The climate of Waterford
Waterford, based on the Köppen climate classification, embraces a Cfb climate, also known as marine west coast with warm summers. Located on
Ireland's southeastern coast, it features a moderate climate year-round with consistent rainfall and no extreme temperature fluctuations. The average temperatures show a slight variance throughout the year, with the highest commonly recorded in
July at 20.1°C (68.2°F) and the lowest reported in
January and
February at around 3°C (37.4°F). Meanwhile, the average sea temperature ranges from 9°C (48.2°F) in the winter months to a warm 16°C (60.8°F) in
August, reflecting mild conditions year-round.
Rainfall is evenly distributed across the year, with a common monthly trend of above 65mm (2.56"). The rainiest month usually is
October with a total of 116mm (4.57"), when the number of rainfall days also peak at 13.8 per month. However, even the driest month, July, experiences an appreciable 67mm (2.64") of rain over nearly 9.9 days on average. A unique element in Waterford's weather profile is the abundant daylight hours; these can extend from the minimum 7.8 hours in
December up to a maximum of 16.7 hours in
June, going hand in hand with the seasonal daylight changes.
The best time to visit Waterford
Considering the temperate climate, the preferred period for visiting
Waterford is typically between
June to
August. These months register the highest temperatures, from 18.2°C (64.8°F) to 20.1°C (68.2°F), and boast ample daylight, reaching up to 16.7 hours in the height of summer. The sea temperature also reaches its peak during these months, hovering between 15°C (59°F) in June to 16°C (60.8°F) in August. Interestingly, despite the lesser rainfall of around 70mm (2.76") and the fewer rainy days, the city still experiences a relatively high UV index, sparkling perfectly for beach and outdoor activities.
The worst time to visit Waterford
The period from
October to
December may be considered unfavorable for tourist activities. Despite the consistent climate, these months experience a drop in temperature, with the highs ranging from 14.4°C (57.9°F) to 9.4°C (48.9°F) and the low temperatures going down to approximately 3.8°C (38.8°F). The sea temperature also goes down to 12°C (53.6°F) in
November and 10°C (50°F) in December, not particularly appealing for water activities. The rainfall is at its highest, exceeding 99mm (3.9"), coupled with 13.3 rainfall days on average. Furthermore, daylight shrinks during this period, with December experiencing an average of 7.8 hours, the least throughout the year, limiting sightseeing activities scheduled for daytime.
Spring weather in Waterford
Spring in
Waterford witnesses slowly rising temperatures from an average high of 9°C (48.2°F) in
February to 12.9°C (55.2°F) in
April, while the period observes a low range from 3°C (37.4°F) in February to 5.3°C (41.5°F) in April. Rainfall is moderate during spring with a range from 80mm (3.15") to 73mm (2.87") and an almost constant number of rainfall days. Daylight becomes gradually longer, with an increase to 16.7 hours in
June. The period also marks a rise in sea temperature and UV index, signaling the onset of summer.
Summer weather in Waterford
The summer months in
Waterford bring the highest temperatures of the year, with average highs ranging from 16°C (60.8°F) in
May and peaking at 20.1°C (68.2°F) in
July. The lowest average temperatures hover between 7.8°C (46°F) and 12.3°C (54.1°F). Despite being a coastal town, Waterford experiences less rainfall in summer, between 70mm (2.76") in May and 67mm (2.64") in July, over fewer days compared to other seasons. Sea temperatures rise from 10°C (50°F) to 16°C (60.8°F), and the extended daylight offers more hours for outdoor activities. However, expose to sunlight gradually decreases from 6 hours in May and
June to 5 hours in July and
August, while the UV index peaks at six in July, warranting caution during outdoor pursuits.
Autumn weather in Waterford
Autumn in
Waterford signals a clear shift as temperatures start to take a downward turn. With average high numbers falling from 17.8°C (64°F) in
September down to 9.4°C (48.9°F) in
December, and the lowest temperatures ranging from 10.2°C (50.4°F) in September down to 3.8°C (38.8°F) in December. Rainfall increases during this period with up to 116mm (4.57") in
October and a near constant rise in the number of rainy days. The sea temperature drops from 15°C (59°F) in September to 10°C (50°F) in December. Daylight hours shorten, and the sunshine duration drops to 2 hours in
November and December as winter approaches.
Winter weather in Waterford
Winter in
Waterford is mild in comparison to many other regions. The average high temperatures are relatively steady, from 9.4°C (48.9°F) in
December to 8.4°C (47.1°F) in
January. Meanwhile, the average low remains around freezing, from 3.8°C (38.8°F) in December to 3°C (37.4°F) in January. Rainfall remains nearly constant with values around 100mm (3.94"), while the sea temperature remains stable at 9°C (48.2°F) in December and January. Although the days are shortest in winter, extending only up to 8.3 hours in January, the least throughout the year, sunshine duration averages to 2 hours per day. The UV index is at its lowest during this season, calling for a lesser need for sun protection.
Weather in January
January in
Waterford,
Ireland commences with cooler temperatures and ample cloud cover. The month sees the lowest daylight emission with only 8.3 hours daily, consequently leading to fewer sunshine hours. It's a month defined by a chilly atmosphere with temperatures dropping to as low as 3°C (37.4°F) whilst peeking at 8.4°C (47.1°F).
Weather in January » Weather in February
February proffers a slight relief from the
January cold yet retains its winter characteristics. The daylight time lengthens a bit, lifting the spirit of the residents of
Waterford. However, it does not register a remarkable upsurge in temperature or a significant reduction in precipitation.
Weather in February » Weather in March
March in
Waterford heralds the prelude to spring. The winter chill persists but lessens to some extent, paving the path for blooms and bird songs. The daylight time extends further, enabling residents to enjoy more outdoor activities.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April signifies the true arrival of spring in
Waterford. A feel of warmth permeates the air, and the longer daylight hours welcome outdoor enthusiasts to bask in nature. The rainfall starts to decrease, renouncing its winter lead and making way for the blossoming season.
Weather in April » Weather in May
May brings the full bloom of spring to
Waterford with clear skies, mild temperatures, and flowering landscapes. A further increase in daylight hours and sunshine nourishes the city's flora and fauna. Compared to
April, nights are warmer and somehow cosier with a minimum temperature of 7.8°C (46°F).
Weather in May » Weather in June
As
June rolls around, summer starts to make its mark on
Waterford's atmosphere. The city tastes the peak of daylight hours that fulfils the craving for optimal outdoor activities. The contrast between warm days and relatively cool nights is apparent.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
In
July,
Waterford basks under the high summer sun coupled with balmy nights. The unique summer identity that July brings is apparent in its climate patterns. The seawater reaches a comfortable 15°C (59°F), permitting sea-lovers to indulge in water activities.
Weather in July »Weather in August
August sustains the summer pattern in
Waterford seamlessly from
July, with pleasant days and mild nights. Nature thrives under the ample sunshine, creating a lush green landscape. The month smoothly cruises on the established summer climate despite showing a decline in the maximum temperature to 20°C (68°F) from 20.1°C (68.2°F).
Weather in August » Weather in September
September in
Waterford embraces the arrival of autumn, with daytime temperatures starting to dip and nights becoming noticeably chillier. The city steadily gears itself for the changing season, wrapping up summer and unfurling autumn.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October establishes autumn firmly in
Waterford. The city transitions into shorter days and longer nights, with the vivid colours of fall painting the scenery. Compared to
September, both the highest and lowest temperatures slide down, signifying the autumn chill.
Weather in October » Weather in November
November nudges
Waterford closer towards winter. A further contraction in daylight hours implies the approach of the year's end. Interestingly, despite the temperature dip, the sea still holds a temperature of 12°C (53.6°F). Reflecting the shifting weather pattern, the minimum temperature plunges to 5.1°C (41.2°F).
Weather in November » Weather in December
Setting the final stage,
December ushers in winter in
Waterford. Shorter days, longer nights, and festive lights become the city's order of the day. The outside chill grows stronger, with the lowest temperature dropping to a cold 3.8°C (38.8°F).
Weather in December »