Climate and monthly weather forecast
Lucerne, Switzerland

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The city of Lucerne, Switzerland, with the river between and the distant scenic mountains
The city of Lucerne, Switzerland, with the river between and the distant scenic mountains

The climate of Lucerne

Located in the heart of Switzerland, Lucerne falls under the Köppen climate classification of Cfb. This code denotes a 'Marine West Coast' climate, characterized by warm summers. Indeed, the geographical locale of Lucerne brings about distinct weather patterns, annual temperature variations and unique weather conditions.

Throughout the year, Lucerne experiences a noticeable variation in temperatures. Average high temperatures range from a chilly 3.4°C (38.1°F) in the coldest month of January to a pleasant 24.7°C (76.5°F) in the warmest months of July. Concurrently, the average low temperatures fluctuate from -2.3°C (27.9°F) in January to 14.2°C (57.6°F) in July.

Relative humidity remains somewhat consistent, hovering between 70% in April to a maximum of 84% in November and December. Rainfall is a common occurrence throughout the year, varying from 51mm (2.01") in January to 154mm (6.06") in June, making it the wettest month of the year. Conversely, Lucerne sees a considerable amount of snow, especially in the winter months, with snowfall peaking at 202mm (7.95") in February.

A unique aspect of Lucerne's weather conditions is the daylight and sunshine hours. The city experiences its longest daylight hours in June at 15.8 hours, and the shortest in December at 8.6 hours. Correspondingly, June provides the maximum hours of sunshine at 5.7 hours, reducing to just 1.2 hours in December.

The best time to visit Lucerne

Considering the overall climatological parameters, the optimal time for a visit to Lucerne spans from late Spring to early Autumn. This period, associated with mild temperatures, offers a wonderful blend of comfortable weather and extended daylight hours. May brings temperatures ranging from 8.9°C (48°F) to 19.1°C (66.4°F) coupled with ample daylight of 15.1 hours. As summer progresses, temperatures rise to peak at 22.2°C (72°F) to 24.7°C (76.5°F) between June and July, making outdoor activities highly enjoyable.

The worst time to visit Lucerne

The least favorable time to visit Lucerne falls during late Autumn and Winter months. This timeframe, from November to February, sees temperatures plummeting to a frigid -2.3°C (27.9°F) to 4.3°C (39.7°F) accompanied by a high relative humidity of 84%, causing damp cold conditions. These colder months also denote the peak of snowfall, reaching a staggering 202mm (7.95") in February. Limited daylight hours ranging from 9.4 hours in November to 8.6 hours in December, and diminished sunshine hours, further dampen the overall appeal.

Spring weather in Lucerne

Spring arrives in Lucerne with a rise in both temperature and rainfall. By March, with the snowfall completely ceased, the temperature elevates to an average high of 10.3°C (50.5°F) and low of 1.1°C (34°F). April hikes this further to bring a comfortable range of 4.3°C (39.7°F) to 14.4°C (57.9°F). This warming trend coupled with substantial daylight hours, increasing from 11.9 to 13.6 hours between March and April, provides great conditions for sightseeing.

Summer weather in Lucerne

Lucerne's summer, starting in June, is characterized by warm temperatures, ample sunshine, and extended daylight hours. July being the hottest month with a high of 24.7°C (76.5°F) and low of 14.2°C (57.6°F), offers an optimal climate for outdoor picnics and lakeside activities. Although summer also witnesses a higher frequency of rainfall, with rainfall varying from 128mm (5.04") to 154mm (6.06") between May and June, the UV index hiking to 7 and 8, assures sufficient sunny days.

Autumn weather in Lucerne

Autumn in Lucerne is marked by a gradual drop in temperatures and daylight hours but an increase in relative humidity. While September experiences highs of 19.4°C (66.9°F) and lows of 10.6°C (51.1°F), these temperatures dip to lows of 6.7°C (44.1°F) and highs of 14.3°C (57.7°F) by October. Despite the lowering temperatures, the presence of autumn foliage adds a distinct charm to the cityscape.

Winter weather in Lucerne

Winter in Lucerne is characterized by cold temperatures, snowfall, and limited daylight hours. December sees temperatures drop to an average high of 4.3°C (39.7°F) and a low of -1°C (30.2°F). Snowfall begins in November but builds up to reach heights of up to 146mm (5.75") in December. Colder months like January and February experience even greater snowfall, making Lucerne a winter wonderland, perfect for snow-based activities.

Weather in January

Shifts in the weather in Lucerne are explicit in January as winter clings to the city. Snowfall is substantial during this month, with 160mm (6.3") of snow received over around 3.8 days. These winter floes can make travel to the Alpine city challenging, thereby urging visitors to be well-prepared. Weather in January »

Weather in February

The climate in Lucerne in February does not differ significantly from the preceding month. Snowfall accumulates further, totalling 202mm (7.95") over approximately 4.4 days, the highest in the year. Persistent cold and snow retain the popularity of winter sports activities in February, fostering an influx of outdoor enthusiasts. Weather in February »

Weather in March

As March rolls in, Lucerne starts to experience timely signs of spring. Though there is a marked drop in snowfall, 83mm (3.27") are recorded over an average of 1.9 days. The city begins to shed its winter coat, preparing the ground for blooming flowers. Weather in March »

Weather in April

By the time April arrives in Lucerne, the snow has virtually disappeared, leaving just 12mm (0.47") across 0.6 days. This month brings more regular rainy days, as the city transitions into the warmer part of the year. Daytime temperatures become increasingly pleasant, fostering a vibrant outdoor culture. Weather in April »

Weather in May

May symbolises the beginning of a warm spell in Lucerne. Rainfall increases as the month progresses, hitting a significant 128mm (5.04") over about 12.9 days. The cityscape transforms under the rainfall, with greenery flourishing in its breadth and length. Weather in May »

Weather in June

The month of June in Lucerne registers the highest rainfall of the year, amounting to 154mm (6.06") across 13.5 days. Despite this, the rain does not quite dampen the city's summer vibrancy, as the temperature continues to climb. Sunny intervals, moderate temperatures and longer daylight hours dictate the city's summer life. Weather in June »

Weather in July

July is the hottest month of the year in Lucerne, with peak temperatures soaring to 24.7°C (76.5°F). Residents and visitors alike seek relief in the lake, with swimming becoming a popular pastime. This month continues to see frequent summer showers, which serve to temper the heat. Weather in July »

Weather in August

Weather in August in Lucerne mirrors that of the preceding month, with temperatures slightly dropping from the July peak. This month presents comfortable warmth and extended daylight hours to explore the Swiss city. During this period, locals and tourists venture outdoors to experience the multitude of summer-based events and festivals. Weather in August »

Weather in September

The arrival of September in Lucerne announces the gradual retreat of summer. Rainfall reduces to 107mm (4.21"), it comes over 10.2 days, signaling a shift in seasons. The city begins its preparation for the approaching autumn, as leaves start to turn. Weather in September »

Weather in October

October in Lucerne is characterized by the tangible embrace of autumn. As a transitional month, October sees a reduction in temperatures, but without the onset of the winter chill. The city, bathed in autumnal hues, offers a visual treat for rare leaf-peepers. Weather in October »

Weather in November

The month of November in Lucerne serves as a prologue to winter. The temperatures fall further and the first snowfall of the season staggers into the city, reaching 53mm (2.09") over 2.4 days. This time witnesses a notable decrease in daylight hours, ushering in longer nights. Weather in November »

Weather in December

The arrival of December in Lucerne marks the onset of winter, as temperatures continue to plummet. Snowfall becomes more significant this month, accumulating up to 146mm (5.75") over 7.9 days. The combination of reduced daylight and significant snowfall wields a hushed ambiance in the city. Weather in December »
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Frequently asked questions

What month is the coldest in Lucerne?

Temperature readings in Lucerne reach their annual highs in January, averaging 3.4°C (38.1°F) and a minimum average of -2.3°C (27.9°F).

What is the driest month in Lucerne?

January is the month with the least rainfall in Lucerne. Rain falls for 9.3 days and accumulates 51mm (2.01") of precipitation.

How much does it rain in Lucerne?

In Lucerne, Switzerland, during the entire year, the rain falls for 132.2 days and collects up to 1174mm (46.22") of precipitation.

When does it snow in Lucerne?

January through April, October through December are months with snowfall in Lucerne.

How much does it snow in Lucerne?

In Lucerne, during the entire year, snow falls for 21.1 days and aggregates up to 660mm (25.98") of snow.

What are the months with the lowest UV index in Lucerne?

The months with the lowest UV index in Lucerne are January, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 1.

What is the snowiest month in Lucerne?

The month with the most snowfall in Lucerne is February, when snow falls for 4.4 days and typically aggregates up to 202mm (7.95") of snow.

What is the least humid month in Lucerne?

The least humid month is April, with an average relative humidity of 70%.

When it does not snow in Lucerne?

May through September are months without snowfall in Lucerne, Switzerland.

What is the rainiest month in Lucerne?

June is the month with the most rainfall in Lucerne, Switzerland. Rain falls for 13.5 days and accumulates 154mm (6.06") of precipitation.

When are the longest days in Lucerne?

With an average of 15h and 48min of daylight, June has the longest days of the year in Lucerne, Switzerland.

What is the month with the highest UV index in Lucerne?

With an average maximum UV index of 8, June is the month with the highest UV index in Lucerne, Switzerland.

What is the warmest month in Lucerne?

July, on average, is the warmest month, registering a high temperature of 24.7°C (76.5°F) and a low of 14.2°C (57.6°F).

What month has the most sunshine in Lucerne?

With an average of 6.5h of sunshine, July has the most sunshine of the year in Lucerne.

When is Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Lucerne?

On Sunday, 27. October 2024, at 03:00, Daylight Saving Time ends in Lucerne, Switzerland, 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.

What is the most humid month in Lucerne?

November and December, with an average relative humidity of 84%, are most humid months in Lucerne.

What is the month with the shortest days in Lucerne?

The month with the shortest days in Lucerne, Switzerland, is December, with an average of 8h and 36min of daylight.

What is the month with the least sunshine in Lucerne?

The month with the least sunshine is December, with an average of 1.2h of sunshine.

Average temperature
Lucerne, Switzerland

Average temperature - Lucerne, Switzerland

The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (24.7°C).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (3.4°C).

The month with the highest average low temperature is July (14.2°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (-2.3°C).

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Average humidity
Lucerne, Switzerland

Average humidity - Lucerne, Switzerland

The months with the highest relative humidity are November and December (84%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is April (70%).

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Average rainfall
Lucerne, Switzerland

Average rainfall - Lucerne, Switzerland

The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is June (154mm).
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is January (51mm).

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Average rainfall days
Lucerne, Switzerland

Average rainfall days - Lucerne, Switzerland

The month with the highest number of rainy days is June (13.5 days).
The month with the least rainy days is February (8.7 days).

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Average snowfall
Lucerne, Switzerland

Average snowfall - Lucerne, Switzerland

The month with the highest snowfall is February (202mm).
The months with the least snowfall are May, June, July, August and September (0mm).

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Average snowfall days
Lucerne, Switzerland

Average snowfall days - Lucerne, Switzerland

The month with the highest number of snowfall days is December (7.9 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are May, June, July, August and September (0 days).

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Average daylight / Average sunshine
Lucerne, Switzerland

Average daylight / Average sunshine - Lucerne, Switzerland

The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 15h and 48min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 8h and 36min).

The month with the most sunshine is July (Average sunshine: 6h and 30min).
The month with the least sunshine is December (Average sunshine: 1h and 12min).

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Lucerne, Switzerland

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