Last updated: December 20, 2024
Abstract: The climate of Cantabria, Spain, primarily falls within the Köppen-Geiger climate classes Cfb (Temperate oceanic climate) and Csb (Warm-summer Mediterranean climate). Characterized by mild temperatures, Cantabria experiences a minimum temperature of -10°C (15°F) in January and an average annual temperature of 13°C (56°F). The region witnesses maximum temperatures reaching up to 36°C (97°F) in July, illustrating the variability in temperature between seasons. This climate fosters diverse ecosystems and influences agricultural practices in the region.
The temperature in Cantabria, Spain, exhibits a notable range across the year, with January presenting a minimum of -10°C (15°F), an average of 7°C (45°F), and a maximum of 21°C (69°F). As the months progress, the minimum temperatures rise, with February recording -8°C (18°F) and reaching a high of 36°C (97°F) in both June and July. May marks a significant increase in the average temperature at 14°C (58°F), while October begins to cool down again, averaging 15°C (59°F). The transition into the colder months sees temperatures gradually dropping, with December averaging 9°C (49°F). Overall, Cantabria experiences a diverse temperature profile, highlighting its mild winters and warm summers.
The temperature in Cantabria varies significantly across its key cities: Santillana, Castro-Urdiales, and Santander. In Santillana, the monthly temperature ranges from a minimum of 0°C (33°F) in March to a peak of 31°C (88°F) in August, as detailed in the monthly temperature in Santillana. Castro-Urdiales records a minimum of 2°C (35°F) in March, while its maximum reaches 32°C (89°F) in August, outlined in the monthly temperature in Castro-Urdiales. Meanwhile, Santander experiences similar conditions, with a minimum temperature of 0°C (33°F) in March and a maximum of 30°C (87°F) in September, which can be explored in further detail through the monthly temperature in Santander. This diverse temperature profile contributes to the region's unique climate and lifestyle.
The precipitation in Cantabria, Spain, showcases a substantial amount of rainfall throughout the year, with November receiving the highest average at 159 mm (6 in) over approximately 16 days. It is closely followed by December, which records 152 mm (6 in), also spread over 16 days. The winter months, particularly January and February, maintain considerable precipitation levels of 107 mm (4 in) and 97 mm (4 in), respectively, both occurring over 12 days. The early spring months are noteworthy, with March experiencing a similar pattern, yielding 100 mm (4 in) over 15 days of rain.
As the year progresses into the summer months, precipitation levels decline, with July recording 73 mm (3 in) over 13 days and August seeing the least at 67 mm (3 in) over 11 days. However, September marks a slight increase once again, with 91 mm (4 in) of rainfall over 12 days. The transition into autumn witnesses a resurgence in rainfall, with October reaching 109 mm (4 in) over 12 days, showcasing Cantabria's characteristic pattern of consistent precipitation, contributing to its lush landscapes and rich biodiversity.
The sunshine duration in Cantabria, Spain, varies significantly throughout the year, with each month displaying a unique pattern of sunlight availability. July boasts the highest sunshine duration, receiving 402 hours of sunlight, while August closely follows with 379 hours. The spring and early summer months also experience a notable amount of sunshine, with May recording 381 hours and April averaging 339 hours. In contrast, the winter months, particularly January, witness the least amount of sunshine at 179 hours, but this begins to improve in February with 244 hours.
As autumn approaches, sunshine duration generally declines but remains significant. September offers 333 hours of sunlight, while October sees a reduction to 296 hours. November and December experience further decreases, with 235 hours and 228 hours, respectively. Overall, Cantabria’s sunshine duration over the year reflects a balance between the longer, brighter days of summer and the shorter, cloudier periods of winter, contributing to the region's diverse climate and scenic beauty.
The UV Index in Cantabria, Spain, demonstrates noticeable variation throughout the year, reflecting changes in sun exposure and seasonal patterns. During the winter months, particularly January and December, the UV Index remains relatively low at 2, indicating minimal risk from sun exposure. As the region transitions into spring, the UV Index begins to rise, peaking at 6 in March and reaching 8 in April, signaling increased caution for skin protection, especially as outdoor activities become more common.
The summer months see the highest UV Index values, with June recording a peak of 11, classified as a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Following closely, July maintains a UV Index of 10, while August sees a slight decrease to 9. As autumn arrives, the UV Index gradually declines, resting at 6 in October and decreasing further to 3 in November. The annual fluctuations in the UV Index in Cantabria emphasize the importance of sun safety measures, especially during the heightened UV exposure periods in late spring and summer.
UV Risk Categories
The daylight duration in Cantabria, Spain, varies throughout the year, reflecting seasonal changes that influence daily activities and lifestyle. In January, the region experiences approximately 9 hours of daylight, which gradually increases to 10 hours in February. This upward trend continues into spring, where daylight reaches 11 hours in March and 13 hours in April. May marks a peak of 14 hours, coinciding with longer, sunnier days as the region approaches summer.
During the summer months, June boasts the maximum average daylight at 15 hours. However, as July transitions back to 14 hours and August slightly decreases to 13 hours, the daylight duration remains substantial. As autumn sets in, daylight durations begin to decline, dropping to 12 hours in September, followed by 10 hours in October. By the end of the year, November and December return to 9 hours of daylight, highlighting the cyclical nature of daylight variation in Cantabria, which significantly influences both agricultural practices and outdoor activities.
Castro-Urdiales, Spain, experiences a temperate oceanic 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 notable maximums reaching up to 32°C (89°F). Precipitation is most abundant from November to January, with December averaging 191 mm (8 in) of rainfall. Sunshine hours peak in July at 407 hours, providing ample daylight during the summer months. For more detailed information, visit Castro-Urdiales climate.
Comillas, Spain, experiences a temperate maritime climate characterized by mild temperatures and moderate precipitation throughout the year. Average monthly temperatures range from a low of 1°C (35°F) in March to a high of 29°C (84°F) in July, with July and August being the warmest months. Rainfall is highest in November (209 mm) and December (198 mm), while summer months generally see less precipitation, averaging around 64-69 mm. The region enjoys considerable sunshine, peaking in July with 405 hours, making it a pleasant destination. For more detailed climate information, refer to Comillas climate.
Potes, Spain experiences a diverse climate throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from a frigid -3°C (27°F) in January to a warm 29°C (84°F) in July. The region receives substantial rainfall, especially in November with 171 mm (7 in), and enjoys an average of 182 to 397 hours of sunshine monthly, peaking in July. The transition between seasons reveals a significant increase in both temperature and sunshine, making spring and summer particularly pleasant. For more detailed climate information, visit Potes climate.
San Vicente de la Barquera, Spain experiences a mild climate with average temperatures ranging from 11°C (51°F) in January to 20°C (68°F) in August. Rainfall is fairly distributed throughout the year, with November receiving the highest precipitation at 239 mm (9 in) and July the lowest at 79 mm (3 in). The area enjoys ample sunshine, particularly in the summer months, peaking at 405 hours in July. Despite its rainy months, the pleasant temperatures and sunshine make it a charming destination year-round. For more details, visit San Vicente de la Barquera climate.
Santander, Spain, experiences a temperate climate, with average temperatures ranging from 9°C (49°F) in January to 21°C (69°F) in August. The city generally sees its highest levels of rainfall in November and December, averaging around 185 mm (7 in) per month. Sunshine is abundant, particularly in the summer months, with July boasting approximately 406 hours of sunshine. The mild climate and scenic coastal views make Santander an attractive destination year-round. For more details, visit Santander climate.
Santillana, Spain, experiences a temperate climate with mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from 10°C (50°F) in January to 21°C (69°F) in August. The region receives significant rainfall, particularly in November (187 mm) and December (182 mm), while July and August see the least precipitation (56 mm and 58 mm, respectively). Sunshine is abundant during summer months, peaking at 405 hours in July. For more details, visit Santillana climate.
In conclusion, the climate of Cantabria, Spain, is characterized by its diverse temperature ranges, consistent precipitation, notable sunshine duration, variations in UV Index, and rhythmic patterns of daylight duration. With mild winters and warm summers, the region fosters rich ecosystems supported by substantial rainfall, while ample sunshine during the warmer months encourages outdoor activities and tourism. Understanding these climatic factors is essential for residents, visitors, and those engaged in agricultural and environmental practices, as they navigate the unique and dynamic weather patterns that define this beautiful part of Spain. Overall, Cantabria's climate not only enriches its natural beauty but also plays a crucial role in shaping the lifestyle and economy of its communities.