Västra Götaland Climate

Last updated: January 18, 2025

Västra Götaland, Sweden, experiences a diverse climate characterized by Koppen-Geiger climate classifications of Dfb (humid continental) and Cfb (oceanic). The region endures a minimum temperature plunging to -19°C (-3°F) in February, showcasing the stark winter chill. On average, temperatures hover around 8°C (47°F), providing a moderately cool climate. The warmest month, August, can reach maximum temperatures of 34°C (94°F), illustrating the region's capability to experience significant seasonal temperature variations. This climate framework underpins the unique ecological and agricultural characteristics of Västra Götaland.

Västra Götaland temperature by month

In Västra Götaland, Sweden, temperature patterns exhibit distinct seasonal trends, beginning with harsh winters characterized by January and February lows reaching -19°C (-3°F), while average temperatures remain around 0°C (33°F). As spring approaches, March and April witness a gradual warming, with average temperatures rising to 6°C (43°F) and maximums peaking at 25°C (77°F) in April. The progression into summer brings the warmest months, notably June and July, where temperatures soar to 34°C (94°F) in August, but hover around a comfortable 16°C (61°F) to 17°C (63°F) on average. This warmth is short-lived as the transition into autumn sees temperatures decline; September averages 13°C (56°F) before dropping into colder conditions by November, where more winter-like temperatures surface again, with averages around 5°C (41°F). The year's end returns to deep cold, highlighted by December’s minimum of -18°C (0°F), completing the cycle of seasonal temperature variations in this dynamic region.

Monthly Temperatures in Västra Götaland, Sweden

The chart illustrates Västra Götaland's temperature patterns throughout the year, with values aggregated from various locations across the region. It highlights seasonal variations and temperature changes across the months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec343336435261636155484135
Data source: Västra Götaland temperature data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.
Choose your preferred temperature unit
The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

Fjallbacka experiences a temperature range from a chilly minimum of -15°C (6°F) in January to a warm maximum of 30°C (86°F) in August, as detailed in the monthly temperatures in Fjallbacka. In Goeteborg, the weather can be even colder in February, with temperatures plummeting to -19°C (-1°F), but also reaching a higher peak of 33°C (91°F) in July, according to the monthly temperatures in Goeteborg. Meanwhile, Lysekil has a minimum of -14°C (8°F) in February, with a summer maximum of 30°C (87°F) in August, as noted in the monthly temperatures in Lysekil.

Precipitation Patterns in Västra Götaland

Västra Götaland, Sweden, experiences a notable variation in precipitation throughout the year, marked by increased rainfall during the summer months. January begins the year with a modest 51 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over 9 days, gradually rising to 66 mm (2.6 in) in February and 62 mm (2.5 in) in March. As spring unfolds, April sees a decline to 36 mm (1.4 in), but this is quickly followed by a resurgence in May, which delivers 70 mm (2.8 in), preparing the region for the wetter summer season.

During the summer, precipitation peaks, especially in August, when 106 mm (4.2 in) of rain falls over 15 days, highlighting the season's volatility. July also experiences significant rainfall, totaling 86 mm (3.4 in) across 12 days. The autumn months continue to sustain high precipitation levels, particularly in October with 104 mm (4.1 in), contributing to the region's rich biodiversity. Overall, precipitation in Västra Götaland demonstrates a clear seasonal pattern, with the wettest months aligning with the warmer periods of the year, fundamentally influencing the local climate and ecosystem.

Monthly Average Precipitation in Västra Götaland, Sweden

The average monthly precipitation in Västra Götaland, providing insights into seasonal rainfall patterns and the region's precipitation trends throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec51666236707386106981047272
Data source: Västra Götaland precipitation data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

Sunshine Duration in Västra Götaland

In Västra Götaland, Sweden, sunshine duration exhibits a notable seasonal progression, transitioning from the dim, cold days of winter to the bright, long days of summer. January starts with just 85 hours of sunshine, while February shows a marked increase to 167 hours. This upward trend continues into March, where sunshine hours reach 270. By April, as spring takes hold, sunshine hours rapidly increase to 373 hours, paving the way for the vibrant growth of flora and fauna in the region.

The peak sunshine months arrive in late spring and summer, with June and July recording 461 hours and 467 hours, respectively, providing nearly half the daylight hours for outdoor activities and fostering a vibrant atmosphere. Following this peak, August still boasts a substantial 399 hours, but the onset of autumn brings a gradual decline in sunshine, with September seeing 298 hours. The year closes with short, darker days, where November and December barely reach 128 hours and 91 hours, respectively. This cyclical pattern underscores the dynamic relationship between sunshine duration and the changing seasons in Västra Götaland, significantly influencing both climate and community life.

Monthly Sunshine in Västra Götaland, Sweden

Monthly sunshine duration represents the total hours of direct sunlight Västra Götaland receives each month, excluding periods when the sun is obscured by clouds or other obstructions.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec85h167h270h373h436h461h467h399h298h233h128h91h
Data source: Västra Götaland sunshine duration data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.

Västra Götaland UV Index Trends

In Västra Götaland, Sweden, the UV Index demonstrates a clear seasonal variation, reflecting the changing strength of solar radiation throughout the year. During the winter months of January and February, the UV Index remains low at 1 and 2, indicating minimal sun exposure risk with burn times of approximately 45 minutes. As the days lengthen and spring approaches, there is a noticeable uptick; by March, the UV Index rises to 3, categorized as moderate, reducing the safe burn time to 30 minutes. This trend continues into April, with the UV Index reaching 5, signaling a heightened awareness for skin protection.

The summer months mark the peak of UV intensity, with June and July recording the highest UV Index readings of 7, classified as high, while maintaining a burn time of just 25 minutes. August sees a slight decline to 6, but still warrants caution due to its high exposure category. As summer transitions into autumn, the UV Index decreases to 5 in September and further drops to 2 and 1 in October through December, returning to low risk levels. This seasonal fluctuation underscores the importance of monitoring UV exposure to safeguard skin health during the sunnier months in Västra Götaland.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Västra Götaland, Sweden

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Västra Götaland. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec123567765211
Data source: Västra Götaland UV Index data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Daylight Hours in Västra Götaland

In Västra Götaland, Sweden, daylight duration varies dramatically throughout the year, reflecting the region's seasonal shifts. January offers a mere 7 hours of daylight, gradually increasing to 9 hours by February, as the sun begins to reemerge after the depths of winter. March experiences an uplifting growth to 11 hours, paving the way for spring, which brings an explosion of light with April's 14 hours. By May, daylight peaks at 16 hours, leading into the long, bright days of summer.

The summer months reach their zenith in June with an impressive 18 hours of daylight, allowing for vibrant outdoor activity and significant ecological productivity. Although July maintains a robust 17 hours, daylight begins to wane in August, dropping to 15 hours as autumn approaches. In September, daylight persists at 12 hours before further diminishing to 10 hours in October. As the year draws to a close, daylight shrinks to 7 hours in November and a dwindling 6 hours in December, mirroring the colder, darker months of winter once again. This annual cycle not only influences daily life but also impacts local ecosystems and seasonal activities.

Average Monthly Daylight Hours in Västra Götaland, Sweden

This chart shows the total daylight hours Västra Götaland receives each month, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec434h561h712h865h1005h1083h1041h913h763h611h471h391h
Data source: Västra Götaland daylight hours, calculated based on aggregated data for various regional locations, determined by the times between sunrise and sunset.

Climate Highlights of Västra Götaland's Popular Destinations

Fjaellbacka, Sweden experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and mild summers. January and February see temperatures dropping as low as -11°C (12°F), with average highs reaching only around 3°C (37°F). The summer months of June through August are notably warmer, averaging around 17-18°C (62-64°F) with maximum temperatures peaking at 28°C (83°F). Precipitation is significant, particularly in September and October, while sunshine hours reach their peak in July with 476 hours. For more details, visit Fjaellbacka climate.

Fjallbacka, Sweden, experiences a temperate climate characterized by cold winters and mild summers. January sees temperatures ranging from -15°C to 9°C, while July offers a warmer range of 8°C to 30°C. Precipitation peaks in late summer, with August receiving around 89 mm (3.5 in), while sunshine reaches its maximum in July, totaling 482 hours. The transition from winter to spring brings a gradual increase in temperatures and sunshine, enhancing the appeal of this coastal town. For detailed climate information, visit Fjallbacka climate.

Goeteborg, Sweden experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year, with January averages around 2°C (35°F) and July averaging 17°C (63°F). The city sees significant precipitation, particularly in August and October, with average rainfall reaching 133 mm (5.3 in) and 117 mm (4.6 in) respectively. Sunshine is prevalent in summer, peaking at 466 hours in July, while winter months receive considerably less sunlight, with only 92 hours in January. Overall, Goeteborg's climate is characterized by cold winters and mild summers, making Goeteborg climate an interesting study for weather enthusiasts.

Grebbestad, Sweden, experiences a varied climate throughout the year, with average temperatures ranging from -12°C (11°F) in winter to 28°C (83°F) in summer. The coldest months are January and February, while July and August are the warmest, showcasing pleasant temperatures ideal for outdoor activities. Precipitation peaks in late summer and autumn, particularly in October with 129 mm (5.1 in), while summer months receive ample sunshine, with July boasting 473 hours of sunlight. For more detailed information, visit Grebbestad climate.

Hamburgsund, Sweden experiences a temperate climate characterized by cold winters and mild summers. January sees temperatures ranging from a minimum of -8°C (17°F) to a maximum of 9°C (49°F), while July offers warmer averages between 11°C (52°F) and 27°C (81°F). Precipitation peaks in September with 109 mm (4.3 in), and the region enjoys the most sunshine in July, totaling 476 hours. For more detailed climate information, visit Hamburgsund climate.

Hunnebostrand, Sweden experiences a climate characterized by cold winters and mild summers. January and February see minimum temperatures around -11°C (12°F), with precipitation peaking in October at 129 mm (5.1 in) and a sunny June boasting 470 hours of sunshine. Summer months, specifically July and August, enjoy average temperatures reaching up to 18°C (64°F) and 17°C (62°F) respectively, with significant rainfall in August at 97 mm (3.8 in). This seasonal variation makes Hunnebostrand's climate unique and offers diverse weather experiences throughout the year. For more details, visit Hunnebostrand climate.

Karlsborg, Sweden experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and mild summers. January and February are particularly frigid, with average temperatures hovering around 0°C (32°F) and significant precipitation peaking in September at 96 mm (3.8 in). As spring progresses into summer, temperatures rise, reaching an average of 18°C (64°F) in July, accompanied by ample sunshine, particularly from May through July when it exceeds 400 hours. Rainfall remains relatively consistent throughout the year, with August recording the highest at 87 mm (3.4 in). For more detailed information, visit Karlsborg climate.

Lidköping, Sweden experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and mild summers. January is the coldest month, with average temperatures around 1°C and notable precipitation, peaking in August with an average of 91 mm. Summer temperatures can reach up to 30°C in July, while sunlight is abundant, particularly between May and July, with over 436 hours of sunshine in May alone. This seasonal variation makes Lidköping a unique destination throughout the year. For more details, visit Lidkoeping climate.

Lysekil, Sweden experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasonal variations. Winters can be cold, with January temperatures ranging from -11°C to 9°C, while summers are mild, peaking in July at averages of 18°C. Precipitation is abundant, particularly in late summer and autumn, with October receiving the highest at 120 mm. Sunshine peaks in the summer months, especially in July with 477 hours, offering ample daylight. For more information, visit Lysekil climate.

Mariestad, Sweden experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and mild summers. January temperatures can drop as low as -14°C (8°F), while July sees highs around 29°C (85°F). Precipitation varies throughout the year, peaking in July and August with approximately 81 mm (3.2 in) and 92 mm (3.6 in), respectively, while sunshine is abundant in summer, boasting up to 476 hours in July. For more detailed climate information, visit Mariestad climate.

Skara, Sweden experiences a distinct seasonal climate characterized by cold winters and mild summers. January and February see temperatures drop as low as -14°C (7°F), with average highs reaching only around 1°C (34°F). Summer months like July and August bring warmer temperatures, with averages around 17°C (64°F) and maximums peaking at 30°C (86°F). Precipitation is fairly consistent throughout the year, peaking in August with 84 mm (3.3 in), while sunshine hours increase significantly in the summer, reaching up to 471 hours in July. For more detailed information, visit Skara climate.

Stroemstad, Sweden experiences a varied climate with cold winters and mild summers. January and February are the coldest months, with temperatures frequently dipping below freezing, while July tends to be the warmest, averaging around 18°C (64°F). The region sees significant rainfall, particularly in late summer and autumn, peaking in October with 117 mm (4.6 in) of precipitation. Sunshine hours are maximized in the summer months, reaching up to 474 hours in July. For more details on the climate patterns throughout the year, visit Stroemstad climate.

The climate in Tanumshede, Sweden, is characterized by distinct seasons, with cold winters and mild summers. January temperatures range from a minimum of -11°C (12°F) to a maximum of 9°C (49°F), while July sees much warmer conditions, peaking at 27°C (81°F). Precipitation is significant, especially in the fall, with October experiencing the highest rainfall at 129 mm (5.1 in). Sunshine hours are abundant in summer, with July receiving 473 hours of sunlight, but winter months are considerably shorter, like January with only 88 hours. For more detailed information, visit Tanumshede climate.

Uddevalla, Sweden experiences a varied climate with cold winters and mild summers. Winter temperatures can drop to as low as -19°C (−2°F) in February, while summer highs reach up to 33°C (92°F) in July and August. Precipitation is relatively high, especially during the summer months, peaking at 119 mm (4.7 in) in August. Sunshine hours are abundant in summer, reaching a maximum of 479 hours in July, contrasting the shorter daylight of winter months. For further information on the climate, visit Uddevalla climate.

Varnhem, Sweden experiences a diverse climate throughout the year, characterized by cold winters and mild summers. January and February are the coldest months, with average temperatures around 0°C (32°F) and significant snowfall, while July and August reach peaks of 17-33°C (64-91°F) and the highest precipitation, around 76-80 mm (3.0-3.2 in). The region enjoys long daylight hours in summer, peaking at 471 hours of sunshine in July, while winter months like December see only 80 hours. Precipitation varies, with May through August recording the highest levels, contributing to a lush summer landscape. For more detailed information, visit Varnhem climate.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the climate of Västra Götaland, Sweden, is characterized by its distinct seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours. The region transitions from the cold, dark winters with limited sunlight and low UV exposure to vibrant, sunlit summers featuring extended daylight and heightened UV levels. These changing environmental conditions not only shape the local lifestyle and outdoor activities but also play a crucial role in the surrounding ecosystems. Understanding these intricate climatic factors is essential for residents and visitors alike, fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural rhythms that dictate life in this remarkable part of Sweden.

Discover the Climate of Västra Götaland's Places

A B D E F G H I J K L M N O P R S T U V

A

B

D

E

F

G

H

I

J

K

L

M

N

O

P

R

S

T

U

V