Last updated: January 18, 2025
Basilicate, Italy, exhibits a diverse climate characterized by the Köppen-Geiger classifications of Csa, Csb, and Cfa. The region experiences a vibrant temperature range, with minimum temperatures plummeting to −15°C (6°F) in January and soaring to a scorching 41°C (106°F) in August. The annual average hovers around a comfortable 14°C (58°F), illustrating the notable seasonal variations that define the area. This dynamic climate not only influences local ecosystems but also shapes the cultural and agricultural practices of Basilicate's inhabitants.
In Basilicate, Italy, temperature patterns reveal a clear seasonal progression throughout the year. Winter months are characterized by cold temperatures, with January and February recording minimums as low as −15°C (6°F) and −11°C (12°F), and average highs barely reaching 20°C (69°F) by the end of February. As spring unfolds, temperatures begin to rise, with March showcasing a marked increase in average temperatures to 8°C (47°F) and maximums peaking at 23°C (74°F). By April, warmer conditions prevail, with averages reaching 12°C (53°F), paving the way for the hot summers that follow. June and July see average high temperatures soar to 24°C (75°F) and a maximum of 39°C (103°F), while August brings the hottest peak at 41°C (106°F). As fall approaches, temperatures gradually decline, with September still enjoyable at an average of 20°C (68°F), before dropping to chillier conditions in November and December, signaling the return of winter. This cyclical temperature shift illustrates Basilicate's distinct seasonal climate, marked by pronounced variations from frigid winters to blistering summers.
Maratea experiences a winter minimum temperature of -9°C (16°F) in January and a summer maximum of 35°C (96°F) in August, as detailed in the monthly temperatures in Maratea. Castelmezzano, on the other hand, can see even colder winters, with a January minimum of -14°C (7°F) and a summer peak of 37°C (99°F), as noted in the monthly temperatures in Castelmezzano. Matera has a January minimum of -12°C (10°F) and the highest summer maximum of 40°C (105°F), which can be found in the monthly temperatures in Matera.
Basilicate, Italy, experiences a dynamic precipitation pattern throughout the year, with the wettest months occurring in late autumn and early winter. January and February see consistent rainfall, totaling 62 mm (2.4 in) and 68 mm (2.7 in) respectively, with precipitation lasting approximately 9 days in each month. March marks a peak in precipitation, reaching 80 mm (3.2 in) over 10 days, before tapering slightly in April at 69 mm (2.7 in). May maintains a similar level of rainfall with 64 mm (2.5 in), indicating the steady moisture that supports the region's lush spring environment.
As summer approaches, a notable decrease in precipitation occurs, with June recording just 52 mm (2.0 in), followed by a low of 26 mm (1.0 in) in July—historically the driest month—with only 3 days of rain. August sees a slight uptick to 37 mm (1.5 in) over 6 days. The transition to fall brings a resurgence of rainfall, with September and October receiving 46 mm (1.8 in) and 62 mm (2.5 in) respectively. Notably, November stands out as the wettest month with a significant 121 mm (4.8 in) over 12 days, leading into December, which also experiences substantial precipitation at 75 mm (3.0 in) over 11 days. This seasonal variation in rainfall underscores the shifts in Basilicate's climate and the effects on its flora and agriculture.
In Basilicate, Italy, the sunshine duration exhibits a pronounced seasonal trend characterized by a steady increase from winter to summer. The year begins with 194 hours of sunshine in January, gradually rising to 251 hours in February, as daylight begins to lengthen. March ushers in spring with 321 hours of sunlight, followed by a more substantial increase in April to 350 hours. May marks a significant leap, where sunlit hours reach 393, significantly boosting the region's springtime vibrancy and heralding the arrival of warmer days.
As summer settles in, the sunshine peaks in July with an impressive 423 hours, making it the sunniest month of the year. August remains close behind with 396 hours, indicating that the warm and bright season extends well into late summer. However, a gradual decline in sunshine occurs in the fall, with September seeing 339 hours, and continuing down to 308 hours in October. By November, sunshine further diminishes to 240 hours, and December closes the year with 246 hours, marking a contrast to the preceding sunny months. This seasonal cycle of increasing and decreasing sunshine not only enhances the outdoor life in Basilicate during summer but also reflects the region's dynamic climate, influencing agricultural practices and leisure activities throughout the year.
The UV Index in Basilicate, Italy, illustrates a clear seasonal pattern that reflects the variation in solar intensity throughout the year. In the winter months of January and February, the UV Index registers at a moderate level of 3 and 4, respectively, allowing for a burn time of 30 minutes for unprotected skin. As spring approaches, UV levels rise steadily, with March jumping to a high level of 6, where the recommended burn time decreases to 25 minutes. The trend continues into April and May, reaching 8 and 9, respectively, marking the beginning of very high UV exposure that necessitates protective measures for even short durations.
Summer months see the UV Index peak at 10 in June, July, and August, categorizing conditions as very high and limiting safe sun exposure to just 15 minutes for fair-skinned individuals. As summer transitions to fall, a gradual decline occurs, with the UV Index dropping to 8 in September, then further to 6 in October. The cooler months bring a reduction in UV exposure, leading to values of 4 in November and a low of 2 in December, where individuals can remain unprotected for up to 45 minutes. This shift in UV Index throughout the year highlights the importance of sun safety measures, particularly during the peak summer months when the risk of skin damage is significantly elevated.
UV Risk Categories
In Basilicate, Italy, daylight duration exhibits a significant seasonal variation, reflecting the natural rhythms of the year. The year begins with shorter days in January, offering just 9 hours of daylight, which gradually increases to 10 hours in February. The arrival of spring brings a more noticeable change, as daylight extends to 11 hours in March and reaches 13 hours in April. This upward trend continues into May, where daylight peaks at 14 hours, marking the height of spring's brightness and the onset of longer, sunnier days.
As summer unfolds in June, July, and August, daylight remains consistent at 14 hours, providing ample time for outdoor activities and fostering a vibrant atmosphere in the region. Following this summer peak, daylight hours begin to decrease in August, dropping to 13 hours, and continuing to decline through the fall months to 12 hours in September and 11 hours in October. By November and December, daylight returns to 9 hours, reminiscent of the shorter days at the beginning of the year. This cyclical pattern of daylight duration not only influences daily life in Basilicate but also affects local agricultural practices and cultural events throughout the seasons.
Castelmezzano, Italy experiences a temperate climate with significant seasonal variations. Winter months see temperatures ranging from -14°C (7°F) to 16°C (61°F) in January, while summer peaks can reach up to 37°C (99°F) in August. Precipitation is highest in November at 114 mm (4.5 in), and the region enjoys abundant sunshine, especially from May to July, where monthly totals exceed 394 hours. For more detailed information, visit Castelmezzano climate.
Maratea, Italy, experiences a diverse climate with cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures range from -9°C to 16°C, while July sees much warmer conditions, peaking at 34°C. Precipitation is highest in November with 178 mm, while summer months, particularly July and August, are drier with 35 mm and 44 mm respectively. The area enjoys abundant sunshine, especially in the summer, with July being the sunniest month at 420 hours. For more detailed information, visit Maratea climate.
Matera, Italy, experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild winters and hot summers. January sees average temperatures around 6°C (44°F), while July and August peak at an average of 26°C (79°F). The area receives most of its rainfall from November to April, with November being the wettest month at 98 mm (3.9 in). Sunshine is abundant in the summer, reaching up to 426 hours in July, making it a delightful destination for sun-seekers. For more information, visit Matera climate.
Pietrapertosa, Italy, experiences a diverse climate with distinct seasonal changes. Winters can be quite cold, with January temperatures ranging from -14°C to 16°C, and relatively high precipitation peaking in November at 114 mm. Summers are warm, particularly in July and August, where temperatures reach up to 37°C and rainfall is minimal. The area enjoys a significant amount of sunshine, with June typically receiving the most hours at 407. For more detailed information, visit Pietrapertosa climate.
In conclusion, the climate of Basilicate, Italy, is characterized by distinct seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV index, and daylight hours. The region experiences cold winters, warm summers, and transitional periods that shape its unique weather patterns and influence everyday life. With ample sunshine during the summer months and significant fluctuations in UV exposure, residents and visitors must remain mindful of sun safety. Additionally, the cyclical changes in daylight hours play a crucial role in agricultural practices and leisure activities throughout the year. Understanding these climatic elements not only enhances our appreciation for Basilicate's natural beauty but also underscores the importance of adapting to and respecting the rhythms of the environment.