The climate of Isles of Scilly
The
Isles of Scilly, an archipelago off the south western tip of the Cornish peninsula of Great Britain, are home to a maritime climate. This climate, according to the Köppen climate classification, can be recognised as 'Cfb', signifying an oceanic climate. The geographical position of the Isles, located in the Atlantic Ocean, allows for a generally mild but humid weather throughout the year.
Delving into the climatological data reveals a temperate climate with slight variations throughout the year. The warmest temperatures usually occur in
July and
August, peaking at 17.2°C (63°F), while the coldest month is
February with the mercury dropping to an average low of 7.9°C (46.2°F). Rainfall is experienced throughout the year, with
November receiving the highest average rainfall of 86mm (3.39"). The Isles enjoy between 3.9 hours to 8.5 hours of sunshine per day, from
December to
May respectively.
Humidity levels in the Isles remain quite stable throughout the year, ranging from 78% to 85%. Snowfall is an incredibly rare occurrence, evidenced by the almost non-existent figures in the data. Wind speeds, however, tend to vary from 23.8km/h (14.8mph) to 35.9km/h (22.3mph). The perception of a continuous breeze is typical due to the island's maritime location. The Isles also have a percentage cloud coverage above 40% throughout the year, contributing to the overall damp conditions.
The best time to visit Isles of Scilly
Given the mild, relatively stable year-round climate of the
Isles of Scilly, the ideal time to visit would either be late Spring or early Summer. This period, stretching from
May to
July, allows for enjoyable temperatures ranging from 12.3°C (54.1°F) to 17°C (62.6°F). The humidity is not as high as in the latter months of the year, averaging between 84% to 85%. Despite May having the lowest average rainfall at 29mm (1.14"), some rainfall is expected almost all year round.
The worst time to visit Isles of Scilly
The late autumn and winter months from
November to
February should be avoided by those who would prefer not to experience the coldest and wettest weather conditions. Temperatures during this period dip below 10°C (50°F) and November records the highest rainfall with 86mm (3.39"). In addition, the lowest hours of sunshine are recorded between
December and February, thus days can be quite short and gloomy.
Spring weather in Isles of Scilly
Spring on the
Isles of Scilly witnesses a gradual increase in temperatures from 9.8°C (49.6°F) in
March to 12.3°C (54.1°F) in
May. This transition from winter introduces more daylight hours, extending from 11.9 hours in March to 15.4 hours in May. Rainfall also decreases significantly during this season, making spring a promising time to visit.
Summer weather in Isles of Scilly
The summer months from
June to
August offer the highest average temperatures, reaching a peak of 17.2°C (63°F) in August. Relative humidity hits its yearly high at 85% during this season, contributing to the muggy atmosphere. Despite this, the summer also sees fewer rainy days. If outdoor activities are planned, the longest daylight hours (16.3 hours in June) and the highest sea temperatures, autumn sees a gradual decline in temperatures as winter approaches. By
November, the temperature averages drop to 12.5°C (54.5°F). Coupled with an increase in rainfall days from 14.4 in
September to 21.3 in November, this season is considerably less desirable for visitors intending to partake in outdoor activities.
Winter weather in Isles of Scilly
Winter on the
Isles of Scilly is met with the lowest recorded temperatures, averaging 9.7°C (49.5°F) in
February. Alongside the lower temperatures, the reduced number of sunshine hours (from 9.1 hours in
December to 8.2 hours in February) may offer a less pleasant weather experience. Despite this, winter storms and distinct sea views may still provide unique spectacles for those who enjoy nature's more tumultuous displays.
Weather in January
January ushers in the year with quite a chilly tone at
Isles of Scilly,
United Kingdom. The weather is typically drizzly, enveloped in chilly breezes. Variations in the temperature are not extreme. However, it records the highest average wind speed of 34.6km/h (21.5mph) for the year, contributing to the chilling sensation.
Weather in January » Weather in February
February transforms the cold winter vibes as its weather starts to shift from the
January ambiance. The windy conditions persist from last month, adding a mild increase of 0.4km/h (0.2mph). Residents experience a reduced average rainfall from 61mm (2.4") to 51mm (2.01"), yet the skies may still retain some gloominess.
Weather in February » Weather in March
In
March,
Isles of Scilly start to experience notable changes in its weather compared to
February. The transition from winter to spring is underway, causing the environment to slowly warm up. The change also brings a touch of moisture to the air, as seen by the steady increase in relative humidity up to 80%.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
As
April enters
Isles of Scilly, the
United Kingdom, the transformation from winter concludes, and spring becomes evident. The average temperature experiences a noteworthy increase, starting to hit the double-digit mark. As atmospheric stabilization continues, the wind speed decreases to 26.3km/h (16.3mph).
Weather in April »Weather in May
In
May,
Isles of Scilly receives a warm embrace from spring and enters the prelude of summer. The motion from the chilly winter months into warmer times becomes even clearer, inducing comfort among its residents. With an average temperature of 12.3°C (54.1°F), this becomes the warmest month yet.
Weather in May »Weather in June
June showcases
Isles of Scilly's imminent transition from spring to summer. The weather undergoes a favorable change, allowing residents to reap the benefits of summer before its official arrival. The sun stays up longer, gracing the Isles with the maximum daylight hours of 16.3 h for the year.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July marks the height of summer in the
Isles of Scilly,
United Kingdom. The increase in temperature is evident; however, it does not reach extreme heights, guaranteeing a delightful summer experience. The high point comes when the sea temperature reaches its yearly maximum at 16.6°C (61.9°F), perfect for indulging in various water-based activities.
Weather in July » Weather in August
In
August,
Isles of Scilly continues to revel in the charm of summer days. The weather remains relatively unchanged from
July, maintaining the same level of warmth and vitality. Temperatures are the highest for the year during this month with average sea temperature at 17.3°C (63.1°F).
Weather in August »Weather in September
As
September arrives,
Isles of Scilly prepares to bid farewell to the summer season. Subtle changes in weather can be noticed as the month progresses. The warmth of the sun still lingers, although the sea temperature records a slight drop to 16.8°C (62.2°F).
Weather in September »
Weather in October
Weather in November
As
November approaches, the
Isles of Scilly starts to experience the chill of the approaching winter months. The weather remains generally cool, yet not harsh or extreme. With an increased average rainfall of 86mm (3.39"), November is the wettest month of the year.
Weather in November »Weather in December