The climate of Colchester
Colchester, situated in the
United Kingdom, falls under the Cfb category of the Köppen climate classification. This categorization refers to a marine west coast climate with warm summers. The geographical location of Colchester on the map significantly impacts its weather patterns, rendering it with temperate and relatively wet conditions all year round.
A prominent characteristic of Colchester's climate is the narrow temperature range seen throughout the year, with the highest average temperature reaching 21.2°C (70.2°F) in
August and the lowest average dropping to 2.9°C (37.2°F) in
January. The consistency of rainfall is another defining feature of the town's climate. The heaviest falls during the months of
June and
July, measuring 54mm (2.13") and 50mm (1.97") respectively, while the lightest precipitation can be observed in
April, at 18mm (0.71").
Another crucial element to understand this climate's makeup is its wind behavior. Wind speeds tend to peak in
December and January, reaching speeds of 21km/h (13mph) and 20.4km/h (12.7mph) respectively, and slowest in June and July with an average of 14.1km/h (8.8mph) and 14.4km/h (8.9mph) respectively. Finally, relative humidity maintains a generally high level averaging 80% throughout the year, achieving its peak values in January and December, both recording an average of 87%.
The best time to visit Colchester
The months of
May to
September often promise the best conditions for visiting
Colchester. During this period, the weather is pleasantly warm with average high temperatures rising from 15.1°C (59.2°F) in May to a peak of 21.2°C (70.2°F) in
August. Additionally, the amount of sunshine is at its highest during these months, reaching up to 8.6 hours per day in August. Even though rainfall slightly increases in the summer months, the warm temperatures and long daylight hours, peaking at 16.6 hours in
June, often offset any disruptions caused by rain.
The worst time to visit Colchester
Visitors might find the months of
November to
February less comfortable for a visit to
Colchester. During this time, the town experiences its coldest temperatures of the year, dropping to an average low of 2.9°C (37.2°F) in
January. Additionally, these months have short daylight hours, with
December having the shortest at 7.9 hours per day. Moreover, compared to the other months, these winter months experience a slightly higher amount of rain, with November and December recording 37mm (1.46") and 44mm (1.73") respectively.
Spring weather in Colchester
During the spring months of
March,
April, and
May,
Colchester sees a gradual increase in temperatures. The highest average temperature ranges from 9.6°C (49.3°F) in March to 15.1°C (59.2°F) in May. Similarly, the lowest average temperature climbs from 4°C (39.2°F) to 8.3°C (46.9°F) over the same period. Rainfall during this season ranges from 27mm (1.06") to 32mm (1.26") while relative humidity hovers around 80%. Daylight hours also increase gradually throughout the spring, starting at 11.9 hours per day in March and reaching 15.7 hours per day in May.
Summer weather in Colchester
The summer season in
Colchester, encompassing the months of
June through
August, is characterized by comfortably warm conditions. The highest temperatures during this period range from 18°C (64.4°F) in June to 21.2°C (70.2°F) in August while the lowest fluctuate from 10.9°C (51.6°F) to 14.5°C (58.1°F). Notably, the amount of rainfall peaks at 54mm (2.13") during June but doesn't significantly disrupt outdoor activities, thanks to the extended daylight hours, peaking at 16.6 hours per day in June.
Autumn weather in Colchester
September ushers in the autumn season in
Colchester with temperatures taking a downward trend. The highest average temperature falls from 18.5°C (65.3°F) in September to 10.5°C (50.9°F) in
November. Likewise, the lowest average temperature drops from 12.5°C (54.5°F) to 6.7°C (44.1°F) within the same duration. Rainfall rates vary between 31mm (1.22") in September and 37mm (1.46") in November while the daylight hours gradually reduce from 12.6 per day in September to 8.8 per day in November.
Winter weather in Colchester
Winter in
Colchester spans
December through
February, encompassing the coldest months of the year. During this season, the highest average temperature varies from 7.6°C (45.7°F) in December to 6.4°C (43.5°F) in February and the lowest average temperature fluctuates between 4.3°C (39.7°F) and 2.9°C (37.2°F). The months of December and
January see the most significant amount of rainfall in winter, recording 44mm (1.73") each. To add to the chilly conditions, daylight hours are at their shortest, with December recording 7.9 hours per day, the lowest throughout the year.
Weather in January
The onset of the year in
Colchester,
United Kingdom, often brings chilly conditions with temperatures rarely straying beyond the range from 2.9°C (37.2°F) to 6.4°C (43.5°F). This cold snap is accompanied by occasional snowfall that adds a layer of frosty beauty to the city.
Weather in January »Weather in February
February marks the continuation of winter in the city with weather patterns similar to
January. Nevertheless, an increase in snowfall is noticed, making winter sports a highlight of this month. Though sunshine hours are still low, a gradual increase in daylight marks the transition towards spring.
Weather in February » Weather in March
The arrival of
March brings slight moderation in weather conditions. Temperatures rise to hover within the limits of 4°C (39.2°F) and 9.6°C (49.3°F). The frequency of snowfall decreases significantly, signalling the end of the harsh winter.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
With the arrival of
April, the grasp of winter loses its strength over
Colchester. The noticeable increase in average temperature, coupled with decreased rainfall, makes this month more conducive for outdoor activities. The longer daylight hours and increased sunshine offer ample opportunities for sightseeing and exploring the city.
Weather in April »Weather in May
May displays a significant shift in
Colchester's weather as average temperatures elevate to range between 8.3°C (46.9°F) and 15.1°C (59.2°F), introducing a mild warmth. This month witnesses considerable rainfall that contributes to the fresh and vibrant bloom of spring flowers.
Weather in May » Weather in June
June brings the onset of summer, indicating a further increase in temperature. As a highlight, this month receives the highest duration of daylight, amplifying the brilliance of the city under the summer sun. The weather remains fairly warm complemented by regular rainfall that maintains the natural greenery.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July, the heart of the summer, is characterized by the warmest weather with temperatures peaking at around 20.8°C (69.4°F). Evenings are comfortably warm with temperatures dipping to around 13.5°C (56.3°F), creating the perfect setting for evening walks and night outings.
Weather in July » Weather in August
August continues the trend of warm weather, with the highest average temperatures for the year being observed during this month. August sees less rainfall and wind than previous months, contributing to a calm and comfortable atmosphere throughout the city.
Weather in August » Weather in September
September marks the transitional period from summer to autumn in
Colchester. Temperatures find a middle ground, ranging between a comfortable 12.5°C (54.5°F) and 18.5°C (65.3°F). Equipped with lesser rainfall than previous months, September allows residents and tourists to make the most out of the final summer days.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October ushers in the autumn season in
Colchester with a notable drop in average temperature. While consistent rain showers are quite common, the city sees less snowfall than other months of the year. Despite the reduction in daily sunshine hours, the city retains much of its daytime brightness.
Weather in October » Weather in November
November witnesses a further decrease in temperatures, setting the ambiance for the advent of winter. Despite the cooling trend, snowfall is not a common occurrence in November. The rainfall is consistent, aiding in maintaining the city's green spaces.
Weather in November » Weather in December
December, in the
United Kingdom's
Colchester, is synonymous with the arrival of winter. The temperatures range between 4.3°C (39.7°F) and 7.6°C (45.7°F), characterizing this final month of the year by cold weather. The first snowflakes typically fall during this month, adding to the festive Christmas spirit.
Weather in December » [Resources]