Last updated: January 18, 2025
Vaud, Switzerland, experiences a diverse climate characterized by a Koppen-Geiger classification of Cfb (oceanic) and ET (tundra). The temperature range is notable, with frigid minimums reaching -25°C (-13°F) during the coldest month of December, and soaring to maximums of 35°C (96°F) in the warmest month of July. The average annual temperature hovers around a mild 10°C (50°F), contributing to a unique climate that supports both lush vegetation and colder alpine conditions.
Vaud, Switzerland exhibits distinct seasonal temperature trends throughout the year, marked by cold, snowy winters and moderately warm summers. January and February bring the coldest conditions, with minimums plummeting as low as -25°C (-13°F), while average temperatures struggle to reach 3°C (38°F) in February. As spring approaches, March and April witness a gradual warming trend, with average temperatures rising to 9°C (48°F) in April and maximums reaching 25°C (77°F), signaling the transition to a more temperate climate. By the time summer arrives in June and July, average temperatures soar to 19°C (66°F) and maximums peak at a sweltering 35°C (96°F). August marks the end of summer, with temperatures beginning to decline as autumn sets in, leading to cooler nights and milder days, before transitioning back to the chill of winter by December.
Lausanne experiences a minimum temperature of -10°C (15°F) in February and can reach highs of 34°C (94°F) in July, while Montreux's coldest month is January, with a minimum of -17°C (1°F) and a maximum of 32°C (90°F) in July. Vevey shares similar temperature patterns with Lausanne, having a minimum of -10°C (15°F) in February and a maximum of 34°C (94°F) in July. For more details, explore the monthly temperatures in Lausanne, Montreux, and Vevey through the provided links: monthly temperatures in Lausanne, monthly temperatures in Montreux, and monthly temperatures in Vevey.
Precipitation patterns in Vaud, Switzerland, are characterized by significant variability throughout the year, with notable peaks in winter and late spring. January begins with a substantial 118 mm (4.6 in) of precipitation over approximately 11 days, and February experiences a slight decrease to 94 mm (3.7 in). March sees an uptick to 125 mm (4.9 in), indicating the arrival of spring rains, while April represents a dip in precipitation to 64 mm (2.5 in), as temperatures begin to rise. This trend shifts dramatically in May, where rainfall increases to a notable 157 mm (6.2 in), paving the way for a wetter late spring.
As summer unfolds, rainfall remains consistent, with June and July receiving 127 mm (5.0 in) and 130 mm (5.1 in) respectively. August follows closely with 124 mm (4.9 in), maintaining the humid conditions typical of the season. In autumn, precipitation begins to moderate; however, October still sees a healthy 112 mm (4.4 in) followed by 104 mm (4.1 in) in November. December caps the year with the highest monthly total of 192 mm (7.6 in), suggesting a return of wet winter weather that attests to the region's complex climatic patterns, with precipitation often concentrated over 14-18 days per month during the wetter seasons.
The sunshine duration in Vaud, Switzerland, reveals a clear seasonal progression, with days becoming noticeably brighter as the year unfolds. Starting from a modest 161 hours in January, the gradual increase in sunlight marks a shift towards spring, with February seeing a boost to 226 hours. This upward trend continues into March, where the total reaches 293 hours, and April experiences a significant leap to 353 hours. The transition into summer is marked by May, which records 356 hours of sunshine, setting the stage for the sunniest months ahead.
Summer indeed shines the brightest in Vaud, with July leading the charge at 416 hours of sunshine, closely followed by August at 386 hours. However, as the season shifts to autumn, a decline in sunshine hours begins, illustrated by September's drop to 328 hours, and October's further decrease to 282 hours. By November, the sunshine diminishes to 222 hours, and December sees a return to winter's limited light with only 188 hours. This seasonal fluctuation reflects the region's characteristic temperate climate, highlighting the importance of sunlight for both local ecosystems and the lifestyle of its inhabitants.
The Ultraviolet (UV) Index in Vaud, Switzerland, exhibits a clear seasonal pattern that highlights the varying levels of UV radiation throughout the year. In the winter months of January and December, the UV Index remains relatively low, at 2, with exposure categorized as low, indicating a safe environment for outdoor activities; here, one can afford up to 45 minutes of sun exposure without risk of sunburn. As winter turns to spring, the UV Index begins to rise, peaking at 4 in February (moderate exposure category) and significantly escalating in March to 7, categorized as high. This shift indicates a heightened need for sun protection as the risk of UV-related skin damage increases.
The arrival of summer brings the highest UV Index readings, with June and July recording a peak of 10, classified as very high, necessitating limited sun exposure—just 15 minutes to avoid sunburn. This pattern slightly decreases in August to 9 but remains significant, before tapering off in autumn. By September, the UV Index drops to 7, and further declines to 5 in October and 3 in November, resuming a low level of 2 in December. Understanding these UV trends enables residents and visitors in Vaud to take appropriate sun safety measures throughout the year, ensuring their health and well-being.
UV Risk Categories
In Vaud, Switzerland, daylight duration fluctuates significantly throughout the year, reflecting the seasonal changes inherent to the region. January starts with just 9 hours of daylight, gradually increasing to 10 hours in February. As spring approaches, this trend continues with 11 hours in March and 13 hours in April, marking a noticeable transition as days grow longer. May sees a further increase to 15 hours, which holds steady through June and July, creating the longest days of the year, ideal for outdoor activities and exploration.
As summer wanes, daylight begins to gradually decrease, with August experiencing 14 hours before dropping to 12 hours in September. The onset of autumn brings a noticeable reduction, as daylight decreases to 10 hours in October. This decline continues into November, where days shorten back to 9 hours, and finally, December culminates the year with just 8 hours of daylight. Understanding these daylight patterns allows residents and visitors to better plan their activities and appreciate the natural rhythms of the seasons in this picturesque Swiss region.
Avenches, 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 conditions, with temperatures peaking at 34°C. Precipitation is notable in May, totaling 159 mm, and rainfall is fairly consistent throughout the year. Sunshine hours peak in July with 418 hours, contributing to the pleasant summer atmosphere. For more detailed information, visit Avenches climate.
Bellerive, Switzerland experiences a diverse climate with cold winters and warm summers. January sees minimum temperatures drop to -17°C (2°F), while July can reach as high as 34°C (94°F). Precipitation varies throughout the year, peaking in May at 159 mm (6.3 in) and notably high in early summer. Sunshine is abundant in the summer months, with July receiving the most hours at 418. For more detailed climate information, visit Bellerive climate.
Caux, Switzerland experiences a diverse climate with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -17°C (1°F) in January to a maximum of 32°C (89°F) in June and July. The average temperatures gradually rise from -2°C (29°F) in January to 17°C (63°F) in July, before cooling down again in the fall and winter months. Precipitation is significant throughout the year, peaking in December at 208 mm (8.2 in), while sunshine hours vary from 167 hours in January to 418 hours in July. This combination of temperature, precipitation, and sunshine contributes to the region's unique climate, making Caux an interesting place to visit year-round. More information can be found at Caux climate.
Chateau-d'Oex, Switzerland experiences a varied climate throughout the year, with January temperatures ranging from a minimum of -24°C to a maximum of 8°C. The warmer months of June and July see averages around 15°C, peaking at 31°C and 30°C, respectively. Precipitation is highest in May and December, with 205 mm and 226 mm, while the sunniest months are typically July and August, boasting around 416 and 385 hours of sunshine. Despite the chilly winters, the area receives ample sunlight during the warmer months, making it a picturesque location year-round. For more detailed information, visit Chateau-d'Oex climate.
Chexbres, Switzerland experiences a temperate climate characterized by warm summers and cold winters. January and February see minimum temperatures drop to around -10°C (15°F), while July and August can reach up to 34°C (94°F). Precipitation varies throughout the year, with the wettest months being December and May, receiving 186 mm (7.3 in) and 142 mm (5.6 in), respectively. Sunshine hours peak in July, offering an impressive 418 hours, promoting outdoor activities during the summer months. For more detailed information, visit Chexbres climate.
Gryon, Switzerland experiences a diverse climate with cold winters and mild summers. January temperatures range from -24°C to 8°C, while July sees milder averages between 2°C and 28°C. Precipitation is highest in May and June, reaching 211 mm, contributing to lush landscapes. The region enjoys substantial sunshine, particularly in the summer months, with July averaging 418 hours. For more detailed information, visit Gryon climate.
La Tour-de-Peilz, Switzerland, experiences a temperate climate characterized by distinct seasonal variations. Winter months such as January and February feature colder temperatures ranging from -10°C to a maximum of 16°C, accompanied by significant precipitation, particularly in December, when it reaches 186 mm. As spring transitions into summer, temperatures rise, peaking in July at a maximum of 34°C with abundant sunshine, totaling 418 hours. Rainfall varies throughout the year, with May typically receiving the highest precipitation at 142 mm. For more detailed weather statistics, visit La Tour-de-Peilz climate.
Lausanne, Switzerland experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasons. Winter months (January to March) can be cold, with temperatures ranging from -10°C to 20°C, while precipitation is relatively high, peaking in December at 186 mm. As summer approaches (June to August), temperatures rise significantly, reaching highs of 34°C, accompanied by plenty of sunshine, especially in July with 418 hours. The transition months of spring and autumn see moderate temperatures and varying precipitation levels, making Lausanne a picturesque location year-round. For more details, visit Lausanne climate.
Leysin, Switzerland experiences a varied climate with cold winters and mild summers. January sees temperatures range from a minimum of -24°C to a maximum of 8°C, while July warms up to 28°C. Precipitation is highest in December at 228 mm, with a notable peak during the summer months, particularly in May and June at 211 mm each. Sunshine is abundant in the summer, peaking at 418 hours in July, while winter months receive significantly less sunlight. For more detailed climatic information, visit Leysin climate.
Lutry, Switzerland experiences a temperate climate with cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures range from -7°C to 14°C, while July sees highs around 34°C. Precipitation is relatively high, especially in December, when it reaches 186 mm, contributing to the lush surroundings. The region enjoys ample sunshine, particularly in the summer months with July averaging 418 hours. For a detailed overview, you can visit Lutry climate.
Montreux, Switzerland, experiences a diverse climate with cold winters and warm summers. January marks the coldest month with temperatures ranging from -17°C to 10°C, while July sees higher averages of 17°C to 32°C. Precipitation peaks in December at 208 mm, highlighting a wet winter season, while sunshine is abundant from May to July, witnessing up to 418 hours in July. Overall, Montreux's climate offers a picturesque setting year-round, ideal for both winter sports and summer activities. For more information, visit Montreux climate.
Morges, Switzerland experiences a temperate climate characterized by distinct seasons. Winters are cold, with January temperatures averaging around 3°C (37°F) and considerable snowfall, particularly in December with 186 mm of precipitation. As spring approaches, temperatures gradually rise, reaching an average of 13°C (55°F) in May, accompanied by increased sunshine hours. Summers are warm, with July highs reaching up to 33°C (91°F) and ample sunshine, while autumn sees a gradual decline in temperature and precipitation. For more detailed information, visit Morges climate.
Nyon, Switzerland experiences a diverse climate throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from a frigid -11°C (13°F) in February to a warm 33°C (91°F) in July. The region receives significant rainfall, peaking in December with 213 mm (8.4 in) of precipitation, while May also stands out with 163 mm (6.4 in). Sunshine hours fluctuate dramatically, reaching a high of 414 hours in July and dropping to just 159 hours in January. Overall, Nyon's climate offers a mix of cold winters and warm summers, making it a charming destination year-round. For more details, visit Nyon climate.
Roche, Switzerland experiences a diverse climate with cold winters and mild summers. January temperatures can plunge to a minimum of -24°C (-11°F) and accumulate significant precipitation, peaking at 138 mm (5.4 in), while sunshine hours start low at 167 hours. As spring approaches, temperatures gradually rise, reaching an average of 5°C (41°F) in April and peaking at 355 hours of sunlight in May. Summer months are warmer, with July averaging 15°C (59°F) and receiving abundant sunshine, reaching up to 418 hours. For detailed climate information, visit Roche climate.
Saint Saphorin, Switzerland experiences a varied climate throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -10°C (15°F) in February to a maximum of 34°C (94°F) in July. The region receives significant precipitation, especially in December (186 mm) and May (142 mm), while the sunniest months are June and July, with over 400 hours of sunshine. Seasonal transitions show cold winters and warm summers, making it an attractive destination for those seeking diverse weather. For more details, visit Saint Saphorin climate.
Saint-Cergue, Switzerland, experiences a varied climate throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from a chilly -11°C (13°F) in February to warm highs of 33°C (91°F) in July. Precipitation is abundant, particularly in May and December, accumulating up to 213 mm (8.4 in) during the latter month. The region enjoys significant sunshine, peaking at 414 hours in July and averaging around 352 hours in May. This combination of mild summers and cold winters makes it an appealing destination for both outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a scenic retreat. For further details, visit Saint-Cergue climate.
Saint-Prex, Switzerland features a diverse climate with distinct seasonal variations. Winters are cold, with January and February averaging temperatures around 3°C (37°F) and 4°C (40°F) respectively, often accompanied by significant precipitation, particularly in December with 186 mm (7.3 in). As spring and summer approach, temperatures rise, peaking in July and August at around 20°C (68°F) and 19°C (67°F) on average, with considerable sunshine hours, especially in July with 414 hours. The region experiences a balanced distribution of rainfall, with May being notably wet at 147 mm (5.8 in). For more detailed information, visit Saint-Prex climate.
Vallorbe, Switzerland experiences a diverse climate with cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures range from -14°C to 13°C, while July peaks at a sweltering 34°C. Precipitation is substantial, particularly in the summer months, with May receiving up to 163 mm. Sunshine hours increase significantly from winter to summer, with July enjoying the most at 414 hours. For more detailed information, visit Vallorbe climate.
Vevey, Switzerland experiences a varied climate throughout the year, with January temperatures ranging from a minimum of -7°C to a maximum of 14°C. As spring approaches, April sees average temperatures rise to 9°C, peaking in the summer months of July and August with averages around 19°C. Precipitation is notably highest in May (142 mm) and December (186 mm), while sunshine peaks in July with 418 hours. For detailed climate data, visit Vevey climate.
Veytaux, Switzerland experiences a temperate climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January is the coldest month with average temperatures around -2°C (29°F) and significant precipitation of 132 mm (5.2 in). The summer months of June to August see average temperatures rise to 16-17°C (60-63°F), with July being the warmest. Sunshine is abundant, peaking in July with 418 hours, while December records the highest precipitation at 208 mm (8.2 in). For more details, visit Veytaux climate.
Villars-sur-Ollon, Switzerland experiences a varied climate, characterized by cold winters and mild summers. January and December are the coldest months with average temperatures around -6°C (22°F) and -4°C (24°F) respectively, while July stands out with an average of 15°C (59°F). Precipitation is highest in December, reaching 228 mm (9.0 in), and similarly high in May and June. The area enjoys abundant sunshine, particularly in the summer months, with July seeing up to 418 hours of sunlight. For more detailed weather information, visit Villars-sur-Ollon climate.
Yverdon-les-Bains, Switzerland, experiences a diverse climate with cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures range from -8°C to 15°C, while July sees much warmer averages between 10°C and 35°C. The region receives ample rainfall, particularly in December with 160 mm, and experiences the most sunshine in July, with 417 hours. Seasonal variations in precipitation and temperature make Yverdon-les-Bains a unique climate destination throughout the year. For more details, visit Yverdon-les-Bains climate.
In conclusion, Vaud, Switzerland, presents a dynamic climate characterized by distinct seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours. From the harsh cold of winter with its shorter days and low UV levels to the long, sunlit days of summer, where sunshine and UV exposure peak, the region showcases the beauty and complexity of its climatic patterns. This understanding of seasonal shifts not only enriches the experience of living in or visiting Vaud but also emphasizes the importance of adapting activities and health measures to align with the varying environmental conditions throughout the year. Ultimately, the rich climatic tapestry of Vaud offers both challenges and opportunities, inviting individuals to engage with its natural beauty responsibly and enjoyably.