Climate and monthly weather forecast
Plymouth, United Kingdom

Plymouth, seated on the southern coast of the United Kingdom, exemplifies the characteristics of a Marine west coast, Warm summer climate, according to the Köppen climate classification, indicated by 'Cfb'. This overall climatic condition presents a reasonably consistent rainfall year-round, alongside mild, generally warm summers and cool winters. The weather landscape Plymouth experiences is dictated by this classification and its geographical placement next to the Atlantic Ocean.

An examination of the yearly data reveals a broad range of weather conditions, varying in temperature, daylight, sunshine hours, and rainfall. High temperature in Plymouth fluctuates between 8.8°C (47.8°F) during January and February, rising to a peak of 20°C (68°F) in August. The low temperatures present a similar pattern, starting at 3.6°C (38.5°F) in February, gradually increasing to 13.4°C (56.1°F) in August as the warmest month. Annually, the city receives rainfall measurements from 57mm (2.24") in June to 119mm (4.69") in December. The frequency of rainfall days ranges from 8.5 days in June to 15.1 days in January, indicating a city that is familiar with precipitation in different forms.

One remarkable aspect of Plymouth's climate is its consistent sea temperature throughout the year, moving from 9.5°C (49.1°F) in March to a relatively warm 16.9°C (62.4°F) in August. Daylight hours mark progress from winter’s shorter periods of 8.1 hours in December to the lengthy brilliance of summer, extending up to 16.3 hours in June. Correspondingly, sunshine hours extend from a minimal 1.8 hours in December to 7.4 hours in June.

Covering the best time for a visit Plymouth, it involves considering various weather factors and their interaction. Taking into account the weather data, the period from June to August offers the most favourable conditions. These months coincide with the highest average temperatures, extending from 18°C (64.4°F) to 20°C (68°F), alongside minimal rainfall days. This period also provides the highest number of daylight hours, peaking at 16.3 hours in June, together with abundant sunshine hours, creating an enlightened and warm atmosphere for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

In contrast, the least advisable window for visiting Plymouth extends from December to February. During this period, low temperatures drop to around 4°C (39.2°F), teamed with the highest average rainfall in December, at 119mm (4.69") spread over approximately 14.5 days. The lower daylight period averages from 8.1 hours to 10.1 hours across these months, and sunshine hours contract to 1.8 hours to 3.1 hours, substantially curbing the opportunities for outdoor activities.

Spring in Plymouth, spanning from March to May, observes a gradual increase in temperatures, ascending from 10.5°C (50.9°F) to 15.6°C (60.1°F), while the low temperatures rise steadily from 4.8°C (40.6°F) to 8.8°C (47.8°F). Concurrently, the hours of daylight increase significantly from 11.9 hours in March to 15.5 hours in May, accompanied by a parallel incline in sunshine hours. Rainfall records a less significant range of between 78mm (3.07") in March to 64mm (2.52") in May, with average rainfall days decreasing from 12.4 days in March to 10.4 days in May, making Plymouth a pleasant spring destination.

As summer sets in Plymouth from June to August, daytime temperatures rise to between 18°C (64.4°F) and 20°C (68°F) while nights remain moderately cool at 11.2°C (52.2°F) to 13.4°C (56.1°F). August generally features the warmer sea temperatures, scaling to 16.9°C (62.4°F). The daylight expands to around 16.3 hours in June and recedes to 14.5 hours by August end. More sunshine hours from 7.4 hours in June to 6.6 hours in August make this period highly enjoyable.

Autumn sees a gradual decrease in temperatures, with high temperatures declining from 18.1°C (64.6°F) in September to 11.8°C (53.2°F) in November, and low temperatures descending from 11.6°C (52.9°F) to 6.4°C (43.5°F). Sea temperature cools down from 16°C (60.8°F) to 13.3°C (55.9°F). These months undergo a noticeable drop in daylight hours, decreasing from 12.6 hours to 9 hours. Rainfall takes an upward turn, increasing from 74mm (2.91") in September to 113mm (4.45") in November, while the number of rainy days also rises.

Winter, from December to February, reveals the coldest climate conditions in Plymouth. The high temperatures hover from 8.8°C (47.8°F) to 9.5°C (49.1°F), while the low temperatures flux between 3.6°C (38.5°F) to 4.5°C (40.1°F). Rainfall numbers peak at these months, reaching 119mm (4.69") in December. Daylight hours fall to their annual shortest average of 8.6 hours to 8.1 hours, reducing further the sunshine hours to 1.8 hours in December and 2 hours in January. Despite this, the sea maintains a relatively stable temperature, with a difference of just 1°C (33.8°F) from 11.9°C (53.4°F) in December to 10.3°C (50.5°F) in January.

In the city of Plymouth, the New Year starts briskly, with cooler temperatures defining January. The year kicks off with abundant rainfall, exceeding any other month at 108mm (4.25"). Widespread showers will create a crisp scenery. Weather in January »

Despite the persistent cold, February weather appears less intimidating in comparison to January's volatile conditions. It is considered a transitional period in weather patterns, with an observable decline of precipitation from 108mm (4.25") in January to 84mm (3.31") in February. Weather in February »

As the season transitions, March ushers in a sense of rebirth in Plymouth. The city gradually warms with daytime temperatures reaching up to 10.5°C (50.9°F), a notable rise from February. The noticeably longer daylight hours echo the arrival of spring. Weather in March »

With the arrival of April, Plymouth experiences further moderation in its climate. The month records a significant upturn in temperatures hitting 12.6°C (54.7°F), inviting a breath of freshness in the air. Vivid colors and fragrances fill the streets as floral bloom is on the rise. Weather in April »

May reveals a stark contrast from the cold beginnings of the year in Plymouth. As the city teeters on the brink of summer, temperatures escalate to a comfortable 15.6°C (60.1°F), making outdoor activities highly appealing. The city glistens as it receives generous sunlight, illuminating the lively spring colors. Weather in May »

June marks the onset of summer in Plymouth. Temperatures continue to rise, hitting a summer-friendly 18°C (64.4°F), making it ideal for seaside escapades to the nearby beaches. An increased number of daylight hours accompanies the warm temperatures, signaling the height of summer. Weather in June »

In July, Plymouth enjoys the heart of summer, with temperatures peaking at 19.9°C (67.8°F). This sets the tone for a predictable and welcoming weather pattern. The abundance of daylight pairs well with the warm temperatures, facilitating a plethora of outdoor activities. Weather in July »

August weather in Plymouth holds steady, continuing the summer trend with temperatures soaring up to 20°C (68°F). Despite being the peak tourist season, it showcases resilience and calm. Days are lengthy and filled with sunlight, maintaining the summer vibe. Weather in August »

The advent of September brings a subtle change in Plymouth's weather. Pleasantness persists despite the drop in temperatures to 18.1°C (64.6°F), indicating an unhurried approach to autumn. The city undergoes a subtle transformation as greeneries display the first sign of autumnal hues. Weather in September »

October commences the real onset of autumn in Plymouth. Notable changes become evident as cooler temperatures of 14.8°C (58.6°F) hint at the definitive arrival of autumn. The start of leaf fall transforms the city into a riot of colors, reflecting autumn's splendor. Weather in October »

In November, a distinctly cooler weather pattern sets in Plymouth. A significant temperature drop to 11.8°C (53.2°F) manifests the transition from autumn to early winter. The city succumbs to a rhythm of cooler days and even colder nights, embracing the frost with grace. Weather in November »

As the year winds down, December registers a palpable shift in Plymouth's weather, with the mercury dipping further to 9.5°C (49.1°F). The contrast from the warmth of summer is definitive, announcing the arrival of the holiday season. Weather in December »