Climate and monthly weather forecastLocarno, Switzerland
Climate and monthly weather forecast
The climate of Locarno
Locarno, Switzerland features a prevailing Subarctic climate, also known as Dfc according to the Köppen climate classification. This prediction is characterized by harsh winters, a lack of a dry season, and pleasantly cool summers. The climate data reveals an oscillation in weather parameters from month to month throughout the year with sharp variations.The city experiences an average high temperature ranging from a chilly 0.9°C (33.6°F) in January to a mild 21.2°C (70.2°F) in July. Conversely, the average low temperature hovers from -5.9°C (21.4°F) to 10.6°C (51.1°F) within the same period. The rainfall is scattered all year round, peaking at 164mm (6.46") in November to a lower point of 45mm (1.77") in January. Significantly, snowfall is observed during cold months, reaching a maximum of 334mm (13.15") in November and tapering off to a non-existent state during summer months.
An analysis of monthly average daylight hours shows a predictable increase from 9.1 hours in January to a peak of 15.7 hours in June and July, before the descent starts. The deviation of sunshine hours follows a similar pattern, varying from 6.4 hours in January and increasing to 11.3 hours in July. The UV index remains relatively moderate throughout the year, fluctuating between 2 in winter months and rising to 5 in peak summer months.
The best time to visit Locarno
Based on temperature, rainfall, and sunshine hours, the optimal time to visit Locarno is during the summer months from June to August. During this season, the temperatures climb to a comfortable range, peaking at approximately 21.2°C (70.2°F) in July and complemented by extended daylight hours from 15.4 hours to 15.7 hours. The rainfall reaches its lowest point in June at 129mm (5.08"), offering relatively dry conditions for outdoor activities. Besides, the UV index reaches the yearly maximum of 5, indicating more sun-exposure potential, ideal for sightseeing and exploring the city's scenic beauty.The worst time to visit Locarno
The least opportune time to visit Locarno would be the winter months, particularly November, when the city registers the maximum rainfall at 164mm (6.46") and high snowfall at 334mm (13.15"). Concurrently, temperatures plunge to an average high of only 5.5°C (41.9°F), and daylight hours are shortened to 9.5 hours in this month. Therefore, the combined impact of these unfavorable weather conditions points to reduced opportunities for outdoor pursuits and a potentially less enjoyable travel experience during this season.Spring weather in Locarno
Spring, spanning from March to May, heralds a moderate increase in temperature, with high averages rising from 5.6°C (42.1°F) to 13.8°C (56.8°F) and low averages from -2.3°C (27.9°F) to 4.5°C (40.1°F). Notably, rainfall sees an upward trajectory, reaching 129mm (5.08") in May from 71mm (2.8") in March. However, daylight becomes progressively longer during this season, extending from 11.9 hours in March to 15 hours in May, offering more natural light for outdoor activities.Summer weather in Locarno
Summer in Locarno, ranging from June to August, is characterized by a warm yet comfortable climate. The average high temperature reaches its peak at 21.2°C (70.2°F) in July, while the average low temperature stands at around 10.5°C (50.9°F). Although rainfall moderately increases from 129mm (5.08") to 162mm (6.38") over these months, it is compensated for by prolonged daylight hours from 15.7 hours to 14.1 hours. An elevated UV index of 5 denotes brighter, sunnier days.Autumn weather in Locarno
Autumn months from September to November present a significant shift with temperatures dropping from 16.5°C (61.7°F) to 5.5°C (41.9°F) for the high average and from 7.2°C (45°F) to -0.7°C (30.7°F) for the low average. Rainfall readings gradually escalate, culminating in November with the highest yearly total of 164mm (6.46"). Simultaneously, daylight hours shorten from 12.5 hours in September to just 9.5 hours in November indicating the approach of the cold season.Winter weather in Locarno
Winter in Locarno is severe with the average high temperature falling to 0.9°C (33.6°F) and average low temperature plummeting to -5.9°C (21.4°F) in January. Adding to the frigid conditions, snowfall reaches its peak with a striking 298mm (11.73") in February. However, the return of daylight is a gradual process from 8.7 hours in December to 10.4 hours in February, conferring a glimpse of the upcoming spring.Weather in January
January in Locarno, Switzerland is characterised by confirmed winter ambiance. Often donned in a white blanket of snow, the city experiences cold temperatures reaching a high of 0.9°C (33.6°F) and a low of -5.9°C (21.4°F). Residents get used to the snowfall which nicely complements the wintry landscape. Weather in January »Weather in February
Similar to January, February in Locarno continues to experience winter's chilly grip. However, snowfall does witness a slight increment from 265mm (10.43") to 298mm (11.73"), making it the perfect time for winter sports enthusiasts to visit. Weather in February »Weather in March
March is a transitional month in Locarno's weather calendar, offering glimpses of spring while still retaining winter's chill. This transition is clearly reflected in the snowfall plummeting from February's 278mm (10.94") to a mere 50mm (1.97") in March. Weather in March »Weather in April
April in Locarno marks the full-fledged arrival of spring. The cityscape revives with vibrant blossoms replacing the melting snow. With an increase in average temperature, reaching a high of 9.8°C (49.6°F) and a low of 1.3°C (34.3°F), visitors can enjoy the spring freshness. Weather in April »Weather in May
When May arrives in Locarno, the scenery enjoys the full bloom of spring. Mild temperatures, absence of snow, and growth of plush green foliage characterise the city's weather. A significant leap in average temperature is observed; the weather getting warmer with highs of 13.8°C (56.8°F) and lows of 4.5°C (40.1°F). Weather in May »Weather in June
June brings first hints of summer to Locarno with an increase in both temperature and sunshine. With highest average temperature recorded at 18.7°C (65.7°F), the city indulges in the pleasant warmth of early summer. Temperature is just perfect for venturing out, enjoying lake activities or open-air movie shows in Piazza Grande. Weather in June »Weather in July
In July, Locarno hits its summer stride with the city frequently basking in warmth and sunshine. As the hottest month, July's temperatures vary from 21.2°C (70.2°F) at the highest and 10.5°C (50.9°F) at the lowest. Rainfall is quite considerable, yet it rarely disrupts the magnificent sunsets and alpine views the city offers. Weather in July »Weather in August
August persists with the warmth of summer in Locarno even though a minor drop in maximum temperature from 21.2°C (70.2°F) to 20.8°C (69.4°F) is noticeable. Nevertheless, the city shines in its summer glory, hosting several festivals and outdoor events to enjoy the hot weather. Weather in August »Weather in September
September sees the onset of autumn, a beautiful season with temperatures becoming mild. Despite a decrease in temperature to a high of 16.5°C (61.7°F), the weather remains warm, offering stunning views of fall foliage. Outdoor activities such as hiking and discovering the Swiss alpine region continue. Weather in September »Weather in October
October in Locarno ushers in more pronounced fall weather with significant temperature drop to a high of 11.5°C (52.7°F). Nature paints a vivid palette of autumn colours throughout the city, from lakeshores to mountain slopes. Weather in October »Weather in November
November witnesses a drastic shift in Locarno's weather as the city moves away from autumn and towards winter. Being the wettest month of the year, the city shivers under the heaviest rainfall of 164mm (6.46"). Although temperatures fall further, Locarno remains a special place during this time. Weather in November »Weather in December
The year's end presents a striking white blanket over Locarno, as snowfall increases significantly from 14mm (0.55") in November to 260mm (10.24") in December. As the second coldest month of the year, December experiences a low temperature drop of up to -4.6°C (23.7°F). Weather in December »Updated: Feb 3, 2024
Published by: Weather Atlas | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Published by: Weather Atlas | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Frequently asked questions
Locarno's coldest weather arrives in January, when temperatures average a high of 0.9°C (33.6°F) and a low of -5.9°C (21.4°F).
The month with the least rainfall is January, when the rain falls for 8.9 days and typically collects 45mm (1.77") of precipitation.
In Locarno, Switzerland, during the entire year, the rain falls for 200.8 days and collects up to 1253mm (49.33") of precipitation.
Months with snowfall are January through May, October through December.
Throughout the year, in Locarno, Switzerland, there are 63.5 snowfall days, and 1500mm (59.06") of snow is accumulated.
The months with the lowest UV index are January through March, October through December, with an average maximum UV index of 2.
In Locarno, Switzerland, snow does not fall in June through September.
With an average of 15h and 42min of daylight, June has the longest days of the year in Locarno, Switzerland.
June and July, with an average maximum UV index of 5, are months with the highest UV index.
Temperature readings reach their annual highs in July, averaging 21.2°C (70.2°F) and a minimum average of 10.5°C (50.9°F).
With an average relative humidity of 76%, July is the least humid month in Locarno, Switzerland.
The month with the most sunshine is July, with an average of 11.3h of sunshine.
On Sunday, 27. October 2024, at 03:00, Daylight Saving Time ends in Locarno, and the time zone changes from CEST to CET. The next Daylight Saving Time starts on Sunday, 30. March 2025, at 02:00, and the time zone reverts from CET to CEST.
The most humid month is November, with an average relative humidity of 83%.
The month with the most rainfall in Locarno is November, when the rain falls for 14.3 days and typically aggregates up to 164mm (6.46") of precipitation.
November is the month with the most snowfall in Locarno. Snow falls for 6.6 days and accumulates 334mm (13.15") of snow.
With an average of 5.4h of sunshine, November has the least sunshine of the year in Locarno.
The month with the shortest days in Locarno, Switzerland, is December, with an average of 8h and 42min of daylight.
Average temperature
Locarno, Switzerland
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (21.2°C).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (0.9°C).
The month with the highest average low temperature is August (10.6°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (-5.9°C).
Average pressure
Locarno, Switzerland
- Average pressure in January:
1018.8mbar - Average pressure in February:
1017mbar - Average pressure in March:
1016.5mbar - Average pressure in April:
1015.1mbar - Average pressure in May:
1015.4mbar - Average pressure in June:
1015.8mbar
- Average pressure in July:
1016.4mbar - Average pressure in August:
1017.3mbar - Average pressure in September:
1017.9mbar - Average pressure in October:
1018.3mbar - Average pressure in November:
1015.8mbar - Average pressure in December:
1020.6mbar
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is December (1020.6mbar).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is April (1015.1mbar).
Average wind speed
Locarno, Switzerland
- Average wind speed in January:
7km/h - Average wind speed in February:
7.4km/h - Average wind speed in March:
7.2km/h - Average wind speed in April:
6.6km/h - Average wind speed in May:
7km/h - Average wind speed in June:
6.8km/h
- Average wind speed in July:
6.8km/h - Average wind speed in August:
6.3km/h - Average wind speed in September:
6.3km/h - Average wind speed in October:
6.2km/h - Average wind speed in November:
5.8km/h - Average wind speed in December:
7.2km/h
The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is February (7.4km/h).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is November (5.8km/h).
Average humidity
Locarno, Switzerland
The month with the highest relative humidity is November (83%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is July (76%).
Average rainfall
Locarno, Switzerland
- Average rainfall in January:
45mm - Average rainfall in February:
47mm - Average rainfall in March:
71mm - Average rainfall in April:
114mm - Average rainfall in May:
129mm - Average rainfall in June:
140mm
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is November (164mm).
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is January (45mm).
Average rainfall days
Locarno, Switzerland
- Average rainfall days in January:
8.9 days - Average rainfall days in February:
8.6 days - Average rainfall days in March:
13.7 days - Average rainfall days in April:
20.1 days - Average rainfall days in May:
23.8 days - Average rainfall days in June:
23.6 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
25.5 days - Average rainfall days in August:
23.2 days - Average rainfall days in September:
17.6 days - Average rainfall days in October:
12.9 days - Average rainfall days in November:
14.3 days - Average rainfall days in December:
8.6 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is July (25.5 days).
The months with the least rainy days are February and December (8.6 days).
Average snowfall
Locarno, Switzerland
The month with the highest snowfall is November (334mm).
The months with the least snowfall are June, July, August and September (0mm).
Average snowfall days
Locarno, Switzerland
- Average snowfall days in January:
14.8 days - Average snowfall days in February:
14.6 days - Average snowfall days in March:
11.2 days - Average snowfall days in April:
2.8 days - Average snowfall days in May:
0.3 days - Average snowfall days in June:
0 days
- Average snowfall days in July:
0 days - Average snowfall days in August:
0 days - Average snowfall days in September:
0 days - Average snowfall days in October:
1 days - Average snowfall days in November:
6.6 days - Average snowfall days in December:
12.2 days
The month with the highest number of snowfall days is January (14.8 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are June, July, August and September (0 days).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Locarno, Switzerland
- Average daylight in January:
9h and 6min - Average daylight in February:
10h and 24min - Average daylight in March:
11h and 54min - Average daylight in April:
13h and 36min - Average daylight in May:
15h and 0min - Average daylight in June:
15h and 42min
- Average daylight in July:
15h and 24min - Average daylight in August:
14h and 6min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 30min - Average daylight in October:
10h and 54min - Average daylight in November:
9h and 30min - Average daylight in December:
8h and 42min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 15h and 42min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 8h and 42min).
- Average sunshine in January:
6h and 24min - Average sunshine in February:
6h and 30min - Average sunshine in March:
7h and 30min - Average sunshine in April:
9h and 12min - Average sunshine in May:
9h and 54min - Average sunshine in June:
10h and 42min
- Average sunshine in July:
11h and 18min - Average sunshine in August:
10h and 36min - Average sunshine in September:
9h and 24min - Average sunshine in October:
6h and 30min - Average sunshine in November:
5h and 24min - Average sunshine in December:
6h and 18min
The month with the most sunshine is July (Average sunshine: 11h and 18min).
The month with the least sunshine is November (Average sunshine: 5h and 24min).
Average sunshine days
Locarno, Switzerland
- Average sunshine days in January:
12.7 days - Average sunshine days in February:
10.2 days - Average sunshine days in March:
9.6 days - Average sunshine days in April:
6 days - Average sunshine days in May:
3.8 days - Average sunshine days in June:
3.1 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
3.7 days - Average sunshine days in August:
4.3 days - Average sunshine days in September:
9.7 days - Average sunshine days in October:
14.9 days - Average sunshine days in November:
11.8 days - Average sunshine days in December:
13.8 days
The month with the most sunshine days is October (14.9 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is June (3.1 days).
Average UV index
Locarno, Switzerland
The months with the highest UV index are June and July (UV index 5).
The months with the lowest UV index are January, February, March, October, November and December (UV index 2).
Average cloud cover
Locarno, Switzerland
The month with the most cloud cover is November (Cloud cover 42).
The month with the least cloud cover is July (Cloud cover 27).
Average visibility
Locarno, Switzerland
The months with the highest visibility are April, May, June, July, August and December (9km).
The months with the lowest visibility are January, February, March, September, October and November (8km).
