 mm. For more in-depth climate data, visit Ax-les-Thermes climate.
Bagneres-de-Luchon, France, experiences a varied climate characterized by cold winters and mild summers. January sees minimum temperatures plummet to -21°C (-5°F), while July peaks at a comfortable 27°C (80°F). Precipitation is abundant throughout the year, with the wettest months being May and June, receiving around 155 mm (6.1 in) and 180 mm (7.1 in) respectively, yet the area enjoys significant sunshine, especially in summer. This picturesque location is ideal for both winter sports and summer activities. For more detailed information, visit Bagneres-de-Luchon climate.
Banyuls de la Marenda, France, experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from 10°C (50°F) in January to 24°C (75°F) in July, with peaks reaching 34°C (93°F) in June. Precipitation varies throughout the year, with October seeing the highest levels at 94 mm (3.7 in) and July being the driest with just 8 mm (0.3 in). Sunshine is abundant, especially in summer months, with over 400 hours of sun from May to July. For more detailed information, visit Banyuls de la Marenda climate.
Cahors, France experiences a varied climate throughout the year, with winter temperatures ranging from -8°C (18°F) in January to milder conditions in April, reaching averages of around 13°C (55°F). The summer months of June through August can be particularly warm, with maximum temperatures climbing to 39°C (102°F). Precipitation is highest in December, with 123 mm (4.9 in), while the sunniest months are May and July, offering up to 414 hours of sunshine. This unique interplay of temperatures and rainfall contributes to the region's rich agricultural environment. For more detailed information, visit Cahors climate.
Carcassonne, France, experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild winters and hot summers. Temperatures range from a chilly -8°C (18°F) in January to a scorching 37°C (98°F) in August, with average monthly highs peaking at 35°C (95°F) in July. Precipitation is highest in December (121 mm), while the summer months see markedly lower rainfall, particularly in August (27 mm). The city enjoys ample sunshine, with July receiving the most hours at 429, contributing to its warm, inviting atmosphere. For more details, visit Carcassonne climate.
Cauterets, France experiences a temperate climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January sees temperatures ranging from -14°C to 13°C, while July peaks at a pleasant 30°C. Precipitation is significant throughout the year, particularly in spring and early summer, with June recording the highest at 224 mm. Sunshine hours are abundant from April to August, maximizing at 411 hours in July. For more detailed information, visit Cauterets climate.
Collioure, France, experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild winters and hot summers. Average temperatures range from a low of -2°C (29°F) in January to a high of 39°C (102°F) in June. The town receives the most precipitation in October with 104 mm (4.1 in), while July is the driest month at only 14 mm (0.6 in). With a significant amount of annual sunshine, peaking at 426 hours in July, it offers plenty of sunny days for visitors. For more details, visit Collioure climate.
The climate in Cordes-sur-Ciel, France, features a significant temperature range throughout the year, with lows reaching -8°C (19°F) in winter and highs of up to 38°C (100°F) during the summer months. Average temperatures fluctuate from 5°C (41°F) in January to 22°C (72°F) in July, while precipitation is heaviest in December at 125 mm (4.9 in). Sunshine hours peak in June with 409 hours, contributing to the region's warm summers. The transitional seasons of spring and autumn provide a balance between mild temperatures and moderate rainfall. For more detailed information, visit Cordes-sur-Ciel climate.
The climate in Font-Romeu-Odeillo-Via, France, is characterized by cold winters and mild summers, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -20°C in February to a maximum of 28°C in June. Precipitation is highest in late spring and early summer, peaking at 139 mm in June, while the area enjoys a significant amount of sunshine, particularly in July with 427 hours. Despite the winter chill, the sunny conditions during the year create a unique and inviting atmosphere for outdoor activities. For more detailed information, visit Font-Romeu-Odeillo-Via climate.
The climate in Ganges, France, is characterized by a significant range in temperatures and precipitation throughout the year. Winters are cold, with January temperatures averaging around 5°C (41°F) and substantial snowfall, while summers can be quite warm, peaking in July and August with averages of about 22°C (72°F). Rainfall is most abundant in the autumn months, notably October and November, which receive nearly 200 mm (7.8 inches) of precipitation each. Sunshine hours peak in the summer, reaching up to 435 hours in July, providing ample sunshine during warmer months. For more detailed information, visit Ganges climate.
Gruissan, France experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild winters and hot summers. Average temperatures range from a low of -4°C (25°F) in January to a high of 38°C (101°F) in June and August, showcasing a marked increase during the warmer months. Precipitation is highest in October (90 mm or 3.6 in), while the summer months see significantly less rainfall, with July and August receiving only 26 mm (1.0 in) each. Generous sunshine hours, peaking at 430 in July, make Gruissan an inviting destination year-round. For more detailed information, visit Gruissan climate.
La Grande-Motte, France, experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild winters and warm summers. January temperatures range from 1°C to 17°C, while July sees highs up to 32°C. Rainfall is heaviest in the fall and winter months, with November averaging 136 mm, but summers remain relatively dry, especially in July with only 12 mm. The city enjoys abundant sunshine, peaking in July with 434 hours, providing a pleasant environment year-round. For more details, visit La Grande-Motte climate.
Lagrasse, France, experiences a temperate climate characterized by warm summers and mild winters. Average temperatures range from a chilly 6°C (43°F) in January to a warm 23°C (73°F) in July, with occasional peaks up to 35°C (95°F). The town receives moderate rainfall throughout the year, with October being the wettest month at 97 mm (3.8 in) of precipitation. Sunshine hours are plentiful in summer, peaking at 429 hours in July, while winter months see significantly less sun. For more detailed climate information, you can visit Lagrasse climate.
Le Cap d'Agde experiences a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and warm summers. January temperatures range from 2°C to 17°C, gradually rising to a maximum of 33°C in July. The region sees the most rainfall in November (114 mm) and generally low precipitation during the summer months, particularly in July (12 mm). Sunshine is plentiful, with July boasting the most hours at 433, ensuring plenty of sunny days for visitors. For more detailed information, visit Le Cap d'Agde climate.
Le Grau-du-Roi, France, experiences a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot summers. January sees average temperatures around 9°C (48°F) and about 198 hours of sunshine, while July peaks with an average of 24°C (76°F) and 435 hours of sunshine. Precipitation is relatively low during the summer months but increases in late autumn, particularly in November, which receives an average of 138 mm (5.4 in). Overall, the area enjoys a pleasant climate ideal for outdoor activities year-round. For more details, visit Le Grau-du-Roi climate.
Leucate, France, experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by warm summers and mild winters. January temperatures range from -4°C to 19°C, while July sees highs up to 36°C. The area receives the most precipitation in October (90 mm) and enjoys ample sunshine, especially in July with 430 hours. This combination of factors contributes to a vibrant environment ideal for outdoor activities. For more detailed information, visit Leucate climate.
Lourdes, France experiences a varied climate with distinct seasonal changes. Winter months (January to March) can be quite cold, with average temperatures ranging from 1°C (34°F) to 4°C (40°F), while July and August are warm, reaching averages of 17°C (63°F) to 30°C (87°F). Precipitation peaks in June, with 224 mm (8.8 in) of rainfall and plenty of sunshine during the summer months, accumulating around 411 hours in July. The annual rainfall supports lush landscapes, making Lourdes a picturesque destination. For more details, visit Lourdes climate.
Millau, France experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures range from a minimum of -9°C (17°F) to a maximum of 17°C (63°F), while July sees averages around 20°C (68°F) with maxima hitting 33°C (92°F). Precipitation varies throughout the year, peaking in May with 95 mm (3.7 in) and dropping to just 39 mm (1.5 in) during July and August. Additionally, sunshine hours are abundant in the summer months, reaching a high of 427 hours in July. For more detailed information, visit Millau climate.
Montblanc, France, experiences a diverse climate with cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures range from a chilly -6°C to a mild 18°C, while July's temperatures soar between 13°C and 34°C. Precipitation is highest in October, reaching 157 mm, and sunshine peaks in July with 433 hours. Overall, the region is characterized by significant seasonal variations, making it an intriguing destination for visitors. For more detailed information, visit Montblanc climate.
Montpellier, France, experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild winters and hot summers. January temperatures range from 1°C to 17°C, while July sees highs around 32°C. Precipitation is heaviest in November (136 mm), with the driest month being July (12 mm). The city enjoys ample sunshine, peaking at 434 hours in July. For more details, visit Montpellier climate.
Najac, France experiences a temperate climate characterized by warm summers and mild winters. January temperatures range from -8°C to 18°C, while July sees highs around 37°C. Precipitation is highest in December at 150 mm, with May and June also receiving significant rainfall. The sunniest months are July and August, boasting over 400 hours of sunshine each. For more detailed information, visit Najac climate.
Nîmes, France, experiences a Mediterranean climate with distinct seasonal variations. Winters are mild, with January temperatures averaging 7°C (45°F) and frequent precipitation, peaking in November with 123 mm (4.8 in). Summers are hot, particularly in July and August, with average highs reaching 26°C (80°F) and 26°C (78°F) respectively, while rainfall is minimal. Sunshine is abundant, especially from May to July, where the city enjoys over 400 hours of sun each month. For more details on the local climate, visit Nimes climate.
Pampelonne, France experiences a varied climate throughout the year, characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures can drop as low as -8°C (18°F), while July sees highs of up to 37°C (98°F). Precipitation is highest in May and December, reaching 103 mm (4.0 in) and 133 mm (5.3 in) respectively, while the summer months are notably drier. Sunshine hours peak in July with 424 hours, providing a bright summer experience. For more detailed information, visit Pampelonne climate.
Perpignan, France experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot summers and mild winters. January sees temperatures ranging from -3°C to 20°C, while July can reach up to 37°C, with average highs around 25°C. Precipitation varies throughout the year, peaking in October at 93 mm, while summer months like July have minimal rainfall at just 23 mm. The region enjoys considerable sunshine, particularly in July, averaging 428 hours. For more detailed information, visit Perpignan climate.
Pezenas, France experiences a Mediterranean climate, characterized by warm summers and mild winters. Average temperatures range from a low of -5°C (24°F) in February to a high of 37°C (99°F) in June. Precipitation varies throughout the year, peaking in October with 137 mm (5.4 in) and minimizing in July at just 18 mm (0.7 in). The region enjoys abundant sunshine, particularly in the summer months, with July receiving around 434 hours of sunlight. For more detailed information, visit Pezenas climate.
Rocamadour, France, experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasonal variations. Winter months are cold, with January averaging around 5°C (41°F) and significant precipitation reaching up to 137 mm (5.4 in) in December. Summers are warm, with temperatures peaking in June and July at around 22-39°C (72-103°F) and enjoying the most sunshine, totaling over 400 hours. Notably, May and June show substantial rainfall, averaging 101 mm (4.0 in) and 106 mm (4.2 in), respectively. For more detailed information, visit Rocamadour climate.
Saint-Gervais, France, experiences a varied climate with distinct seasonal changes. Winter temperatures can drop as low as -6°C (22°F) in February, while summers can soar to 41°C (106°F) in June. The region sees the highest precipitation in November (143 mm) and October (130 mm), contrasting with relatively drier months like February (37 mm). Sunshine is abundant from March (316 hours) to July (436 hours), providing pleasant conditions for outdoor activities. For more detailed information, visit Saint-Gervais climate.
Saint-Lary-Soulan experiences a mountainous climate characterized by cold winters and mild summers. January temperatures can drop as low as -20°C (-4°F), with average highs of 11°C (51°F), while July sees average highs around 27°C (81°F). Precipitation is significant throughout the year, peaking in June (172 mm) and May (152 mm). The area enjoys considerable sunshine, especially in the summer months, with July receiving about 422 hours. For more details, visit Saint-Lary-Soulan climate.
Sete, France experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. January temperatures range from a minimum of 1°C to a maximum of 17°C, while July sees highs reaching 32°C. Precipitation is highest in October and November, with November averaging 144 mm of rainfall. The city enjoys abundant sunshine, peaking in July with 434 hours. For more detailed information, visit Sete climate.
Toulouse, France experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasonal variations. Winters are cold, with January temperatures ranging from -7°C to 19°C, while summers can be hot, peaking at 39°C in June and July. Rainfall is significant during the year, with December recording the highest precipitation at 113 mm. The city enjoys plenty of sunshine, especially in the summer months, reaching up to 421 hours in July. For more detailed information, visit Toulouse climate.
Vers-Pont-du-Gard, France experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters. Average temperatures range from 7°C (44°F) in January to a peak of 26°C (79°F) in July, with occasional maxima reaching up to 43°C (109°F) in June. Rainfall is most abundant in the fall, particularly in October and November, bringing around 120 mm (4.7 in) and 129 mm (5.1 in) respectively, while summer months are drier. The region enjoys plenty of sunshine, especially in June and July, averaging over 400 hours of sun. For more detailed information, visit Vers-Pont-du-Gard climate.
In conclusion, the climate of Occitanie, France, is characterized by its distinctive seasonal patterns in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours. From the harsh chills of winter, with sub-zero temperatures and limited sunlight, to the vibrant warmth of summer, where the region enjoys prolonged periods of daylight and intense UV exposure, these climatic factors significantly shape the local environment and lifestyle. The cyclical nature of the seasons not only influences agricultural practices and tourism but also underscores the necessity for proper sun protection during the peak summer months. As the region continues to adapt to changing climate conditions, understanding these patterns remains vital for sustainable living and effective resource management in Occitanie.