Last updated: January 18, 2025
St. Peter Port, Guernsey, is characterized by a Cfb Köppen-Geiger climate classification, denoting a temperate maritime climate with a notable lack of extreme temperatures. The region experiences a minimum temperature of 0°C (32°F) in March, while the annual average hovers around 13°C (55°F). The peak summer month, August, sees a maximum temperature reaching 22°C (72°F), providing a mild and pleasant atmosphere suitable for both residents and visitors. This climate fosters a unique ecosystem and influences the culture and lifestyle of the island, making it a fascinating subject for climatic study.
In St. Peter Port, Guernsey, temperature patterns exhibit distinct seasonal trends, reflecting a mild temperate maritime climate. The winter months of January through March see minimum temperatures ranging from 0°C (32°F) to 3°C (37°F), with average values consistently around 9°C (49°F), culminating in maximums that barely exceed 14°C (57°F). As spring transitions into summer, temperatures gradually rise, with April marking an increase in minimums to 5°C (41°F) and an average peak of 10°C (50°F). By June, the climate warms significantly, reaching averages of 14°C (58°F), while July and August bring the warmest conditions, with average highs of 16°C (62°F) and 17°C (63°F), respectively. The onset of autumn sees a gradual cooling, with September maintaining summer-like averages before dropping to 12°C (54°F) in November. December returns to winter temperatures, closing the year with averages of 11°C (51°F). This gentle rhythm of temperature across the seasons not only shapes the island's natural environment but also influences the lifestyle and activities of its inhabitants.
Saint Peter Port experiences a diverse climate throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from a chilly minimum of 0°C (32°F) in March to a warm maximum of 22°C (72°F) in August. For more detailed information on monthly temperatures, you can visit monthly temperatures in Saint Peter Port.
Precipitation in St. Peter Port, Guernsey, exhibits a clear seasonal pattern, with notably high levels during the winter and autumn months. January and February start the year with significant rainfall, recording 94 mm (3.7 in) and 86 mm (3.4 in), respectively, and around 14 to 16 days of rain per month. As spring arrives, precipitation drops sharply in April to 34 mm (1.3 in), accompanied by just 8 rainy days, before increasing slightly in May and June. The summer months, notably July and August, see a mild decline in rainfall, with 37 mm (1.5 in) and 50 mm (2.0 in), respectively, indicating a respite for the island’s residents.
However, the trend of increasing precipitation resumes in the latter part of the year, with October recording the highest rainfall at 144 mm (5.7 in) over 17 days, followed by November, with 126 mm (5.0 in) and 18 rainy days. December concludes the year with the most substantial rainfall of 163 mm (6.4 in) across 21 days, reinforcing the maritime climate of the area. This data highlights the importance of preparing for variable weather conditions throughout the year, particularly during the wetter months which shape the island's landscape and affect daily life.
Sunshine duration in St. Peter Port, Guernsey, demonstrates a marked seasonal trend, with a clear transition from the shorter days of winter to the abundant sunlight of summer. Beginning the year, January sees 107 hours of sunshine, a stark contrast to February, which manages a notable increase to 163 hours. As spring approaches, the increase in sunlight becomes even more pronounced, with March experiencing 238 hours and April reaching 359 hours. This upward trajectory continues into May and June, where sunshine hours peak at 414 and 416 hours, respectively, creating an inviting environment for outdoor activities.
The summer months solidify this pattern, with July enjoying the highest recorded sunshine of 436 hours, perfect for enjoying the island's coastal charm. However, as summer wanes, the trend reverses, and sunshine hours begin to decline, highlighted by 396 hours in August and further decreasing into autumn with 338 hours in September. October and November continue this downward trend, with only 270 hours and 181 hours of sunshine, before concluding the year in December with a mere 130 hours. This seasonal variation not only influences day-to-day life in St. Peter Port but also underscores the significant role sunlight plays in the island's vibrant natural landscape and cultural activities.
The UV Index in St. Peter Port, Guernsey, reflects significant seasonal variation, highlighting the importance of sun safety throughout the year. Beginning in January, the UV Index is at a relatively low level of 2, with a burn time of 45 minutes, indicating minimal risk from sun exposure. As winter transitions into spring, this index gradually increases, reaching 3 in February and 4 in March, both categorized as moderate, where caution becomes advisable, as the burn time shortens to 30 minutes. By April, the situation escalates as the UV Index jumps to 6, entering the high exposure category, signaling that protective measures should be considered for prolonged outdoor activities.
The summer months witness the most significant UV exposure, with June peaking at a very high UV Index of 9, where burn time decreases to just 15 minutes. This high level of UV radiation continues into July with an index of 8 and maintains a high UV Index of 7 in August. As the summer concludes, the UV Index starts to decline, returning to 6 in September and further decreasing to 4 in October. By the end of the year, November and December see a drop to 2 and 1, respectively, back in the low exposure category. This seasonal pattern emphasizes the need for awareness of sun safety in the peak summer months while allowing for more relaxed precautions during the winter.
UV Risk Categories
Daylight duration in St. Peter Port, Guernsey, reveals a clear seasonal rhythm, reflecting the changing position of the sun throughout the year. In January, the daylight lasts for only 8 hours, gradually increasing to 10 hours in February. As spring approaches, March sees a modest rise to 11 hours and continues to build momentum in April with 13 hours of daylight. This upward trend culminates in May and June, where days stretch to 15 and 16 hours, respectively, providing ample opportunity for outdoor activities and enjoyment of the island's natural beauty.
As summer draws to a close in July, daylight begins to recede, with 15 hours still offering a generous amount of time for exploration. However, August marks the beginning of this decline, featuring 14 hours of sunlight, which further diminishes to 12 hours by September. October and November see a rapid decrease in daylight, dropping to 10 hours and 9 hours, respectively, before returning to 8 hours in December. This cyclical pattern not only dictates daily life and rhythms on the island but also serves as a reminder of the ever-changing nature of the environment in St. Peter Port.
Saint Peter Port, Guernsey has a temperate maritime climate characterized by mild winters and cool summers. Temperatures range from a minimum of 0°C (32°F) in winter to a maximum of 22°C (72°F) in summer, with the warmest months being July and August. Precipitation is highest in winter, notably in October, with an average of 144 mm (5.7 in), while the sunniest months are from May to July, boasting over 400 hours of sunshine. This weather pattern makes the area appealing for outdoor activities year-round. For more details, visit the Saint Peter Port climate.
In conclusion, the climate and environmental characteristics of St. Peter Port, Guernsey, illustrate a dynamic interplay of temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV exposure, and daylight hours. These factors not only define the island's unique ecosystem but also significantly influence the lifestyle and activities of its residents throughout the year. With mild winters and pleasantly warm summers, the region enjoys distinct seasonal variations that alter everything from outdoor pursuits to sun safety precautions. As such, understanding these climatic trends is essential for residents and visitors alike to fully appreciate and engage with the captivating natural beauty and vibrant culture of St. Peter Port.