Last updated: January 18, 2025
Abstract: The Basque Country, located in northern Spain, experiences a Cfb climate according to the Köppen-Geiger classification, characterized by a temperate oceanic climate with mild summers and cool winters. The region witnesses a minimum temperature of -8°C (18°F) during January, reflecting its colder months, while the average annual temperature hovers around 13°C (56°F). The summer months can reach extreme highs, with temperatures peaking at 39°C (103°F) in July. This climatic variability contributes to the region's rich biodiversity and distinctive agricultural practices, influencing both the local economy and lifestyle.
The temperature in the Basque Country varies significantly throughout the year, with minimum monthly temperatures ranging from -8°C (18°F) in January to 7°C (46°F) in August. Average monthly temperatures are generally mild, starting at 7°C (44°F) in January and peaking at 19°C (67°F) in July and August. Maximum temperatures can reach as high as 39°C (102°F) in June and July, while the winter months exhibit more moderate highs, averaging 20°C (68°F) in January and 19°C (67°F) in December. This seasonal temperature fluctuation plays a critical role in shaping the region's climate and ecology.
The Basque Country showcases a diverse climate with distinct temperature patterns across its major cities. In Zarautz, the temperature ranges from a chilly -2°C (28°F) in February to a warm 33°C (92°F) in July, reflecting its coastal influence. For those exploring the monthly temperature in Zarautz, the region offers mild winters and hot summers. Meanwhile, San Sebastian experiences a similar temperature spectrum with a minimum of -4°C (25°F) in February and a maximum reaching 33°C (91°F) in July, making its monthly temperature in San Sebastian equally appealing for visitors. Lastly, Bilbao records a minimum of -2°C (30°F) in February and peaks at 33°C (93°F) in August, which can be explored through the monthly temperature in Bilbao resource. Overall, these cities feature a temperate climate that significantly enhances their vibrant culture and outdoor activities.
The Basque Country experiences significant precipitation throughout the year, with the wettest months being December and November. December records an average precipitation of 166 mm (7 in), occurring over approximately 16 days, while November follows closely with 158 mm (6 in) spread across 17 days. The spring months witness a gradual decline in rainfall, with March averaging 103 mm (4 in) and April at 99 mm (4 in), both experiencing about 14 to 16 days of rain. This consistent rain nourishes the region's lush landscapes and vibrant ecosystems, making it a haven for agriculture.
During the summer months, precipitation decreases notably, with July and August receiving 71 mm (3 in) and 66 mm (3 in) respectively, with each month experiencing about 11 days of rain. By late summer and early fall, rainfall begins to rise again, with September receiving 80 mm (3 in) of precipitation. Even the relatively drier months see noticeable rainfall, ensuring that the Basque Country maintains its verdant scenery and abundant natural resources year-round.
The sunshine duration in the Basque Country varies significantly across the seasons, with summer months enjoying the most sunlight. For instance, July stands out as the sunniest month, providing an impressive 402 hours of sunshine. This is closely followed by June and August, which experience 379 hours and 384 hours of sunshine respectively. As spring transitions into summer, the amount of sunlight increases, peaking in the height of summer, which substantially enhances outdoor activities and tourism in the region.
Conversely, the winter months witness a notable decrease in sunshine; for example, January records only 170 hours of sunshine, gradually increasing to 239 hours in February. By the time fall arrives, October yields more moderate conditions with 292 hours, while November and December experience a steep drop, recording 229 hours and 218 hours respectively. This seasonal variation in sunshine not only influences the local climate but also impacts the lifestyle and economies of the cities within the Basque Country.
The UV Index in the Basque Country exhibits clear seasonal variations, reflecting the changes in sunlight intensity throughout the year. In the winter months, the UV Index typically remains low, with January at 3 and December at 2, indicating minimal risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. As spring approaches, the UV Index gradually increases, reaching 6 in March and peaking at 8 in April, highlighting the necessity for sun protection as daylight hours lengthen and sun intensity rises.
The summer months showcase the highest UV Index values, with June reaching a peak of 11, followed by July at 10 and August at 9. These elevated levels signify a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure, prompting outdoor enthusiasts and visitors to take proactive sun safety measures. As autumn sets in, the UV Index begins to decline, stabilizing at around 6 in October, before dropping back to lower levels during the late fall and winter months. Understanding the fluctuations in the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in the Basque Country to ensure proper sun protection across the seasons.
UV Risk Categories
In the Basque Country, the average daylight duration varies significantly throughout the year, influenced by seasonal changes. In January and December, the region experiences the shortest days, with only 9 hours of daylight. As winter transitions into spring, February and March see a gradual increase, reaching 10 hours and 11 hours respectively. This increase in daylight duration plays a crucial role in the revitalization of the landscape as plants emerge and bloom, signaling the arrival of spring.
Summer months bring the longest daylight hours, with June offering an average of 15 hours of sunlight, creating ample opportunities for outdoor activities. July maintains this duration at 14 hours, as does August with 13 hours. As autumn approaches, daylight begins to dwindle, with September providing 12 hours, and reducing further to 10 hours in October, before returning to the 9-hour mark in both November and January. This cyclical pattern of daylight duration greatly influences the lifestyle, tourism, and agricultural practices in the Basque Country throughout the year.
Bermeo, Spain, experiences a temperate oceanic climate characterized by mild winters and warm summers. Temperatures range from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) in February to a maximum of 29°C (84°F) in July and August. Precipitation is significant, particularly in the winter months, with November and December recording 217 mm and 227 mm, respectively. The region enjoys the most sunshine in July, with 406 hours, while winter months see less sunlight. For more detailed information, check out Bermeo climate.
Bilbao, Spain experiences a temperate oceanic climate characterized by mild winters and warm summers. January sees average temperatures around 8°C (46°F), with maximums reaching up to 19°C (66°F), while July and August can peak at 33°C (91°F). Precipitation is fairly consistent throughout the year, with November being the wettest month at 158 mm (6 in). Sunshine is abundant from May to August, with July offering the most hours at 400. For more detailed information, visit Bilbao climate.
Durango, Spain, experiences a varied climate characterized by mild winters and warm summers. January sees minimum temperatures around -1°C (31°F) and average highs of 8°C (46°F), while July reaches maximums of 33°C (91°F). Precipitation is most abundant in late autumn and winter, with November and December averaging 168 mm (7 in) and 172 mm (7 in), respectively. The sunniest months are from May to July, with up to 396 hours of sunshine in July. For more details, visit Durango climate.
Elciego, Spain experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures range from -6°C to 18°C, while July sees highs up to 39°C. Precipitation varies throughout the year, peaking in November with 86 mm, and the summer months receive less, with July averaging only 33 mm. The region enjoys abundant sunshine, especially in July, when it boasts 423 hours of sun. For more detailed information, visit Elciego climate.
Fuenterrabia, Spain, experiences a diverse climate with distinctive seasonal variations. Winter months, such as January and December, feature temperatures ranging from -4°C to 20°C, accompanied by significant precipitation, peaking in December with 199 mm. Summers warm up considerably, particularly in July, where temperatures can reach up to 36°C, and rainfall is relatively lower. Sunshine is abundant during these months, with July boasting around 401 hours. For more details on the climate, visit Fuenterrabia climate.
Getaria, Spain experiences a diverse climate with mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from -1°C (31°F) in January to 20°C (68°F) in August, with maximums reaching up to 33°C (91°F) in summer months. Precipitation is notable, particularly in November and December, with averages around 190 mm (7 in) and 211 mm (8 in), respectively. Sunshine duration peaks in July at 400 hours, contributing to an overall pleasant climate. For more details, visit Getaria climate.
Getxo, Spain experiences a temperate oceanic climate with mild winters and warm summers. January sees minimum temperatures around -1°C (30°F) and maximums reaching 19°C (66°F), while July boasts higher averages of 19°C (67°F) and peaks at 33°C (91°F). Precipitation is heaviest from November to January, totaling around 154 mm (6 in) in December, while the sunniest months are July and August, with approximately 400 hours of sunshine. This combination of moderate temperatures, ample rainfall, and sunshine makes Getxo an inviting location throughout the year. For more information, visit Getxo climate.
The climate in Herriko Plaza, Spain, features a wide range of temperatures throughout the year, with average highs peaking at 34°C (93°F) in August and dropping to 8°C (46°F) in January. Precipitation varies, with the wettest months being November and December, receiving 168 mm (7 in) and 172 mm (7 in), respectively. Sunshine is abundant in summer, offering up to 396 hours in July, while the winter months see fewer hours, averaging around 166 hours in January. Visitors can expect a relatively mild climate with a mix of sunny and rainy days. For more detailed information, visit Herriko Plaza climate.
Laguardia, Spain experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures range from -6°C to 18°C with the lowest precipitation of 65 mm, while July peaks at 39°C with minimal rainfall of 33 mm. The region enjoys a high number of sunshine hours in summer, peaking at 423 hours in July, while winter months receive considerably less. Precipitation is highest in November at 86 mm, marking a wetter time of the year. For more details on the climate, visit Laguardia climate.
Mundaka, Spain experiences a temperate maritime climate with cool winters and mild summers. January temperatures range from 3°C to 17°C, while July sees averages between 15°C and 28°C. Precipitation is highest in the winter months, particularly November and December, receiving over 200 mm (8 in) each. The region enjoys ample sunshine during the summer, peaking at 406 hours in July. For more detailed information, visit Mundaka climate.
San Sebastian, Spain, experiences a temperate oceanic climate characterized by mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from a low of -4°C (25°F) in February to a high of 33°C (91°F) in July, with frequent rainfall throughout the year. Precipitation peaks in December, reaching 217 mm (9 in), while sunshine hours are abundant during the summer months, particularly in July with 402 hours. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy pleasant weather in the spring and summer, making it a lovely destination year-round. For more details, visit San Sebastian climate.
Zarautz, Spain experiences a temperate oceanic climate characterized by mild temperatures and significant rainfall throughout the year. Winter temperatures range from an average of 8°C (46°F) in January to 10°C (50°F) in December, while summer months see averages peaking around 20°C (68°F) in August. Precipitation is highest in November and December, with over 200 mm (8 in) monthly, while sunshine is most abundant in July, offering around 400 hours. The climate makes Zarautz a picturesque coastal destination year-round. For more details, visit Zarautz climate.
Zumaia, Spain experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasonal variations. Winters are chilly, with January temperatures averaging around 8°C (46°F) and significant precipitation peaking in December at 211 mm (8 in). Summers bring warmer weather, with average highs reaching up to 20°C (68°F) in August and lower rainfall, especially in July and August, with just 91 mm (4 in) and 79 mm (3 in), respectively. The region enjoys ample sunshine, peaking in July at 400 hours, making it a delightful summer destination. For more detailed information, visit Zumaia climate.
In conclusion, the climate of the Basque Country is characterized by its temperate oceanic conditions, marked by significant variations in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours throughout the year. From the frigid winters with temperatures dipping to -8°C (18°F), to the hot summers with peaks around 39°C (103°F), the region's climate supports a rich biodiversity and diverse agricultural practices. The notable variations in precipitation and sunshine not only enhance the region's lush landscapes but also shape the lifestyle and outdoor activities of its inhabitants. Understanding these climatic nuances is essential for both residents and visitors, ensuring that they can appreciate the natural beauty and engage in sustainable practices while enjoying the unique offerings of the Basque Country.