The climate of Bendigo
Bendigo is characterized by its Marine West Coast climate, identified in the Köppen Climate Classification as "Cfb". This designation signifies moderate temperatures, significant rainfall throughout the year, and warm summers. Geographically positioned in the southern hemisphere, the seasons in Bendigo are opposite to those experienced in the northern hemisphere.
An examination of the climatological data shows that Bendigo witnesses a fair share of weather variation throughout the year. Monthly average high temperatures range from a mild 12.1°C (53.8°F) in the middle of winter (
July) to a warm 30.4°C (86.7°F) at the peak of summer (
January). Notably, there is a conspicuous drop in temperatures between
March and
April, from 25.6°C (78.1°F) to 20.6°C (69.1°F), signifying the transition from summer to autumn. Similarly, the low temperatures also exhibit a decrease from 13.7°C (56.7°F) to 10.3°C (50.5°F) during the same period.
As with most locations with a Cfb climate, rainfall is well distributed throughout the year, conforming to no particular wet or dry season. This even distribution of rainfall is reflected in the data showing average monthly rainfall amounts between 22mm (0.87") in March and 35mm (1.38") in
August. There are slight variations with rainfall days per month, notably peaking in August with an average of 13.4 days.
Interestingly, despite the moderate rainfalls, Bendigo boasts a relatively low relative humidity. The humidity is lowest in January at 48% and highest in July at 85%. However, more extensive cloud coverage corresponds with periods of relatively higher humidity, notably in the colder months, peaking at 56% in July.
The best time to visit Bendigo
For those seeking the warmth and excitement of summer,
January to
March offers the highest temperatures, averaging between 25.6°C (78.1°F) to 30.4°C (86.7°F). During these months, sunshine hours are highest, and relative humidity is at its yearly lower end, creating conditions ideal for outdoor activities. In particular, January offers an extended period of daylight, approximately 14.4 hours, and maximum sunshine hours of 9.4 hours per day.
The worst time to visit Bendigo
On the flip side, the inclement weather conditions of winter might be less appealing to some visitors. Between
June and
August, temperatures drop significantly, with average lows ranging from 4°C (39.2°F) to 5°C (41°F). These months also exhibit higher humidity, cloud coverage, and rainfall days consequently reducing visibility and making it less ideal for outdoor exploration.
Spring weather in Bendigo
Spring in
Bendigo occurs from
September to
November. During these months, temperatures show a steep gradient as they climb from an average high of 16.1°C (61°F) in September to 24.5°C (76.1°F) in November. As temperatures rise, rainfall also increases marginally, and there is a corresponding decrease in cloud percentage. Overall, spring presents a pleasant mix of warmer temperatures and relatively sunnier days, making it an attractive season for those visiting Bendigo.
Summer weather in Bendigo
The summer months of
December through
February in
Bendigo are typically warm and bright with an average maximum temperature of 27.7°C (81.9°F) in December, peaking to 30.4°C (86.7°F) in
January then slightly dropping to 29.1°C (84.4°F) in February. These months also feature extensive daylight hours and abundant sunshine. However, temperatures can hit the low teens during the night, reminding of the coastal influence on Bendigo's climate.
Autumn weather in Bendigo
Autumn in
Bendigo spans the months of
March to
May. As the season progresses, the average high temperatures drop steady from 25.6°C (78.1°F) in March to 15.8°C (60.4°F) in May. Rainfall, during these months, ranges from 22mm (0.87") to 26mm (1.02"), and there is a visible increase in cloud coverage and relative humidity. Despite the progressive drop in temperatures, the daylight hours remain relatively steady.
Winter weather in Bendigo
Bendigo experiences winter from
June to
August. During this time, the city faces its lowest temperatures, with an average high of 12.1°C (53.8°F) in
July. This period also records the highest number of rainfall days, peaking at 13.4 days in August, and maximum cloud coverage. However, despite being the coldest months, the winter period also manifests a surprising consistency of daylight hours.
Weather in January
Bendigo in
January experiences weather that typically marks high summer, with the longest hours of sunlight, reaching 14.4 hours per day. When compared to
December, temperatures are slightly higher, which makes the day ideal for outdoor activities.
Weather in January » Weather in February
Moving to
February,
Bendigo's weather remains fairly stable. While temperatures cool slightly from
January's highs, overall conditions remain warm and welcoming. Slight increases in cloud cover are observed during this period, accompanied by short rains that do not significantly disrupt outdoor activities.
Weather in February »Weather in March
The shift towards autumn begins in
March, noted by observable changes in the weather. The city shows a slight drop in temperature highs from
February to a more agreeable warmth. Rainfall remains consistent, along with overcast skies reporting a 24% cloud cover.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April in
Bendigo brings a significant drop in temperature from
March, signaling a definite end to summer. Despite the weather becoming cooler, outdoor activities are still enjoyable during the 11.2 daylight hours. Periods of rainfall become increasingly common, adding freshness to the air.
Weather in April » Weather in May
May ushers in the cool weather of late autumn. From
April, temperatures continue to decrease, matching the fewer hours of sunlight, now at 10.2 hours per day. The skies become cloudier, and humidity levels increase, while rainfall remains consistent.
Weather in May » Weather in June
Bendigo hits its peak winter phase in
June. The reduction in temperature from
May is evident, and residents brace for the coldest month of the year. Rainfall peaks in June, reaching 24mm (0.94"), while the number of rainfall days increase to 9.3, the highest so far.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July continues on
June's trend with cold weather dominating the city. The sunshine decreases slightly to a yearly low of 6.5 hours per day, indicating the strength of winter. With 12.1°C (53.8°F) high temperatures, it becomes necessary to wear warm clothing.
Weather in July » Weather in August
As
August arrives,
Bendigo begins to transition from its winter spell. Albeit slight, there is an increase in temperature from
July, marking the advent of spring. The city witnesses an uptick in rainfall as 35mm (1.38") is observed in the month, the highest in the year.
Weather in August »Weather in September
September in
Bendigo signifies the arrival of spring. The weather is considerably warmer than in
August and the city experiences increased daylight hours. Rainfall decreases from August's peak and the humidity also eases. Pleasant weather conditions dominate this month, illuminating Bendigo's lush landscapes.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October showcases distinct spring weather in
Bendigo, with further warming from
September. Beautiful blue skies and plenty of sunshine characterize this month. Shower occurrences become less frequent, giving way to more sunny days.
Weather in October » Weather in November
As
November begins,
Bendigo experiences warm and appealing weather. There is a marked increase in temperature from
October, signifying the start of summer. The days become longer and are mostly sunny with rainfall on the lower side compared to previous months.
Weather in November »Weather in December
Bendigo ushers in the last month,
December, with warm summer weather. Compared to
November, the days become longer and hotter. The intensifying heat is paired with low humidity and pleasant breezes. Sunbathers enjoy the longest daylight hours of 14.6 per day, with an impressive 10.3 hours of sunshine.
Weather in December »