The climate of Donegal
Donegal, a captivating town in
Ireland, falls within the Köppen climate classification of Cfb. As a Marine west coast area with a warm summer, it proffers consistent yet mild weather throughout the year. The town’s geographical position along the Atlantic coastline contributes significantly to the persistent chill in the air.
Fluctuations occur with each weather parameter throughout the year. The average high temperatures range from 6.4°C (43.5°F) in
January, slightly ascending to 10.9°C (51.6°F) in
April, and reaching their zenith at 16.3°C (61.3°F) in
July. The climb descends marginally to 15.9°C (60.6°F) in
August before falling to 7°C (44.6°F) by
December. The average low temperatures rise from 2.9°C (37.2°F) in January to a tepid 10.7°C (51.3°F) in July, then down to 3.6°C (38.5°F) in December.
Humidity relatively remains steady, floating between the 82% mark in April to a high of 88% in January. Rainfall is frequent in Donegal, peaking from 87mm (3.43") in August to a low volume of 34mm (1.34") in April. Snowfall is sporadic, occurring between January to
March and in December, with the rest of the months devoid of flurries.
The daylight hours span from a low of 8 hours in January to a maximum of 17.2 hours in
June. Sunshine decreases to 3.4 hours on average in December from a high of 6.9 hours in June. Interestingly, the sea temperature remains steady throughout the year, with minimal fluctuations from 9.2°C (48.6°F) in March to 14.8°C (58.6°F) in August.
The best time to visit Donegal
If temperate weather is high on the list of preferences when planning a visit, the period from
June to
August is optimal. During this period, the temperature averages between 15.4°C (59.7°F) to 16.3°C (61.3°F), resulting in a comfortable ambience. The daylight hours are also the longest, reaching up to 17.2 hours per day in June. While rainfall is still a common occurrence, visitors can take advantage of longer daylight hours to explore
Donegal's numerous attractions.
The worst time to visit Donegal
Occurring between
December and
February, the winter months pose a challenge for visitors. With temperatures oscillating between 2.9°C (37.2°F) to 3.1°C (37.6°F), it is the coldest period, coupled with frequent rains from 72mm (2.83") to 77mm (3.03"). Snowfall is unpredictable, and even though it is light, it can make roads slippery. Along with shorter daylight of between 7.4 to 9 hours, these months might not be the ideal time for tourists.
Spring weather in Donegal
March welcomes the spring in
Donegal. Temperatures are tepid, gradually rising from 8.5°C (47.3°F) in March to 13.1°C (55.6°F) in
May, with lows creeping up from 3.3°C (37.9°F) to 6.8°C (44.2°F). These months are less humid, with the relative humidity decreasing from 84% to 82% by
April before rising again to 84% in May. Daylight and sunshine hours increase significantly, providing ample time for outdoor pursuits.
Summer weather in Donegal
Hot yet comfortable - this is the best description of summers in
Donegal. With peak temperatures ranging from 15.4°C (59.7°F) to 16.3°C (61.3°F) and lows between 9.2°C (48.6°F) to 10.8°C (51.4°F), this period between
June and
August is undeniably enjoyable. Despite the slight increase in humidity and rainfall that goes up to 87mm (3.43") in August, daylight extends up to an impressive 17.2 hours in June, allowing visitors ample time to explore.
Autumn weather in Donegal
The months of
September to
November mark autumn in
Donegal. A marginal downward trend in the temperature, falling from 14.5°C (58.1°F) in September to 8.6°C (47.5°F) in November, is observed. Rainfall inches up from 49mm (1.93") to 65mm (2.56") as autumn progresses into winter, while daylight reduces progressively from 12.7 hours to 8.5 hours. Despite the decline, the temperatures are bearable, making it a suitable period for visitors.
Winter weather in Donegal
Winter in
Donegal, spanning the months of
December to
February, is marked by the lowest temperatures of the year, with average highs hovering between 6.4°C (43.5°F) and 7.1°C (44.8°F), and average lows of around 2.9°C (37.2°F) to 3.1°C (37.6°F). Though this is accompanied by a higher probability of rainfall, clocking in between 72mm (2.83") to 77mm (3.03"), snowfall is quite light and sporadic. As Donegal is not well-known for winter tourism, these months may not be the prime time for a visit.
Weather in January
January in
Donegal,
Ireland, greets visitors with the charm of winter. The chill in the air is aptly compensated by the breathtakingly pristine scenery. Heavy coats, gloves, and hats are recommended for outdoor activities. January marks the beginning of the year with an average relative humidity of 88%, creating a relatively moist environment for dwellers.
Weather in January » Weather in February
As the calendar flips to
February, a slight change in the climate occurs in
Donegal,
Ireland. However, the weather continues to favor indoor activities and hot drinks. The snowfall in February, averaging at 28mm (1.1"), often drapes the picturesque town in a white blanket.
Weather in February »Weather in March
March in
Donegal,
Ireland, witnesses the transition of winter to spring. The delightful onset of spring and the receding chill of winter makes it a month of slight contrasts. The average rainfall for this month stands at 69mm (2.72"), indicating a breadth of rain-laden clouds.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
In
April,
Donegal,
Ireland, fully embraces the arrival of spring. There is a notable shift in the weather as winter's cold fades away, replaced by sunnier, warmer days. Although rainfall does decrease from 69mm (2.72") to 34mm (1.34"), a decent amount of precipitation is retained for the month.
Weather in April »Weather in May
May in
Donegal,
Ireland, is characterized by blooming flowers, budding trees, and occasionally, vibrant rainbows. This month is an excellent time for sightseeing and participating in outdoor activities, thanks to the amiable weather.
Weather in May » Weather in June
June brings the onset of summer in
Donegal,
Ireland. It offers the most extended daylight duration, up to 17.2 hours, allowing ample time for experiencing this beautiful city. The natural beauty of Donegal is amplified by undoubtedly summer-defined weather.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
In
July,
Donegal,
Ireland, is in the middle of the summer season, with maximum average temperatures hitting 16.3°C (61.3°F). The climate is reasonable, with a decent amount of sunshine and blue skies. This month sees the highest number of rainfall days, with nearly 24.3 days of precipitation.
Weather in July »Weather in August
August continues the trend of summer warmth in
Donegal,
Ireland. The month is characterized by the ongoing blooms of summer and potential for beach visits. The sea temperature, touching an average of 14.8°C (58.6°F) can provide bracing dips for the audacious.
Weather in August » Weather in September
September in
Donegal,
Ireland, signifies the transition from summer to autumn. The landscape begins to adopt varying hues, rendering it breathtakingly beautiful. Autumn signals its arrival with falling leaves, and a noticeable change in weather conditions.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October in
Donegal,
Ireland, is a profound exhibition of autumn with all its charm and majesty. The trees, showcased in a blend of ochre, burgundy and gold, turn the city into an artist’s palette. The weather remains mildly cool, with receding daylight hours hinting at the gradual approach of winter.
Weather in October » Weather in November
Transitioning into winter,
November in
Donegal,
Ireland, features a range of weather conditions. The first frost typically occurs this month, causing a noticeable dip in the temperature. November remains humid, maintaining the average relative humidity of 87% from
October.
Weather in November »Weather in December
Through
December, the winter firmly settles in
Donegal,
Ireland. The holiday season resonates favorably with the cold climatic conditions and shorter days. Snowfall begins to dot the landscape, with an average of 9mm (0.35") in December.
Weather in December »