Last updated: April 17, 2025
Cantabria, located in northern Spain, exhibits a temperate oceanic climate characterized by the Köppen-Geiger classifications of Cfb (Marine West Coast) and Csb (Mediterranean-Marine). The region experiences a minimum temperature of -10°C (15°F) in January, with a yearly average of 13°C (56°F). Summers can see maximum temperatures reaching 36°C (97°F) in July, highlighting the significant seasonal variability in temperature. This climate fosters lush vegetation and a rich biodiversity, influenced by proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and the unique topographical features of the region.
Temperature in Cantabria reveals notable variation throughout the year, with January presenting the coldest extremes at a minimum of -10°C (15°F) and an average of 7°C (45°F), while July and August reach maximums of 36°C (97°F) and 36°C (96°F), respectively. The average temperatures range from 9°C (49°F) in December to 19°C (66°F) in July, indicating a generally mild climate. Seasonal transitions see April warming up to an average of 12°C (53°F), while October continues the trend into autumn with a comfortable average of 15°C (59°F), suggesting a diverse climate that supports a rich natural ecosystem.
The temperature in Cantabria varies significantly among its key locations, including Santillana, Potes, and Santander. In Santillana, the monthly temperature in Santillana ranges from a chilly 0°C (33°F) in March to a warm 31°C (88°F) in August. Meanwhile, Potes experiences a minimum of -3°C (27°F) in March and reaches a maximum of 29°C (84°F) in July, as detailed in the monthly temperature in Potes. In Santander, the temperature fluctuates from 0°C (33°F) in March to 30°C (87°F) in September, reflecting the mild coastal climate, with information available in the monthly temperature in Santander. This variety in temperatures contributes to the region's diverse ecosystems and seasonal beauty.
Cantabria experiences a significant amount of precipitation throughout the year, with January recording 107 mm (4 in) across approximately 12 days of rain. February follows closely with 97 mm (4 in) over 12 days, while March sees a slight increase to 100 mm (4 in) of rainfall for 15 days. The wettest months typically occur from November to December, with November receiving 159 mm (6 in) over 16 days and December close behind with 152 mm (6 in) over the same number of days, reflecting the region's characteristic damp winters.
During the summer months, precipitation decreases, with July bringing 73 mm (3 in) over 13 days and August recording the lowest levels at 67 mm (3 in) over 11 days. The overall trend shows that while Cantabria maintains a consistently moist climate, the summer months allow for drier periods, with May and June experiencing 90 mm (4 in) and 101 mm (4 in), respectively. This seasonal variation plays a crucial role in shaping the lush landscapes and diverse ecosystems of the region.
Throughout the year, Cantabria, Spain, experiences consistently high humidity levels that reflect its coastal climate. January begins with a peak humidity of 85%, gradually easing slightly to 81% by May. The trend sees a minor uptick again during the summer months, with July reaching 87%, showcasing the region's lush, verdant landscape that thrives in the moist air. As autumn sets in, humidity declines, hitting its annual low of 77% in September before rising slightly during the late fall months, stabilizing around 83% by November. This cycle of humidity not only contributes to the area’s rich biodiversity but also shapes the local lifestyle, as residents and visitors alike adapt to the refreshing yet often damp air year-round.
In Cantabria, sunshine duration varies significantly throughout the year, contributing to the region's lush environment and overall climate aesthetic. January only sees 179 hours of sunshine, gradually increasing to 244 hours in February. As spring approaches, March and April experience notable increases, with 317 hours and 339 hours of sunshine, respectively. By May, the duration reaches 381 hours, heralding the arrival of summer, while June maintains a similar level with 380 hours of sunlight, providing ample opportunity for outdoor activities and exploration.
The peak sunshine duration occurs in July, where the region basks in 402 hours of sunshine, making it the sunniest month of the year. August follows closely with 379 hours, before gradually tapering off in the fall, with September still providing a respectable 333 hours. October brings 296 hours, while November and December close the year with 235 hours and 228 hours, respectively. This seasonal cycle of sunshine not only impacts the local climate but also enhances agricultural productivity and regional tourism in Cantabria.
The UV Index in Cantabria demonstrates seasonal variability, with values reflecting the region's changing sun exposure throughout the year. In January, the UV Index is relatively low at 2, increasing to 4 in February. As spring approaches, there is a marked rise, with values reaching 6 in March and peaking at 8 in April. May sees a further increase to 9, indicating a greater risk for sun exposure, while June brings the highest UV Index of 11, emphasizing the importance of sun protection during this month.
As summer transitions into fall, the UV Index begins to decline, with July recording a slightly lower value of 10 and August at 9. In September, it decreases to 8, and October sees a further drop to 6. The colder months of November and December return to lower values of 3 and 2, respectively. This seasonal trend highlights the need for awareness regarding UV exposure, particularly during the peak summer months when the risk is significantly heightened in Cantabria.
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Daylight duration in Cantabria exhibits a significant seasonal pattern, influencing outdoor activities and local ecosystems. In January, the average daylight lasts approximately 9 hours, gradually increasing to 10 hours in February. As spring unfolds, March sees a further increase to 11 hours, while April boasts 13 hours of daylight. The trend continues through May, reaching 14 hours, and peaks in June with 15 hours of sunshine, providing ample opportunity for enjoying the region's natural beauty.
As summer transitions into autumn, daylight duration begins to wane, with July still enjoying 14 hours of light, followed by August at 13 hours. September sees the daylight reduce to 12 hours, signaling the onset of shorter days. By October, the average drops to 10 hours, before returning to 9 hours in both November and December. This cyclical pattern of daylight duration not only shapes the daily rhythms of life in Cantabria but also affects agricultural practices and tourism throughout the year.
Castro-Urdiales, Spain experiences a temperate climate characterized by mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from 10°C (50°F) in January to 21°C (70°F) in August, with maximums reaching up to 32°C (89°F). Precipitation is highest in November and December, accumulating up to 191 mm (7.5 in), while July and August are notably drier with only 54 mm (2.1 in). The region enjoys ample sunshine, peaking in July with 408 hours, making it a pleasant destination year-round. For more details, visit Castro-Urdiales climate.
Comillas, Spain, experiences a mild climate with average temperatures ranging from 10°C (51°F) in January to 20°C (68°F) in July. The region faces its wettest months in November and December, with rainfall peaking at 209 mm (8.2 in) and 198 mm (7.8 in), respectively. Sunshine hours are abundant in summer, reaching up to 405 hours in July, while winter months see less sun, with January offering 183 hours. Overall, the climate is characterized by a blend of warm summers and cool, wet winters, making it a picturesque destination year-round. For more information, visit Comillas climate.
Potes, Spain experiences a temperate climate characterized by mild winters and warm summers. January temperatures range from -3°C to 17°C, while July sees highs of up to 29°C. Rainfall is prevalent, peaking in May with 136 mm, and averaging higher precipitation in the winter months. The region enjoys abundant sunshine, with July receiving the most hours at 398, contributing to its lush landscapes. For more detailed information, visit Potes climate.
San Vicente de la Barquera, Spain, experiences a temperate oceanic climate with mild winters and warm summers. Temperatures range from a chilly minimum of 3°C (37°F) in February to a comfortable maximum of 28°C (82°F) in the peak of summer. Rainfall is notable, particularly in November (239 mm or 9.4 in), while sunny days peak in July with 405 hours of sunshine. This coastal town enjoys a beautiful climate for outdoor activities throughout much of the year. For more detailed information, visit San Vicente de la Barquera climate.
Santander, Spain experiences a mild oceanic climate with average temperatures ranging from 9°C (49°F) in January to 21°C (69°F) in August. The summer months, particularly July and August, enjoy warm days peaking at around 30°C (86°F) while winters remain cool, with January lows at 2°C (35°F). Precipitation is considerable, peaking in November with 187 mm (7.4 in), and the region sees a fair amount of sunshine, particularly in the summer. Overall, Santander's climate is characterized by a balance of warmth and rainfall, making it a pleasant destination year-round. For more details, visit Santander climate.
Santillana, Spain experiences a mild climate characterized by warm summers and cool winters. Average temperatures range from 10°C (50°F) in January to 31°C (88°F) in both July and August, with total precipitation highest in November (187 mm or 7.4 in). The region enjoys significant sunshine, peaking at 405 hours in July, making it ideal for outdoor activities. Despite the rain, particularly in the winter months, the overall climate remains pleasant throughout the year. For more detailed information, visit Santillana climate.
In conclusion, the climate of Cantabria is characterized by a rich tapestry of temperature variations, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours that collectively shape its unique environmental and ecological landscape. With temperate oceanic conditions that provide ample rainfall and moderate temperatures, the region supports diverse flora and fauna. Seasonal changes in sunshine and daylight hours further enhance the allure of outdoor recreational activities and contribute to local agriculture. Understanding these climatic factors is essential for residents and visitors alike, ensuring they can fully appreciate and adapt to the natural beauty and rhythms of Cantabria throughout the year.