The climate of Stromness
Stromness, located in
South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands, experiences a Tundra type of climate according to the Köppen climate classification. This type of climate, labeled as ET, represents a location where vegetation is limited due to the almost permanently frozen ground condition.
In studying the fluctuation throughout the year in the given climate parameters, it becomes apparent that Stromness has a somewhat severe climate, with low temperatures consistently observed. The highest average temperature only reaches up to 3.1°C (37.6°F) in
February, while the lowest average plunges to -4.9°C (23.2°F) in
August.
Rainfall levels in Stromness stay significant throughout the year, peaking at 114mm (4.49") in
April and dropping to the lowest level at 82mm (3.23") in
October. The town also experiences an impressive number of rainfall days yearly, with
December witnessing the most at 20.5 days and August observing the least at 7.8 days.
The most unique aspect of Stromness's weather patterns is its significant snowfall. The data suggests that the town experiences snowfall throughout most of the year, peaking impressively at a whopping 421mm (16.57") in August.
The best time to visit Stromness
Given the distinctive Tundra climate, the optimal time to visit
Stromness would be during the warmest months, which are from
December to
February. During this period, the average high temperatures fluctuate from 1.9°C (35.4°F) to 3.1°C (37.6°F), offering slightly less harsh conditions for visit. These months also record fewer snowy days compared to the rest of the year. The UV index remains at 1 during these months, which is the lowest possible value for this parameter, reducing the risk of harm from the sun's rays.
The worst time to visit Stromness
The periods seeing the most severe weather in
Stromness are from
May to
August. During these months, temperatures can drop to as low as -4.9°C (23.2°F), and snowfall can reach up to 421mm (16.57"). The number of snowfall days also peaks up to 19 days in August, adding to the already challenging weather conditions. These factors create an environment that might be inhospitable for unprepared visitors.
Spring weather in Stromness
In
Stromness, spring occurs between
September to
November. During this period, average high temperatures range from -0.4°C (31.3°F) to 1.2°C (34.2°F), while the lows vary from -3.5°C (25.7°F) to -1.2°C (29.8°F). These months' weather continues to be harsh, with snowfall still notable, ranging from 305mm (12.01") in September to 220mm (8.66") in November.
Summer weather in Stromness
December to
February mark the summer period in
Stromness. These months record the highest average temperatures, from 1.9°C (35.4°F) in December to 3.1°C (37.6°F) in February. The snowfall during this season drops significantly, compared to the rest of the year, ranging from 184mm (7.24") in December to 208mm (8.19") in February.
Autumn weather in Stromness
The autumn months in
Stromness from
March to
May continue to be chilly, with the highest average of 3°C (37.4°F) in March dropping to 0.2°C (32.4°F) in May. The snowfall continues and starts increasing, with the least being 125mm (4.92") in March and reaching 288mm (11.34") in May.
Winter weather in Stromness
Stromness experiences winter from
June to
August. These months are the coldest, with the highest average temperatures from -0.4°C (31.3°F) to -1.6°C (29.1°F), and the lowest from -3.5°C (25.7°F) to -4.9°C (23.2°F) respectively. This period also witnesses the peak of snowfall, reaching its highest at 421mm (16.57") in August.
Weather in January
Weather in February
Following
January,
February continues the trends of cold, wet weather. However, there's a slight shift towards milder weather, including a slight increase in temperature and daylight hours. The snowfall decreases to 171mm (6.73"), providing some respite from the winter chill.
Weather in February »Weather in March
Entering
March, the weather in
Stromness tends to stay consistent. The city continues experiencing increasing daylight hours, altering the attributes of the late summer. The snowfall lessens to 125mm (4.92"), albeit snow remains a frequent occurrence.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April marks a significant shift in
Stromness's weather phenomenon. This mid-autumn month witnesses higher snowfall than the previous month, with a noted increase to an eye-catching 325mm (12.8"). It’s a month painted heavily by snow, with shorter days and decreasing temperatures.
Weather in April » Weather in May
May carries forward the weather trends of
April in
Stromness. The shrinking daylight is accompanied by plummeting temperature as winter starts to set in. The snowy weather trend continues with snow frequently seen adorning the landscape.
Weather in May » Weather in June
Stromness welcomes
June with shorter days and a discernible dip in temperature. The snowfall stays substantial, with clear skies occasionally visible amidst the falling snowflakes. An interesting mix of misty mornings and depending upon cloud cover, brisk, clear evenings are on offer.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July, the coldest month of the year in
Stromness, is characterized by biting chill and ample snowfall with 292mm (11.5") average. However, lighter evenings are on the rise as the daylight hours start to extend. Despite the colder weather, the rainfall decreases making it one of the driest months of the year.
Weather in July » Weather in August
August in
Stromness marks the transitory phase from winter to spring. This month experiences increased daylight hours, giving the cloudy skies a brighter appearance. With the highest snowfall of 421mm (16.57"), it is a month when the landscape is often painted white.
Weather in August » Weather in September
As
September saunters in, the weather in
Stromness starts showing signs of thawing. The daylight hours are on a steady rise, leading to slightly warmer temperatures. The snowfall recedes, giving way to rain-soaked days. However, snow can still be a frequent sight around this time.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October brings a notable shift in the weather trends of
Stromness. The snowy days become less frequent, making room for rain-filled days. It's a splendid season, with color-charged landscapes and increased daylight. The temperatures begin to climb slowly, and cold winds continue to blow throughout the month.
Weather in October » Weather in November
November bites with a chill in
Stromness, but less snowfall and increased rainfall define this month. Rain replaces snow on most days, turning the city into a haven for those who love wet weather. The daylight continues to increase in duration, paving the way for longer, brighter days.
Weather in November » Weather in December
The final month,
December, sees a return to snowy conditions in
Stromness, with a recorded average of 184mm (7.24") of snowfall. Temperatures dip, presenting the city with an endearing winter ambiance. The rainfall levels tend to increase, signaling frequent showers throughout the month.
Weather in December » [Resources]