Last updated: January 18, 2025
Basel-Landschaft, located in Switzerland, experiences a Cfb climate classification according to the Köppen-Geiger system, characterized as a temperate oceanic climate. This region witnesses a significant temperature range throughout the year, experiencing minimum temperatures plummeting to -16°C (3°F) in January, while the average annual temperature hovers around 11°C (51°F). The summer months can be notably warm, with maximum temperatures soaring up to 37°C (98°F) in July. Such diverse climatic conditions contribute to the region's rich biodiversity and vibrant seasonal landscapes, appealing to both residents and nature enthusiasts alike.
Temperature patterns in Basel-Landschaft, Switzerland, exhibit distinct seasonal trends, marked by a cold winter followed by a gradual warming into spring and summer. January and February experience the lowest temperatures, with minimums reaching as low as -16°C (3°F) and -14°C (7°F), while average temperatures barely rise above freezing. As spring progresses, temperatures rise steadily, with March and April witnessing averages of 6°C (43°F) and 10°C (50°F), respectively, culminating in warmer May days that can reach up to 31°C (87°F). The summer months of June and July feature peak averages of 19°C (66°F) and 20°C (68°F), along with maximum temperatures soaring to a sweltering 37°C (98°F) in July. With autumn's arrival in September, a gradual cooling occurs, bringing average temperatures down to 16°C (60°F), followed by October and November, which see a return to cooler weather with averages dropping into the single digits. Overall, Basel-Landschaft's temperature profile highlights a clear transition from cold winters to warm summers, enriched further by the beautiful tapestry of seasonal change characteristic of the region.
Arlesheim experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year, with a minimum of -14°C (7°F) in February and a maximum of 37°C (98°F) in July, reflecting the area's distinct seasonal variations. For more detailed information on monthly temperatures in Arlesheim, you can refer to the provided link: monthly temperatures in Arlesheim.
Basel-Landschaft, Switzerland, experiences a varied precipitation pattern throughout the year, characterized by significant rainfall during the late spring and summer months. January begins the year with 93 mm (3.6 in) of precipitation spread over 12 days, while February sees a decrease to 77 mm (3.0 in) over 11 days. March and April offer slightly varying rainfall, with 90 mm (3.5 in) and 60 mm (2.4 in), respectively. However, May marks the onset of the wettest period, with a substantial 130 mm (5.1 in) contributing to an increase in rainy days, totaling 17. This trend of elevated precipitation continues into the summer months, with June recording 124 mm (4.9 in) and July maintaining a similar level at 122 mm (4.8 in).
As the summer wanes, precipitation begins to taper off but remains notable in August at 117 mm (4.6 in). Following the summer months, September and October see reduced totals of 69 mm (2.7 in) and 92 mm (3.6 in), respectively, as the region transitions into autumn. November experiences 75 mm (3.0 in), while December marks a resurgence in rainfall with 127 mm (5.0 in), spread across 18 days. Overall, the annual cycle reveals a clear pattern where late spring and summer months dominate with the highest precipitation, providing essential moisture that nurtures the region's lush landscapes.
Basel-Landschaft experiences a significant variation in sunshine duration throughout the year, reflecting a clear seasonal trend from winter to summer. In the depths of winter, January captures only 137 hours of sunshine, which gradually increases to 211 hours in February. As spring unfolds, the sunshine hours continue to climb dramatically, with March offering 284 hours and April reaching 354 hours. By the time May arrives, sunshine hours peak at 362 hours, signaling the approach of summer's full brightness.
Summer holds the title for the sunniest months, peaking in July with an impressive 413 hours of sunshine. August follows closely with 381 hours, maintaining the high-energy atmosphere typical of warm summer days. However, as autumn sets in, sunlight begins to wane, dropping to 323 hours in September and tapering off to 266 hours in October. The decline continues into the late autumn and winter months, with November and December recording 193 hours and 157 hours of sunshine, respectively. This cyclical pattern not only highlights the region's vibrant summer but also serves as a reminder of the shorter days and diminished sunlight that accompany the colder months.
The UV Index in Basel-Landschaft, Switzerland, demonstrates notable seasonal fluctuations that indicate varying levels of ultraviolet radiation exposure throughout the year. During the winter months, January and December maintain a low UV Index of 2, allowing for safe outdoor activities without significant risk of skin damage, with a burn time of 45 minutes. As winter transitions into spring, February sees a moderate UV Index of 3, while March escalates to 5, signaling an increased need for sun protection, as the burn time decreases to 30 minutes.
The summer months bring the most intense UV radiation, with the Index peaking at 9 in both June and July, classified as very high, which drastically reduces safe sun exposure time to just 15 minutes. August follows closely with a UV Index of 8, emphasizing the importance of sun safety measures during this period. As autumn arrives, the Index returns to 6 in September and decreases to 4 in October, before dropping back to the moderate and low categories in November and December. These trends highlight the critical period for sun protection in Basel-Landschaft, particularly from late spring through summer when UV exposure is at its highest.
UV Risk Categories
Daylight duration in Basel-Landschaft, Switzerland, showcases a remarkable seasonal cycle, reflecting the transition from the short days of winter to the long, bright days of summer. January begins the year with just 8 hours of daylight, which gradually increases to 10 hours in February and 11 hours in March as spring approaches. By April, daylight extends to 13 hours, and May witnesses a continued increase, reaching 15 hours as the region basks in the late spring sun.
The peak of daylight duration occurs during the summer months, with June, July, and August each offering 15 hours, ensuring ample time for outdoor activities and enjoying nature. As autumn unfolds, sunlight begins to recede, with daylight decreasing to 14 hours in August, followed by 12 hours in September and 10 hours in October. By November, daylight is down to 9 hours, and the cycle concludes with a return to 8 hours in December. This rhythm of daylight not only highlights the changing seasons but also influences the lifestyle and activities of the residents in Basel-Landschaft throughout the year.
The climate in Arlesheim, Switzerland, exhibits a range of temperatures throughout the year, with winter months experiencing lows of -14°C (7°F) in February and summer highs reaching up to 37°C (98°F) in July. Precipitation is notably higher in the summer months, peaking at 133 mm (5.2 in) in May and accompanied by ample sunshine, particularly in July with 413 hours of sunlight. The transition from winter to spring sees a gradual increase in temperature and sunshine, making the shoulder seasons pleasant for outdoor activities. For more detailed information, visit Arlesheim climate.
In conclusion, the climate of Basel-Landschaft, Switzerland, is defined by its distinct seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours. The region transitions from cold, short winter days to warm, sun-soaked summers, with ample rainfall nourishing its lush landscapes. Residents experience the highest UV exposure during the warm months, underscoring the importance of sun safety, while the changing daylight hours shape outdoor activities throughout the year. Overall, Basel-Landschaft's dynamic climate and natural beauty offer a rich tapestry of experiences that reflect the rhythm of the seasons, making it a unique and inviting destination.