Last updated: January 18, 2025
Glarus, Switzerland, is characterized by a Cfb climate according to the Köppen-Geiger classification, indicating a temperate oceanic climate with mild summers and cool winters. The region experiences a temperature range that is distinctly marked by seasonal variation; minimum temperatures can plummet to -25°C (-13°F) in March, while July peaks at a warm 32°C (89°F), contributing to an average annual temperature of 6°C (42°F). This climate profile not only shapes the local ecosystem but also influences the lifestyle and activities of its residents throughout the year.
Glarus, Switzerland, exhibits distinct seasonal temperature patterns that reflect its temperate oceanic climate. The winter months, particularly January and February, experience harsh cold, with minimum temperatures plunging to between -25°C (-13°F) and -21°C (-5°F). As spring approaches, temperatures gradually rise, reaching averages of 1°C (34°F) in March and 5°C (41°F) in April, with a notable increase in maximum values, indicating a transition to warmer conditions. By May and June, the region warms significantly, with daytime highs often exceeding 28°C (83°F) and reaching a peak of 31°C (89°F) in both June and July. The summer months maintain these warm temperatures, although a slight cooling trend appears in August, signaling the transition to autumn. September marks a return to cooler averages, dropping to 11°C (52°F), while October and November see further declines as winter re-emerges, with minimum temperatures once again falling into the teens. Throughout the year, Glarus showcases a dynamic shift from frigid winters to vibrant summers, influenced by its elevation and geographical location.
In Glarus, temperatures vary significantly from a minimum of -25°C (-13°F) in March to a maximum of 29°C (84°F) in June, while Elm experiences slightly milder conditions with a minimum of -24°C (-11°F) in March and a maximum of 29°C (85°F) in June. For more detailed information, you can explore the monthly temperatures in Glarus and the monthly temperatures in Elm.
Glarus, Switzerland, experiences a varied precipitation pattern throughout the year, characterized by significant rainfall distribution. The summer months, particularly July and August, witness the highest levels of precipitation, with 258 mm (10.2 in) and 282 mm (11.1 in) respectively. This increased rainfall coincides with the longest rainy spells, as these months also report around 22 rainy days each, fostering a lush and verdant environment typical of the region during this season. Conversely, late autumn and early winter tend to be drier, with November receiving only 101 mm (4.0 in) over about 12 days, indicating a decline in moisture as temperatures drop.
Interestingly, spring also sees substantial rainfall, especially in May, which records 207 mm (8.1 in), bolstered by approximately 22 days of rain. The transition from winter to summer results in a complex interplay of weather systems, leading to variable rainfall from January at 160 mm (6.3 in) to April at 120 mm (4.7 in). During this period, precipitation helps in replenishing local water sources and supports seasonal agricultural practices. Overall, Glarus showcases a climate that balances wet and dry periods, significantly impacting its natural landscape and ecosystem throughout the year.
In Glarus, Switzerland, sunshine duration exhibits a clear seasonal trend, showcasing an upward trajectory from the depths of winter into the vibrant summer months. January begins the year with a modest 164 hours of sunshine, gradually increasing to 227 hours in February. By the time spring arrives, Glarus residents enjoy a significant boost in sunlight, peaking at 355 hours in April and culminating in 365 hours in May, making late spring an exceptionally bright time of year. This gradual build-up not only heralds the arrival of warmer weather but also contributes to the awakening of nature, setting the stage for flourishing landscapes.
The summer months in Glarus are characterized by an abundance of sunshine, with July standing out as the sunniest month at 410 hours. Although August sees a slight decline to 377 hours, it remains within the peak range, showcasing the region’s ample sun exposure during this period. As autumn sets in, the daylight hours begin to diminish, with 314 hours in September and a more pronounced drop to 275 hours in October. The transition to winter brings further reductions, culminating in just 184 hours of sunshine in December. This pattern highlights how Glarus experiences significant variations in daylight, with long sunny days in the summer contrasting sharply with the shorter, cloudier spells of winter, ultimately shaping the local climate and lifestyle throughout the year.
The UV Index in Glarus, Switzerland, illustrates significant seasonal fluctuations, indicating varying levels of solar radiation throughout the year. During the winter months of January and December, the UV Index remains low at 2, with recommended exposure times of up to 45 minutes before the risk of skin damage increases. As February arrives, the index rises moderately to 3, marking the start of a gradual increase in ultraviolet radiation as spring approaches. This trend continues sharply, with March and April experiencing high UV levels of 6 and 7 respectively, where the burn times decrease to just 25 minutes, signaling that even in early spring, sun protection becomes increasingly important.
The most intense UV exposure occurs during the summer months, particularly in June, when the UV Index peaks at 10. This categorizes exposure as very high, necessitating protective measures with a burn time of only 15 minutes. July and August also maintain elevated levels at 9 and 8, respectively, highlighting a sustained threat from UV radiation. As autumn approaches, the UV Index begins to taper off, settling back to 6 in September, followed by moderate levels in October and November. This clear progression of the UV Index in Glarus underscores the importance of appropriate sun protection measures during the peak summer months while noting the lower risk during winter.
UV Risk Categories
In Glarus, Switzerland, daylight duration showcases a clear seasonal rhythm, with substantial variation across the year. Starting the year in January, the region experiences only 8 hours of daylight, gradually increasing to 10 hours by February as winter begins to recede. Spring brings further lengthening of days, reaching 11 hours in March and significantly expanding to 13 hours in April. By May, daylight stretches to 15 hours, marking the transition towards the longest days of summer, which remains consistent throughout June and July, allowing residents ample time to enjoy outdoor activities and the natural beauty of the region.
As summer wanes, daylight hours begin to decline, with August still retaining 14 hours but gradually diminishing to 12 hours by September. The descent continues into autumn, dropping to 10 hours in October, followed by November’s 9 hours, as the days become notably shorter. Finally, the cycle returns to 8 hours of daylight in December, completing a full seasonal loop. This pattern highlights the significant impact of latitude on daylight variation in Glarus, emphasizing the contrasting experiences of long, sunlit summer days against the shorter, gloomier winter months.
Elm, Switzerland experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and moderate summers. January temperatures can plunge to a minimum of -22°C (-7°F), while July sees averages around 14°C (57°F) and highs reaching up to 29°C (84°F). Precipitation is highest during the summer months, particularly in July and August, with around 280 mm (11.0 in) and 302 mm (11.9 in) respectively. Conversely, the winter months receive less rain, although January still accounts for 159 mm (6.3 in). For more detailed information, visit Elm climate.
Glarus, Switzerland experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and mild summers. January and February are the coldest months, with average temperatures hovering around -5°C (24°F) and -2°C (28°F) respectively, while precipitation peaks in July and August, reaching over 260 mm (10.2 in). The region enjoys ample sunshine, particularly in the summer, with July averaging 410 hours of sun. Transitioning through the seasons, May and June mark a notable increase in temperature and rainfall, promoting lush greenery. For more detailed information, visit Glarus climate.
In conclusion, Glarus, Switzerland, presents a dynamic interplay of climate, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV index, and daylight hours throughout the year. The region's temperate oceanic climate fosters distinct seasonal changes, from the cold, snowy winters with limited daylight to the warm, sun-drenched summers that encourage outdoor activities. Variations in precipitation complement these seasonal trends, significantly influencing the local ecosystem and lifestyle. As Glarus transitions through each phase of the year, both residents and visitors must remain mindful of the UV index and daylight duration to optimize their time outdoors while ensuring adequate sun protection. Overall, the richness of Glarus's climate underscores its unique seasonal character, shaping not only its natural landscapes but also the experiences of those who inhabit or explore this picturesque region.