The climate of Sydney
Under the Köppen climate classification,
Sydney's prevailing climate is a humid subtropical one, marked by the code 'Cfa'. This means that it is essentially a rainfall-receptive region having no dry period, making it an evergreen, vibrant city throughout the entire year.
It is noted that monthly average temperatures span from 8.1°C (46.6°F) to 25.9°C (78.6°F), showcasing a broad temperature range. The milder temperatures largely manifest during the winter months, dropping to a low of around 8.1°C (46.6°F) in
July. During the peak of Sydney's summer, it is common to encounter warmer temperatures nearing 25.9°C (78.6°F), particularly seen in
January. An examination of relative humidity rates shows figures consistently running from 49 to 64%, making Sydney a city with moderate humidity levels.
It is also observed that monthly rainfall averages range from 68mm (2.68") to 132mm (5.2"), spread across numerous days in every month, demonstrating the presence of regular precipitation. Over the course of a year, the level of rainfall varies, reaching a culmination point in
June with a measurement of 132mm (5.2"). Monthly daylight hours, however, fluctuate in a wider bandwidth, from 9.9 hours to 14.4 hours, with longer periods of daylight marking the summer season.
Sea temperatures, also an important factor for a coastal city like Sydney, show minimal variability throughout the year, twirling between 18.6°C (65.5°F) to 23.7°C (74.7°F). Moreover, the level of sunshine doesn't see dramatic changes, averaging from 5.9 to 7.9 hours daily. It is interesting to note that the UV index shows distinct seasonal patterns, with the values peaking in the summers and hitting the lows during the winter months.
The best time to visit Sydney
The most opportune time to visit
Sydney might well be during the spring and autumn months. This is when the city experiences modest amounts of rainfall (from 68mm (2.68") to 120mm (4.72")), ideal temperatures ranging from 16.3°C (61.3°F) to 24.8°C (76.6°F), and a suitable average UV index from 3 to 10. The daylight hours span from 10.1 hours to 12.9, offering ample time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
The worst time to visit Sydney
Though
Sydney is a year-round destination, the winter months of
June,
July, and
August may be a less desirable time for some visitors due to lower temperatures and higher rainfall. Temperatures can drop to 8.1°C (46.6°F), and rainfall can peak at 132mm (5.2") in June. Furthermore, these months offer fewer daylight hours, varying from 9.9 hours to 10.9, restricting full-day outdoor activities.
Spring weather in Sydney
Spring in
Sydney runs from
September to
November, boasting mild temperatures hovering between 11.1°C (52°F) to 24.8°C (76.6°F). Humidity levels during this season moderately stand from 51 to 58%. Rainfall figures maintain a subtle descent, starting at 80mm (3.15") in September and concluding at 77mm (3.03") in November. Sunshine averages out at 7.9 hours per day, and daylight hours progressively ascend from 11.9 to 13.9, proposing brilliant conditions for visiting popular attractions.
Summer weather in Sydney
Summers in
Sydney, running from
December through
February, present comparatively warmer temperatures fluctuating between 17.5°C (63.5°F) to 25.9°C (78.6°F). With a typical relative humidity range of 59 to 64%, the city experiences a slight sombreness. The city confronts increasing levels of rainfall, escalating from 78mm (3.07") in December to 118mm (4.65") in February. Impressively, daylight hours extend up to 14.4, and average hours of sunshine peak at 7.9.
Autumn weather in Sydney
Autumn in
Sydney, spanning
March through
May, exhibits a mild temperature range between 11.6°C (52.9°F) to 24.8°C (76.6°F). Rainfall stays relatively consistent, fluctuating marginally from 129mm (5.08") to 120mm (4.72"). The average relative humidity during these months ranges from 57 to 62%, providing comfortable weather conditions.
Winter weather in Sydney
Winter months, namely
June through
August, witness the lowest temperatures ranging from 8.1°C (46.6°F) to 17.8°C (64°F). Accompanying the lower temperatures is the peak rainfall level at 132mm (5.2") in June. However, rainfall diminishes to 97mm (3.82") by August, providing some respite. Average relative humidity remains moderately stable at 57%, and daylight hours vary from 9.9 to 10.9. Despite the shorter days,
Sydney maintains average sunshine hours between 5.9 and 7.9.
Weather in January
The year in
Sydney commences under the auspices of high temperatures and a considerable amount of daylight. Clear skies are plentiful, providing ample hours for outdoor activities. However, Sydney's high temperature of 25.9°C (78.6°F) in
January, balanced with a humidity level of 62%, does require residents and visitors alike to stay hydrated during their ventures.
Weather in January »Weather in February
In
February,
Sydney’s impressive long and warm days continue, though rain becomes a more regular feature. Precipitation reaches 118mm (4.65") over a span of 12.5 days, dampening the urban landscapes and replenishing greenery.
Weather in February »Weather in March
The
Sydney climate begins to transition in
March as temperatures lower and rainfall increases. The pleasant temperatures maintain Sydney's appealing outdoor environment, despite the increasing frequency of showers. The month's unique trait is the copious amount of rainfall amounting to a peak of 129mm (5.08").
Weather in March »
Weather in April
Enveloped by a comfortable atmosphere,
April in
Sydney signals the heart of the autumn season. It's worth considering the precipitating factors, including the decreasing temperatures and mildly increasing frequency of rainy days.
Weather in April »Weather in May
Intensifying further into autumn,
Sydney's
May weather requires warmer clothing and more indoor time. The presence of decreasing humidity and dwindling daylight hours serve as markers of the changing season. A distinct characteristic are temperatures falling to the lowest highs and lows since the year began, settling at 19.5°C (67.1°F) and 11.6°C (52.9°F) respectively.
Weather in May »Weather in June
Arriving wintertime,
June in
Sydney is synonymous with cool temperatures and reduced daylight hours. Covering up with warm clothes becomes increasingly necessary, especially as twilight descends upon the city. Sydney reaches its coldest sea temperature of the year in June, penetrating to 19.3°C (66.7°F).
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July in
Sydney represents the depths of winter weather, predominantly cold with a low chance of rainfall. Sweaters and coats are staple wears, and fireplaces become a much-loved feature in homes. July's notable features include a lower temperature of 8.1°C (46.6°F) and rainfall amounting to a moderate 97mm (3.82").
Weather in July » Weather in August
As
August unfolds,
Sydney starts to shake off the winter chill, setting the stage for the imminent arrival of spring. Evenings remain a bit nippy and demand warm clothing while afternoons grow progressively warmer. The city experiences its lowest rainfall during this month, with an amount confined to 80mm (3.15").
Weather in August »Weather in September
September marks the advent of spring in
Sydney as temperatures hike and flora starts to flourish. Parks become attractive spots for picnics and leisurely strolls, taking advantage of the increasingly warm weather. A highlight is the minimal 68mm (2.68") of precipitation, making it the driest month in Sydney's weather cycle.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October brings with it an array of beautiful blooming flowers and a compelling shift in
Sydney's weather pattern. The outdoor offerings expand, promoted by the pleasant atmosphere and temperate weather. Sea temperatures, increasing to 19.3°C (66.7°F), encourage visits to Sydney's charming coastline.
Weather in October » Weather in November
The
Sydney scenery in
November is an artist's dream, bathed in sunlight and awash with vibrant hues. As summer approaches, outdoor social activities and beach visits become routine. This time, the UV index peaks at 10, signifying the requirement for sun protection during outdoorsy pursuits.
Weather in November »Weather in December
December announces the arrival of summer in
Sydney, marking an annual peak in temperatures and humidity. The city is buzzing with visitors eager to experience Christmas festivities under the southern hemisphere's radiant sun. The longest daylight period is found in December, spanning across a generous 14.4 hours.
Weather in December »