Last updated: January 18, 2025
Schwyz, Switzerland, showcases a diverse climate characterized by its Koppen-Geiger classifications of ET (Tundra) and Cfb (Oceanic). This region experiences a significant temperature range, with winter lows plummeting to a frigid -25°C (-13°F) in March, highlighting the stark seasonal contrasts. Average annual temperatures hover around a mild 8°C (46°F), while summer peaks can reach a sweltering 33°C (91°F) in July, revealing the region's capacity for both chill and warmth. These climatic features contribute to the unique ecological and cultural fabric of Schwyz, making it a fascinating area for both residents and visitors alike.
The temperature patterns in Schwyz, Switzerland, reveal distinct seasonal variations that significantly impact the region's climate. Winter months, characterized by extreme lows, see January and February experiencing minimum temperatures as low as -21°C (-5°F) and average temperatures around 0°C (33°F). March begins to show a gradual warming trend, with average temperatures rising to 3°C (37°F). As spring approaches, temperatures steadily climb, with April and May averaging 7°C (44°F) and 10°C (51°F), respectively, marking a transition into warmer weather. Summer peaks are observed in July, where temperatures can soar to a maximum of 33°C (91°F), creating a stark contrast with the chilly autumn months that follow. By November and December, temperatures dip again, with November averages at 3°C (38°F) and December averaging a cool 0°C (32°F), encapsulating a year of dynamic climatic shifts from frigid winters to warm summers.
In Schwyz, temperatures range from a chilling minimum of -24°C (-10°F) in March to a warm maximum of 29°C (85°F) in June, as detailed in the monthly temperatures in Schwyz. Nearby Goldau experiences slightly milder conditions with a minimum of -19°C (-1°F) in February and a peak of 31°C (88°F) in June, which can be viewed in the monthly temperatures in Goldau. Meanwhile, Einsiedeln records a minimum of -16°C (4°F) in March, with the highest temperatures reaching 33°C (91°F) in July, as shown in the monthly temperatures in Einsiedeln.
Precipitation in Schwyz, Switzerland, exhibits distinct seasonal variability throughout the year. The wettest months are typically May, June, and August, with rainfall measuring 173 mm (6.8 in), 203 mm (8.0 in), and 203 mm (8.0 in) respectively, contributing to lush landscapes and robust ecological health. Conversely, the winter months, particularly February and November, experience significantly lower precipitation levels, with February recording 103 mm (4.0 in) and November only 93 mm (3.7 in), resulting in drier conditions during the colder season.
In addition to the amount of rainfall, the number of rainy days also plays a crucial role in Schwyz's climate profile. The month of May stands out with 20 rainy days, emphasizing the transition into summer. Interestingly, while December sees 172 mm (6.8 in) of precipitation with 18 days of rain, it marks the return of wetter conditions as winter sets in again. This pattern suggests a climate characterized by substantial moisture primarily concentrated in late spring and summer, punctuated by drier periods in late fall and winter, supporting both agricultural and hydrological needs in the region.
The sunshine duration in Schwyz, Switzerland, reflects a clear seasonal trend that coincides with the natural progression of the year. During the winter months, sunshine hours are notably limited, with January receiving only 164 hours of sunlight and December following closely with 184 hours. However, as the seasons shift towards spring, there is a marked increase in sunshine, peaking in April with 356 hours. By late spring, this upward trend continues, culminating in the summer months where sunshine reaches its zenith. July stands out with an impressive 411 hours of sunshine, providing residents and visitors alike ample opportunity to enjoy the beautiful landscapes of the region.
Following the summer peak, sunshine hours begin to decline in August and September, with 379 hours and 316 hours respectively, signaling the gradual transition into fall. October experiences further reduction with 276 hours of sunshine, while November drops significantly to 213 hours. This seasonal cycle highlights the importance of summer sunlight in Schwyz, not only for agricultural practices but also for outdoor recreational activities. The consistent rise from winter’s limited light to the summer’s abundant sunshine illustrates the dynamic climate that shapes the daily lives of those in the region.
The UV Index in Schwyz, Switzerland, varies significantly throughout the year, highlighting the importance of sun safety during different seasons. In the winter months, particularly January and December, the UV Index remains low at 2. This corresponds to a longer burn time of 45 minutes, suggesting minimal sun exposure risks. As the year progresses into spring, the UV Index begins to rise, with March reaching 5 and April escalating to 7, indicating moderate to high exposure levels. These changes signal an increasing need for protective measures as residents transition into outdoor activities.
Summer months in Schwyz showcase the peak of UV radiation intensity, with the Index soaring to a very high rating of 10 in June. July slightly declines to 9, while August remains at 8, all with a short burn time of merely 15 minutes. As the season shifts to fall, the UV Index gradually decreases, with September recording 6 and then falling to 4 by October. This decline is accompanied by a return to moderate exposure levels, allowing for a greater safety margin. Understanding these UV trends is crucial for the community to effectively manage sun exposure, safeguarding against potential skin damage during the sunniest months.
UV Risk Categories
Daylight duration in Schwyz, Switzerland, demonstrates a striking seasonal rhythm that influences daily life throughout the year. Starting with the winter months, January and December provide only 8 hours of daylight, creating shorter days that are characteristic of this cold season. As February arrives, daylight begins to extend to 10 hours, and by March, it reaches 11 hours, heralding the arrival of spring and the gradual increase in sunlight. April marks a noteworthy shift, with daylight extending to 13 hours, while May continues this trend, peaking at 15 hours.
The summer months of June, July, and August maintain this 15-hour daylight duration, providing ample opportunity for outdoor activities and recreation under the sun. However, as summer retreats, daylight begins its slow descent, with September experiencing a reduction to 12 hours, and further diminishing to 10 hours in October. The transition back to shorter days is completed by November, which offers 9 hours of daylight. This cyclical pattern of daylight availability underscores the significant impact of seasonal changes on both the environment and the lifestyle of Schwyz residents.
Einsiedeln, Switzerland experiences a varied climate with significant temperature fluctuations throughout the year. Winters are cold, with January and February seeing minimum temperatures around -15°C (6°F) and average highs reaching up to 17°C (62°F) in February. Summer months, particularly July and August, reveal warmer conditions with average temperatures around 18°C (65°F) and maximums of 33°C (91°F). Precipitation peaks in the summer, especially in June, which receives 187 mm (7.4 in), while sunshine is abundant from May to July, with over 360 hours of sun. For more details, visit Einsiedeln climate.
Gersau, Switzerland experiences a temperate climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from a chilly -1°C (30°F) in January to a warm 17°C (63°F) in July, with maximums reaching up to 31°C (88°F) during the summer months. Precipitation is highest in the summer, peaking at 203 mm (8.0 in) in August, while winter months see less overall rain, particularly in February with 106 mm (4.2 in). The region enjoys ample sunshine, especially in July with 415 hours, contributing to its picturesque landscapes. For more detailed information, visit Gersau climate.
Goldau, Switzerland experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures can dip to -15°C (5°F), while July sees highs of up to 31°C (88°F). Precipitation peaks in the summer months, with August receiving around 203 mm (8.0 in). Sunshine is abundant, particularly from June to August, with July enjoying about 415 hours of sunlight. For more detailed information, visit Goldau climate.
Kussnacht, Switzerland experiences a temperate climate with cold winters and warm summers. January and February are the chilliest months, seeing minimum temperatures drop as low as -19°C (−1°F), while July and August peak at around 31°C (87°F). Precipitation is fairly consistent throughout the year, with the wettest months being June and August, receiving over 190 mm (7.5 in). Sunshine hours peak in July, averaging 415 hours, contributing to the region's greenery and vibrancy. For more detailed information, visit Kussnacht climate.
Lachen, Switzerland experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January sees temperatures ranging from -12°C to 13°C with considerable precipitation of 127 mm, while July offers warmer conditions with averages of 18°C and maximums reaching 33°C. The region enjoys ample sunshine in the summer months, peaking at 410 hours in July. Conversely, winter months like December receive about 155 mm of rain, paired with shorter daylight hours. For a detailed overview, visit Lachen climate.
The climate in Schwyz, Switzerland, features cold winters and mild summers. January sees minimum temperatures plummeting to -18°C (0°F) and an average of -4°C (26°F), while July offers more warmth with averages around 15°C (59°F) and maximums reaching 29°C (84°F). Precipitation is significant, with the wettest months of June and August averaging about 229 mm (9.0 in) and 231 mm (9.1 in), respectively. The sunny months span from April to August, collectively providing over 1,000 hours of sunshine. For more detailed information, visit Schwyz climate.
In conclusion, the climate of Schwyz, Switzerland, is marked by notable seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours. From the extreme cold and limited daylight of winter to the warm, sun-drenched days of summer, each season brings a unique character that shapes the experiences of residents and visitors alike. The insights gathered from the climatic data highlight the importance of adapting to these seasonal changes, whether it be for agriculture, outdoor activities, or health considerations relating to UV exposure. Understanding these patterns not only enriches the appreciation of Schwyz's natural environment but also fosters a deeper connection to the rhythms of life dictated by its diverse climate.