The climate of Saint Moritz
Encompassed within the Ebenezer Howard's Garden City model,
Saint Moritz in
Switzerland experiences a Tundra climate, as defined by the Köppen climate classification. This mountainous region, encased by the iconic Alps, endures a landscape dominated by frosty winters and cool summers, displaying a range of temperatures from -15°C (5°F) to 14.6°C (58.3°F) throughout the year.
Rainfall patterns indicate an overall humid environment, with consistent rain every month reaching a peak from
July to
August with 109mm (4.29") to 125mm (4.92") of rainfall, equating to an average relative humidity lingering around 95%. Precipitation alternates between rain and snow, signifying a chill in the air with the snowfall bearing witness to the chilliest days, amounting up to 721mm (28.39") in
November.
Month to month, the daylight hours in Saint Moritz show a difference that associate with its varying seasons, starting from 9.1 hours in
January to the longest day in
June with 15.8 hours of daylight. Sunshine days oscillate between 6.1 days in July and 17.2 days in
December, meanwhile, the UV index remains low throughout the year.
Atmospheric pressure undergoes minor fluctuations within the range of 1015.3 mb to 1020.6 mb. Wind speed portrays a general steady flow from 7.9km/h (4.9mph) to 10.3km/h (6.4mph), with gusts up to 18.1km/h (11.2mph). Cloud cover is persistently high, revealing a moderately clouded skyline with a 76% peak in
April.
The best time to visit Saint Moritz
For weather enthusiasts inclined towards moderate temperatures and abundant sunshine, the period from
June to
August serves as an excellent time for a visit. During these summer months, temperatures rise to an appealing high of 11.7°C (53.1°F) to 14.6°C (58.3°F). Simultaneously, average daylight soars to 15 hours, with peak sunshine hours reaching up to 9.1 hours in
July. While the precipitation reaches its zenith, the volume is manageable, relaxing the atmosphere and fostering a lush green environment.
The worst time to visit Saint Moritz
Considerably, the months between
November and
January exhibit the harshest climate in
Saint Moritz. With plummeting temperatures reaching a chilling low of -8.8°C (16.2°F) to -15°C (5°F), accompanied by considerable snowfall ranging from 319mm (12.56") to 721mm (28.39"), these periods pose challenging conditions for tourists. Certainly, the short daylight hours of 8.7 to 9.1 might not contribute much to the tourist experiences.
Spring weather in Saint Moritz
Transitioning from winter, spring in
Saint Moritz manifests a slight increase in temperature to a peak average of 5.5°C (41.9°F) in
May. Subsequently, rainfall shows an inclining trend from 82mm (3.23") in
April to 102mm (4.02") in May. Wind speeds during this period show a marginal decrease from 9.3km/h (5.8mph) to 8.7km/h (5.4mph), facilitating better outdoor movement. Meanwhile, daylight hours advance, allowing for more sightseeing with 15 hours of light in May.
Summer weather in Saint Moritz
Summers in this spectacular Alpine setting elevates the temperature to a comforting 11.7°C (53.1°F) to 14.6°C (58.3°F). Despite the increased rainfall during these months, the duration of daylight prolongs close to 16 hours extending the moments of pleasure outdoors. With wind speeds dropping to a tranquil 7.9km/h (4.9mph) to 8.3km/h (5.2mph), summer offers a splendid time to embrace the beauty that
Saint Moritz has to offer.
Autumn weather in Saint Moritz
The fall season in
Saint Moritz brings noticeable changes to the climate, with temperatures progressively reducing from 10.1°C (50.2°F) in
September to -0.5°C (31.1°F) in
November. Despite the steady increase in rainfall from 68mm (2.68") to 104mm (4.09"), the visibility is fairly good with a range from 6 km to 7 km throughout this period. Autumn days are shorter but offer noteworthy sites with the changing colors of the foliage.
Winter weather in Saint Moritz
Winters in the Alpine town of
Saint Moritz are synonymous with cold and snow-laden landscapes. Temperatures slide down to a freezing -15°C (5°F) in the heart of winter. Snowfall mounts up with 319mm (12.56") to 721mm (28.39"), blanketing the town and the adjacent mountainous region in a stunning white sheath. Despite the cold, the air quality is better during the winter months, with visibility reaching 7 km.
Weather in January
Saint Moritz enters the year with a chilly start in
January. The city deals with a significant amount of snowfall with as high as 266mm (10.47") recorded, transforming the locale into a winter haven. Skiing and other winter sports become extremely popular during this time.
Weather in January » Weather in February
February in
Saint Moritz presents similar climatic conditions as
January, but with a rise in recorded snowfall to 309mm (12.17"). It continues to be a suitable time for winter sports, attracting enthusiasts from all over the world.
Weather in February » Weather in March
Gradual changes start in the weather during
March in
Saint Moritz. The snowfall displayed an increase to 391mm (15.39"), hinting at the last significant snow before the onset of spring. Winter sports still continue with gusto but the later part of the month may introduce spring activities.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April in
Saint Moritz brings a considerable change from the previous months, seeing a drop in snowfall to 504mm (19.84"). It signifies the departure from the heavy winter, opening the doors to spring. Wildflowers start to bloom, providing a colourful contrast to the receding white landscapes.
Weather in April » Weather in May
Saint Moritz welcomes
May with a much-warmer climate. The snowfall reduces drastically, being recorded as low as 267mm (10.51"). The decrease is indicative of the arrival of warmer months. Visitors can enjoy more hours of daylight, allowing for longer outdoor explorations.
Weather in May » Weather in June
June sets the tone for summer in
Saint Moritz, with traces of snowfall limited to just 26mm (1.02"). It's a departure from the snowy scenery, giving way to green landscapes and clear skies. Activities transition decidedly towards sailing, windsurfing, and hiking, making it suitable for adventure seekers.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July, noted for its mild temperature highs touching 14.6°C (58.3°F), is the warmest month in
Saint Moritz. This provides ample opportunities for picnics by the lake, mountain biking, and hiking. Coinciding with the summer holidays in many parts of the world, the city attracts a large number of tourists.
Weather in July » Weather in August
The weather in
Saint Moritz continues to remain warm in
August with temperature highs around 14.5°C (58.1°F). The city presents ample opportunities for outdoor pursuits, making it a favourite month for active holidaymakers. While days remain warm, evenings may see a slight drop in temperatures, giving a balanced weather experience.
Weather in August »Weather in September
September marks the onset of autumn in
Saint Moritz with temperatures averaging around 10.1°C (50.2°F). The climate’s transition from summer to autumn invites a reduction in tourist footfall, restoring peace and tranquility to the city.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October witnesses a further drop in temperature to 5.1°C (41.2°F) in
Saint Moritz. The first hints of snow may start to appear towards the end of the month, signifying the winter's arrival. Autumn colours reach their peak, making it a delight for nature lovers and photographers.
Weather in October » Weather in November
November sees an early onset of winter in
Saint Moritz, with temperatures dropping to -0.5°C (31.1°F). A notable rise in snowfall to 721mm (28.39") marks a return of the winter landscape. Skiing and snowboarding begin to take centre stage as popular outdoor activities.
Weather in November » Weather in December
Saint Moritz sees the year off with a snowy
December exhibiting temperatures as low as -4°C (24.8°F). There is an increase in snowfall, registering around 319mm (12.56"). The snowy cityscape makes this month perfect for celebrating Christmas and welcoming the New Year.
Weather in December »