Last updated: December 20, 2024
Abstract: Castille and León, Spain, exhibits a diverse climatic landscape characterized by the Köppen-Geiger climate classifications of Cfb (temperate oceanic), Csb (temperate oceanic with dry summers), and Csa (Mediterranean hot-summer). The region experiences a broad temperature range, with winter minima plummeting to -16°C (4°F) in January, while summer maxima can soar to 40°C (104°F) in August. The annual average temperature hovers around 12°C (55°F), highlighting the climatic variability influenced by elevation and geographical positioning. This synthesis contributes to an understanding of the climatic challenges and variations pertinent to agricultural practices and ecological dynamics in the region.
The temperature in Castille and León, Spain, exhibits significant seasonal variability, with January registering the lowest minimum temperature at -16°C (4°F) and an average of 4°C (39°F), while summer months, particularly June and August, can reach maximums of 40°C (104°F). February experiences mild increases, with minimums of -11°C (12°F) and maximums up to 23°C (73°F). As spring approaches, March and April show gradual warming, culminating in May where temperatures can reach 34°C (93°F). The cooling trend in autumn sees temperatures drop, with October averaging 13°C (56°F) and minimums around -4°C (26°F). Overall, the region’s temperature profiles represent a dynamic range influenced by its geographical and climatic conditions.
The temperature patterns in Castille and León are notably diverse, with key cities like Turcia, Valladolid, and Segovia showcasing their own distinct ranges. In Turcia, the monthly temperature varies from a chilly -7°C (20°F) in January to a warm 36°C (96°F) in June, making it a region with significant seasonal shifts. Similarly, Valladolid experiences its coldest maximum of -8°C (18°F) in January, and temperatures can peak at a scorching 40°C (105°F) in June, highlighting its continental climate. Segovia presents a comparable scenario, with minimum temperatures dipping to -9°C (16°F) in January and reaching up to 37°C (99°F) in August. For specific monthly averages and detailed temperature insights, refer to the links for monthly temperature in Turcia, monthly temperature in Valladolid, and monthly temperature in Segovia.
Precipitation in Castille and León, Spain, exhibits a distinct seasonal pattern, with the highest rainfall typically occurring in the spring and autumn months. January starts the year with 40 mm (2 in) of precipitation over approximately 6 days, while February sees an increase to 52 mm (2 in) across 7 days. March continues this trend as precipitation rises to 63 mm (2 in) over 10 days. The peak occurs in April, with 82 mm (3 in) of rainfall spread over 13 days, before tapering off slightly in May at 52 mm (2 in). The summer months of July and August are relatively drier, recording only 23 mm (1 in) and 17 mm (1 in) of precipitation, respectively.
As autumn approaches, precipitation begins to climb again, with September receiving 39 mm (2 in) over 5 days and October registering 56 mm (2 in) across 6 days. November marks a significant increase with 73 mm (3 in) over 12 days, followed by 69 mm (3 in) in December, which experiences rainfall for 10 days. This cyclical pattern underlines the region's continental climate, characterized by dry summers and wetter winters, making Castille and León a unique area for studying precipitation trends in Spain.
In Castille and León, Spain, sunshine duration varies significantly throughout the year, with the summer months experiencing the highest levels of sunlight. January records 185 hours of sunshine, gradually increasing to 244 hours in February. As spring unfolds, the sunshine hours rise sharply, peaking in May with 399 hours and June boasting an impressive 408 hours. July follows closely behind, with 432 hours, marking the apex of sunlight exposure for the region. This trend highlights the advantageous climatic conditions for outdoor activities and agricultural practices during the warmer months.
As summer transitions to autumn, sunshine duration begins to decline. August retains a substantial 403 hours of sunshine, but September sees a reduction to 346 hours. This downward trend continues into October, with 309 hours recorded, followed by November with 238 hours and December's 227 hours. These variations in sunshine availability significantly influence local ecosystems and contribute to the overall climatic character of Castille and León, making it an area with distinct seasonal light patterns that shape both lifestyle and agriculture.
The UV Index in Castille and León, Spain, exhibits seasonal fluctuations that correlate closely with sunlight exposure. In the winter months, such as January and December, the UV Index remains relatively low at 3, indicating minimal risk from harmful UV radiation. As February arrives, the index increases slightly to 4, and with the arrival of spring, March sees a more substantial rise to 7. April stands out with a higher value of 9, heralding the upcoming summer months when UV exposure becomes more intense.
The peak of the UV Index occurs in June, reaching 12, which signifies a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. July follows closely with an index of 11, while August sees a slight decrease to 10. As autumn approaches, the UV Index gradually declines, registering 8 in September and 6 in October before settling back to 4 in November. This data underlines the importance of sun protection measures, especially during the peak months of May through August when UV radiation poses the greatest risk.
UV Risk Categories
In Castille and León, Spain, the average daylight duration varies significantly throughout the year, reflecting the region's seasonal changes. January begins with approximately 9 hours of daylight, which increases to 10 hours in February as the winter gradually wanes. By March, daylight extends to 11 hours, and as spring unfolds, April sees a notable increase to 13 hours. The transition into summer in May brings 14 hours of daylight, peaking in June at 15 hours, allowing for longer days and shorter nights conducive to outdoor activities.
As summer progresses, daylight hours begin to taper off, with July maintaining 14 hours before declining to 13 hours in August. The onset of autumn brings further reductions, with September averaging 12 hours and October dropping to 11 hours. By November, daylight returns to 9 hours and remains consistent through December. This cyclical pattern of daylight duration influences various aspects of life in Castille and León, including agricultural practices, energy consumption, and recreational activities throughout the year.
Alcazaren, Spain experiences a varied climate throughout the year, characterized by relatively cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures range from -7°C to 18°C, while July and August peak at up to 40°C, with minimal rainfall during these months (8-12 mm). The region enjoys considerable sunshine, particularly in the summer, with July receiving around 435 hours. Rainfall is more pronounced in spring and autumn, reaching a maximum of 72 mm in April. For more detailed information, visit Alcazaren climate.
Atapuerca, Spain experiences a continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from -7°C (20°F) in February to a peak of 19°C (67°F) in July and August, with averages hovering around 13°C (56°F) in May and October. Rainfall is moderate, peaking in April with 92 mm (4 in) and decreasing in the summer months. Sunshine is plentiful, particularly in July with 427 hours of sunlight, contributing to a generally pleasant climate during the warmer months. For more details, visit Atapuerca climate.
Avila, Spain, experiences a diverse climate with significant seasonal variations. Winters can be quite cold, with January temperatures ranging from -8°C to 17°C and moderate precipitation peaking in April at 83 mm. Summers are warmer, particularly in July and August, where maximum temperatures can reach up to 38°C, accompanied by lower rainfall. The region enjoys abundant sunshine, with July providing the highest at 434 hours, making it a favorable time for visitors. For more details on the weather patterns, visit Avila climate.
Burgos, Spain, experiences a continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures range from -6°C to 16°C, with December showing similar conditions. The city sees the most sunshine in July, totaling 427 hours, while precipitation peaks in April at 89 mm. Although summers are warm, with maxima like 38°C in June, rainfall is lower during these months. For more details, visit Burgos climate.
La Alberca, Spain experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures can drop as low as -6°C (22°F), while July sees highs around 37°C (99°F). The region receives significant rainfall, especially from March to November, with April and November being the wettest months. Sunshine is plentiful during the summer, peaking in July with 434 hours, making it a great time to visit. For more detailed information, check the La Alberca climate.
Leon, Spain experiences a continental climate with cold winters and hot summers. January sees average temperatures around 4°C (39°F), while July peaks at 22°C (72°F), occasionally reaching up to 38°C (100°F). Rainfall is most prevalent in late autumn and winter, peaking in November with 68 mm (3 in) of precipitation. The city enjoys significant sunshine, especially in the summer months, with July receiving about 432 hours of sunshine. For more details, visit Leon climate.
Pedraza, Spain, experiences a continental climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January sees minimum temperatures drop as low as -10°C (14°F), while July temperatures can reach up to 37°C (99°F). Precipitation varies significantly throughout the year, peaking in April with 96 mm (4 in) and decreasing in the summer months. The region enjoys ample sunshine, particularly in July, which boasts 435 hours of sunlight. For more detailed information, visit Pedraza climate.
Salamanca, Spain experiences a continental climate characterized by cold winters and hot summers. January's average temperature is around 4°C (39°F), with highs reaching 18°C (65°F), while summers can soar to 37°C (99°F). Precipitation varies, peaking in April at 76 mm (3 in) and diminishing significantly in August with just 12 mm (0 in). Sunshine is abundant, especially in the summer months, with July enjoying up to 436 hours of sunlight. For more details, visit Salamanca climate.
Segovia, Spain, experiences a varied climate throughout the year, with winter temperatures ranging from -9°C (16°F) in January to a milder 5°C (41°F) in December. The summer months are generally warm, averaging up to 22°C (71°F) in July and August, with maximum temperatures reaching as high as 37°C (99°F). Precipitation peaks in the spring, particularly in April with 113 mm (4 in), while July and August are considerably drier with only 23 mm (1 in) and 25 mm (1 in), respectively. Sunshine durations are longest in the summer, averaging 436 hours in July, contributing to a vibrant outdoor atmosphere. For more details on the climate in Segovia, visit Segovia climate.
Torre de Penafiel, Spain experiences a varied climate throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -8°C (18°F) in January to a maximum of 40°C (103°F) in August. The region receives significant precipitation, particularly in spring and fall, with April and November seeing the highest rainfall at 69 mm (3 in) and 67 mm (3 in), respectively. Sunshine hours peak in the summer months, particularly in July with 436 hours of sunlight, while the colder months tend to have fewer hours of sun. For more detailed information, visit Torre de Penafiel climate.
Turcia, Spain experiences a temperate climate with significant seasonal variation. Winter months (January to March) see average temperatures ranging from 4°C to 7°C, while summers (June to August) can reach highs of 36°C. Precipitation is more frequent in the colder months, peaking in December with 88 mm, contrasted by drier summer months. The area enjoys ample sunshine, particularly in July with 432 hours recorded. For more information, visit Turcia climate.
Valladolid, Spain, experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and hot summers. Winter months, particularly January and December, see minimum temperatures dipping to -8°C (18°F), while summer months like June and July can reach highs of up to 40°C (105°F). Precipitation varies throughout the year, with April being the wettest month, receiving about 70 mm (3 in) of rain. The city enjoys ample sunshine, peaking in July with 437 hours, which contributes to its dry, hot summers. For more detailed information, visit Valladolid climate.
In conclusion, the climate of Castille and León, Spain, is characterized by its notable seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, sunlight, and daylight duration. With harsh winters marked by low temperatures and significant precipitation, balanced against the warm summers that offer extended daylight and high UV indexes, the region presents distinct challenges and opportunities. The diversity in weather patterns not only impacts agricultural practices and ecosystems but also affects lifestyle and tourism throughout the year. Understanding these climatic aspects is essential for residents and visitors alike, as they navigate the unique environmental conditions that define this rich and varied region of Spain.