The climate of Guernsey
Let's start with some foundational facts. The island of
Guernsey, belonging to the Channel Islands in the English Channel, is marked by a Marine west coast climate, known as Cfb in the Köppen climate classification. Known for moderate temperatures and consistent humidity levels, the weather in Guernsey remains relatively balanced throughout the year.
The average monthly temperatures span a range from 7.8°C (46°F) to 17.8°C (64°F), with the warmest month being
August and the coldest month being
February. Humidity levels remain fairly stable, wavering slightly between 77% and 84%. Fluctuations in rainfall are more noticeable, with a peak of 87mm (3.43") in
November and a relative low of 26mm (1.02") in
July. The share of sunny days shows a lift from 5.5 in
January to 16.3 in
May, while UV index values remain in the moderate zone from 2 to 5 throughout the year.
An interesting fact about Guernsey's weather and climate is the low variability in wind speed, which hovers between 21.9km/h (13.6mph) and 36km/h (22.4mph). The average wind gust velocity shows more seasonal variation, with a peak of 49.8km/h (30.9mph) in
December. Guernsey's cloud cover percentage also varies seasonally, from 37% in July to 63% in December and January.
The best time to visit Guernsey
The ideal time to visit
Guernsey primarily depends on the visitor's preference. However, considering the climate data, it is safe to say that
May and
June are the best months for a visit. The period from May to June offers a pleasing balance between high temperatures (between 12.8°C (55°F) and 15.2°C (59.4°F)), moderate rainfall, and ample sunshine (9.1 hours per day). The UV Index remains moderately at 4, making it a perfect time for outdoor activities without the danger of excessive sun exposure.
The worst time to visit Guernsey
The unfavorable period for visiting
Guernsey extends from
November to
January. High levels of rainfall - 70mm (2.76") to 87mm (3.43"), limited sunshine, and colder temperatures - between 7.8°C (46°F) to 9.2°C (48.6°F), make outdoor activities cumbersome. Furthermore,
December witnesses a higher wind gust speed measure at 49.8km/h (30.9mph), contributing to stormy weather that can hamper travel plans.
Spring weather in Guernsey
Between
March and
May, spring brings a gradual rise in temperature from 9.8°C (49.6°F) to 12.8°C (55°F) in
Guernsey. Rainfall decreases over the months, providing respite from the winter's heavy downpours. With 11.9 hours of daylight in March and a staggering 15.4 hours in May, springtime promises both longer days and an increase in sunny hours, from 6.2 hours in March to 9.1 hours in May.
Summer weather in Guernsey
Summer in
Guernsey, extending from
June to
August, is mild with temperatures averaging between 15.2°C (59.4°F) to 17.8°C (64°F). Conditions counterintuitively become wetter towards the end of summer, with rainfall rising from 33mm (1.3") in June to 41mm (1.61") in August. However, the number of sunshine hours remains steady at 9.1 until
July, when it slightly increases to 9.7 hours.
Autumn weather in Guernsey
Autumn sees a decline in temperatures, with monthly averages dropping from 15.5°C (59.9°F) in
September to 11.1°C (52°F) in
November. The rainfall also increases notably during this period, from 31mm (1.22") in September to 87mm (3.43") in November. The number of sunny hours drops, coupled with a decrease in daylight hours, from 12.6 hours in September to 9.1 hours in November.
Winter weather in Guernsey
Reflecting true marine climate,
Guernsey's winter months from
December to
February do not experience extreme temperature drops. The averages hover between 7.8°C (46°F) in February and 9.8°C (49.6°F) in December. Winter witnesses the maximum rainfall - 63mm (2.48") to 70mm (2.76") - with
January characterized by the highest number of rainy days (22). Despite the shorter days, the phenomenon of "pink winters", with spectacular sunsets, adds a unique allure to Guernsey's winter landscape.
Weather in January
The early stages of the year in
Guernsey, Guernsey welcome a cloudy and windy atmosphere. Compared to
December,
January showcases a slight drop in average daily temperatures, but remains the month with the strongest winds, reaching as high as 47.7km/h (29.6mph).
Weather in January »Weather in February
In
February,
Guernsey's weather progresses towards Spring with a slight increase in sunlight hours and slightly less rainfall. While winds reduce in speed, an average visibility of 10km (6.2mi) still allows for clear views across the scenic island landscapes.
Weather in February »Weather in March
As the first impression of spring,
March in
Guernsey brings longer days, more sunlight, and fewer rainfall days, from 17.7 days in
February to 17 days in March. The past winter grim gives way to the promising warmth, making March an alluring month for those who appreciate milder climates.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April experiences a leap in daylight hours in
Guernsey, as it ushers in a beautified spring. Temperatures start to show the incipient signs of Summer with warmer days and less rainfall. Showers are frequent but not prolonged, giving the soil enough time to absorb the water.
Weather in April » Weather in May
May designates the arrival of Spring in full swing in
Guernsey, with more sun-filled hours and longer days. The average daily temperature elevates from 11°C (51.8°F) to a more comfortable 12.8°C (55°F), bringing about a gradual but noticeable change.
Weather in May » Weather in June
June introduces the first caress of summer to
Guernsey with temperatures climbing further to a bearable level. This period witnesses the apex of sunshine hours at 16.2 hours per day, offering the most daylight of any month. Moreover, the increased warmth brings an all-around festive spirit to the island's populace.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July, the middle of summer, in
Guernsey carries the highest average temperatures of the year, peaking at 16.9°C (62.4°F). This month rivals
June in terms of daylight hours, marking the height of the local summer season. Despite the continental heat, relative humidity remains relatively stable, making it a pleasant time to visit.
Weather in July » Weather in August
August visits
Guernsey as the turning point between midsummer and early autumn. Temperatures peak for the year, coasting at 17.8°C (64°F), making it the warmest month on average. The frequency of rainfall picks up, demonstrating its transitional nature.
Weather in August » Weather in September
September in
Guernsey signifies the slow approach of autumn, with temperatures starting to recede to a mellow 17.2°C (63°F). The weather retains a warm charm and the meandering winds carry an invigorating chill. The gradual change does not hinder outdoor activities, making it a popular month for exploration.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October brings about a decisive shift in weather conditions in
Guernsey. The average daily temperatures drop to 15.5°C (59.9°F), heralding the onset of cooler days. As the landscape starts to flaunt vivid autumn colours, more hours of daylight are replaced by increased cloud cover.
Weather in October » Weather in November
As
November unfurls,
Guernsey endures a drop in temperature and increasing rainy days, with rainfall reaching its highest level at 87mm (3.43"). The shift towards winter becomes evident with shorter days and less sunshine. Chances of frost at sunrise become increasingly probable towards the end of the month.
Weather in November »Weather in December
December ushers in the winter season in
Guernsey with temperatures falling to an average low of 9.2°C (48.6°F). Despite the cold, the month rarely sees any snowfall, adding to its uniqueness. As the days grow shorter and darker, preparations for holiday festivities glow brighter.
Weather in December »