Last updated: January 18, 2025
Saint-Pierre, located in the archipelago of Saint Pierre and Miquelon, exhibits a Dfb Köppen-Geiger climate classification, characterized by its distinct four seasons. The region experiences cold winters, with minimum temperatures plummeting to -12°C (11°F) in February. Throughout the year, the average temperature hovers around 6°C (44°F), providing a moderate climate. The warmest period occurs in August when temperatures can reach a pleasant maximum of 20°C (69°F). This climate profile underscores the unique meteorological conditions influencing the local environment and the lifestyle of its inhabitants.
Saint-Pierre, Saint Pierre and Miquelon exhibits a clear seasonal temperature pattern characterized by chilly winters and mild summers. January and February mark the coldest months, where temperatures frequently drop below freezing, with February reaching a minimum of -12°C (11°F). As spring approaches, temperatures gradually rise; by April, the region sees averages around 2°C (36°F), eventually warming further into late spring and early summer. June marks a significant transition, with average temperatures climbing to 8°C (46°F), and the peak warmth occurs in August when the average reaches 17°C (62°F), combined with maximum temperatures touching 20°C (69°F). Following the summer months, temperatures once again begin to drop in autumn, with October averaging 10°C (51°F), before settling into the cooler temperatures of November and December. This annual progression vividly illustrates the influence of seasonal changes on the climate of Saint-Pierre.
Saint-Pierre experiences a significant range in temperatures throughout the year, with a minimum of -12°C (11°F) in February and a maximum of 20°C (69°F) in August. For more detailed information on the climate, you can refer to the data on monthly temperatures in Saint-Pierre.
Precipitation patterns in Saint-Pierre, Saint Pierre and Miquelon reveal a climate marked by consistent rainfall throughout the year, with the highest levels occurring in the winter months. January and February receive 123 mm (4.9 in) and 134 mm (5.3 in) of precipitation, respectively, while March sees an increase to 150 mm (5.9 in). Notable also is November, which registers 155 mm (6.1 in), and December, the wettest month, with 172 mm (6.8 in). These months tend to experience frequent rain, with February and December averaging around 19 days of precipitation.
As spring transitions to summer, precipitation levels begin to stabilize. April drops slightly to 131 mm (5.2 in), while May shows the lowest amount for the year at 106 mm (4.2 in). The summer months, particularly August, have reduced precipitation, with 95 mm (3.8 in), but rainfall does not dramatically cease, and July remains relatively wet with 146 mm (5.8 in). This balances out in fall, where September brings about 128 mm (5.0 in), and October maintains 121 mm (4.8 in), underscoring a steady and predictable climate punctuated by periods of heavier rainfall.
In Saint-Pierre, Saint Pierre and Miquelon, sunshine duration displays a distinct seasonal trajectory, marked by a gradual increase from the dim winter months to the bright summer. January offers a mere 79 hours of sunshine, but this number rises significantly in February to 119 hours, signaling the approach of spring. As the days lengthen, March experiences 202 hours, and by April, the hours of sunshine increase further to 223 hours. May acts as a noteworthy transition month, where sunshine hours reach 296, providing an unmistakable signal that summer is on the horizon.
The peak sunshine period occurs in the summer months, particularly in August, which boasts 311 hours, making it the sunniest month of the year. Following this peak, sunshine hours begin to taper off, with September recording 252 hours. As autumn progresses, October falls back to 204 hours, revealing a notable drop. November and December further diminish the daylight, with just 132 hours and 104 hours, respectively. This seasonal pattern emphasizes the dramatic fluctuations in sunshine that not only shape the landscape of Saint-Pierre but also influence the daily lives of its residents throughout the year.
In Saint-Pierre, Saint Pierre and Miquelon, the UV Index reflects significant seasonal variations, indicating the intensity of sun exposure throughout the year. During the winter months, January and December register a low UV Index of 2, allowing for safer sun exposure with a burn time of 45 minutes. As February and March arrive, the UV Index climbs to 3 and 4, respectively, categorized as moderate, and the recommended burn time decreases to 30 minutes. However, it is in April that dramatic changes occur, with the UV Index soaring to 7, denoting high exposure risk.
The summer months present the highest UV Index levels, with May reaching 8 and June peaking at 9, both falling under the very high exposure category and necessitating a burn time of merely 15 minutes. July and August maintain this high level at 8, emphasizing the need for sun protection during these peak months. As autumn approaches, the UV Index gradually declines, with September showing 7 and then dropping to 5 in October. By November, the index returns to moderate levels at 3, before once again ending the year with a low UV Index in December. Understanding these fluctuations is vital for residents and visitors to manage sun exposure effectively and protect their skin throughout the year.
UV Risk Categories
In Saint-Pierre, Saint Pierre and Miquelon, daylight duration exhibits a clear seasonal rhythm, showcasing significant variations throughout the year. January begins the year with only 9 hours of daylight, and this gradually increases to 10 hours in February and 11 hours in March. As spring unfolds, April sees a noticeable jump to 13 hours, leading into the longer days of late spring and early summer, where May and June each enjoy 15 hours of daylight. This extended exposure to sunlight fosters a vibrant natural environment and prepares the region for the warmer months ahead.
The peak daylight duration is maintained through July, with 15 hours once again, before beginning to taper off in August as the days shorten slightly to 14 hours. Autumn brings further declines, with September dropping to 12 hours and October down to 10 hours. By November, daylight is reduced to 9 hours, and the year concludes with December only experiencing 8 hours of sunlight. This cyclical pattern underscores the changing seasons in Saint-Pierre, highlighting the long summer days contrasted against the shorter winter months and their impact on daily activities and lifestyle.
Saint-Pierre, located in Saint Pierre and Miquelon, experiences a subarctic climate characterized by cold, snowy winters and cool summers. January is the coldest month, with average temperatures around 0°C (32°F) and significant precipitation peaking at 172 mm (6.8 in) in December. The region enjoys better weather from May to September, with average temperatures rising to around 17°C (62°F) and good sunshine, especially in August with 311 hours. Rainfall is fairly consistent throughout the year, with November being the wettest month, showcasing the island's maritime influence. For more details, visit Saint-Pierre climate.
In conclusion, the climatic and environmental conditions in Saint-Pierre, Saint Pierre and Miquelon paint a vivid picture of a region characterized by distinct seasonal variations. From the cold winters with limited daylight and lower UV indices to warm summers that feature extended daylight and heightened sun exposure, these patterns significantly influence both the local ecosystem and lifestyle of its residents. The balanced interplay of precipitation, temperature, and sunshine underscores the uniqueness of this remote archipelago, making it essential for both locals and visitors to adapt to and appreciate the intricate rhythms of nature that define their experience throughout the year.