Last updated: April 17, 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 Basque Country experiences a noticeable ebb and flow in humidity levels throughout the year. Starting with a high 86% in January and December, the region’s humidity gradually decreases to its lowest point of 76% in September. This decline reveals a trend toward drier conditions as summer approaches, particularly in August, when humidity levels reach 80%. However, the transition into autumn and winter brings a resurgence in moisture, as humidity spikes again in November and December. Overall, the Basque Country maintains a generally humid climate, with levels hovering in the low 80s% for most months, a characteristic that contributes to its lush landscapes and vibrant ecosystems.
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.
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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 maritime climate characterized by mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from 10°C (51°F) in January to 21°C (70°F) in August, with maximums peaking at 29°C (84°F) in July and August. Precipitation is highest in November and December, accumulating 217 mm (8.5 in) and 227 mm (8.9 in), respectively, while July is the driest month. Sunshine hours vary throughout the year, with July enjoying the most sun at 406 hours. For more detailed information, visit Bermeo climate.
Bilbao, Spain experiences a temperate oceanic climate characterized by mild winters and warm summers. January sees temperatures ranging from -1°C to 19°C, while July's highs can reach up to 33°C. Precipitation is most frequent in the winter months, with November being particularly wet at 158 mm. The city enjoys a substantial amount of sunshine, peaking in July with 400 hours, making the summer months ideal for outdoor activities. For a comprehensive look at the weather patterns, visit Bilbao climate.
Durango, Spain experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasonal variations. Winter months like January and February are relatively cool, with average temperatures ranging from 8°C (46°F) to 10°C (50°F) and higher precipitation, peaking in November and December. Summers are warm, particularly in July and August, where average highs reach 19°C (67°F) and 20°C (68°F), respectively, accompanied by lower rainfall. The region enjoys significant sunshine, especially from May to July, making it an appealing destination. For more details, visit Durango climate.
Elciego, Spain, experiences a diverse climate characterized by warm summers and cool winters. January and February see temperatures ranging from -6°C to 21°C, while July and August peak at a maximum of 39°C. Precipitation is moderate, with November being the wettest month at 86 mm, whereas summer months are drier. The region enjoys abundant sunshine, especially in the summer months, with July boasting 424 hours. For more details, visit Elciego climate.
Fuenterrabia, Spain, experiences a varied climate with warm summers and cooler winters. Temperatures range from a minimum of -6°C (22°F) in February to a maximum of 36°C (97°F) in July, while average temperatures range between 6°C (44°F) and 20°C (67°F). The region receives considerable rainfall, peaking in December with 199 mm (7.8 in), and enjoys ample sunshine, particularly in July with 401 hours. For more detailed information, visit Fuenterrabia climate.
Getaria, Spain, experiences a mild oceanic climate characterized by warm summers and cool winters. Temperatures range from a minimum of -2°C (28°F) in February to a maximum of 33°C (92°F) in July, with average monthly temperatures peaking around 20°C (68°F) in summer. Rainfall is significant, particularly in November (190 mm) and December (211 mm), while the summer months see comparatively less precipitation, with July receiving only 91 mm. Sunshine is plentiful during the summer, with July averaging 401 hours, contrasting sharply with the winter months. For more detailed information, visit Getaria climate.
Getxo, Spain, experiences a temperate climate characterized by mild winters and warm summers. January sees average temperatures around 8°C (46°F) with significant rainfall of 117 mm, while July enjoys warmer temperatures averaging 19°C (67°F) and lower precipitation at 65 mm. The region boasts plenty of sunshine, especially in the summer months, peaking at 400 hours in July. As fall approaches, temperatures gradually decrease, and rainfall increases, particularly in November, with a notable 158 mm of precipitation. For more details, visit Getxo climate.
The climate in Herriko Plaza, Spain, features mild winters and warm summers, with average temperatures ranging from 8°C (46°F) in January to 20°C (68°F) in August. Precipitation is relatively high during the winter months, particularly in November and December, receiving up to 172 mm (6.8 in) of rain, while the summer months are drier. The area enjoys significant sunshine, especially in the summer, with July boasting the most hours at 397. For a detailed overview, visit Herriko Plaza climate.
Laguardia, Spain experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January and February see minimum temperatures around -6°C (21°F), while July and August reach highs of up to 39°C (102°F). Precipitation is heaviest in November (86 mm) and April (79 mm), with July and August being the driest months (33 mm and 26 mm, respectively). The region enjoys abundant sunshine, peaking in July with 424 hours, making it a favorable destination in the summer months. For more details, visit Laguardia climate.
Mundaka, Spain, experiences a temperate maritime climate characterized by mild winters and warm summers. January temperatures range from a minimum of 3°C (38°F) to a maximum of 17°C (64°F), while July sees highs of 28°C (82°F). Rainfall is most prevalent in November (217 mm) and December (227 mm), whereas the summer months enjoy the least precipitation. Sunshine hours peak in July with 406 hours, providing ample opportunity for outdoor activities. For more details, visit Mundaka climate.
San Sebastián, Spain, experiences a temperate oceanic climate characterized by mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from 7°C (45°F) in January to 20°C (67°F) in August, with summer highs reaching up to 33°C (91°F). The region receives considerable rainfall, particularly in November and December, averaging 190 mm (7.5 in) and 217 mm (8.5 in) respectively. Sunshine is abundant from May to August, peaking at 403 hours in July, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. For more details on the weather patterns, visit San Sebastian climate.
Zarautz, Spain experiences a mild climate characterized by warm summers and cool winters. January temperatures range from a low of -1°C (31°F) to a high of 19°C (66°F), while July sees much warmer averages of 19°C (67°F) with peaks reaching 33°C (92°F). Precipitation is highest in November and December, with about 190 mm (7.5 in) and 211 mm (8.3 in) respectively, while summer months are drier. Sunshine hours peak in July at 401 hours, ensuring plenty of sunny days for outdoor activities. For more detailed information, visit Zarautz climate.
Zumaia, Spain, experiences a temperate maritime climate characterized by mild temperatures and significant rainfall throughout the year. Winter months see average temperatures ranging from 8°C (46°F) in January to 10°C (50°F) in December, with precipitation peaking in December at 211 mm (8.3 in). Summer brings warmer conditions, especially in July and August, where highs can reach up to 33°C (92°F) and 32°C (90°F), respectively, while rainfall decreases significantly. Sunshine hours are abundant from May to August, with over 360 hours per month, making it an ideal time for visitors. For more details, 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.