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Contents
- The climate of Basel
- The best time to visit Basel
- The worst time to visit Basel
- Spring weather in Basel
- Summer weather in Basel
- Autumn weather in Basel
- Winter weather in Basel
- Weather in January
- Weather in February
- Weather in March
- Weather in April
- Weather in May
- Weather in June
- Weather in July
- Weather in August
- Weather in September
- Weather in October
- Weather in November
- Weather in December
- Frequently asked questions
- Average temperature
- Average humidity
- Average rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average snowfall
- Average snowfall days
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average UV index
The Rhine River passing through the city of Basel in Switzerland, with a view of the red stone Munster Cathedral building
The climate of Basel
Basel, situated in Switzerland, is dominated by the Cfb climate of the Köppen classification, known as the marine west coast with warm summers. The geographical position of the city contributes to its moderate, yet variable, weather conditions throughout the year.
A closer look at the climatological data reveals a noticeable cycle in yearly weather patterns. Temperatures range from a low of -1.1°C (30°F) in winter to a high of 25.3°C (77.5°F) in the balmy summer months. Humidity stays relatively steady, fluctuating between 68% and 82% across the months. Rainfall patterns reflect a similar consistency, with the peak at 99mm (3.9") in May and the lowest in February, reporting 45mm (1.77"). The city receives snowfall mainly from December to February, with levels reaching a maximum of 115mm (4.53") in February. Basel experiences an average of 2.3 hours of sunshine in January, progressing to a high of 7.2 hours in July.
Unique weather patterns emerge when evaluating these parameters in closer detail. The summer months, from June to August, witness the highest temperatures. These months also coincide with longer daylight hours, topping out at nearly 16 hours in June. Contrarily, the winter months of December to February experience the lowest temperatures, least amount of sunshine, and highest levels of snowfall, rendering them the most challenging months weather-wise in Basel.
A closer look at the climatological data reveals a noticeable cycle in yearly weather patterns. Temperatures range from a low of -1.1°C (30°F) in winter to a high of 25.3°C (77.5°F) in the balmy summer months. Humidity stays relatively steady, fluctuating between 68% and 82% across the months. Rainfall patterns reflect a similar consistency, with the peak at 99mm (3.9") in May and the lowest in February, reporting 45mm (1.77"). The city receives snowfall mainly from December to February, with levels reaching a maximum of 115mm (4.53") in February. Basel experiences an average of 2.3 hours of sunshine in January, progressing to a high of 7.2 hours in July.
Unique weather patterns emerge when evaluating these parameters in closer detail. The summer months, from June to August, witness the highest temperatures. These months also coincide with longer daylight hours, topping out at nearly 16 hours in June. Contrarily, the winter months of December to February experience the lowest temperatures, least amount of sunshine, and highest levels of snowfall, rendering them the most challenging months weather-wise in Basel.
The best time to visit Basel
Considering the climatic conditions, the most suitable period to visit Basel is between May and September. The city during this time is characterized by pleasant weather conditions, displaying a nice blend of mild temperatures ranging from 15.2°C (59.4°F) to 24.7°C (76.5°F), manageable humidity levels between 70% and 72%, and an adequate amount of sunshine from 5.7 hours to 7.2 hours daily. Though the rainfall is frequent during this period, the warm temperatures and long daylight hours make sightseeing a thoroughly enjoyable experience.
The worst time to visit Basel
The least advisable time to plan a visit to Basel would be during the winter, from December to February. The city witnesses its lowest temperatures during this period, falling to a minimum of -1.1°C (30°F). Moreover, daylight hours are limited, offering only 8.5 hours in December with as little as 1.7 hours of sunshine. These conditions, accompanied by steady snowfall peaking at 115mm (4.53") in February, can make outdoor activities difficult and less enjoyable.
Spring weather in Basel
Spring in Basel, extending from March to May, ushers in a transition phase in the weather. The temperatures show an upward trend, from 11.2°C (52.2°F) to 19.6°C (67.3°F). Rainfall begins to increase, reaching its annual high of 99mm (3.9") in May. Sunshine hours also improve, resulting in longer daylight hours, topping at 15.1 hours by the end of spring.
Summer weather in Basel
Summer in Basel, which spans from June to August, enjoys the most amicable weather conditions. The period is characterized by peak temperatures ranging from 22.9°C (73.2°F) in June to a high of 25.3°C (77.5°F) in July. The longest daylight hours, extending to 15.9 hours in June, are evidence of the vibrant summer. Despite the rainfall levels hovering between 86mm (3.39") and 91mm (3.58"), the ample sunshine makes it the most desirable time to be in Basel.
Autumn weather in Basel
The Autumn months of September to November signal the onset of cooler temperatures. Gradually declining from 20.3°C (68.5°F) in September to 8.7°C (47.7°F) in November, the period also experiences shorter daylight hours dwindling from 12.6 hours to 9.3 hours. The rainfall observed between 78mm (3.07") to 59mm (2.32") along with decreasing sunlight hours marks the progression towards winter.
Winter weather in Basel
Winter in Basel brings the lowest temperatures of the year ranging from 5.2°C (41.4°F) in December to -1.1°C (30°F) in January. Combined with shorter daylight hours, reaching a low of 8.5 hours in December, the period experiences heavier snowfall with February showing a peak of 115mm (4.53"). With minimal sunshine, only 1.7 hours in December and 2.3 hours in January, the winter season exhibits the harshest weather conditions in Basel.
Weather in January
January in Basel, Switzerland is characterized by its cold temperatures, with the month's high generally reaching 4.5°C (40.1°F) and the low plummeting to -1.1°C (30°F). Relative humidity generally hovers around 81%, providing a crisp chill to the air. Weather in January »
Weather in February
February remains predominantly cool, though there is a slight increase in average temperatures compared to January. Basel's weather this month sees its lowest temperatures rising to -0.5°C (31.1°F) and the highest reaching 6.4°C (43.5°F). Weather in February »
Weather in March
March marks the beginning of Basel's transition from winter to spring. The relative humidity goes down to around 70% as the temperatures rise to an average high of 11.2°C (52.2°F). The snowfall lessens considerably, signaling the end of the winter season. Weather in March »
Weather in April
Despite the rainy weather, April in Basel sees a noticeable rise in temperatures, with the lowest averaging at 5.1°C (41.2°F) and highest at 15.2°C (59.4°F). Though rainfall increases to 64mm (2.52"), it's a welcome sight as it breathes life into Basel's lush landscapes. Weather in April »
Weather in May
In May, Basel begins to truly feel like spring with temperatures typically peaking at 19.6°C (67.3°F). The increased rainfall, peaking at 99mm (3.9"), nourishes the verdant sceneries that abound in Basel during this time of the year. Weather in May »
Weather in June
June brings the advent of summer in Basel. Temperatures reach their second-highest level for the year, with the month's high commonly hitting 22.9°C (73.2°F). The level of rainfall decreases in comparison to May, giving room for more sunshine-filled days. Weather in June »
Weather in July
July is the pinnacle of summer in Basel, Switzerland, with average high temperatures reaching 25.3°C (77.5°F), the highest throughout the year. The decrease in rainfall contributes to the pleasant summer conditions, perfect for exploring the city. Weather in July »
Weather in August
August maintains the warmth of the summer season, though temperatures slightly drop from July's peak to an average high of 24.7°C (76.5°F). The month bears witness to a slightly lower amount of rainfall compared to July. Despite the shorter daylight hours, the city remains bathed in ample sunlight. Weather in August »
Weather in September
September signifies the advent of the autumn season in Basel, marked by a decrease in average high temperatures to 20.3°C (68.5°F). It's also a month where rainfall experiences a decrease compared to August. As autumn colors start to show, daylight hours and sunshine duration both decline. Weather in September »
Weather in October
October in Basel witnesses a more noticeable change in weather as autumn progresses, with temperatures continuing to cool. A trend of cooler temperatures ushers in the late autumn season, preparing Basel for the forthcoming winter. Weather in October »
Weather in November
November is characterized by colder temperatures in Basel, with the expected high temperature falling to 8.7°C (47.7°F). Rainfall begins to recede from October levels, providing marginally drier days. The shorter days and decreasing sunshine hours further accentuate the winter's arrival. Weather in November »
Weather in December
December in Basel takes a drastic turn as winter hits in full swing, with average high temperatures reaching a mere 5.2°C (41.4°F). Frequent snowfall, averaging 85mm (3.35"), turns the city into a winter wonderland, painting a beautiful white over Basel. Weather in December »
Frequently asked questions
What is the coldest time of year in Basel?
Basel's coldest month, January, registers temperatures that range from a high of 4.5°C (40.1°F) to a low of -1.1°C (30°F).
How much does it rain in Basel?
In Basel, Switzerland, during the entire year, the rain falls for 120.4 days and collects up to 843mm (33.19") of precipitation.
When does it snow in Basel?
Months with snowfall in Basel, Switzerland, are January through April, October through December.
How many days does it snow in Basel?
Throughout the year, in Basel, there are 11.1 snowfall days, and 369mm (14.53") of snow is accumulated.
When is the lowest UV index in Basel?
The months with the lowest UV index in Basel, Switzerland, are January, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 1.
What is the driest month in Basel?
The month with the least rainfall is February, when the rain falls for 8.4 days and typically collects 45mm (1.77") of precipitation.
What is the snowiest month in Basel?
The month with the most snowfall in Basel is February, when snow falls for 2.9 days and typically aggregates up to 115mm (4.53") of snow.
What is the least humid month in Basel?
With an average relative humidity of 68%, April is the least humid month in Basel.
What is the wettest month in Basel?
May is the month with the most rainfall in Basel, Switzerland. Rain falls for 12.4 days and accumulates 99mm (3.9") of precipitation.
When it does not snow in Basel?
In Basel, snow does not fall in May through September.
When are the longest days in Basel?
With an average of 15h and 54min of daylight, June has the longest days of the year in Basel, Switzerland.
What is the month with the highest UV index in Basel?
The months with the highest UV index are June and July, with an average maximum UV index of 7.
What month is the hottest in Basel?
Basel's temperatures peak on average in July, reaching 25.3°C (77.5°F) at their highest and 14.5°C (58.1°F) at their lowest.
What month has the most sunshine in Basel?
The month with the most sunshine is July, with an average of 7.2h of sunshine.
When is Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Basel?
On Sunday, 27. October 2024, at 03:00, Daylight Saving Time ends, and the time zone changes from CEST to CET. The next Daylight Saving Time starts on Sunday, 30. March 2025, at 02:00, and the time zone reverts from CET to CEST.
What are the most humid months in Basel?
November and December, with an average relative humidity of 82%, are most humid months in Basel.
What is the month with the shortest days in Basel?
December has the shortest days of the year in Basel, Switzerland, with an average of 8h and 30min of daylight.
What is the month with the least sunshine in Basel?
December has the least sunshine of the year in Basel, Switzerland, with an average of 1.7h of sunshine.
Average temperature
Basel, Switzerland
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (25.3°C).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (4.5°C).
The month with the highest average low temperature is July (14.5°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (-1.1°C).
Average humidity
Basel, Switzerland
The months with the highest relative humidity are November and December (82%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is April (68%).
Average rainfall
Basel, Switzerland
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is May (99mm).
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is February (45mm).
Average rainfall days
Basel, Switzerland
- Average rainfall days in January:
9.3 days - Average rainfall days in February:
8.4 days - Average rainfall days in March:
9.8 days - Average rainfall days in April:
10.2 days - Average rainfall days in May:
12.4 days - Average rainfall days in June:
10.9 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
10.2 days - Average rainfall days in August:
9.9 days - Average rainfall days in September:
8.8 days - Average rainfall days in October:
10.1 days - Average rainfall days in November:
10 days - Average rainfall days in December:
10.4 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is May (12.4 days).
The month with the least rainy days is February (8.4 days).
Average snowfall
Basel, Switzerland
The month with the highest snowfall is February (115mm).
The months with the least snowfall are May, June, July, August and September (0mm).
Average snowfall days
Basel, Switzerland
- Average snowfall days in January:
3 days - Average snowfall days in February:
2.9 days - Average snowfall days in March:
1.3 days - Average snowfall days in April:
0.2 days - Average snowfall days in May:
0 days - Average snowfall days in June:
0 days
- Average snowfall days in July:
0 days - Average snowfall days in August:
0 days - Average snowfall days in September:
0 days - Average snowfall days in October:
0.1 days - Average snowfall days in November:
1 days - Average snowfall days in December:
2.6 days
The month with the highest number of snowfall days is January (3 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are May, June, July, August and September (0 days).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Basel, Switzerland
- Average daylight in January:
9h and 0min - Average daylight in February:
10h and 2min - Average daylight in March:
11h and 5min - Average daylight in April:
13h and 4min - Average daylight in May:
15h and 1min - Average daylight in June:
15h and 5min
- Average daylight in July:
15h and 3min - Average daylight in August:
14h and 1min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 4min - Average daylight in October:
10h and 5min - Average daylight in November:
9h and 2min - Average daylight in December:
8h and 3min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 15h and 54min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 8h and 30min).
- Average sunshine in January:
2h and 2min - Average sunshine in February:
3h and 1min - Average sunshine in March:
4h and 0min - Average sunshine in April:
5h and 1min - Average sunshine in May:
5h and 4min - Average sunshine in June:
6h and 3min
- Average sunshine in July:
7h and 1min - Average sunshine in August:
6h and 5min - Average sunshine in September:
5h and 2min - Average sunshine in October:
3h and 4min - Average sunshine in November:
2h and 2min - Average sunshine in December:
1h and 4min
The month with the most sunshine is July (Average sunshine: 7h and 12min).
The month with the least sunshine is December (Average sunshine: 1h and 42min).
Average UV index
Basel, Switzerland
The months with the highest UV index are June and July (UV index 7).
The months with the lowest UV index are January, November and December (UV index 1).
Basel, Switzerland
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