Last updated: January 18, 2025
Grisons, Switzerland, is characterized by its unique climate, classified under the Köppen-Geiger system as ET (Tundra Climate) and Dfc (Subarctic Climate). This diverse climatic profile results in significant temperature fluctuations throughout the year, with winter lows plummeting to a frigid -31°C (-23°F) in January, while the summer season can see averages soaring to 34°C (94°F) in June. The annual average temperature hovers around 3°C (39°F), underscoring the region's chilly yet exhilarating weather patterns, which are shaped by its mountainous terrain and high-altitude environment.
Temperature patterns in Grisons, Switzerland, reveal distinct seasonal shifts that are typical of its mountainous environment. The winter months of January and February experience extreme lows, with temperatures dropping to -31°C (-23°F) and -30°C (-21°F) respectively, and average temperatures remaining below freezing. As spring arrives in March and April, temperatures begin a gradual ascent, with average highs reaching up to 21°C (70°F) by late April. The transition into summer sees a notable peak in June, where maximum temperatures can soar to 34°C (94°F), while July and August maintain comfortable averages around 13°C (55°F). As autumn sets in, temperatures once again decline, with September and October showing evidence of cooling, particularly in the minimum temperatures falling to -17°C (2°F) in October. This cyclical pattern highlights the region's dramatic temperature fluctuations throughout the year, underscoring its characterized climate.
Lenzerheide experiences a minimum temperature of -28°C (-19°F) in January and a maximum of 27°C (81°F) in June, while Laax records a slightly higher minimum of -26°C (-15°F) in January and a peak of 27°C (82°F) in June. St. Moritz, with its coldest month in February at -28°C (-18°F), sees a maximum temperature of 25°C (77°F) in June. For more detailed monthly temperatures, you can visit monthly temperatures in Lenzerheide, monthly temperatures in Laax, and monthly temperatures in St. Moritz.
Precipitation in Grisons, Switzerland, exhibits a marked seasonal variation, with the wetter months primarily concentrated during the late spring and summer. January starts the year with 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain spread over 10 days, leading into February's lighter total of 70 mm (2.8 in). March sees a slight increase to 102 mm (4.0 in), followed by consistently high totals in April at 100 mm (3.9 in) and May achieving the year's peak with 163 mm (6.4 in) over 21 days. As temperatures rise, June and July maintain substantial precipitation levels, recorded at 158 mm (6.2 in) and 159 mm (6.2 in) respectively.
The summer months reach their zenith in August, with 199 mm (7.8 in), before a gradual decline into autumn. During September and October, rainfall remains significant, at 138 mm (5.4 in) and 150 mm (5.9 in) respectively, while November and December reflect the shift to winter with 113 mm (4.5 in) and 137 mm (5.4 in). Overall, Grisons experiences robust annual rainfall, largely concentrated in the warmer months, resulting in a climate that supports a diverse range of ecosystems and lush landscapes.
In Grisons, Switzerland, the sunshine duration reveals a clear seasonal pattern, with a noticeable increase in sunlight hours as winter transitions to summer. The year begins with 174 hours of sunshine in January, gradually climbing to 234 hours in February. By March, this upward trend becomes more pronounced, reaching 307 hours, and April marks the arrival of more consistent sunny days with 346 hours. May continues this trajectory, featuring 361 hours, setting the stage for the sunniest months of the year.
Summer truly shines in Grisons, with July peaking at 408 hours of sunshine, the highest of any month. August remains vibrant with 369 hours, although a gradual decline begins to set in as autumn approaches. By September, sunshine hours decrease to 310 hours and continue to diminish through October at 277 hours. November and December bring the least sunlight, with only 211 hours and 194 hours, respectively. This seasonal shift underscores Grisons' dynamic climate, offering a bright and lively summer contrasted against the more subdued winter months.
The UV Index in Grisons, Switzerland, displays significant fluctuations throughout the year, reflecting the changing intensity of solar radiation. In the winter months, January and February see moderate UV levels with indices of 3 and 4, respectively, indicating a burn time of 30 minutes. As spring approaches, the UV Index rises sharply, hitting 7 in March and reaching a high of 9 in April. This shift demands greater sun protection, as the burn time decreases to 15 minutes during this period of heightened exposure.
The summer season brings the most intense UV levels, with June and July recording an extreme UV Index of 11, allowing for only 10 minutes of safe sun exposure. In August, the index remains high at 9, slightly easing as summer fades into early autumn. September and October continue to reflect very high to high UV readings, with indices of 8 and 6, respectively, before gradually declining. By November and December, the UV Index drops to 3 and 2, categorizing them under moderate and low exposure risk, thus permitting longer burn times. These seasonal variations in UV exposure highlight the importance of sun safety measures in Grisons, particularly during the sunnier months.
UV Risk Categories
In Grisons, Switzerland, daylight duration illustrates a distinct seasonal rhythm, with notable variations throughout the year. The year begins with relatively short days, as January features just 9 hours of daylight, increasing to 10 hours in February. As spring sets in, daylight continues to lengthen, reaching 11 hours in March and expanding further to 13 hours in April. May marks a significant peak with 15 hours of daylight, a value maintained into June, allowing for ample time to enjoy outdoor activities.
The summer months of June and July sustain 15 hours of daylight, providing a rich opportunity for exploration and recreation. As summer transitions into autumn, daylight begins to taper off gradually, with August offering 14 hours and September showing a decrease to 12 hours. By October, daylight contracts further to 10 hours, and this trend continues into winter with November at 9 hours and December closing the year with only 8 hours of daylight. This cyclical pattern underscores the dramatic contrasts in daylight experienced in Grisons, from the long, bright summer days to the much shorter winter periods.
Arosa, Switzerland experiences a cold mountainous climate, with temperatures ranging from a January low of -30°C (-21°F) to a summer maximum of 26°C (79°F) in June. The region sees significant precipitation, peaking in August with 197 mm (7.8 in) of rainfall, while enjoying ample sunshine, particularly in July with 408 hours. The transition from winter to spring witnesses an increase in temperatures and daylight, making it a popular destination for outdoor activities year-round. For more details, visit Arosa climate.
Berguen, Switzerland experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and mild summers. January temperatures can drop to a frigid -30°C (-21°F), while July peaks at a comfortable 25°C (78°F). Precipitation is highest in late summer, with August receiving 197 mm (7.8 in) of rainfall, and winter months typically see over 90 mm (3.6 in) of snow or rain. The area enjoys substantial sunshine, especially in summer, with July boasting 408 hours of sun. For more detailed information, visit Berguen climate.
Celerina, Switzerland experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and mild summers. January temperatures range from a minimum of -27°C to a maximum of 2°C, while July sees averages around 10°C with highs of 23°C. Precipitation peaks in the summer months, particularly in June and August, receiving up to 195 mm of rain. With abundant sunshine, especially in the warmer months, Celerina enjoys up to 410 hours of sunlight in July. For more detailed information, visit Celerina climate.
Chur, Switzerland experiences a diverse climate with cold winters and mild summers. Temperatures range from a minimum of -28°C in January to a maximum of 27°C in June, with average highs around 12°C in July and August. Precipitation peaks in late summer, particularly in August with 201 mm, while sunshine hours are highest during the summer months, peaking at 408 hours in July. The climate is characterized by significant snowfall in the winter and lush greenery during the warmer months, making it an attractive destination year-round. For more information, visit Chur climate.
Churwalden, Switzerland experiences a continental climate characterized by cold winters and mild summers. January sees average temperatures around -8°C (18°F) with significant snowfall, while summer months like July reach averages of 12°C (54°F) and maximums of 26°C (79°F). Precipitation is highest in August, averaging 201 mm (7.9 in), contributing to the region's lush landscapes. Sunshine peaks in July with 408 hours, providing ample daylight during the warmest month. For more information, visit Churwalden climate.
Davos, Switzerland features a continental climate characterized by cold winters and mild summers. January and February experience the lowest temperatures, with averages around -9°C (16°F) and -6°C (22°F) respectively, while July has warmer averages of 11°C (53°F). Precipitation peaks in August at 197 mm (7.8 in), and sunshine hours are plentiful during summer, especially in July with 408 hours. For more detailed climate information, visit Davos climate.
Disentis, Switzerland experiences a diverse climate, characterized by cold winters and mild summers. January and February are the coldest months, with average temperatures around -7°C to -6°C and significant precipitation, particularly in August, which sees the highest rainfall at 269 mm. Sunshine is abundant from March to July, peaking at 405 hours in July, which contrasts with the shorter days of winter. Overall, Disentis offers a unique blend of snowy winters and sunny summers, ideal for various outdoor activities year-round. For more details, visit Disentis climate.
The climate in Falera, Switzerland, is characterized by cold winters and mild summers. January to March sees minimum temperatures dropping as low as -26°C (-15°F), with January being the coldest month, while July averages around 12°C (55°F) and can reach a maximum of 27°C (80°F). Precipitation peaks in late summer, especially in August with 234 mm (9.2 in), while sunshine hours are highest in July with 404 hours. The area experiences significant seasonal variation, making it a unique destination for both winter sports and summer activities. For more detailed information, visit Falera climate.
Flims, Switzerland experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and mild summers. January and February see average temperatures ranging from -8°C to -4°C, with significant snowfall, while summer months like June and July feature warmer averages around 11°C to 12°C and increased precipitation, particularly in August. The region receives substantial sunshine, peaking in July with 404 hours, aiding outdoor activities and tourism. For more detailed information, visit Flims climate.
Ilanz, Switzerland experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and mild summers. January temperatures range from a minimum of -26°C to a maximum of 6°C, while July sees warmer averages around 12°C with maximums reaching 27°C. Precipitation peaks in summer, particularly in August with 234 mm, while sunshine hours are highest in July, totaling 404 hours. The region also enjoys a significant amount of sunshine, especially during spring and summer months, making it an appealing location for outdoor activities. For more details, visit Ilanz climate.
The climate in Klosters Serneus, Switzerland, showcases a wide temperature range, with January's lows plunging to -29°C (-19°F) and July's highs reaching up to 28°C (82°F). Precipitation is significant, peaking in August at 203 mm (8.0 in), while the region enjoys abundant sunshine, especially in July with 409 hours. The transition from cold winters to mild summers creates a diverse atmospheric experience, making it an appealing destination year-round. For detailed climate data, visit Klosters Serneus climate.
Laax, Switzerland experiences a diverse climate throughout the year, characterized by chilly winters and mild summers. January and February see minimum temperatures dropping to around -26°C (-15°F) and substantial snowfall, while temperatures rise gradually as spring approaches, with averages around 2°C (35°F) in April. Summer months, particularly June to August, are warmer with average temperatures reaching 12°C (54°F) to 27°C (80°F), accompanied by increasing rainfall, peaking in August at 234 mm (9.2 in). The region enjoys considerable sunshine, especially from May to July, making it an attractive destination year-round. For more detailed information, visit Laax climate.
Lenzerheide, Switzerland experiences a range of temperatures throughout the year, with January averages around -8°C (18°F) rising to 12°C (54°F) by March, and peaking in July at 12°C (54°F) to 26°C (79°F). The region sees significant precipitation, particularly in the summer months, peaking in August with 201 mm (7.9 in). Sunshine hours also vary, with the longest days occurring in July, which enjoys 408 hours of sunshine. For more detailed information, visit Lenzerheide climate.
Maienfeld, Switzerland experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year, with winter lows reaching -26°C in January and highs of 25°C in May. Precipitation is relatively high, especially during summer months, peaking at 239 mm in August. Sunshine hours are abundant, with July offering the most at 409 hours. The climate is characterized by cold winters and warm summers, making it a unique destination for visitors. For more information, visit Maienfeld climate.
Obersaxen, Switzerland experiences a diverse climate with cold winters and mild summers. January and February are the coldest months, with minimum temperatures reaching -25°C (-12°F) and average temperatures around -8°C (18°F) to -5°C (24°F). Precipitation peaks in August with 261 mm (10.3 in), while sunshine hours are highest in July, totaling 405 hours. Overall, the area enjoys beautiful summer weather and ample winter snow, making it a picturesque destination year-round. For more details, visit Obersaxen climate.
Pontresina, Switzerland experiences a cold, mountainous climate characterized by significant seasonal changes. Winter temperatures range from a frigid minimum of -30°C in February to a maximum of 2°C in January, while summers see averages around 11°C to 24°C from June to August. Precipitation peaks in the summer months, particularly in August with 160 mm, while the sunniest month is July with 414 hours of sunshine. This unique blend of low temperatures and varied precipitation makes Pontresina an attractive destination for winter sports and summer hiking. For more details, visit Pontresina climate.
The climate in Poschiavo, Switzerland, is characterized by cold winters and mild summers. January averages around -9°C (17°F), with temperatures often dropping below -28°C (-19°F), while July sees favorable highs of up to 24°C (76°F). Precipitation is highest in late spring, peaking at 147 mm (5.8 in) in May, and the area enjoys the most sunshine during the summer months, particularly in July with 414 hours. For more detailed information, you can visit Poschiavo climate.
Samedan, Switzerland experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and mild summers. January and February often see extreme lows, with temperatures reaching as low as -28°C (-18°F), while July and August enjoy milder averages around 10°C (51°F). Precipitation is highest in late spring and summer, peaking in August with 195 mm (7.7 in), while sunshine hours steadily increase from winter through summer, culminating in July with 410 hours. For more detailed insights, visit Samedan climate.
The climate in Samnaun, Switzerland, features cold winters and mild summers. January temperatures can dip as low as -28°C (-18°F), while July sees averages around 11°C (53°F). Precipitation peaks in summer months, particularly in August with 184 mm (7.2 in) of rainfall, and sunshine hours are abundant, especially in June and July, averaging over 400 hours. This alpine region experiences its driest and sunniest periods in late spring to early summer. For more detailed climate information, visit Samnaun climate.
Savognin, Switzerland experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and mild summers. January and February see the lowest temperatures, with averages around -9°C (15°F) and -6°C (21°F), while July and August reach pleasant highs of 24°C (76°F) and 23°C (74°F) respectively. Precipitation peaks in the warmer months, especially in June and August, with an average of 153 mm (6.0 in) and 179 mm (7.0 in). The area enjoys a reasonable amount of sunshine throughout the year, particularly in summer, with July offering up to 410 hours. For more details, see Savognin climate.
Scuol, Switzerland, experiences a diverse climate marked by cold winters and mild summers. January temperatures can plunge to a minimum of -29°C (-20°F), while July averages around a comfortable 10°C (51°F). Precipitation peaks in August at 160 mm (6.3 in), contributing to lush surroundings during the warmer months. The region enjoys substantial sunshine, particularly in July with 411 hours, fostering a vibrant outdoor atmosphere. For more details, visit Scuol climate.
The climate in Sils-Segl Maria, Switzerland is marked by cold winters and mild summers. January temperatures can drop to as low as -27°C (-17°F), with average highs rarely exceeding 2°C (36°F), while summer months see averages around 10°C (51°F) in July and August. Precipitation peaks in late spring and summer, with June and August receiving approximately 159 mm (6.3 in) and 195 mm (7.7 in) respectively. Despite its chilly winters, Sils-Segl Maria enjoys significant sunshine, especially from May to July, with over 350 hours of sun per month during this period. For more detailed climate information, visit Sils-Segl Maria climate.
Silvaplana, Switzerland experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year, with winter months seeing averages as low as -11°C (12°F) in January and highs of 2°C (36°F). As spring and summer approach, temperatures rise significantly, peaking at averages of 10°C (51°F) in July and 9°C (49°F) in June. Precipitation is highest in the warmer months, with July and August recording around 159 mm (6.3 in) and 195 mm (7.7 in) respectively. Sunshine hours also peak during summer, with July boasting an impressive 410 hours. For more details, visit Silvaplana climate.
St. Moritz, Switzerland, experiences a subalpine climate characterized by cold winters and mild summers. January and February see average temperatures linger around -8°C to -11°C, while July and August enjoy milder averages of about 10°C to 10.5°C. Precipitation peaks in late spring and summer, with May and August receiving around 150 mm and 195 mm, respectively. The area is notably sunny, with the summer months boasting up to 410 hours of sunshine in July. For more detailed information, visit St. Moritz climate.
The climate in Thusis, Switzerland, features a wide range of temperatures throughout the year, with January temperatures dipping as low as -28°C (-19°F) and averaging -8°C (18°F). As summer approaches, July reaches an average of 12°C (54°F) and highs around 26°C (79°F). The region receives significant precipitation, peaking in August at 201 mm (7.9 in), while sunshine hours are abundant in summer, with July enjoying 408 hours of sun. For more detailed information, visit Thusis climate.
Zernez, Switzerland experiences a typical alpine climate with cold winters and mild summers. January temperatures can drop as low as -31°C (-23°F), while July sees average highs of around 24°C (76°F). Precipitation is prominent, especially in the summer months, with May experiencing the heaviest rainfall at 161 mm (6.3 in). Notably, Zernez enjoys a significant amount of sunshine, peaking at 411 hours in July. For detailed climate information, visit Zernez climate.
The climate in Zuoz, Switzerland, is characterized by cold winters and mild summers. January and February experience frigid temperatures, with averages around -11°C (12°F) and -8°C (18°F), while July and August are much warmer, averaging around 11°C (52°F). Precipitation peaks in May and August, with over 130 mm (5.2 in) each month, while sunshine is greatest during summer, particularly in July with 414 hours. For more detailed information on the climate, visit Zuoz climate.
In conclusion, the climate of Grisons, Switzerland, is marked by significant seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours. The region experiences harsh winters with extreme cold and shorter daylight, which transitions into warmer, longer summer days that bask in greater sunlight and elevated UV levels. Understanding these climatic trends is essential not only for residents and visitors seeking to enjoy the natural beauty of Grisons but also for promoting awareness of sun safety and environmental conditions throughout the year. As the seasons shift, Grisons offers a diverse climate that supports a variety of outdoor activities, fostering an appreciation for the region's stunning landscapes and unique ecological systems.