Last updated: January 18, 2025
Abstract: Galicia, located in the northwest corner of Spain, exhibits a Csb climate classification according to the Köppen-Geiger system. This temperate maritime climate is characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. Temperature variations range from a minimum of -10°C (15°F) in January to a maximum of 36°C (97°F) in August, with an annual average of approximately 13°C (56°F). The region's climatic conditions significantly influence its diverse ecosystems, agricultural practices, and socio-economic activities, making it a critical area for climate-related studies and environmental monitoring.
The temperature in Galicia, Spain, exhibits considerable seasonal variation, with typical winter months such as January recording minimums as low as -10°C (15°F) and maximums reaching 22°C (71°F). As the year progresses, February shows minimums of -4°C (24°F), while April can peak at 28°C (82°F). The spring months bring moderate temperatures, culminating in May with averages around 15°C (58°F) and maximums hitting 32°C (89°F). The summer sees the highest temperatures, especially in August, where minimums are 5°C (41°F) and maximums soar to 36°C (97°F). As autumn sets in, temperatures gradually decrease, with October minimums dropping to -1°C (31°F) and maximums still able to reach 32°C (90°F). Overall, the region experiences a cool oceanic climate with significant variations throughout the year.
Galicia, with its temperate maritime climate, showcases distinct temperature patterns across its major cities. In Santiago de Compostela, the monthly temperature in Santiago de Compostela ranges from a minimum of -3°C (28°F) in January to a maximum of 33°C (91°F) in August. Foz experiences similar trends, with a minimum temperature of 0°C (33°F) in March and a maximum of 29°C (85°F) in August, providing a mild summer climate, as detailed in the monthly temperature in Foz. Meanwhile, Vigo records a minimum of 1°C (34°F) in January and can reach up to 31°C (88°F) during the warmest month, August, as outlined in the monthly temperature in Vigo. These temperature variations across the region highlight Galicia's favorable climate for both residents and visitors.
Galicia experiences significant precipitation throughout the year, with the wettest months occurring in late autumn and winter. January begins the year with approximately 102 mm (4 in) of rain over about 10 days, while February and March see even higher totals of 134 mm (5 in) and 140 mm (5 in) of precipitation, respectively. As spring transitions to summer, April and May maintain relatively high rainfall levels at 113 mm (4 in) and 90 mm (4 in), but June marks a decrease to 71 mm (3 in). Notably, the summer months of July and August are drier, delivering only 33 mm (1 in) and 37 mm (1 in) of precipitation over roughly 6 days each.
In autumn, precipitation levels rise again, with October recording 117 mm (5 in) of rainfall over 11 days. November sees the highest monthly total of 156 mm (6 in), with rain expected on about 15 days. December follows with an even greater total of 190 mm (7 in), spanning 16 days of precipitation. This seasonal pattern contributes to Galicia's lush landscapes and diverse ecosystems, making the region renowned for its natural beauty despite the frequent rainfall.
Galicia experiences notable variations in sunshine duration throughout the year, with increasing hours during the spring and summer months. January begins with around 171 hours of sunshine, which gradually rises to 231 hours in February. The trend continues into March with 301 hours, and April sees a significant increase to 340 hours. May and June maintain high levels of sunshine, each offering 393 hours, providing ample daylight as the region fully embraces the spring season.
The peak sunshine duration occurs in July, with a remarkable 421 hours, before slightly declining to 390 hours in August. As autumn approaches, September experiences 339 hours of sunshine, followed by reductions in October (299 hours) and November (229 hours). December rounds out the year with 197 hours, marking a return to shorter days. This seasonal fluctuation in sunshine duration not only contributes to the region's picturesque landscapes but also impacts agricultural practices and the overall lifestyle of its residents.
The UV Index in Galicia, Spain, exhibits seasonal fluctuations, with values peaking during the summer months. In January, the UV Index is relatively low, registering at 2, which increases to 4 in February. As spring approaches, the UV Index rises significantly, reaching 6 in March, and further climbing to 9 in April. The late spring and early summer months see the highest intensity, with May and June reporting peak values of 10 and 11, respectively. This increase in UV radiation reflects the longer daylight hours and more direct sunlight characteristic of these months.
During July and August, the UV Index slightly decreases to 10 and 9, but remains high enough to warrant sun protection. As autumn sets in, the UV Index starts to decline again, falling to 8 in September and 6 in October. November sees a decrease to 4, and December returns to a low of 2. These variations in UV Index highlight the importance of sun safety measures, especially during the peak summer months when exposure to harmful ultraviolet rays is at its highest.
UV Risk Categories
In Galicia, Spain, the average daylight duration varies significantly throughout the year, reflecting the seasonal changes in sunlight. January marks the year with approximately 9 hours of daylight, which gradually increases to 10 hours in February and reaches 11 hours in March. The arrival of spring brings longer days, with April experiencing around 13 hours of daylight. This trend continues into May, where Galicia enjoys 14 hours, and June peaks at 15 hours, providing abundant light during the summer solstice.
As summer transitions into autumn, daylight duration begins to decrease. In July, the average remains at 14 hours, followed by a decline to 13 hours in August. September sees a further reduction to 12 hours, and daylight hours continue to dwindle in October to 10 hours. By November and December, daylight dips back down to 9 hours, marking the shortest days of the year. This seasonal variation in daylight duration significantly influences the region's climate, agriculture, and everyday life.
A Coruña, Spain experiences a temperate climate marked by mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from 9°C (49°F) in January to 19°C (66°F) in August, while maximums can reach up to 32°C (91°F) during summer. Precipitation varies throughout the year, peaking at 170 mm (7 in) in December, with a more moderate average of 75 mm (3 in) during the summer months. The city enjoys significant sunshine, especially in July with 413 hours, contributing to its pleasant climate. For more detailed insights, visit A Coruna climate.
Baiona, Spain experiences a temperate maritime climate characterized by mild winters and warm summers. January sees minimum temperatures around 0°C (32°F) and maximums reaching up to 20°C (68°F), while August peaks with temperatures hitting 31°C (87°F). Precipitation is significant, especially in winter months like December, which records 243 mm (10 in) of rain. Sunshine is plentiful from May to July, with June enjoying about 399 hours. For more detailed insights, visit Baiona climate.
Cambados, Spain, experiences a temperate maritime climate characterized by mild winters and warm summers. January temperatures range from a chilly 0°C (33°F) to a comfortable 20°C (67°F) in the highest peaks of the month, with substantial rainfall peaking in December at 225 mm (9 in). Summer months, particularly July and August, see maximum temperatures rise up to 34°C (93°F) along with lower precipitation, averaging around 35 mm (1 in). The region boasts significant sunshine, especially in July with 425 hours, making it an appealing destination. For more details on the weather patterns, visit Cambados climate.
The climate in Castro, Spain exhibits significant seasonal variation, characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures range from a minimum of -5°C (23°F) to a maximum of 19°C (67°F), while July sees much warmer conditions, with averages around 19°C (66°F) and highs reaching 33°C (91°F). Precipitation is heaviest in the winter months, peaking at 161 mm (6 in) in December, while July and August are the driest months with only 27 mm (1 in) and 36 mm (1 in) respectively. Sunshine is abundant in summer, with July offering 421 hours of sunlight, contrasted by less than 200 hours in the winter. For detailed climate information, visit Castro climate.
Combarro, Spain experiences a temperate maritime climate with mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from 9°C (49°F) in January to 20°C (68°F) in July, peaking at around 34°C (93°F) in August. The region receives significant rainfall, particularly in the winter months, with December alone averaging 225 mm (9 in). Sunshine hours are plentiful from April to July, with a maximum of 425 hours in July. For more detailed climate information, visit Combarro climate.
Fisterra, Spain experiences a mild maritime climate characterized by warm summers and cool winters. Average temperatures range from 11°C (53°F) in January to 18°C (65°F) in August, with July and August being the warmest months. Precipitation is highest in the winter months, particularly in November and December, with around 199 mm (8 in) of rainfall. The region enjoys ample sunshine, peaking in July with 418 hours, making it an attractive destination for outdoor activities. For more detailed information, visit Fisterra climate.
Foz, Spain experiences a mild oceanic climate characterized by moderate temperatures throughout the year. Winter months, from January to March, see average temperatures ranging from 8°C (48°F) to 10°C (50°F), while summers, particularly July and August, peak around 18°C (64°F) to 18°C (65°F). Precipitation is fairly consistent, with a notable increase in November and December, reaching over 150 mm (6 in). Sunshine hours peak in the summer, with July averaging 413 hours of sunlight, making it the sunniest month. For more detailed weather statistics, visit Foz climate.
The climate in Mondariz-Balneario, Spain, is characterized by mild winters and warm summers. January averages around 8°C (46°F) with significant rainfall, reaching up to 127 mm (5 in), while July sees higher temperatures peaking at 34°C (93°F) with minimal precipitation. The area enjoys abundant sunshine from May to August, with July averaging 423 hours of sunlight. Meanwhile, the wettest months are typically December and November, with precipitation exceeding 200 mm (8 in) each. For more detailed information, visit Mondariz-Balneario climate.
Muros, Spain experiences a temperate maritime climate characterized by mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from 10°C (50°F) in January to 19°C (67°F) in July, peaking at 34°C (93°F) in August. Precipitation is significant, particularly in the winter months, with December experiencing the highest rainfall of 217 mm (9 in). The region enjoys abundant sunshine, especially in the summer, with July boasting 423 hours of sunshine. For more information, visit Muros climate.
O Grove, Spain, experiences a temperate maritime climate characterized by mild winters and warm summers. Temperatures range from a chilly 0°C (33°F) in January to a warm 34°C (93°F) in August, with average monthly temperatures around 11°C (52°F) in winter and 20°C (68°F) in summer. Precipitation is highest in winter and autumn, peaking at 225 mm (9 in) in December, while the summer months typically see less rain, with only 29 mm (1 in) in July. Sunshine duration is greatest from June to August, reaching up to 425 hours in July. For more detailed climate information, visit O Grove climate.
Oia, Spain experiences a mild climate characterized by warm summers and cool winters. Average temperatures range from 9°C (49°F) in January to 19°C (67°F) in July and August, with peak temperatures reaching up to 31°C (87°F) in August. The region receives significant rainfall, particularly in November and December, with over 200 mm (8 in) of precipitation recorded. Despite this, Oia enjoys ample sunshine, with July averaging 425 hours of sunlight, making it an attractive destination year-round. For more detailed information, visit Oia climate.
Pontevedra, Spain, experiences a temperate maritime climate characterized by mild winters and warm summers. January sees minimum temperatures around 0°C (33°F) and maximums reaching 20°C (67°F), while July peaks at 34°C (93°F). The region receives significant rainfall, particularly from November to March, with December often the wettest month at 225 mm (9 in). Sunshine hours are abundant from May to August, peaking in July with 425 hours. For more detailed information, visit Pontevedra climate.
Portomarin, Spain, experiences a temperate climate characterized by mild winters and warm summers. January temperatures range from -5°C to 19°C, gradually rising to peaks of 35°C in August. The region receives most of its rainfall in the late autumn and winter months, with December recording up to 161 mm of precipitation. Sunshine is abundant, particularly in summer, with July seeing around 421 hours of sunlight. For more detailed information, visit Portomarin climate.
Puente Nuevo, Spain experiences a varied climate throughout the year, with average temperatures ranging from -3°C (26°F) in January to 33°C (92°F) in August. The region receives significant rainfall, especially in the winter months, with December seeing the highest precipitation at 185 mm (7 in). Sunshine duration peaks in July with 412 hours, while the colder months see considerably less sun. For more detailed information, visit Puente Nuevo climate.
Ribeira, Spain experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasonal variations. Winters are chilly, with January temperatures ranging from -3°C to 20°C and substantial precipitation, peaking at 195 mm in December. Summers are mild to warm, with average highs reaching 35°C in August, complemented by longer sunshine hours, particularly in July with 418 hours. Rainfall is more common from late autumn through winter, while drier months are typically found in the summer. For more details, visit Ribeira climate.
Santa Marta de Ortigueira experiences a temperate oceanic climate characterized by mild temperatures and significant rainfall throughout the year. The average monthly temperatures range from a minimum of 2°C (36°F) in March to a maximum of 28°C (83°F) in September. Precipitation peaks in December at 160 mm (6 in) and January through March sees consistent rainfall around 110 mm (4 in). The region benefits from substantial sunshine, especially in the summer months, with July boasting the highest at 416 hours. For more details, visit Santa Marta de Ortigueira climate.
Santiago de Compostela experiences a temperate oceanic climate, with average temperatures ranging from -1°C (31°F) in January to 18°C (65°F) in the summer months. Precipitation is abundant, particularly from November to March, with December receiving the highest average at 169 mm (7 in). The city enjoys significant sunshine during the spring and summer, peaking at 413 hours in July. Overall, Santiago's climate is characterized by mild winters and warm summers, making it a pleasant destination year-round. For more details, check the Santiago de Compostela climate.
Sanxenxo, Spain enjoys a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from a low of 9°C (49°F) in January to a high of 34°C (93°F) in August, with precipitation peaking in November (189 mm) and December (225 mm). The area experiences abundant sunshine, especially in July with 425 hours, promoting outdoor activities during the summer months. Although precipitation is more common in winter, summers remain relatively dry. For more detailed information, visit Sanxenxo climate.
Sarria, Spain, experiences a diverse climate marked by cool winters and warm summers. January sees minimum temperatures drop to -5°C (23°F) with significant precipitation peaking at 161 mm (6 in) in December. The summer months, particularly June through August, offer maximum temperatures reaching up to 35°C (95°F) and decreased rainfall, yet still provide ample sunshine, with July boasting 421 hours. Meanwhile, spring ushers in moderate temperatures and increasing sunshine, making it a pleasant season for visitors. For more details, visit Sarria climate.
Vigo, Spain, experiences a mild oceanic climate with distinct seasonal variations. Winters are cool, with average temperatures around 10°C (50°F) in January and high precipitation, peaking at 262 mm (10 in) in December. Summers are warm, with July and August averaging 19°C (67°F) and maximum temperatures reaching up to 31°C (88°F). Sunshine is abundant in summer, with up to 425 hours in July, while winter months see significantly less. For more detailed information, visit Vigo climate.
Viveiro, Spain, experiences a mild maritime climate characterized by moderate temperatures and significant precipitation throughout the year. Winters are cool, with average temperatures around 10°C (51°F) in January, while summer peaks at approximately 20°C (68°F) in August. Rainfall is most prevalent in November and December, with over 150 mm (6 in) per month, whereas July sees the least precipitation at just 41 mm (2 in). Sunshine duration is considerable, especially in the summer months, with July enjoying up to 416 hours of sunshine. For more detailed information, visit Viveiro climate.
In conclusion, the climate of Galicia, Spain, is characterized by its temperate maritime conditions, which include significant rainfall, varied temperature ranges, and notable fluctuations in sunshine duration and UV Index. The region experiences a mix of mild winters and warm summers, with climatic conditions that significantly affect both the natural landscape and the lifestyle of its inhabitants. The average daylight duration, along with seasonal variations in UV exposure, highlights the importance of adapting to changing environmental conditions throughout the year. Overall, Galicia's unique climatic features make it a vital area for ecological studies and an attractive destination for visitors seeking to experience its diverse ecosystems and rich cultural heritage.