Coimbra Climate

Last updated: January 18, 2025

Coimbra, Portugal, experiences a Csb climatic classification, characterized by its Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. The temperature varies significantly throughout the year, with a striking minimum of -4°C (25°F) in January, reflecting the cooler winter conditions. Conversely, summer months reach soaring highs, with average temperatures around 15°C (59°F) and peaks hitting a sweltering 40°C (103°F) in August. This distinctive temperature range not only defines Coimbra's seasonal beauty but also influences its rich biodiversity and cultural landscape.

Coimbra temperature by month

Coimbra, Portugal, showcases a diverse range of temperatures across its seasons, with notable contrasts between winter and summer. The year begins with chilly winter months, where January and February see minimum temperatures plummeting to around -4°C (25°F) and -3°C (27°F), gradually warming to averages of 9°C (48°F) and 11°C (52°F), and max temperatures reaching up to 23°C (74°F) by month's end. As spring arrives, temperatures rise steadily; by April, highs can reach 28°C (84°F), leading into warm months of May and June, where averages climb to 17°C (62°F) and 18°C (65°F), respectively. The peak of summer in July and August brings sweltering conditions, with maximum temperatures soaring to 37°C (100°F) and an extreme 40°C (103°F), while nights remain relatively mild. September marks the transition back to cooler weather, as autumn descends, with temperatures gradually falling to 7°C (44°F) in the minimum range by September, and max temperatures plateauing around 35°C (96°F) in October before dipping again towards winter.

Monthly Temperatures in Coimbra, Portugal

The chart illustrates Coimbra's temperature patterns throughout the year, with values aggregated from various locations across the region. It highlights seasonal variations and temperature changes across the months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec485253576265696968625451
Data source: Coimbra temperature data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.
Choose your preferred temperature unit
The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

Coimbra experiences a wide temperature range, with January lows of -3°C (27°F) and August highs reaching 39°C (103°F) as detailed in the monthly temperatures in Coimbra. Nearby Figueira da Foz has a milder winter with a minimum of 1°C (33°F) in January and a summer peak of 33°C (92°F) according to the monthly temperatures in Figueira da Foz. Similarly, Santa Clara shares Coimbra's extreme temperatures, ranging from -3°C (27°F) in winter to 39°C (103°F) in summer, as indicated in the monthly temperatures in Santa Clara.

Precipitation Patterns in Coimbra

Coimbra, Portugal, experiences a distinct precipitation pattern throughout the year, heavily influenced by seasonal changes. The winter months of January and February bring significant rainfall, with January recording 65 mm (2.6 in) and February peaking at 94 mm (3.7 in). March and April see an increase in precipitation, both with 123 mm (4.8 in), resulting in a wetter early spring period. This trend continues into November, which is marked as one of the wettest months of the year at 133 mm (5.2 in), while December closely follows with 121 mm (4.8 in), illustrating a pronounced rainy season during late autumn and winter.

As the year progresses into the summer months, precipitation levels dramatically decrease, with July receiving a mere 10 mm (0.4 in), and August slightly increasing to 11 mm (0.4 in). By the end of spring in May, rainfall tapers off to 61 mm (2.4 in) before plummeting during the dry summer. September marks a return to slightly wetter conditions, with 37 mm (1.5 in). This seasonal cycle not only affects water resources but also contributes to Coimbra's lush landscapes and vibrant ecosystems, showcasing the dynamic relationship between its climate and environment throughout the year.

Monthly Average Precipitation in Coimbra, Portugal

The average monthly precipitation in Coimbra, providing insights into seasonal rainfall patterns and the region's precipitation trends throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec6594123124613310113794133121
Data source: Coimbra precipitation data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

Sunshine Duration in Coimbra

Coimbra, Portugal, showcases a clear seasonal progression in sunshine duration, with distinct variations throughout the year. The year begins with relatively low sunshine hours in January, averaging 169 hours, and slightly increasing to 216 hours in February. As spring unfolds, the region experiences a notable boost in sunlight, with March receiving 291 hours, followed by 344 hours in April. The sunny days continue to multiply, culminating in May's impressive 406 hours, highlighting a consistent upward trend as the days grow longer and warmer. This rise in sunshine creates a vibrant atmosphere in Coimbra, making spring one of the region’s most pleasant seasons.

Summer peaks with July, delivering the highest sunshine duration at 424 hours. While August also maintains a commendable 395 hours, there is a slight decline as the season transitions into September, which records 345 hours. Following the summer, sunshine hours gradually decrease, with October seeing 307 hours and November dropping to 215 hours. The trend reverts to the lower figures characteristic of winter, as December provides only 193 hours of sunlight. This seasonal ebb and flow not only influences the climate but also enhances the character of Coimbra’s landscapes, encouraging a rich array of outdoor activities during the sun-drenched months.

Monthly Sunshine in Coimbra, Portugal

Monthly sunshine duration represents the total hours of direct sunlight Coimbra receives each month, excluding periods when the sun is obscured by clouds or other obstructions.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec169h216h291h344h406h407h424h395h345h307h215h193h
Data source: Coimbra sunshine duration data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.

Coimbra UV Index Trends

The UV Index in Coimbra, Portugal, exhibits a marked seasonal variation, reflecting the shifting sunlight exposure throughout the year. During the winter months of January and February, the UV Index remains relatively moderate, registering at 3 and 4 respectively, with safe burn times set at 30 minutes. As spring approaches, the Index rises significantly, hitting 6 in March and escalating to a striking 9 in April, indicating very high levels of UV radiation with a reduced burn time of just 15 minutes. This trend continues into May, where the Index reaches its peak of 10, underscoring the need for sun protection as the region enters the sunnier months.

Summer sees the UV Index hitting its highest levels, peaking at 11 in June, categorized as extreme, which necessitates strict precautions with a mere 10 minutes of safe exposure. While July and August maintain very high Index values at 10 and 9 respectively, the risks remain significant, especially for those spending prolonged periods outdoors. As the season shifts to autumn, the UV Index gradually declines; October records 6, with safer burn times returning to 25 minutes, before settling back to 4 in November and 3 in December. This seasonal fluctuation emphasizes the importance of adjusting sun safety measures accordingly and maintaining awareness of UV exposure throughout the year.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Coimbra, Portugal

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Coimbra. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec346910111098643
Data source: Coimbra UV Index data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Daylight Hours in Coimbra

In Coimbra, Portugal, the duration of daylight showcases a distinct seasonal rhythm, with significant variations throughout the year. January and December mark the shortest days, each providing around 9 hours of daylight, which brings a chill to the winter months. By February, daylight begins to gradually increase, reaching 10 hours as the days lengthen into spring. March witnesses this trend continuing with 11 hours, while April sees a remarkable jump to 13 hours, followed by a peak of 14 hours in both May and June. These longer days significantly enhance outdoor activities and the overall vibrancy of the spring and early summer seasons.

As summer progresses into July and August, Coimbra maintains 14 hours of daylight, allowing ample time for exploration under the sun. However, as autumn approaches, daylight gradually wanes; August drops to 13 hours, while September records 12 hours. October follows suit with 11 hours, emphasizing the impending shorter days. By November, daylight duration decreases once again to 9 hours, mirroring the winter months. This cyclical pattern not only shapes Coimbra's climate but also influences the lifestyle and seasonal activities enjoyed by its residents and visitors alike.

Average Monthly Daylight Hours in Coimbra, Portugal

This chart shows the total daylight hours Coimbra receives each month, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec579h639h717h797h864h898h880h820h744h665h595h560h
Data source: Coimbra daylight hours, calculated based on aggregated data for various regional locations, determined by the times between sunrise and sunset.

Climate Highlights of Coimbra's Popular Destinations

Coimbra, Portugal experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild winters and hot summers. January sees average temperatures around 9°C (48°F) with notable precipitation, peaking in April with 120 mm (4.7 in). Summer months, particularly July and August, can reach maximum temperatures of 37°C (100°F) and 39°C (103°F) respectively, while experiencing minimal rainfall. The city enjoys ample sunshine, especially in June and July, with over 400 hours of sun each month. For more detailed information, visit Coimbra climate.

Figueira da Foz, Portugal, experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild winters and warm summers. January temperatures range from 1°C to 20°C, while July sees highs of up to 33°C. Precipitation is heaviest from November to April, with March and April receiving the most rainfall at around 104 mm. The city enjoys abundant sunshine, particularly in May and July, with over 400 hours of sun during those months. For more detailed information, visit Figueira da Foz climate.

Santa Clara, Portugal, experiences a diverse climate characterized by warm summers and mild winters. January sees temperatures ranging from a low of -3°C (27°F) to a high of 20°C (69°F), while July and August reach maximums of 37°C (100°F) and 39°C (103°F), respectively. Precipitation is most pronounced between November and April, with March and April averaging around 117 mm (4.6 in) and 120 mm (4.7 in), while summer months are considerably drier. The region boasts abundant sunshine, particularly from May to July, where averages can exceed 400 hours per month. For more details, visit Santa Clara climate.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Coimbra, Portugal, epitomizes a region where temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours collectively shape its vibrant climate and lifestyle. The notable seasonal transitions—from mild winters to sweltering summers—affect not only the natural environment but also offer diverse opportunities for outdoor activities throughout the year. With its fluctuating sunshine hours and UV Index, residents and visitors must remain conscious of sun safety, particularly during the sun-drenched months. Ultimately, Coimbra's climate fosters a rich tapestry of experiences that invites exploration and appreciation of its stunning landscapes, cultural heritage, and seasonal beauty.

Discover the Climate of Coimbra's Places

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