The climate of Ushuaia
Ushuaia,
Argentina, sits under the Köppen climate classification of ET, predominately embodying Tundra characteristics. This southernmost city in the world is located on the island of Tierra del Fuego and is surrounded by the Magellan Straits to the north and the Beagle Channel to the south.
Throughout the year, the average high temperatures fluctuate between 0.9°C (33.6°F) in
July to 11.1°C (52°F) in
February, while the low temperatures range from -2.7°C (27.1°F) to 3.9°C (39°F) during the same periods. Over the months, changes in temperature are consistent with the transition of seasons.
The rainfall in Ushuaia exhibits variation over the year, with a peak of 69mm (2.72") in
January, and a minimum of 39mm (1.54") in
September. Concurrently, the number of rainfall days varies from 11.9 days in
August to 27.4 days in January. Besides, snowfall is considerable during the colder months, reaching a maximum of 230mm (9.06") in
June, calling attention to Ushuaia's unique chilly weather conditions.
The relative humidity fluctuates moderately throughout the year from 75% to 89% while wind speeds range from 13.2km/h (8.2mph) to 16.7km/h (10.4mph), with peak gust speeds of 23.2km/h (14.4mph) in July and
December. The sea temperature stays between 6°C (42.8°F) and 8°C (46.4°F).
The best time to visit Ushuaia
Ushuaia offers different attractions corresponding to the seasons, but the best time to visit would be during the austral summer months, particularly from
December to
March. During these months, the city enjoys longer daylight hours ranging from 13.9 hours in December to a peak of 17.2 hours in
January. The high temperature remains between 7.3°C (45.1°F) and 10.2°C (50.4°F) offering milder and more enjoyable weather conditions for outdoor activities.
The worst time to visit Ushuaia
The period from
May to
September can be challenging for visitors. The city endures harsh winter conditions with low temperatures dropping to as low as -2.7°C (27.1°F) in
July and significantly high snowfall. In fact,
June witnesses the highest snowfall of the year at 230mm (9.06"). The daylight hours are considerably less, ranging from only 7.3 hours to 10.3 hours, limiting the length of outdoor activities. Unless geared for winter sports or specific winter events, these months might challenge most visitors.
Spring weather in Ushuaia
Ushuaia's spring, extending from
September to
November, welcomes gradual warmth. The average high temperatures transition from 4.4°C (39.9°F) in September to 8.9°C (48°F) in November, while the lows oscillate from -1.2°C (29.8°F) to 1.2°C (34.2°F). Rainfall is relatively moderate from 39mm (1.54") to 57mm (2.24"), and the number of sunshine hours increase from 5.8 hours in September to 7.8 hours by November.
Summer weather in Ushuaia
The summer months are the warmest in
Ushuaia with the average high temperature reaching 10.2°C (50.4°F) in
January from 8.9°C (48°F) in
December. Night-time temperatures range between from 1.2°C (34.2°F) to 2.5°C (36.5°F). The rainfall is relatively high in January at 69mm (2.72") with a minor dip to 59mm (2.32") in
February. Importantly, the sunshine duration blossoms, staying between 7.8 hours and 7.6 hours, which means longer days for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Autumn weather in Ushuaia
Autumn in
Ushuaia, stretching from
March to
May, brings in an evident drop in temperatures. The average high temperatures fall from 9.6°C (49.3°F) in March to a chilly 3.5°C (38.3°F) in May. The number of rainfall days increases substantially while the rainfall amount varies with minor fluctuations. The amount of daily sunshine drops steadily from 5.3 hours in March to 3.4 hours to May, shortening the days substantially.
Winter weather in Ushuaia
Winter in
Ushuaia, from
June to
August, is intensely cold with the average high temperatures lingering from 1°C (33.8°F) to 1.8°C (35.2°F). The lows can descend to -2.7°C (27.1°F) in
July. During this season Ushuaia welcomes substantial snowfall, with a high of 230mm (9.06") in June. The city encounters the shortest daylight hours, dwindled to only 7.3 to 7.8 hours a day, and the amount of sunshine dwindles between 3 to 3.1 hours a day. Despite the colder periods, it still holds appeal to winter sports enthusiast and lovers of winter landscapes.
Weather in January
Ushuaia enters the new year with the highest average high temperature of 10.7°C (51.3°F), providing a mild start to the year.
January is also a well-balanced month weather-wise, mixing comfortable warmth and fairly stable weather conditions.
Weather in January » Weather in February
February continues the pleasant weather introduced by
January, but has slightly lower rainfall of 59mm (2.32"). The month presents a beautifully orchestrated weather concerto, rarely spiralling into extreme conditions. A moderate wind adds a mild chill to the air, encouraging outdoor enthusiasts to take full advantage of the unique landscapes of
Ushuaia, from the glacial peaks to the Beagle Channel's aquamarine waters.
Weather in February » Weather in March
As autumn starts,
March ushers in a shift in climate characterized by cooler daily high temperatures and higher relative humidity. Despite the decrease in temperatures, the condition still remains quite manageable, facilitating productive exploration of
Ushuaia's natural wonders.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
The weather in
April signals the onset of colder conditions, with a notable decrease in temperature and a substantial increase in snowfall to 69mm (2.72"). With the arrival of winter,
Ushuaia's landscape morphs into an icy wonderland perfect for winter sports, particularly skiing.
Weather in April »Weather in May
The weather in
May shows winter in full swing with
Ushuaia experiencing its coldest average low temperature of -2.3°C (27.9°F). Despite the significant chill, there's an undeniable charm in experiencing Ushuaia's frosty terrain. While snowfall intensifies, the city's warmth shines through its downtown areas, which are usually decorated with colourful buildings against the backdrop of stark white snow.
Weather in May »Weather in June
June carries on the cold trend, with a record snowfall of 230mm (9.06"), transforming
Ushuaia into a winter wonderland. The blanket of snow enhances the city's panoramic sights, especially when accentuated by the dwindling daylight hours.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
Coming off the extensive snowfall in
June,
July follows closely with a considerable level of snowfall at 165mm (6.5"). Given the continuous snowfall, the endless white vistas of
Ushuaia lure winter sports enthusiasts from around the globe.
Weather in July »Weather in August
August brings a slight bounce back in temperature and hints at the approaching end of winter. The snowfall still continues but the weight of the harshest winter month begins to lift. As the daylight hours start to increase again, there's a noticeable change in the atmosphere around the city.
Weather in August » Weather in September
With a notable increase in temperature,
Ushuaia greets
September with blossoming optimism as the city prepares to shake off winter. The reduction of snowfall and rising temperatures are a clear indication of climate transition towards more comfortable conditions.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October stands as a transitional month, carrying the city further away from winter's grasp and inching it closer to summer. The increased daylight hours and diminishing snowfall contribute to a shifting dynamic within
Ushuaia's weather spectrum.
Weather in October » Weather in November
November in
Ushuaia promises the return of warmer weather and minimal snow, setting the stage for the impending summer. The retreat of the snow reveals Ushuaia's varied landscapes, rejuvenated by the season's warmth. The fresh wind, scented with blooming flora and the sea's salty tang, breathes life into the city.
Weather in November » Weather in December
December in
Ushuaia welcomes the arrival of summer with an average high temperature of 10.2°C (50.4°F) and full 17.2 hours of daylight. Being the beginning of summer, December is marked by a vibrant atmosphere and extended daylight hours, ideal for sightseeing, hiking, or simply enjoying Ushuaia's natural beauty.
Weather in December »