The climate of La Rochelle
The city of
La Rochelle is located on the western coast of
France and is classified under the Köppen Climate Classification as Cfb, which indicates a marine west coast climate with a warm summer. Throughout the year, the weather experiences mild variations, with an evident maritime influence.
Average high temperatures in La Rochelle fluctuate from 9.4°C (48.9°F) in
January to 23.3°C (73.9°F) in
August. There’s not a drastic temperature differential during the year, as the town benefits from the tempering maritime influence. The low temperatures, on the other hand, range from a mild 6°C (42.8°F) to 17°C (62.6°F) from January to August respectively.
When looking at the rainfall distribution, La Rochelle receives precipitation more or less throughout the year. The months with the highest rainfall are
November and
December with 84mm (3.31") and 69mm (2.72") respectively, while the least rainfall occurs in
July with 26mm (1.02"). The average number of rainy days per month fluctuates between 9.5 and 16.9 throughout the year.
Regarding other weather parameters, the highest relative humidity is found in January and November, both months reaching 82%. Snowfall is almost nonexistent, with minimal amounts only in January and
March. In terms of sunshine, July enjoys the greatest number of sunshine hours per month at 10.2 hours.
The best time to visit La Rochelle
Considering the climate patterns, the best time to visit
La Rochelle is from
June to
September. During these months, the pleasant weather conditions allow for outdoor activities as it’s the warmest period of the year with average high temperatures escalating from 20.7°C (69.3°F) in June to a peak of 23.3°C (73.9°F) in
August.
July stands out not only for being the warmest month but also for having the lowest rainfall levels with an average of 26mm (1.02"), making it ideal for exploring the town and its surroundings.
The worst time to visit La Rochelle
If avoiding heavy rainfall is of significance,
November should be avoided when planning a trip to
La Rochelle. This month exhibits the heaviest rainfall with a total of 84mm (3.31"). Furthermore, the months of
January and
December also experience slightly higher levels of rainfall with average high temperatures ranging from 9.4°C (48.9°F) to 11°C (51.8°F), which could make outdoor activities less enjoyable due to the combination of cooler temperatures and heavier rainfall.
Spring weather in La Rochelle
During spring, from
March to
May, temperatures experience a comfortable increase. Highs range from 12.4°C (54.3°F) in March to 17.6°C (63.7°F) in May. These months observe an average rainfall of 38mm (1.5") to 35mm (1.38") respectively, which makes for relatively good weather conditions for outdoor activities. Moreover, daylight hours increase from 11.9 hours in March to 15 hours by May, offering longer days for visitors to enjoy the city's attractions.
Summer weather in La Rochelle
Summertime, from
June through
August, sees the warmest temperatures of the year. During these months, maximum temperatures linger from 20.7°C (69.3°F) in June to a peak of 23.3°C (73.9°F) in August. Accompanied by less frequent rain, this season is perfect for enjoying various outdoor activities. A notable attribute of the summer season in
La Rochelle is the abundant sunshine, with hours peaking at 10.2 in
July.
Autumn weather in La Rochelle
Autumn months spanning from
September to
November, witness a mild decrease in temperature. Highs descend from 21.4°C (70.5°F) in September to 13.5°C (56.3°F) by November. Despite a moderate increase in rainfall throughout the season, the weather remains reasonably pleasant, especially in the early stages of autumn.
Winter weather in La Rochelle
Throughout the winter months,
La Rochelle experiences relatively mild climatic conditions. From
December through
February, temperatures vary from a high of 11°C (51.8°F) in December to a lower limit of 9.4°C (48.9°F) in
January. Although the city receives slightly higher rainfall during this season, heavy snowfall is not common. Rather than snow, visitors can expect cooler, wetter weather conditions during these months.
Weather in January
La Rochelle weather in
January offers a glimpse into winter conditions along the French coastline, with light snowfall recorded at 2mm (0.08"). The days are shorter this time of year, but the city preserves a charming beauty under the pallor of winter skies.
Weather in January » Weather in February
Equipped with the coldest sea temperatures of the year,
February's climate in
La Rochelle might feel sharper than earlier months. Though it is still winter, there is a palpable sense of days growing longer and the city tiptoeing towards spring.
Weather in February »Weather in March
As the seasons change,
March brings a scenic transformation to
La Rochelle, with an increase in the average temperature to 12.4°C (54.3°F). Daily life starts humming with more activity, as locals enjoy longer daylight hours and appreciate the first signs of spring.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
While
April showcases joyous spring weather in
La Rochelle, it also carries the lowest pressure of the year at 1015.6mb. The increase in temperature and sunshine hours cultivates an enthralling atmosphere in the city. Outdoor attractions and cafes become more frequented, buzzing with visitors and locals alike.
Weather in April »Weather in May
Weather patterns in
May offer a delightful mix in
La Rochelle, supporting growth in both land and ocean temperatures. The month displays an appealing balance of French charm and pleasant weather conditions. Excursions to nearby Ile de Re become a popular choice, with scenic bicycle rides and sunset views.
Weather in May »Weather in June
June weather sends resounding signals of summer's approach in
La Rochelle, led by the high sea temperature of 18.1°C (64.6°F). It marks a popular time for beach activities and ocean adventures, such as sailing and paddleboarding.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
With the highest temperature of the year being 22.9°C (73.2°F),
July is undeniably the peak of summer in
La Rochelle. Visitors and locals bask in the extended daylight, with leisure activities often lasting into the night hours.
Weather in July »Weather in August
August in
La Rochelle owns the year's driest month with only 29mm (1.14") of rainfall measured. The weather is conducive for exploring the city's fortress towers and enjoying the artisan ice cream available in quaint shops. As the intense summer heat persists, shady spots in parks and beside ancient structures offer respite.
Weather in August » Weather in September
September signals the gradual departure of summer in
La Rochelle, but the weather remains enticing with an average temperature of 21.4°C (70.5°F). As the seasonal crowd disperses, the city resumes a more relaxed rhythm. With the sea still warm, it is a delightful time for serene swims and peaceful boat rides.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
Autumn firmly claims
La Rochelle in
October, bringing with it a drop in temperature and an increase in rainfall to 46mm (1.81"). The city's scenery starts displaying fiery autumnal hues against the sand-colored edifices. As the days shorten and the chill seeps in, local dishes like Moules Marinière or Pot-au-feu become increasingly comforting.
Weather in October »Weather in November
Darker, shorter days and higher precipitation levels of 84mm (3.31") mark
November's presence in
La Rochelle. The city's warm glow against the drizzling rain offers its own charm, with the wet cobblestones reflecting the yellow street lights.
Weather in November »Weather in December
The alluring charm of
La Rochelle in
December is accompanied by the lowest wind speed of the year at 21.6km/h (13.4mph). Amid shorter daylight hours, twinkling festive lights imbue the town with a different kind of daylight. The appeal of spending time indoors is heightened due to the cold temperatures.
Weather in December »