Last updated: January 18, 2025
Madrid, Spain exhibits a diverse climate classified under the Köppen-Geiger system as Csa, Csb, and BSk. Characterized by hot-summer Mediterranean and semi-arid conditions, the city experiences significant temperature fluctuations throughout the year. The minimum temperature can plunge to -12°C (11°F) in January, while the average annual temperature hovers around 14°C (58°F). The city can also witness sweltering heat in August, with maximum temperatures reaching up to 42°C (108°F). These climatic traits underscore Madrid's unique climatic profile, impacting its ecology and urban environment.
In Madrid, Spain, temperature exhibits significant seasonal variability, with the coldest month being January, where minimum temperatures can fall to -12°C (11°F) and average around 4°C (40°F), while maximums reach 19°C (66°F). As spring approaches, February and March see a rise in temperatures, with minimums ranging from -9°C (16°F) to -6°C (22°F), average temperatures increasing to 9°C (49°F), and maximums peaking at 26°C (80°F) by March. The transition into summer brings more heat, particularly in June and July, where average temperatures hover around 22°C (72°F) and 25°C (78°F), with extremes of 41°C (106°F) and 42°C (108°F), respectively. By August, temperatures remain high, but taper off slightly in September, where averages drop to 20°C (69°F). As autumn sets in, the temperatures continue to decline, with the year's coolest averages averaging 6°C (44°F) in December and maximums at 18°C (66°F), illustrating a clear mediterranean pattern in Madrid's climate.
The temperature in and around Madrid showcases notable variations, reflecting its Mediterranean climate. In Madrid, for instance, temperatures can dip to a minimum of -9°C (17°F) in January but can reach a scorching 41°C (106°F) in August, making it an intriguing destination for weather enthusiasts, as detailed in the monthly temperature in Madrid. Similarly, Alcala de Henares experiences a minimum temperature of -8°C (18°F) in January and peaks at 40°C (105°F) in August, detailed further in the monthly temperature in Alcala de Henares. Meanwhile, Aranjuez records slightly colder January temperatures, with a minimum of -10°C (15°F) and a maximum of 42°C (107°F) in August, as explored in the monthly temperature in Aranjuez. These temperature trends highlight the striking contrasts across the region's microclimates.
Precipitation in Madrid follows a distinct seasonal pattern, with rainfall being most abundant in spring and autumn. The wettest month is April, accumulating 85 mm (3 in) of rain over approximately 12 days, indicative of the region's transitional weather. While March sees an increase with 56 mm (2 in) over 8 days, other spring months like May also contribute with 38 mm (2 in) from 7 days of rain. Conversely, the summer months of July and August are notably drier, receiving only 14 mm (1 in) and 20 mm (1 in), respectively, often spread across just a few days, which defines the hot and dry characteristics of the season in Madrid.
In contrast, the autumn months present a resurgence in precipitation, with November experiencing 61 mm (2 in) over 10 days, and October featuring 55 mm (2 in) across 5 days. January and February also contribute 36 mm (1 in) and 35 mm (1 in) of rainfall, respectively, typically spaced over 5 days each month. Overall, Madrid's precipitation averages 35-85 mm (1-3 in) throughout the year, reflecting its continental Mediterranean climate and significant influences from its geographical positioning.
Madrid enjoys a significant amount of sunshine throughout the year, with the duration peaking during the summer months. July stands out, offering an impressive 433 hours of sunshine, closely followed by June at 416 hours and August with 405 hours. This abundance of sunlight during the summer months not only contributes to the city's vibrant atmosphere but also supports various outdoor activities and tourism, making it a desirable destination in Spain.
As the seasons change, sunshine duration tends to decrease, particularly during the winter months. January records 192 hours of sunlight, while December and November provide 231 hours and 240 hours, respectively. Spring months see a gradual increase in sunshine, with April reaching 333 hours and May climbing to 403 hours. Overall, Madrid's annual sunshine duration underlines its pleasantly bright climate, appealing to residents and visitors alike.
The UV Index in Madrid reflects significant variations throughout the year, with peaks occurring during the summer months. In June, the index climbs to a maximum of 12, indicating a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure, making midday sun precautions essential. Following closely, July and August feature UV Index values of 11 and 10, respectively, underscoring the importance of sun safety measures during the hottest times of the year.
As seasons shift, the UV Index experiences a decline, especially in the colder months. January and December see lower readings at 3, while February and November hover around 4. The spring months experience a gradual increase, with March reaching 7, and April climbing to 9. By May, the UV Index rises to 10, signaling the onset of more intense sun exposure. Understanding these fluctuations in UV levels is essential for residents and visitors to protect against potential sun-related health risks in Madrid.
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Daylight duration in Madrid exhibits a clear seasonal pattern, with shorter days in winter and longer days in summer. In January and December, the average daylight lasts around 9 hours, providing limited sunshine and contributing to the cooler, darker winter months. As spring approaches in March, daylight increases to 11 hours, reaching a peak in June with 15 hours of daylight. This extended daylight supports a vibrant outdoor life and various activities during the summer.
As summer transitions to autumn, the daylight hours gradually decrease. July maintains a high average of 14 hours, while August sees a slight decline to 13 hours. By September, daylight reduces to 12 hours, and further decreases in October to 11 hours. The cycle continues into the cooler months, with November reverting back to 9 hours of daylight. This natural rhythm highlights the significant variation in daylight throughout the year, influencing lifestyle and activities in Madrid.
Alcala de Henares, Spain experiences a diverse climate characterized by warm summers and cool winters. January sees minimum temperatures drop to -8°C (18°F) while July and August can peak at 40°C (105°F). Precipitation averages 34 mm in January and increases to 88 mm in April, with summer months generally being drier. The region enjoys ample sunshine, particularly in July, which boasts around 432 hours of sunlight. For more detailed information, visit Alcala de Henares climate.
Aranjuez, Spain, features a climate characterized by hot summers and mild winters. During the peak of summer, temperatures can soar to 42°C (107°F), while January sees minimums dropping to as low as -10°C (15°F). Precipitation varies throughout the year, with April receiving the highest rainfall at 78 mm (3 in). Sunshine is abundant, especially in the summer months, with July averaging 431 hours of sun. For more detailed information, visit Aranjuez climate.
Cercedilla, Spain experiences a varied climate with distinct seasons. Winter months, such as January and February, see minimum temperatures around -9°C (16°F) and average highs reaching 6°C (42°F). The summer months, particularly July and August, offer warmer conditions with maximum temperatures peaking at 36°C (97°F). Precipitation is heaviest in April, averaging 112 mm (4 in), while sunshine hours peak in July, with around 434 hours. For more detailed information, visit Cercedilla climate.
Chinchón, Spain experiences a varied climate characterized by hot summers and mild winters. January sees minimum temperatures drop to -8°C (18°F), while July and August can peak at 41°C (106°F) and 41°C (107°F), respectively. Precipitation is fairly moderate, with April being the wettest month at 80 mm (3 in), while July is the driest with only 12 mm (0 in). The region enjoys abundant sunshine, particularly in the summer months, with July boasting 433 hours of sunlight. For more details, you can visit Chinchon climate.
El Escorial, Spain experiences a diverse climate with distinct seasonal variations. Winter months like January and February can see temperatures drop to as low as -9°C (16°F), while summers, especially in June and July, can reach highs of up to 39°C (102°F). Precipitation is relatively moderate, peaking in April with 76 mm (3 in) and declining during the hotter months. Notably, sunshine is abundant in summer, with July enjoying 433 hours of sunshine. For more detailed information, visit El Escorial climate.
Guadarrama, Spain experiences a diverse climate with cold winters and warm summers. January and February see minimum temperatures around -9°C (16°F) and -8°C (18°F) respectively, while July and August peak at maximum temperatures of 36°C (97°F) and 37°C (99°F). Precipitation varies throughout the year, with April being the wettest month at 112 mm (4 in), contributing to a lush environment. Sunshine is abundant, especially in the summer months, with July receiving up to 434 hours of sunlight. For detailed climate information, visit Guadarrama climate.
Madrid, Spain experiences a hot-summer Mediterranean climate characterized by significant temperature variations throughout the year. Winters are mild, with average temperatures ranging from 5°C (41°F) in January to 10°C (50°F) in November, while summers can be scorching, with July and August peaking at average highs around 27°C (80°F) and 26°C (79°F). Precipitation is moderate, with April being the wettest month at 70 mm (3 in), whereas July typically sees little rain. Sunshine is abundant, especially in summer, with July averaging 433 hours of sunshine, making it an inviting destination for outdoor activities. For more information, visit Madrid climate.
Manzanares el Real experiences a varied climate throughout the year, with cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures range from a minimum of -8°C to a maximum of 16°C, while July sees highs reaching up to 38°C. Precipitation varies seasonally, peaking in April with 97 mm, and summers tend to be drier, particularly in July and August. The area enjoys abundant sunshine, especially in the summer months, with July receiving up to 434 hours of sunshine. For more information, visit Manzanares el Real climate.
Navacerrada, Spain experiences a varied climate with distinct seasonal changes. Winter months, particularly January and February, see minimum temperatures drop to around -9°C (16°F), while summer peaks in July and August reach up to 36°C (97°F). Precipitation is heaviest in April at 112 mm (4 in), contributing to the area's lush landscapes. Sunshine is abundant during the summer, with July enjoying the most at 434 hours, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. For more detailed information, visit Navacerrada climate.
San Lorenzo de El Escorial experiences a varied climate with cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures can drop to -9°C (16°F) with substantial sunshine, while July sees highs of up to 39°C (102°F). Precipitation is highest in April and November, with 76 mm (3 in) and 57 mm (2 in) respectively, while July and August are the driest months, receiving only 16 mm (1 in) each. The area enjoys significant sunshine, peaking at 433 hours in July. For more details, visit San Lorenzo de El Escorial climate.
In conclusion, Madrid's climate is characterized by distinct temperature variations, notable precipitation patterns, abundant sunshine, significant UV Index fluctuations, and varying daylight durations throughout the year. The hot-summer Mediterranean climate results in scorching summers and cooler winters, influencing outdoor activities and tourism. Coupled with a mixture of sunny days and necessary precautions against UV exposure, residents and visitors alike can enjoy a vibrant urban lifestyle while being mindful of seasonal transitions. Understanding these climatic aspects is essential for making informed decisions regarding health, recreation, and travel in this dynamic Spanish capital.