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Contents
- The climate of Fort William
- The worst time to visit Fort William
- Spring weather in Fort William
- Summer weather in Fort William
- Autumn weather in Fort William
- Winter weather in Fort William
- 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 pressure
- Average wind speed
- Average humidity
- Average rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average snowfall
- Average snowfall days
- Average sea temperature
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average sunshine days
- Average UV index
- Average cloud cover
- Average visibility
Climate and monthly weather forecast
The climate of Fort William
Fort William, located in the United Kingdom, falls under the Cfc - Marine west coast, cool summer classification of the Köppen climate system. Notable for its frequent and steady rainfall, the distinct climate nature of this town is significantly influenced by its geographical position, lying within the proximity of Ben Nevis, Britain's highest mountain.
Temperatures in Fort William show a moderate variation throughout the year, with maximum averages ranging from 2.9°C (37.2°F) in the coldest months to 14.8°C (58.6°F) in warmer months. The general trend indicates that temperatures rise and fall progressively, reaching their peak in July. Minimum temperatures also present a similar pattern varying between -0.3°C (31.5°F) and 8.5°C (47.3°F).
Rainfall in Fort William can be characterized as frequent and moderate, presenting a fluctuation within 47mm (1.85") and 133mm (5.24") over the year. July and October mark two peaks in the rainfall distribution, reaching 92mm (3.62") and 107mm (4.21") respectively. The town also observes snowfall, although relatively less common, peaking at 99mm (3.9") in February. Due to the frequent rainfall and moderate temperatures, high relative humidity ranging from 83% to 92% is a common feature in the area.
[w2]The best time to visit Fort William
Temperatures in Fort William show a moderate variation throughout the year, with maximum averages ranging from 2.9°C (37.2°F) in the coldest months to 14.8°C (58.6°F) in warmer months. The general trend indicates that temperatures rise and fall progressively, reaching their peak in July. Minimum temperatures also present a similar pattern varying between -0.3°C (31.5°F) and 8.5°C (47.3°F).
Rainfall in Fort William can be characterized as frequent and moderate, presenting a fluctuation within 47mm (1.85") and 133mm (5.24") over the year. July and October mark two peaks in the rainfall distribution, reaching 92mm (3.62") and 107mm (4.21") respectively. The town also observes snowfall, although relatively less common, peaking at 99mm (3.9") in February. Due to the frequent rainfall and moderate temperatures, high relative humidity ranging from 83% to 92% is a common feature in the area.
[w2]The best time to visit Fort William
The worst time to visit Fort William
January and February could be considered challenging months to visit Fort William due to their colder temperatures. Average highs are recorded at a mere 2.9°C (37.2°F) and 3.4°C (38.1°F). Moreover, these months observe considerable snowfall, with 95mm (3.74") in January and peaking at 99mm (3.9") in February. Low sea temperatures, 7.3°C (45.1°F) to 7.9°C (46.2°F), coupled with reduced daylight hours, ranging from 7.6 to 9.5 hours, add to the heightened winter conditions.
Spring weather in Fort William
Spring in Fort William extends from March to May. As the season progresses, temperatures show a noticeable increase from an average high of 5.6°C (42.1°F) in March to 11.3°C (52.3°F) in May, with lows ranging from 0.6°C (33.1°F) to 4.8°C (40.6°F). Rainfall takes a dip to its lowest annual level in April, averaging at 47mm (1.85"). Despite this, the humidity remains fairly constant, averaging at 83%.
Summer weather in Fort William
The summer months, June to August, welcome more agreeable weather conditions. Average temperatures reach their highest for the year, ranging between 14°C (57.2°F) to 14.8°C (58.6°F), with lows falling between 7.3°C (45.1°F) and 8.5°C (47.3°F). Rainfall shows a moderate increase, culminating in August at 92mm (3.62"). Despite longer daylight hours varying from 15.1 to 17.7 hours, cloud cover remains high leading to moderate sunshine from 4.3 to 5.8 hours per day.
Autumn weather in Fort William
September to November marks the autumn season in Fort William. The temperatures begin to drop, with average highs ranging from 12.4°C (54.3°F) in September to 5.9°C (42.6°F) in November and the lows also showcase a similar downward trend from 7.4°C (45.3°F) to 2.1°C (35.8°F). Rainfall shows a steep rise in October, reaching 107mm (4.21"), which introduces a wet character to the autumnal season.
Winter weather in Fort William
Winter in Fort William runs from December through February. This period is defined by colder temperatures, with high temperatures averaging between 2.9°C (37.2°F) and 3.7°C (38.7°F). The minimum temperatures drop below freezing, down to -0.4°C (31.3°F) in February. Rainfall remains high, reaching its peak in December at 133mm (5.24"). While snowfall on average is less than the rainfall, there is a noticeable peak in February with an average snowfall of 99mm (3.9"). Despite shorter daylight hours, sunshine remains relatively consistent, ranging between 2.8 to 3 hours per day.
Weather in January
January in Fort William, United Kingdom, welcomes the New Year with some of the coldest temperatures, creating a frosty backdrop. Peculiarly, it records both a notably high average humidity of 92% and a significant snowfall of 95mm (3.74"), contributing to the overall wintery scene. Weather in January »
Weather in February
Moving into February, the weather conditions in Fort William remain quite similar to January, with cold temperatures persisting. Yet, February offers a slightly lower snowfall of 99mm (3.9"). Even though temperatures might still require the use of warm clothing, the additional daylight hours can indeed bring some cheer to the residents. Weather in February »
Weather in March
With March heralding the onset of Spring in Fort William, the weather changes become more evident. A clear indicator of this transition is the noticeable drop in snowfall to a lower 65mm (2.56"). As the land thaws from the winter freeze, early Spring flowers start to tease through the soil, painting a colorful picture against the fading shades of Winter. Weather in March »
Weather in April
April in Fort William brings more evident signs of Spring. The most obvious indication is the drastic drop in snowfall, reaching almost negligible levels at 3mm (0.12"). Longer daylight hours encourage people to venture out, soaking in the warm sun rays and the vibrant colors of Spring. Weather in April »
Weather in May
As May rolls around in Fort William, the weather makes a charismatic turn towards the pleasant. An apparent distinction in the weather pattern is the cessation of snowfall, indicating a definitive farewell to the last vestiges of winter. Weather in May »
Weather in June
June in Fort William stands as a welcoming portal to summer, with the weather conditions beginning to get warmer. However, despite the increasing temperatures, the month sees a relatively high humidity level of 86%. Boasting the longest daylight hours of the year, it becomes an ideal time for camping and other outdoor recreational activities. Weather in June »
Weather in July
July, being the heart of summer in Fort William, sees the highest average temperatures of a warm 14.8°C (58.6°F). Yet, there is a steady level of humidity at 89%, making the city's climate pleasantly mild rather than extremely hot. Weather in July »
Weather in August
As Fort William slides into August, the summer sun continues to shine, though the temperature sees a slight dip from July's peak. The month witnesses an increase in rainfall, averaging a respectable 92mm (3.62"). However, the showers do little to dampen the spirits of the residents who continue to indulge in outdoor activities, armed with vibrant umbrellas and waterproof boots. Weather in August »
Weather in September
September in Fort William denotes the advent of Autumn, with the weather beginning to get cooler. Coupled with a slight decrease in temperature, it also sees a modest rainfall of 77mm (3.03"), setting the stage for the upcoming fall season. Weather in September »
Weather in October
With October, Fort William truly embraces Autumn. The weather takes a further dip towards chilly, though without a drastic change from September's pattern. Rainy days are quite common, contributing to the overall damp and chilly environment. Weather in October »
Weather in November
As November commences in Fort William, it gears up for the approaching winter. Apart from the falling temperatures, the month also sees an increase in snowfall from a mere 2mm (0.08") in October to a significant 6mm (0.24"). Nature's carpet of colorful leaves starts to thin out, signaling the end of Autumn. Weather in November »
Weather in December
December arrives in Fort William, marking the beginning of winter, with the atmosphere taking on a noticeably frosty character. The snowfall significantly jumps to 57mm (2.24") from the previous value of 6mm (0.24") in November. Weather in December »
Updated: Feb 8, 2024
Published by: Weather Atlas | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Published by: Weather Atlas | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Frequently asked questions
What is the coldest month in Fort William?
Fort William, United Kingdom, witnesses the coldest weather in January, with temperatures averaging a high of 2.9°C (37.2°F) and a low of -0.3°C (31.5°F).
What is the most humid month in Fort William?
The months with the highest humidity are January, November and December, with an average relative humidity of 92%.
How many days does it rain in Fort William?
In Fort William, during the entire year, the rain falls for 253 days and collects up to 1104mm (43.46") of precipitation.
When does it snow in Fort William?
Months with snowfall in Fort William, United Kingdom, are January through April, October through December.
How much does it snow in Fort William?
In Fort William, United Kingdom, during the entire year, snow falls for 20.4 days and aggregates up to 327mm (12.87") of snow.
What are the months with the least sunshine in Fort William?
January and February, with an average of 2.8h of sunshine, are months with the least sunshine.
What are the months with the lowest UV index in Fort William?
January and December, with an average maximum UV index of 1, are months with the lowest UV index.
When does it snow the most in Fort William?
The month with the most snowfall is February, when snow falls for 5.5 days and typically aggregates up to 99mm (3.9") of snow.
What is the month with the coldest sea water in Fort William?
The month with the coldest seawater in Fort William, United Kingdom, is March, with an average sea temperature of 7.1°C (44.8°F).
What are the least humid months in Fort William?
The months with the lowest humidity in Fort William, United Kingdom, are April and May, with an average relative humidity of 83%.
What is the driest month in Fort William?
April is the month with the least rainfall. Rain falls for 18.7 days and accumulates 47mm (1.85") of precipitation.
When it does not snow in Fort William?
In Fort William, snow does not fall in May through September.
When is the highest UV index in Fort William?
The months with the highest UV index are May through September, with an average maximum UV index of 3.
When are the longest days in Fort William?
The month with the longest days is June, with an average of 17h and 42min of daylight.
What month has the most sunshine in Fort William?
The month with the most sunshine in Fort William is June, with an average of 5.8h of sunshine.
What is the warmest month in Fort William?
Fort William experiences its highest temperatures in July, with an average peak of 14.8°C (58.6°F) and a low of 8.5°C (47.3°F).
When is the sea warmest in Fort William?
August is the month with the warmest seawater in Fort William, with an average sea temperature of 13.4°C (56.1°F).
When is Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Fort William?
On Sunday, 27. October 2024, at 2:00 am, Daylight Saving Time ends, and the time zone changes from BST to GMT. The next Daylight Saving Time starts on Sunday, 30. March 2025, at 1:00 am, and the time zone reverts from GMT to BST.
What is the wettest month in Fort William?
December is the month with the most rainfall in Fort William, United Kingdom. Rain falls for 22.1 days and accumulates 133mm (5.24") of precipitation.
What is the month with the shortest days in Fort William?
With an average of 6h and 54min of daylight, December has the shortest days of the year.
Average temperature
Fort William, United Kingdom
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (14.8°C).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (2.9°C).
The month with the highest average low temperature is July (8.5°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is February (-0.4°C).
Average pressure
Fort William, United Kingdom
- Average pressure in January:
1007.4mbar - Average pressure in February:
1007.8mbar - Average pressure in March:
1011.5mbar - Average pressure in April:
1014mbar - Average pressure in May:
1014.8mbar - Average pressure in June:
1014.3mbar
- Average pressure in July:
1012mbar - Average pressure in August:
1010.4mbar - Average pressure in September:
1012.2mbar - Average pressure in October:
1010.5mbar - Average pressure in November:
1005.9mbar - Average pressure in December:
1006.4mbar
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is May (1014.8mbar).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is November (1005.9mbar).
Average wind speed
Fort William, United Kingdom
- Average wind speed in January:
15.7km/h - Average wind speed in February:
14.3km/h - Average wind speed in March:
14.9km/h - Average wind speed in April:
13km/h - Average wind speed in May:
12.1km/h - Average wind speed in June:
9.6km/h
- Average wind speed in July:
9.8km/h - Average wind speed in August:
10.1km/h - Average wind speed in September:
11.8km/h - Average wind speed in October:
12.3km/h - Average wind speed in November:
13.2km/h - Average wind speed in December:
14.7km/h
The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is January (15.7km/h).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is June (9.6km/h).
Average humidity
Fort William, United Kingdom
The months with the highest relative humidity are January, November and December (92%).
The months with the lowest relative humidity are April and May (83%).
Average rainfall
Fort William, United Kingdom
- Average rainfall in January:
129mm - Average rainfall in February:
106mm - Average rainfall in March:
105mm - Average rainfall in April:
47mm - Average rainfall in May:
70mm - Average rainfall in June:
75mm
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is December (133mm).
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is April (47mm).
Average rainfall days
Fort William, United Kingdom
- Average rainfall days in January:
20.3 days - Average rainfall days in February:
17.4 days - Average rainfall days in March:
20.8 days - Average rainfall days in April:
18.7 days - Average rainfall days in May:
20.8 days - Average rainfall days in June:
22.2 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
24.3 days - Average rainfall days in August:
24.9 days - Average rainfall days in September:
21.2 days - Average rainfall days in October:
20.8 days - Average rainfall days in November:
19.5 days - Average rainfall days in December:
22.1 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is August (24.9 days).
The month with the least rainy days is February (17.4 days).
Average snowfall
Fort William, United Kingdom
The month with the highest snowfall is February (99mm).
The months with the least snowfall are May, June, July, August and September (0mm).
Average snowfall days
Fort William, United Kingdom
- Average snowfall days in January:
5 days - Average snowfall days in February:
5.5 days - Average snowfall days in March:
3.3 days - Average snowfall days in April:
0.9 days - Average snowfall days in May:
0.3 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:
0.3 days - Average snowfall days in November:
1 days - Average snowfall days in December:
4.1 days
The month with the highest number of snowfall days is February (5.5 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are June, July, August and September (0 days).
Average sea temperature
Fort William, United Kingdom
The best month for swimming (with the highest average sea temperature) is August (13.4°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average sea temperature) is March (7.1°C).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Fort William, United Kingdom
- Average daylight in January:
7h and 4min - Average daylight in February:
9h and 3min - Average daylight in March:
11h and 5min - Average daylight in April:
14h and 2min - Average daylight in May:
16h and 3min - Average daylight in June:
17h and 4min
- Average daylight in July:
17h and 1min - Average daylight in August:
15h and 1min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 5min - Average daylight in October:
10h and 2min - Average daylight in November:
8h and 1min - Average daylight in December:
6h and 5min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 17h and 42min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 6h and 54min).
- Average sunshine in January:
2h and 5min - Average sunshine in February:
2h and 5min - Average sunshine in March:
3h and 4min - Average sunshine in April:
5h and 4min - Average sunshine in May:
5h and 4min - Average sunshine in June:
5h and 5min
- Average sunshine in July:
5h and 1min - Average sunshine in August:
4h and 2min - Average sunshine in September:
4h and 0min - Average sunshine in October:
3h and 0min - Average sunshine in November:
3h and 2min - Average sunshine in December:
2h and 5min
The month with the most sunshine is June (Average sunshine: 5h and 48min).
The months with the least sunshine are January and February (Average sunshine: 2h and 48min).
Average sunshine days
Fort William, United Kingdom
- Average sunshine days in January:
6.3 days - Average sunshine days in February:
6.9 days - Average sunshine days in March:
7.7 days - Average sunshine days in April:
8.5 days - Average sunshine days in May:
7.4 days - Average sunshine days in June:
5.7 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
3.7 days - Average sunshine days in August:
3.5 days - Average sunshine days in September:
5.5 days - Average sunshine days in October:
8 days - Average sunshine days in November:
7.5 days - Average sunshine days in December:
5.9 days
The month with the most sunshine days is April (8.5 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is August (3.5 days).
Average UV index
Fort William, United Kingdom
The months with the highest UV index are May, June, July, August and September (UV index 3).
The months with the lowest UV index are January and December (UV index 1).
Average cloud cover
Fort William, United Kingdom
The month with the most cloud cover is August (Cloud cover 77).
The month with the least cloud cover is April (Cloud cover 64).
Average visibility
Fort William, United Kingdom
The months with the highest visibility are February, March, April, May, June and October (8km).
The months with the lowest visibility are January, July, August, September, November and December (7km).
