Last updated: January 18, 2025
Flevoland, Netherlands, exhibits a Cfb climate classification according to the Köppen-Geiger system, characterized by a temperate oceanic climate with no distinct dry season. The region experiences a minimum recorded temperature of -12°C (11°F) in February, illustrating the potential for harsh winter conditions. The average annual temperature hovers around 11°C (52°F), while summers can reach sweltering highs of 39°C (103°F) in July. This climatic variability contributes to diverse ecological systems and influences agricultural practices in the region, emphasizing the need for understanding the interplay between local weather patterns and broader climatic shifts.
In Flevoland, the temperature patterns throughout the year reveal distinct seasonal trends that define its temperate climate. Winter months like January and February are marked by minimum temperatures occasionally plummeting to -12°C (11°F), while average temperatures remain around 4-5°C (40-41°F). As spring arrives, temperatures gradually rise, with March witnessing an increase to 6°C (44°F) on average, and maximums reaching 22°C (71°F). The transition into summer showcases notable warmth, particularly in July, when maximum temperatures can soar to an impressive 39°C (103°F), coupled with consistently warm averages of 18°C (65°F). August retains this warmth, leading into a mild autumn, where temperatures begin to decline; by October, average temperatures drop to 12°C (54°F), with maximums still pleasant at 26°C (79°F). This cyclical progression highlights the dynamic climate of Flevoland, marked by both seasonal warmth and cold snaps.
Urk experiences a significant temperature range throughout the year, with a minimum of -7°C (19°F) in February and a maximum of 31°C (88°F) in July. This variation highlights the distinct seasonal changes in the region, making it an interesting place for those who enjoy diverse weather patterns. For more detailed monthly temperatures in Urk, you can refer to the provided link: monthly temperatures in Urk.
Flevoland experiences a notable precipitation pattern throughout the year, with varying intensities that reflect seasonal shifts. Winter months such as January and February see precipitation amounts of 62 mm (2.5 in) and 72 mm (2.8 in), respectively, while the number of rainy days remains consistent at 12 days for both months. As spring unfolds, March experiences a slight uptick in rainfall to 76 mm (3.0 in) over 14 days, followed by a decrease in April to 42 mm (1.6 in) with just 9 rainy days, indicating a potential drying trend before the onset of summer.
The summer months display a noticeable increase in precipitation, with July and August recording 92 mm (3.6 in) and 97 mm (3.8 in), respectively, and the most rainy days—13 and 16 days, which contribute to the region's lush vegetation. Rainfall tapers slightly in September to 78 mm (3.1 in), but October witnesses another spike with 94 mm (3.7 in). Moving into late autumn and winter, November and December experience 53 mm (2.1 in) and 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain, respectively, with December also featuring 16 rainy days. This seasonal variation in precipitation underscores the dynamic nature of Flevoland's climate, affecting both local ecosystems and agricultural practices.
Flevoland's sunshine duration displays a clear seasonal trend, with noticeable increases as the year progresses from winter to summer. In the heart of winter, January records a mere 110 hours of sunshine, with February slightly improving to 200 hours. However, the arrival of spring marks a significant transformation, as March dramatically increases to 282 hours. April further enhances this trend with 357 hours, and May shines brightly with 411 hours, signifying the welcoming embrace of longer, sunnier days. The most notable peak occurs during the summer months, particularly in July, when sunshine reaches an impressive 417 hours.
As summer transitions into autumn, the sunshine hours begin to taper off, yet September still boasts a respectable 325 hours before dipping into the cooler months. October brings 243 hours, followed by November and December, where sunshine dwindles to 193 hours and 133 hours, respectively. This pronounced seasonal variation in sunshine not only enhances the picturesque landscapes of Flevoland but also plays a crucial role in influencing local agricultural practices, emphasizing the importance of understanding evolving weather patterns throughout the year.
In Flevoland, the Ultraviolet (UV) Index illustrates a marked seasonal variation that reflects changes in sun exposure throughout the year. During the winter months, January and February, the UV Index remains low at 1 and 2, respectively, indicating minimal risk of harm from sun exposure and allowing for a burn time of 45 minutes. As spring arrives, the UV Index begins to rise, reaching 4 in March and 5 in April, with burn times decreasing to 30 minutes. This trend continues into May, where the UV Index climbs to 7, classified as high, signaling a greater need for sun protection as burn time shortens to 25 minutes.
The summer months are particularly significant in Flevoland, as both June and July report a peak UV Index of 8, categorized as very high, requiring vigilant sun safety measures with a burn time reduced to just 15 minutes. Although August sees a slight decrease to 7, it still denotes high exposure levels, with a burn time of 25 minutes. Moving into autumn, the UV Index declines, dropping to 5 in September and 3 in October, reflecting moderate conditions. As winter approaches, November and December return to low UV levels at 2 and 1, respectively, with burn times reverting to 45 minutes. This annual pattern underscores the importance of adapting sun protection strategies according to seasonal UV changes in Flevoland.
UV Risk Categories
In Flevoland, the duration of daylight exhibits a striking seasonal progression, showcasing the shift from shorter to longer days throughout the year. In the depths of winter, January offers only about 8 hours of daylight, increasing slightly to 9 hours in February. The arrival of spring marks a notable change; March sees a rise to 11 hours, while April jumps to 13 hours. By May, daylight extends to 15 hours, heralding the onset of summer and the longest days of the year.
During the height of summer, both June and July provide 16 hours of daylight, creating ample opportunities for outdoor activities and enjoyment of the natural landscape. However, as the seasons transition into autumn, daylight hours begin to diminish, dropping to 14 hours in August and then further to 12 hours in September. This trend continues into October with 10 hours, before plunging back to 8 hours in November and reaching a low of just 7 hours in December. This cyclical pattern of daylight duration highlights the dynamic nature of Flevoland's seasons and the associated lifestyle adjustments residents may undertake throughout the year.
Urk, Netherlands experiences a temperate maritime climate characterized by cool winters and mild summers. Average temperatures range from -7°C (19°F) in February to a warm 31°C (88°F) in July, with precipitation peaking in late summer and early autumn months, particularly July (110 mm) and October (114 mm). Sunshine hours vary greatly throughout the year, with July enjoying the most sunlight at 420 hours, while January sees only 108 hours. Overall, the climate is conducive to distinct seasonal changes, making Urk an inviting location year-round. For more details, visit Urk climate.
In conclusion, the climate and environmental factors of Flevoland, Netherlands, present a fascinating interplay of temperature, precipitation, sunshine, UV Index, and daylight duration that collectively define the region's distinct seasonal character. The notable fluctuations in temperature and sunshine, alongside varying UV levels and daylight hours, offer rich insights into the ecological and agricultural practices suited to this temperate environment. Understanding these climatic patterns is essential for residents and visitors alike, as they navigate the unique challenges and opportunities presented by Flevoland's changing seasons. By fostering awareness of these elements, we can better appreciate the beauty and complexity of this region's climate and its impact on daily life and natural ecosystems.