The climate of Port-aux-Français
The town of
Port-aux-Français, settled amidst the
French Southern and Antarctic Lands, endures predominantly Tundra, known in the Köppen climate classification as ET. Consequently, residents witness a series of extreme weather alterations that mirror the raw and inhospitable climate of the Arctic region. An examination of the monthly climatological parameters exposes this stark reality.
Over a typical year in Port-aux-Français, temperatures remain quite chilly, varying between an average minimum of -0.8°C (30.6°F) in the winter months, especially
July and
August, and an average maximum of 11.5°C (52.7°F) in the month of
February. The temperature of the sea also appears relatively cold throughout the year with an average range from 2°C (35.6°F) to 5°C (41°F).
Precipitation in the form of rain is fairly regular with slightly increased rainfall from 65mm (2.56") to 69mm (2.72") in the months of
May to
September. Concurrently, snowfall days vary from a total of one day observed in
January to a peak of 13 days in August. With total rainfall days between 12 and 16, most months have damp days with varying degrees of precipitation.
In terms of sunshine and daylight, there exists wide variation. The least daylight can be seen in July, with only 8.3 hours, while a maximum of 16.2 hours can be expected in
December. Sunshine hours, however, extend from 2.4 hours in July to 6 hours in December.
The best time to visit Port-aux-Français
Considering the city's cold, maritime and wet weather pattern throughout the year, there is relatively little fluctuation in climatic conditions. However, for those prepared to bear with the chill, the best time to visit
Port-aux-Français may be during the summer months of
December to
February. During these months, temperatures rise to an average high from 10.2°C (50.4°F) to 11.5°C (52.7°F), which is comparatively warmer. Additionally, December has the longest daylight hours, 16.2 hours, and the highest sunshine hours, 6 hours, contributing to rather favorable conditions for explorers.
The worst time to visit Port-aux-Français
The harshest period in
Port-aux-Français occurs in the heart of winter, from
June to
August. During this period, temperatures drop to an average low from -0.8°C (30.6°F) to 0.9°C (33.6°F), sea temperatures decline to 2°C (35.6°F), and the city witnesses an increase in snowfall days, reaching up to 13 days in August. The daylight hours are also at their least during these months, dipping to a dismal 8.3 hours in
July, making this period inhospitable for most visitors.
Spring weather in Port-aux-Français
Spring months in
Port-aux-Français, from
September to
November, witness an increase in temperature from a low of -0.7°C (30.7°F) to a high of 8.4°C (47.1°F). Rainfall during these months registers between 55mm (2.17") to 65mm (2.56"). This period also is accompanied by a gradual increment in the number of daylight hours from 11.7 hours to 15.3 hours, and an increase in sunshine hours from 4.2 hours to 5.8 hours, revealing a more promising season for visitors.
Summer weather in Port-aux-Français
As previously mentioned, the summer period from
December to
February in
Port-aux-Français offers the city’s highest temperatures, with averages between 5°C (41°F) and 11.5°C (52.7°F), along with sea temperatures ranging from 4°C (39.2°F) to 5°C (41°F). Rainfall varies from 46mm (1.81") to 58mm (2.28") with a consistent 16 days of rainfall.
Autumn weather in Port-aux-Français
During the autumn months of
March to
May, the average temperatures drop from 4.1°C (39.4°F) to 0.9°C (33.6°F), indicating the onset of a colder season. Rainfall during these months is at its highest, reaching up to 69mm (2.72") in the month of May. Although daylight hours vary from 12.4 hours to 9 hours, these months have depressed sunshine hours ranging from 4.7 hours to 3 hours.
Winter weather in Port-aux-Français
The winter season, ranging from
June to
August, turns
Port-aux-Français into an icy wonderland, demonstrating a high occurrence of snowfall from 10 days in June to 13 days in August. Lowest temperatures reach -0.8°C (30.6°F), and with minimal daylight and sunshine hours, the town stays under a chilly spell, thereby limiting outdoor activities.]]
Weather in January
Port-aux-Français in
January offers quite stable temperatures, ranging from 4.1°C (39.4°F) to 11.2°C (52.2°F). This first month invites the inhabitants with a mild climate given the longer daylight hours. The city permits residents to enjoy outdoor activities under the winter sun.
Weather in January » Weather in February
Change in weather continues as the city moves from
January to
February. While the city relishes in similar temperature brackets, mornings and nights get slightly milder. Unlike its predecessor, February witnesses less daylight hours and sunshine, offering a slightly gloomier ambiance.
Weather in February »Weather in March
March marks a transition in weather as the temperatures decline, between 3.7°C (38.7°F) and 10.7°C (51.3°F). As compared to
February, the city deals with dark clouds more frequently. The city's exposure to daylight hours and sunshine minimize, allowing the coolness to seep in more deeply.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April sustains this downward trend in temperatures, ranging from 2.6°C (36.7°F) to 8.8°C (47.8°F). This month deals with more rainfall than the previous, with the city receiving 67mm (2.64") precipitation. The lesser hours of daylight combined with a further reduction in sunshine signify the arrival of a more chilling climate.
Weather in April » Weather in May
May is the month when winters hold a firmer grip on
Port-aux-Français. The sharp decrease in temperatures and the chill in the wind echoes the heralding of stern winters. Rainfall during this period increases, contributing to the overall gloom in the city.
Weather in May » Weather in June
June creates a colder and wetter atmosphere in the city with an average high temperature of a low 5°C (41°F). Also, the city confronts the highest number of snowfall days in a year during this month. The length of daylight reaching its least during this month allows an even chiller aura.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July perpetuates the tales of cold in
Port-aux-Français. The lesser amount of sunshine reaching the city now compliments the chilliness well. This month, the air becomes moisture-laden with increased rainy days and warmer oceans become a distant memory as the sea temperature drops to 2°C (35.6°F).
Weather in July » Weather in August
August is no stranger to the winter chill, maintaining similar temperatures as
July. The city continues its tryst with snowfall while the rains decrease marginally from the previous month. The city sees a marginal increase in daylight hours, albeit the sunshine remains limited.
Weather in August » Weather in September
Weather in October
October sets the ball rolling for a much comfortable climate in the city. The sharp rise in temperatures further confirms the retreat of winter. Rainfall also takes a step back, creating a balanced atmospheric presence. While snowfall continues its descend, the increased sunshine confirms the beginning of a pleasing season.
Weather in October » Weather in November
November dominates with a mild weather environment, stepping up the warmth quotient from 1.6°C (34.9°F) to 8.4°C (47.1°F). The city greets more sunshine, with upward trekking daylight hours creating a friendly sphere for outdoor activities.
Weather in November » Weather in December
December, while still maintaining a moderate rainfall pattern averaging 58mm (2.28"), ushers in a slightly warmer climate. The increase in temperatures and longer days continue to enhance the pleasantness. The city also witnesses a sharp decrease in snowfall days.
Weather in December »