Last updated: January 18, 2025
Neuchâtel, Switzerland, features a temperate oceanic climate designated as Cfb in the Köppen-Geiger climate classification. Characterized by mild winters and warm summers, the region experiences a minimum temperature of -17°C (2°F) in January, while average temperatures hover around 9°C (49°F) throughout the year. In contrast, the peak of summer sees maximum temperatures soaring to 34°C (94°F) in July, creating a dynamic climatic environment that supports a diverse range of flora and fauna, as well as outdoor activities year-round.
Neuchâtel, Switzerland, showcases distinct seasonal temperature patterns reflective of its temperate climate. Winter months, particularly January and February, exhibit significant chill, with minimum temperatures plummeting to around -17°C (2°F) and -13°C (8°F), while average temperatures remain near freezing. As spring unfolds, temperatures gradually rise, with March and April bringing notable increases, averaging 5°C (41°F) and 9°C (48°F) respectively, alongside maximums reaching 24°C (76°F). By late spring into summer, particularly in June and July, Neuchâtel experiences its warmest conditions, with July marking peak temperatures that can soar up to 34°C (94°F). The gradual transition towards autumn sees a softening of the heat, with September offering pleasant averages of 14°C (58°F) before temperatures dip again in October and November, heralding the onset of winter. Overall, the region's temperature trends exhibit a classic shift from crisp, cold winters to warm, vibrant summers, punctuated by transitional periods of moderate warmth in spring and autumn.
Le Locle experiences temperatures ranging from a minimum of -16°C (3°F) in January to a maximum of 34°C (93°F) in July, while Neuchatel has slightly colder winters with a minimum of -17°C (2°F) in January and similar summer highs of 34°C (94°F). La Chaux-de-Fonds shares a winter minimum of -16°C (3°F) and a maximum of 34°C (93°F) during the summer months. For more detailed climate information, visit the monthly temperatures in Le Locle, Neuchatel, and La Chaux-de-Fonds.
Neuchâtel, Switzerland, experiences a moderately wet climate, with precipitation distributed fairly consistently throughout the year. The winter months, specifically December and January, are among the wettest, recording 174 mm (6.9 in) and 120 mm (4.7 in) of rainfall respectively, alongside 12 days of precipitation each month. As the seasons transition into spring, March and May also stand out with significant rainfall amounts, 125 mm (4.9 in) and 167 mm (6.6 in), total precipitation reflecting the gradual warming and heightened moisture in the atmosphere.
Summer months maintain substantial rainfall, with June and July receiving about 151 mm (5.9 in) and 147 mm (5.8 in), ensuring lush landscapes typical of the region during this time. August experiences a slight reduction to 136 mm (5.3 in), yet it continues the trend of consistent precipitation. The autumn months of September through November see moderate rainfall, averaging between 89 mm (3.5 in) and 113 mm (4.5 in). Overall, Neuchâtel’s precipitation pattern demonstrates a balanced distribution across the year, with peaks in early spring and late autumn, alongside a notable frequency of rainy days, particularly evident in winter and late fall.
In Neuchâtel, Switzerland, sunshine duration exhibits a clear seasonal pattern characterized by a gradual increase from winter to summer. Starting the year with 153 hours in January, the amount of sunlight quickly rises, reaching 221 hours in February and 291 hours in March. By April, residents are greeted with 356 hours of bright sunshine, blooming into May with an impressive 370 hours. This upward trend continues through the summer months, peaking in July at 418 hours, making it the sunniest month of the year. Such abundance of sunshine during these warmer months creates a vibrant atmosphere, encouraging outdoor activities amidst the lush landscapes.
As summer transitions to autumn, there is a noticeable decline in sunshine hours, although September still offers a hearty 332 hours before dropping to 276 hours in October. The dimming of sunlight continues into November, where only 214 hours are recorded, and December sees the average fall to 177 hours. This seasonal decline emphasizes winter’s shorter days, contrasting sharply with the warmer months. Overall, Neuchâtel's sunshine data highlights not only the region's delightful summer brightness but also the stark shifts in daylight that define its distinct seasonal rhythms.
The UV Index in Neuchâtel, Switzerland, demonstrates a clear seasonal progression, reflecting the intensity of solar radiation throughout the year. During the winter months, the UV Index remains relatively low, peaking at 2 in January and December, indicating minimal risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure, with a recommended burn time of 45 minutes. As winter fades, February sees an increase to a moderate UV Index of 3, signaling the approaching spring and prompting greater awareness of sun protection as the days lengthen.
Spring ushers in a significant surge in the UV Index, with values reaching 6 in March and topping out at 7 in April, categorizing these months as having a high exposure risk. The trend continues into summer, where May and June record very high indexes of 8 and 10, respectively, mandating precautions due to shorter burn times of just 15 minutes. As summer progresses, the UV Index declines slightly by August, but still remains at a very high level of 8, before tapering off to 6 in September. The autumn months bring a return to moderate levels, with October and November each presenting an index of 3 and 4, while December returns to a low 2, closing the year with a recommitment to sun safety as sunlight wanes.
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In Neuchâtel, Switzerland, daylight duration varies significantly throughout the year, reflecting the region's distinct seasonal cycles. January and December experience the shortest days, each providing a mere 8 hours of daylight, while February offers a modest increase to 10 hours as the days gradually lengthen. As spring approaches, March brings 11 hours of daylight, paving the way for April's notable expansion to 13 hours, signaling a return to brighter days and inviting the community outdoors.
The summer months of May, June, and July showcase the region at its sunniest, each boasting a consistent 15 hours of daylight. In August, daylight duration begins to wane slightly, dropping to 14 hours, yet still remains ample for outdoor activities. As autumn settles in, September experiences 12 hours of light, which gradually decreases to 10 hours in October and 9 hours in November. This decline culminates in a return to shorter daylight hours by the end of the year, reinforcing the cyclical nature of sunlight in Neuchâtel and the importance of adapting to seasonal variations.
Auvernier, Switzerland experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures range from a minimum of -17°C to a maximum of 14°C, while July sees much warmer averages around 18°C with highs reaching 34°C. Precipitation is significant, peaking in May with 159 mm, and residents enjoy abundant sunshine, particularly in July with 418 hours. The transitional seasons of spring and autumn also showcase milder weather and varied rainfall. For more detailed climate information, visit Auvernier climate.
Fleurier, Switzerland experiences a varied climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures can drop as low as -15°C (5°F), while July can reach highs of 34°C (94°F). Precipitation is significant, with May and June averaging 186 mm (7.3 in) each, alongside abundant sunshine peaking in July at 416 hours. The unique blend of seasonal temperatures and rainfall contributes to the region's picturesque landscapes throughout the year. For more details, visit Fleurier climate.
La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland experiences a diverse climate with cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures can dip as low as -16°C (3°F), while July averages around 18°C (65°F), peaking at 34°C (93°F). The region receives substantial rainfall, particularly in May and December, with average precipitation reaching 166 mm (6.5 in) and 175 mm (6.9 in) respectively. Sunshine hours vary significantly throughout the year, peaking in July with 418 hours. For more detailed information, visit La Chaux-de-Fonds climate.
Le Locle, Switzerland experiences a varied climate with cold winters and mild summers. January temperatures range from -16°C to 13°C, while July sees highs of up to 34°C. Precipitation is highest in May and December, averaging around 166 mm and 175 mm respectively, contributing to an overall wet climate. The region enjoys ample sunshine during the summer months, peaking at 418 hours in July, which reveals a stark contrast to the winter months with significantly fewer sunshine hours. For more detailed information, visit Le Locle climate.
The climate in Les Brenets, Switzerland, features cold winters and mild summers, with January temperatures ranging from a minimum of -16°C (3°F) to a maximum of 13°C (56°F). In contrast, July sees temperatures soar to a high of 34°C (93°F), making it the warmest month. Precipitation is significant, particularly in May and December, with averages of 166 mm (6.5 in) and 175 mm (6.9 in), respectively. The region enjoys considerable sunshine, especially in the summer months, with July receiving up to 418 hours of sun. For more detailed information, visit Les Brenets climate.
Neuchatel, Switzerland, experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January and February see minimum temperatures around -17°C and -12°C, with average highs reaching 14°C and 17°C, respectively. Precipitation is significant, particularly in May and June, averaging 159 mm and 135 mm, respectively, while sunshine peaks during the summer months, especially in July with 418 hours. The transition to milder temperatures in spring and early autumn is marked by an increase in sunshine and a decrease in rainfall. For more detailed information, visit Neuchatel climate.
In conclusion, Neuchâtel, Switzerland, exhibits a remarkable interplay of climate elements, including temperature variation, precipitation patterns, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours, all of which contribute to its rich seasonal character. From the frosty winters with brief daylight to the vibrant summers bathed in abundant sunlight, the region demonstrates both contrasts and harmonies in its climate. This dynamic environment not only shapes the local landscape and ecosystems but also influences the lifestyle and activities of its residents. Understanding these climatic trends is essential for appreciating the unique qualities of Neuchâtel, guiding residents and visitors alike in making informed decisions about outdoor pursuits and sun safety throughout the year.