Climate and monthly weather forecastKilkenny, Ireland

The climate of Kilkenny

The city of Kilkenny, situated in Ireland, experiences a marine west coast climate known as Cfb in the Köppen climate classification. This climate category exhibits a moderate temperature range, noticeable but not excessive rainfall, and few extremes in weather patterns. The weather follows a predictable pattern throughout the year, presenting identifiable seasonal differences.

Analyzing the yearly weather cycles, it becomes clear that temperatures remain quite temperate, ranging from a low of 1.6°C (34.9°F) in January to a peak of 20.3°C (68.5°F) in July. Rainfall is a consistent aspect of Kilkenny's climate with the lowest rainfall of 55mm (2.17") recorded in July and the highest at 95mm (3.74") in October. In terms of humidity, the peak relative humidity of 81.8% is in December, tapering down to the lowest level of 63.4% in May.

In terms of unique weather patterns, Kilkenny's rainfall is persistent, with precipitations seen even in the driest month of July. Snowfall is less common and primarily confined to the winter months, with the most significant snowfall days noted in January and February at 3.6 days each and a small amount in March. A notable characteristic is the consistent duration of daylight, peaking at 16.8 hours in June and decreasing to a minimum of 7.7 hours in December.

The best time to visit Kilkenny

Considering the combination of acceptable temperatures, minimal rainfall, and an adequate duration of daylight and sunshine hours, the peak summer months, specifically from June to August, are most recommended for visiting Kilkenny. During this period, the warmth is sufficient without becoming uncomfortably hot, with temperatures ranging from 18.2°C (64.8°F) to 20.3°C (68.5°F). Furthermore, these months also see a moderate level of rainfall, between 55mm (2.17") and 78mm (3.07"), contributing to the overall agreeable conditions.

The worst time to visit Kilkenny

In contrast, the winter months from December to February may not be the most opportune time to explore Kilkenny. While temperatures are not extraordinarily low, they range between 1.6°C (34.9°F) to 1.9°C (35.4°F) introducing a significant chill. Additionally, these months witness a relative increase in rainfall, from 78mm (3.07") in December to 90mm (3.54") in February, and the least amount of sunshine hours at 1.6 to 1.8 hours per day.

Spring weather in Kilkenny

The spring season in Kilkenny, from March to May, brings a progressive rise in temperatures. Beginning with an average low of 3.2°C (37.8°F) in March, temperatures increase steadily, reaching a comfortable 15.7°C (60.3°F) in May. Rainfall ranges from 56mm (2.2") to 68mm (2.68"), while daylight extends from 11.9 hours in March to an appreciable 15.8 hours in May, complemented by an increase in sunshine hours.

Summer weather in Kilkenny

The summer months of June, July, and August provide reliably warm and fairly dry weather in Kilkenny. Average temperatures range from 18.2°C (64.8°F) to 20.3°C (68.5°F), with relative humidity between 65.2% and 65.9%. Rainfall, while continuing to be present, is not excessive, remaining between 55mm (2.17") and 78mm (3.07"). With up to 16.8 hours of daylight in June and substantial sunshine hours, summer is the most inviting season.

Autumn weather in Kilkenny

Autumn weather in Kilkenny, experienced between September and November, is characterized by moderate temperatures, gradually falling from 17.8°C (64°F) in September to 10.8°C (51.4°F) by November. Rainfall increases during this period, peaking at 95mm (3.74") in October. Despite the reduction in daylight from 12.7 hours to 8.7 hours, the relative humidity remains comfortably under 80%.

Winter weather in Kilkenny

A typical Kilkenny winter, spanning December to February, can be chilly but not freezing, with temperatures of around 1.6°C (34.9°F) in December and slightly rising to 1.9°C (35.4°F) by February. Rainfall is relatively high, reaching up to 90mm (3.54") in February, while sunshine hours drop down to an average of 1.6 to 1.8 hours daily. With relative humidity rising to around 81.8% in December, the winter months in Kilkenny are damp and cold yet manageable.

Weather in January

Expect winter temperatures in Kilkenny, Ireland to persist during January, as it represents the continuation of the colder part of the year. As the month transitions from December, the temperatures follow suit, ranging from the lowest temperature of 1.6°C (34.9°F) to a high of 8.2°C (46.8°F). Weather in January »

Weather in February

Weather conditions in Kilkenny continue to remain cold in February, although with a slight upward shift in temperatures compared to January. It brings along a characteristically Irish drizzle, though the frequency of rainfall days slightly decreases compared to the previous month, with about 66mm (2.6") falling over 12 days. Weather in February »

Weather in March

As March rolls in, Kilkenny begins to welcome the early signs of spring. Weather conditions during this month show an overall improvement, with a noticeable rise in daylight hours and the added benefit of longer sunshine duration. Weather in March »

Weather in April

April in Kilkenny showcases a definitive transition from winter to spring, with the weather showing a marked improvement. The amount of sunshine received increases significantly, contributing to warmer temperatures. Although the risk of rain persists, it becomes less frequent and severe, with an average of 56mm (2.2") falling across 10 days during the month. Weather in April »

Weather in May

Continuing the upward trend, May sees a significant increase in temperature, signalling the onset of warm weather in Kilkenny. Humidity retains a steady level, contributing to the cozy atmosphere the city is well-know for. Rainfall remains consistent, and the snowfall all but ceases. Weather in May »

Weather in June

As summer arrives in June, Kilkenny welcomes the highest daylight hours of the year, meaning you'll have extra time to explore the beauty of this city. Complemented by warm temperatures and a humidity level that doesn't veer too far off from May, these conditions create a welcoming environment for visitors. Weather in June »

Weather in July

July in Kilkenny is characteristically warm, with the highest average temperatures of the year, peaking at a delightfully mild 20.3°C (68.5°F). Sunny days and long daylight hours create abundant opportunities to enjoy all that the city has to offer. Weather in July »

Weather in August

August continues to uphold the warm summer weather in Kilkenny, with average temperatures almost identical to those seen in July. However, rainfall seems to pick up once again, reaching a high for the summer months, totaling 78mm (3.07") throughout the month. Weather in August »

Weather in September

As summer transitions into autumn, September in Kilkenny witnesses a slight cool down in temperatures compared to the preceding months. Warm days still prevail, providing ample opportunity for outdoor exploration. Despite the onset of autumn, there is no significant surge in rainfall, and snowfall remains absent. Weather in September »

Weather in October

October represents a return to the more traditional Irish weather patterns in Kilkenny, with a notable decrease in temperatures and the ever-present chance of rain. A more substantial amount of rainfall is experienced with 95mm (3.74") accumulating over 13 days. Weather in October »

Weather in November

November in Kilkenny is characterized by an onset of early winter conditions, although not as severe as those experienced in the later winter months. Rain continues to be a regular occurrence and snow begins to lightly dust the city. Weather in November »

Weather in December

With the arrival of December, winter fully settles in Kilkenny. The weather conditions are characterized by cold temperatures, minimal sunshine hours, and the highest relative humidity at 81.8% compared to other months. Snowfall is again a possibility, adding a festive touch to the city scenery. Weather in December »