The climate of Lucerne
Located in the heart of
Switzerland,
Lucerne falls under the Köppen climate classification of Cfb. This code denotes a 'Marine West Coast' climate, characterized by warm summers. Indeed, the geographical locale of Lucerne brings about distinct weather patterns, annual temperature variations and unique weather conditions.
Throughout the year, Lucerne experiences a noticeable variation in temperatures. Average high temperatures range from a chilly 3.4°C (38.1°F) in the coldest month of
January to a pleasant 24.7°C (76.5°F) in the warmest months of
July. Concurrently, the average low temperatures fluctuate from -2.3°C (27.9°F) in January to 14.2°C (57.6°F) in July.
Relative humidity remains somewhat consistent, hovering between 70% in
April to a maximum of 84% in
November and
December. Rainfall is a common occurrence throughout the year, varying from 51mm (2.01") in January to 154mm (6.06") in
June, making it the wettest month of the year. Conversely, Lucerne sees a considerable amount of snow, especially in the winter months, with snowfall peaking at 202mm (7.95") in
February.
A unique aspect of Lucerne's weather conditions is the daylight and sunshine hours. The city experiences its longest daylight hours in June at 15.8 hours, and the shortest in December at 8.6 hours. Correspondingly, June provides the maximum hours of sunshine at 5.7 hours, reducing to just 1.2 hours in December.
The best time to visit Lucerne
Considering the overall climatological parameters, the optimal time for a visit to
Lucerne spans from late Spring to early Autumn. This period, associated with mild temperatures, offers a wonderful blend of comfortable weather and extended daylight hours.
May brings temperatures ranging from 8.9°C (48°F) to 19.1°C (66.4°F) coupled with ample daylight of 15.1 hours. As summer progresses, temperatures rise to peak at 22.2°C (72°F) to 24.7°C (76.5°F) between
June and
July, making outdoor activities highly enjoyable.
The worst time to visit Lucerne
The least favorable time to visit
Lucerne falls during late Autumn and Winter months. This timeframe, from
November to
February, sees temperatures plummeting to a frigid -2.3°C (27.9°F) to 4.3°C (39.7°F) accompanied by a high relative humidity of 84%, causing damp cold conditions. These colder months also denote the peak of snowfall, reaching a staggering 202mm (7.95") in February. Limited daylight hours ranging from 9.4 hours in November to 8.6 hours in
December, and diminished sunshine hours, further dampen the overall appeal.
Spring weather in Lucerne
Spring arrives in
Lucerne with a rise in both temperature and rainfall. By
March, with the snowfall completely ceased, the temperature elevates to an average high of 10.3°C (50.5°F) and low of 1.1°C (34°F).
April hikes this further to bring a comfortable range of 4.3°C (39.7°F) to 14.4°C (57.9°F). This warming trend coupled with substantial daylight hours, increasing from 11.9 to 13.6 hours between March and April, provides great conditions for sightseeing.
Summer weather in Lucerne
Lucerne's summer, starting in
June, is characterized by warm temperatures, ample sunshine, and extended daylight hours.
July being the hottest month with a high of 24.7°C (76.5°F) and low of 14.2°C (57.6°F), offers an optimal climate for outdoor picnics and lakeside activities. Although summer also witnesses a higher frequency of rainfall, with rainfall varying from 128mm (5.04") to 154mm (6.06") between
May and June, the UV index hiking to 7 and 8, assures sufficient sunny days.
Autumn weather in Lucerne
Autumn in
Lucerne is marked by a gradual drop in temperatures and daylight hours but an increase in relative humidity. While
September experiences highs of 19.4°C (66.9°F) and lows of 10.6°C (51.1°F), these temperatures dip to lows of 6.7°C (44.1°F) and highs of 14.3°C (57.7°F) by
October. Despite the lowering temperatures, the presence of autumn foliage adds a distinct charm to the cityscape.
Winter weather in Lucerne
Winter in
Lucerne is characterized by cold temperatures, snowfall, and limited daylight hours.
December sees temperatures drop to an average high of 4.3°C (39.7°F) and a low of -1°C (30.2°F). Snowfall begins in
November but builds up to reach heights of up to 146mm (5.75") in December. Colder months like
January and
February experience even greater snowfall, making Lucerne a winter wonderland, perfect for snow-based activities.
Weather in January
Shifts in the weather in
Lucerne are explicit in
January as winter clings to the city. Snowfall is substantial during this month, with 160mm (6.3") of snow received over around 3.8 days. These winter floes can make travel to the Alpine city challenging, thereby urging visitors to be well-prepared.
Weather in January »Weather in February
The climate in
Lucerne in
February does not differ significantly from the preceding month. Snowfall accumulates further, totalling 202mm (7.95") over approximately 4.4 days, the highest in the year. Persistent cold and snow retain the popularity of winter sports activities in February, fostering an influx of outdoor enthusiasts.
Weather in February »Weather in March
As
March rolls in,
Lucerne starts to experience timely signs of spring. Though there is a marked drop in snowfall, 83mm (3.27") are recorded over an average of 1.9 days. The city begins to shed its winter coat, preparing the ground for blooming flowers.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
By the time
April arrives in
Lucerne, the snow has virtually disappeared, leaving just 12mm (0.47") across 0.6 days. This month brings more regular rainy days, as the city transitions into the warmer part of the year. Daytime temperatures become increasingly pleasant, fostering a vibrant outdoor culture.
Weather in April »Weather in May
May symbolises the beginning of a warm spell in
Lucerne. Rainfall increases as the month progresses, hitting a significant 128mm (5.04") over about 12.9 days. The cityscape transforms under the rainfall, with greenery flourishing in its breadth and length.
Weather in May » Weather in June
The month of
June in
Lucerne registers the highest rainfall of the year, amounting to 154mm (6.06") across 13.5 days. Despite this, the rain does not quite dampen the city's summer vibrancy, as the temperature continues to climb. Sunny intervals, moderate temperatures and longer daylight hours dictate the city's summer life.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July is the hottest month of the year in
Lucerne, with peak temperatures soaring to 24.7°C (76.5°F). Residents and visitors alike seek relief in the lake, with swimming becoming a popular pastime. This month continues to see frequent summer showers, which serve to temper the heat.
Weather in July » Weather in August
Weather in
August in
Lucerne mirrors that of the preceding month, with temperatures slightly dropping from the
July peak. This month presents comfortable warmth and extended daylight hours to explore the Swiss city. During this period, locals and tourists venture outdoors to experience the multitude of summer-based events and festivals.
Weather in August »Weather in September
The arrival of
September in
Lucerne announces the gradual retreat of summer. Rainfall reduces to 107mm (4.21"), it comes over 10.2 days, signaling a shift in seasons. The city begins its preparation for the approaching autumn, as leaves start to turn.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October in
Lucerne is characterized by the tangible embrace of autumn. As a transitional month, October sees a reduction in temperatures, but without the onset of the winter chill. The city, bathed in autumnal hues, offers a visual treat for rare leaf-peepers.
Weather in October » Weather in November
The month of
November in
Lucerne serves as a prologue to winter. The temperatures fall further and the first snowfall of the season staggers into the city, reaching 53mm (2.09") over 2.4 days. This time witnesses a notable decrease in daylight hours, ushering in longer nights.
Weather in November »Weather in December
The arrival of
December in
Lucerne marks the onset of winter, as temperatures continue to plummet. Snowfall becomes more significant this month, accumulating up to 146mm (5.75") over 7.9 days. The combination of reduced daylight and significant snowfall wields a hushed ambiance in the city.
Weather in December »