Last updated: January 18, 2025
The climate of North Holland, Netherlands, is classified under the Köppen-Geiger system as Cfb, indicative of a temperate maritime climate. Characterized by mild summers and cool winters, the region experiences temperature extremes ranging from a chilling minimum of -11°C (13°F) in February to a scorching maximum of 39°C (102°F) in July. The annual average temperature hovers around 11°C (52°F), highlighting the distinct seasonal variations that define this coastal area. This unique climate fosters a rich biodiversity and influences agricultural practices, making North Holland a fascinating subject of study in the realm of climatic research.
North Holland experiences marked seasonal temperature variations, with chilly winters and warm summers. In January and February, temperatures dip to their lowest, ranging from -11°C (13°F) to a moderate 5°C (41°F) as an average, and peaking at 18°C (65°F). As spring approaches in March and April, temperatures gradually rise, with averages climbing to 9°C (49°F) and maximums reaching 27°C (81°F). The transition to summer in May and June brings more warmth, with average temperatures hitting 13°C (55°F) and high peaks of 33°C (91°F). July records the highest temperatures, averaging 18°C (65°F) with a striking maximum of 39°C (102°F), while August continues the warmth but gradually begins to cool down in September. By the onset of autumn in October, temperatures start to decline, averaging 13°C (55°F) and resulting in crisp November and December weather characterized by lows of -5°C (24°F) and mild averages around 6°C (43°F), showcasing a distinct but cyclical pattern throughout the year.
Hoorn experiences a minimum temperature of -7°C (19°F) in March and can reach a maximum of 33°C (92°F) in July, while Amsterdam records a lower minimum of -10°C (14°F) in February but a higher maximum of 38°C (101°F) in July. Volendam's temperatures range from a minimum of -9°C (16°F) in February to a maximum of 37°C (98°F) in July. For more details, visit the monthly temperatures in Hoorn, Amsterdam, and Volendam.
Precipitation in North Holland exhibits a distinct seasonal pattern characterized by variability throughout the year. The winter months, particularly January and February, see moderate rainfall with January receiving 61 mm (2.4 in) and February slightly higher at 71 mm (2.8 in), both typically marked by about 12 days of precipitation. As spring approaches, rainfall decreases in April to 41 mm (1.6 in), but gradually increases again in May with 53 mm (2.1 in). The late spring and early summer months of June and July bring wetter conditions, recording 72 mm (2.8 in) and 74 mm (2.9 in) respectively, maintaining a similar frequency of rainy days.
The summer peak of precipitation occurs in August, with a notable 95 mm (3.7 in) of rainfall over approximately 15 days, followed closely by September at 88 mm (3.5 in). Autumn ushers in even higher precipitation levels, reaching a peak in October with 107 mm (4.2 in) over 16 days, while November and December also bring substantial rain, measuring 62 mm (2.4 in) and 100 mm (3.9 in) respectively. This distribution showcases North Holland's propensity for wetter conditions in the latter half of the year, significantly influencing its climate and natural ecosystem.
In North Holland, sunshine duration reveals a striking seasonal pattern that highlights the region's transition from the gloomy winter months to the bright, sun-soaked summer. January, the month with the least sunlight, sees only 113 hours, while February begins to show a promising increase with 200 hours. By March, the days grow longer, and sunshine hours reach 288, marking the start of an upward trend that continues into spring. This escalation peaks in May, when the region enjoys a generous 415 hours of sunshine, creating a vibrant atmosphere that heralds the approach of summer.
As summer unfolds, June, July, and August become the sunniest months, with July leading the charge at 424 hours of sunshine. Despite a slight drop in hours during August to 399, the overall sunny disposition of the season prevails. As autumn arrives, daylight hours begin their descent, with October providing 243 hours and November dipping further to 195. December, with just 136 hours, reflects the return of shorter days and less sunlight, rounding off the year with a notable contrast to the sun-drenched summer months. This cyclical pattern not only influences outdoor activities but also impacts the natural ecosystem, showcasing the profound relationship between sunshine duration and seasonal changes in North Holland.
The UV Index in North Holland exhibits a clear seasonal progression, reflecting the sun's increasing intensity as the year unfolds. During the winter months, January and February, the UV Index remains low at 1 and 2 respectively, allowing for safe outdoor activities with minimal exposure risk; individuals can spend up to 45 minutes in the sun without burning. However, as the days lengthen and temperatures warm, March and April see a rise in intensity, with the Index climbing to 4 and 5, indicating moderate exposure and necessitating a reduction in burn time to around 30 minutes.
The transition to summer brings the highest UV levels, with June and July reaching peak values of 8, categorized as very high, significantly decreasing the safe burn time to just 15 minutes. August maintains a high UV Index of 7, prompting continued vigilance in sun protection. As autumn approaches, the UV Index begins to decline, settling back to moderate levels by September and October (5 and 3, respectively) before dropping to low levels again in November and December. This seasonal shift highlights the importance of being aware of UV levels, particularly during the intense summer months when sun safety measures become crucial for all outdoor activities.
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Daylight duration in North Holland showcases a remarkable seasonal cycle that mirrors the changing seasons throughout the year. In January, the days are at their shortest, with only 8 hours of daylight, gradually extending to 9 hours in February. As spring approaches, March marks a notable increase, with daylight reaching 11 hours, and by April, the region enjoys substantial sunlight with 13 hours. May heralds the advent of summer, providing 15 hours of daylight, while June and July peak at 16 hours, offering long, sunlit days ideal for outdoor activities.
As summer transitions into autumn, daylight hours begin to wane, with August still retaining a generous 14 hours, but dropping to 12 hours in September. The decline continues through October, with daylight lasting only 10 hours. As winter sets in, November sees daylight diminishing back to 8 hours, and December experiences the year's least illumination at just 7 hours. This ebb and flow of daylight not only influences the daily rhythms of life in North Holland but also contributes to the distinct character of each season in this vibrant region.
Aalsmeer, Netherlands, experiences a temperate maritime climate characterized by mild summers and cool winters. Winter temperatures range from a minimum of -8°C (17°F) in February to an average of 5°C (41°F), while summer months see highs reaching up to 34°C (94°F) in July. Precipitation is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, peaking in October at 110 mm (4.3 in), and the region enjoys considerable sunshine, particularly in the summer months with over 400 hours in July and August. For more detailed information, visit Aalsmeer climate.
Alkmaar, Netherlands experiences a temperate maritime climate, with cold winters and mild summers. January temperatures can dip to -3°C (27°F), while July sees highs around 30°C (87°F). Rainfall is prevalent, especially in autumn, with October averaging 117 mm (4.6 in) of precipitation. The city enjoys considerable sunshine from late winter to summer, peaking at 426 hours in July. For more detailed information about the climate, visit Alkmaar climate.
Amsterdam experiences a temperate maritime climate with distinct seasons. Winters are cold, with January averages around 4°C (40°F) and significant precipitation, while summers can be quite warm, particularly in July, where temperatures can reach up to 38°C (101°F). For most of the year, rainfall is common, with October being the wettest month at 88 mm (3.5 in). Sunshine hours peak in the summer, especially in July with 423 hours, providing long, bright days. For more detailed information, visit Amsterdam climate.
Bloemendaal, Netherlands experiences a temperate maritime climate with distinct seasonal variations. Winters are chilly, with January temperatures averaging around 6°C (43°F) and periodic frost, while summers are pleasantly warm, peaking in July at an average of 18°C (64°F). The town receives considerable rainfall, particularly in the fall, with October recording the highest precipitation at 150 mm (5.9 in). Sunshine is abundant during late spring and summer, especially in July, which boasts 431 hours of sunlight. For more details, visit Bloemendaal climate.
The climate in Callantsoog, Netherlands is characterized by a cool maritime influence, with temperatures ranging from a chilly -7°C (20°F) in March to a warm 30°C (87°F) in July. Precipitation varies throughout the year, peaking at 117 mm (4.6 in) in October, while the sunniest months are from May to July, boasting over 400 hours of sunshine. Winters are relatively cold with average temperatures around 5°C (42°F), while summers offer pleasant warmth. For more detailed information, visit Callantsoog climate.
De Koog, Netherlands experiences a temperate maritime climate with distinct seasonal variations. Winters are chilly, with temperatures ranging from -5°C (23°F) to 11°C (52°F) and significant precipitation, particularly in January and February. Summer months, from June to August, are warmer, boasting temperatures between 17°C (64°F) and 27°C (80°F) along with ample sunshine, especially in July. However, substantial rainfall occurs in late summer and autumn, peaking in October with about 129 mm (5.1 in). For more detailed information, visit De Koog climate.
The climate in Egmond aan Zee, Netherlands, features a varied temperature range throughout the year, with temperatures peaking in summer at an average of 18°C (65°F) in August and dipping to around 5°C (42°F) in winter months like January and February. Precipitation levels are highest in October (115 mm or 4.5 in) and August (99 mm or 3.9 in), contributing to a wet climate, particularly in late summer and autumn. Sunshine hours reach their peak in July with 423 hours, while January sees the least at 114 hours. For more detailed information, visit Egmond aan Zee climate.
Enkhuizen, Netherlands experiences a temperate maritime climate characterized by mild summers and cool winters. January temperatures range from a minimum of -4°C (26°F) to a maximum of 11°C (53°F), while July sees warmer averages of 18°C (65°F) to 31°C (88°F). Precipitation varies throughout the year, peaking in October with 111 mm (4.4 in), and sunshine is most abundant in summer months, particularly July with 422 hours. For more detailed climate information, visit Enkhuizen climate.
Haarlem, Netherlands experiences a temperate maritime climate, with distinct seasonal variations. Winter temperatures can drop to -7°C (19°F) in February, while summers can reach highs of 33°C (92°F) in July. Precipitation is fairly consistent throughout the year, peaking in October at 115 mm (4.5 in), and sunshine hours are most abundant between April and July, with July boasting 423 hours. Overall, the climate creates a vibrant environment that changes dramatically with the seasons. For more information, visit Haarlem climate.
Hilversum, Netherlands, experiences a temperate climate with notable seasonal variations. Winters (January to February) can see temperatures drop as low as -11°C (13°F), while summers (June to August) may reach highs of up to 39°C (102°F). Precipitation is relatively consistent, with June and August recording the highest rainfall, averaging around 76-84 mm (3.0-3.3 in). Sunshine hours peak during the summer months, particularly in July, providing about 417 hours of daylight. For more details, visit Hilversum climate.
Hoorn, Netherlands, experiences a temperate maritime climate with distinct seasonal variations. Winters are cold, with January temperatures ranging from a minimum of -5°C to a maximum of 12°C, while summers can be warm, especially in July, with highs reaching 33°C. Precipitation is fairly distributed throughout the year, peaking in August and October, often exceeding 90 mm. Sunshine levels are highest in the summer months, particularly in July and August, with over 400 hours of sunlight. For more detailed climate information, visit Hoorn climate.
The climate in IJmuiden, Netherlands, exhibits moderate temperatures throughout the year, with the warmest months being July and August, averaging around 18-19°C (64-66°F) and reaching highs of 27-28°C (81-83°F). Winters are cold, with January temperatures ranging from -3°C to 11°C (27°F to 53°F), while precipitation peaks in October at 150 mm (5.9 in) and is highest in late summer and autumn. Sunshine is abundant from late spring to summer, with July offering the most sunlight at 431 hours. For more detailed information, check out IJmuiden climate.
Medemblik, Netherlands experiences a temperate maritime climate with significant seasonal variations. Winter months, January and February, can see temperatures dropping as low as -7°C (19°F), while summer months, particularly July and August, can peak at around 33°C (92°F). Precipitation is highest during late summer and early autumn, with October receiving approximately 96 mm (3.8 in) of rain. Notably, sunshine peaks in May and July, providing an average of over 400 hours of sunlight each month. For more information, visit Medemblik climate.
Monnickendam, Netherlands experiences a moderate maritime climate characterized by cool winters and mild summers. January temperatures range from a minimum of -7°C to a maximum of 13°C, while summer months can see highs of up to 37°C in July. Precipitation is relatively consistent throughout the year, peaking in August and October with around 88 mm. Sunshine hours increase significantly from winter to summer, with July enjoying the most sunlight at 423 hours. For more details, visit Monnickendam climate.
The climate in Muiden, Netherlands, features a mix of seasonal temperatures, with July being the warmest month, averaging 18°C (65°F), and January the coldest, averaging 4°C (40°F). Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, peaking in October with 88 mm (3.5 in) and lowest in April at 45 mm (1.8 in). Sunshine hours are highest in the summer months, particularly in July, which enjoys around 423 hours of sunshine, while December is the least sunny with just 133 hours. For a detailed overview, visit Muiden climate.
Naarden, Netherlands, experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and mild summers. January and February are the coldest months, with average temperatures around 4°C (40°F) and 5°C (41°F), respectively, while July often reaches highs of 39°C (102°F). Precipitation varies throughout the year, peaking in August with 84 mm (3.3 in) and October with 85 mm (3.4 in), contributing to a generally wet climate. Sunshine hours peak in June and July, providing ample daylight during the warmest months. For more detailed information, visit Naarden climate.
Sint Maarten experiences a temperate climate with cool winters and warm summers. January sees temperatures ranging from a minimum of -3°C (27°F) to a maximum of 12°C (53°F), while July can reach up to 30°C (87°F). Precipitation is moderate throughout the year, peaking in October with 117 mm (4.6 in), and sunshine hours are abundant in spring and summer, reaching up to 426 hours in July. For more detailed information, visit Sint Maarten climate.
Volendam, Netherlands experiences a varied climate throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from a chilly -9°C (16°F) in February to a warm 37°C (98°F) in July. Precipitation is relatively consistent, peaking at 88 mm (3.5 in) in August and December, while the sunniest months are May and July, boasting over 400 hours of sunshine. The area sees a notable contrast between the colder, darker winter months and the brighter, milder summer days. For detailed climate information, visit Volendam climate.
Wijk aan Zee, Netherlands experiences a temperate maritime climate with distinct seasonal variations. Winter months such as January and February can see temperatures dropping to as low as -6°C (22°F), while summer peaks in July and August reach up to 28°C (83°F). Precipitation is heaviest in late summer and autumn, particularly in October, which receives up to 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain. The region enjoys significant sunshine from March to August, with June and July offering over 400 hours of sunlight. For more detailed information, visit Wijk aan Zee climate.
Zaandam, Netherlands experiences a temperate maritime climate characterized by mild summers and cool winters. January temperatures average around 5°C (42°F), with min and max ranging from -4°C (26°F) to 12°C (55°F). Precipitation is relatively high during the fall and winter months, peaking at 115 mm (4.5 in) in October, while summer sees slightly less rain. The region enjoys significant sunshine, especially in July, which records up to 423 hours. For more detailed information, visit Zaandam climate.
Zandvoort, Netherlands experiences a temperate maritime climate characterized by mild summers and cool winters. Average temperatures range from a chilly 5°C (42°F) in January to a warm 19°C (66°F) in August, with notable highs reaching up to 33°C (92°F) in July. Precipitation is fairly consistent throughout the year, peaking in October with 120 mm (4.7 in), and the sunniest months are from May to July, offering over 400 hours of sunshine each. For more detailed climate information, visit Zandvoort climate.
In conclusion, the climatic patterns of North Holland, characterized by its unique temperature variations, precipitation levels, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours, significantly shape the regional ecosystem and lifestyle. The transition from cold, dark winters to bright, sun-drenched summers fosters a dynamic environment that influences agriculture, outdoor activities, and the overall well-being of its inhabitants. Understanding these climatic trends not only enriches our appreciation of North Holland's natural beauty but also underscores the importance of adapting to seasonal changes for sustainable living and informed decision-making regarding sun protection and outdoor engagement. With awareness and preparedness, residents and visitors alike can fully enjoy the distinct experiences that each season offers in this captivating region of the Netherlands.