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Contents
- The climate of Zürich
- The best time to visit Zürich
- The worst time to visit Zürich
- Spring weather in Zürich
- Summer weather in Zürich
- Autumn weather in Zürich
- Winter weather in Zürich
- Weather in January
- Weather in February
- Weather in March
- Weather in April
- Weather in May
- Weather in June
- Weather in July
- Weather in August
- Weather in September
- Weather in October
- Weather in November
- Weather in December
- Frequently asked questions
- Average temperature
- Average humidity
- Average rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average snowfall
- Average snowfall days
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average UV index
Ships ashore on Lake Zürich, with a view of the Fraumunster and Grossmunster Churches on either side of the water, in Zürich, Switzerland
The climate of Zürich
In the city of Zürich, according to the Köppen climate classification, the dominant climate is of the Cfb category, characterized by a marine west coast climate with a warm summer. Nestled in Switzerland, Zürich experiences a fluctuating pattern of weather parameters throughout the year.
Temperature highs range from a chilly 2.9°C (37.2°F) in the winter month of January, to a moderately warm 24°C (75.2°F) in the peak of summer in July. Correspondingly, temperature lows dip to minus 2°C (35.6°F) in January and elevate to 14°C (57.2°F) by July. This gives rise to significant variations in atmospheric conditions throughout the year.
Annual rainfall in Zürich portrays a relatively uniform distribution, with minor surges during the mid-year months of May to August ranging from 122mm (4.8") to 128mm (5.04"). Rainfall days in the year are spread slightly unevenly with greater frequency observed between May and July meeting the count of 12 to 13 days.
Zürich experiences snowfall mainly during the winter months, peaking in January and December with snow accumulation of 184mm (7.24") and 191mm (7.52") respectively. Daylight hours extend from a minimal 9 hours in the dark winter month of December to an extended 15.9 hours in the longest days of June.
Temperature highs range from a chilly 2.9°C (37.2°F) in the winter month of January, to a moderately warm 24°C (75.2°F) in the peak of summer in July. Correspondingly, temperature lows dip to minus 2°C (35.6°F) in January and elevate to 14°C (57.2°F) by July. This gives rise to significant variations in atmospheric conditions throughout the year.
Annual rainfall in Zürich portrays a relatively uniform distribution, with minor surges during the mid-year months of May to August ranging from 122mm (4.8") to 128mm (5.04"). Rainfall days in the year are spread slightly unevenly with greater frequency observed between May and July meeting the count of 12 to 13 days.
Zürich experiences snowfall mainly during the winter months, peaking in January and December with snow accumulation of 184mm (7.24") and 191mm (7.52") respectively. Daylight hours extend from a minimal 9 hours in the dark winter month of December to an extended 15.9 hours in the longest days of June.
The best time to visit Zürich
Balancing the factors of temperature, precipitation, and leisurely daylight hours, the time from late spring to early summer, particularly May to June, provides the best weather conditions for a visit to Zürich. During this period, the average high temperatures elevate to a comfortably warm range from 18.5°C (65.3°F) to 21.6°C (70.9°F) while low temperatures hover within a pleasant range from 8.8°C (47.8°F) to 11.9°C (53.4°F). These months also bring in moderate rainfall, ensuring the city’s landscape is lush and vibrant. The city basks in a wide stretch of daylight, with sunlight illuminating up to fifteen hours in a day.
The worst time to visit Zürich
Zürich presents a challenging weather climate during the peak of winter, particularly the months of January and December. Average high temperatures barely exceed freezing point at around 2.9°C (37.2°F) to 3.7°C (38.7°F) while low temperatures plunge below freezing to reach minus 2°C (35.6°F) and minus 0.7°C (33.3°F), consecutively. The city finds itself under a thick blanket of snow with high snowfall rates of 184mm (7.24") and 191mm (7.52"). Additionally, a limited daylight of around 8.6 to 9 hours restricts outdoor activities.
Spring weather in Zürich
In Zürich, springtime spreads its charm from March through May and brings modest changes in weather conditions. Average high temperature values gently rise from 9.5°C (49.1°F) in March to a congenial 18.5°C (65.3°F) by May. Corresponding low temperatures transition from 1.7°C (35.1°F) to 8.8°C (47.8°F) within the same time span. Rainfall is moderate and steady around 78mm (3.07") to 83mm (3.27"), and daylight gradually increases from 11.9 hours in March to 15.1 hours in May.
Summer weather in Zürich
Summer, from June to August in Zürich, offers optimum weather with average high temperatures that peak between 21.6°C (70.9°F) in June and 24°C (75.2°F) in July before a slight dip to 23.3°C (73.9°F) in August. Nighttime temperature lows are equally balmy, ranging from 11.9°C (53.4°F) to 14°C (57.2°F). The rainy season is at its most intense during these months, with rainfall rates hovering around 122mm (4.8") to 128mm (5.04").
Autumn weather in Zürich
Autumn arrives in Zürich in September and extends till November, bringing a cool, crisp sensation across the city. High temperatures start with an average of 18.8°C (65.8°F) in September and fall to 7.2°C (45°F) in November. Concurrently, nightly lows transition from a mellow 10.5°C (50.9°F) in September to a cooler 2°C (35.6°F) in November. Autumn also experiences a gradual decrease in rainfall, moving down from 99mm (3.9") in September to 79mm (3.11") in November.
Winter weather in Zürich
Winter in Zürich, spanning December through February, witnesses freezing temperatures. Highs are limited to a low 3.7°C (38.7°F) in December, going further down to 2.9°C (37.2°F) in January, and then slightly rising to 4.6°C (40.3°F) in February. Correspondingly, the lows fall below freezing point, from minus 0.7°C (33.3°F) in December to minus 2°C (35.6°F) in January, then to a chilly minus 1.6°C (34.9°F) come February. There’s a significant snowfall in Zürich during the winters, especially in January with snowfall measuring at 184mm (7.24").
Weather in January
The start of the year in Zürich presents a winter backdrop, with temperatures staying low, the ground is often covered in a blanket of snow. The month sees one of the highest snowfall averages, with 184mm (7.24") of snow. The days are brisk and humidity is high, contributing to a biting wind chill. Weather in January »
Weather in February
Similar to January, February in Zürich remains in the grip of winter, albeit gently easing into milder conditions. Snowfall decreases to 220mm (8.66") from the previous month's 184mm (7.24"), while daylight hours gradually increase. Weather in February »
Weather in March
With the arrival of March in Zürich, temperatures begin to rise, and snowfall decreases to a much lower average of 137mm (5.39"). The transition from winter to spring commences and the city starts to shed its winter cocoon. Daylight hours increase, further signalling the arrival of spring. Weather in March »
Weather in April
Zürich in April continues to progress towards milder conditions with the city usually enjoying the first signs of greenery. The average snowfall significantly drops to just 30mm (1.18"). A notable increase in daylight hours and sunshine sets an optimistic mood in the city, despite lingering cool temperatures. Weather in April »
Weather in May
May in Zürich showcases a beautiful spring atmosphere with trees in full bloom. The city experiences a spectacular shift in weather, with snowfall officially out of the picture registering 0mm (0"), making way for higher temperatures. Weather in May »
Weather in June
June marks the official start of summer in Zürich. Although the city endures the highest percentage of rainfall and an increase in humidity, it also enjoys the optimal length of daylight hours. The weather in June is a delicate balance of wet and bright conditions, presenting an exuberantly green city. Weather in June »
Weather in July
July in Zürich is characterised by balmy days and warm nights. With the highest average temperatures at 24°C (75.2°F) and 14°C (57.2°F) observed during this month, the city pulsates with summer energy. July is also the sunniest month with an average UV index of 8, hence sun protection is advisable. Weather in July »
Weather in August
Despite August resembling July's weather patterns, the slight drop in temperature indicates the gradual transition towards autumn. It ties with July for the maximum average temperature at 23.3°C (73.9°F), a reason for many outdoor festivities. Weather in August »
Weather in September
September in Zürich ushers in autumn, with cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage colouring the city. While rainfall averages at 99mm (3.9"), the weather remains overall pleasant, with moderate temperatures and substantially long daylight hours. Weather in September »
Weather in October
October sees Zürich entering the heart of autumn with temperatures continuing to decrease. The weather begins to be more unpredictable, with the possibility of early snowfalls. However, the city keeps its charm with the fall foliage contrasted by the start of the early snow falls. Weather in October »
Weather in November
With November, Zürich braces for the upcoming winter season, the temperatures drop, and daylight hours decrease. The winter showcase begins with snowfall levels increasing to 80mm (3.15") from a mere 8mm (0.31") in October. Despite the cold setting in, many residents appreciate the city's beautiful scenery under the light dusting of snowfall. Weather in November »
Weather in December
Zürich in December is a festive city shrouded in winter's embrace. With an increase in snowfall to 191mm (7.52"), the city transforms into a winter paradise. Even though the conditions are cold, and daylight scarce, the weather creates a truly magical Christmas atmosphere. Weather in December »
[Resources]Frequently asked questions
What is the coldest month in Zürich?
January brings the lowest temperatures in Zürich, with an average high of 2.9°C (37.2°F) and an average low of -2°C (28.4°F).
What is the driest month in Zürich?
The month with the least rainfall is January, when the rain falls for 10.5 days and typically collects 63mm (2.48") of precipitation.
How much does it rain in Zürich?
Throughout the year, in Zürich, there are 133.9 rainfall days, and 1133mm (44.61") of precipitation is accumulated.
When does it snow in Zürich?
Months with snowfall in Zürich, Switzerland, are January through April, October through December.
How much does it snow in Zürich?
Throughout the year, in Zürich, Switzerland, there are 20.4 snowfall days, and 850mm (33.46") of snow is accumulated.
What is the month with the lowest UV index in Zürich?
The months with the lowest UV index are January, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 1.
What is the snowiest month in Zürich?
The month with the most snowfall in Zürich is February, when snow falls for 5.2 days and typically aggregates up to 220mm (8.66") of snow.
What is the least humid month in Zürich?
With an average relative humidity of 69%, April is the least humid month in Zürich, Switzerland.
When it does not snow in Zürich?
May through September are months without snowfall in Zürich.
What is the rainiest month in Zürich?
June is the month with the most rainfall in Zürich, Switzerland. Rain falls for 12.7 days and accumulates 128mm (5.04") of precipitation.
When are the longest days in Zürich?
The month with the longest days in Zürich is June, with an average of 15h and 54min of daylight.
When is the highest UV index in Zürich?
The months with the highest UV index in Zürich, Switzerland, are June and July, with an average maximum UV index of 8.
What are the warmest months in Zürich?
July, noted for its average high-temperature of 24°C (75.2°F) and an average low-temperature of 14°C (57.2°F), is considered the warmest month.
What month has the most sunshine in Zürich?
July has the most sunshine of the year in Zürich, with an average of 6.9h of sunshine.
When is Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Zürich?
On Sunday, 27. October 2024, at 03:00, Daylight Saving Time ends in Zürich, 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 are the most humid months in Zürich?
November and December, with an average relative humidity of 84%, are most humid months in Zürich, Switzerland.
What is the month with the shortest days in Zürich?
With an average of 8h and 30min of daylight, December has the shortest days of the year.
What is the month with the least sunshine in Zürich?
December has the least sunshine of the year in Zürich, with an average of 1.4h of sunshine.
Average temperature
Zürich, Switzerland
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (24°C).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (2.9°C).
The month with the highest average low temperature is July (14°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (-2°C).
Average humidity
Zürich, Switzerland
The months with the highest relative humidity are November and December (84%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is April (69%).
Average rainfall
Zürich, Switzerland
- Average rainfall in January:
63mm - Average rainfall in February:
64mm - Average rainfall in March:
78mm - Average rainfall in April:
83mm - Average rainfall in May:
122mm - Average rainfall in June:
128mm
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is June (128mm).
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is January (63mm).
Average rainfall days
Zürich, Switzerland
- Average rainfall days in January:
10.5 days - Average rainfall days in February:
9.3 days - Average rainfall days in March:
11.9 days - Average rainfall days in April:
11.4 days - Average rainfall days in May:
12.4 days - Average rainfall days in June:
12.7 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
12.3 days - Average rainfall days in August:
11.6 days - Average rainfall days in September:
10.2 days - Average rainfall days in October:
9.9 days - Average rainfall days in November:
10.3 days - Average rainfall days in December:
11.4 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is June (12.7 days).
The month with the least rainy days is February (9.3 days).
Average snowfall
Zürich, Switzerland
The month with the highest snowfall is February (220mm).
The months with the least snowfall are May, June, July, August and September (0mm).
Average snowfall days
Zürich, Switzerland
- Average snowfall days in January:
4.8 days - Average snowfall days in February:
5.2 days - Average snowfall days in March:
3.2 days - Average snowfall days in April:
0.7 days - Average snowfall days in May:
0 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:
0.1 days - Average snowfall days in November:
1.6 days - Average snowfall days in December:
4.8 days
The month with the highest number of snowfall days is February (5.2 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are May, June, July, August and September (0 days).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Zürich, Switzerland
- Average daylight in January:
9h and 0min - Average daylight in February:
10h and 2min - Average daylight in March:
11h and 5min - Average daylight in April:
13h and 4min - Average daylight in May:
15h and 1min - Average daylight in June:
15h and 5min
- Average daylight in July:
15h and 3min - Average daylight in August:
14h and 1min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 4min - Average daylight in October:
10h and 5min - Average daylight in November:
9h and 2min - Average daylight in December:
8h and 3min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 15h and 54min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 8h and 30min).
- Average sunshine in January:
1h and 5min - Average sunshine in February:
2h and 5min - Average sunshine in March:
4h and 0min - Average sunshine in April:
5h and 1min - Average sunshine in May:
5h and 4min - Average sunshine in June:
6h and 2min
- Average sunshine in July:
6h and 5min - Average sunshine in August:
6h and 3min - Average sunshine in September:
5h and 0min - Average sunshine in October:
3h and 2min - Average sunshine in November:
2h and 0min - Average sunshine in December:
1h and 2min
The month with the most sunshine is July (Average sunshine: 6h and 54min).
The month with the least sunshine is December (Average sunshine: 1h and 24min).
Average UV index
Zürich, Switzerland
The months with the highest UV index are June and July (UV index 8).
The months with the lowest UV index are January, November and December (UV index 1).
Zürich, Switzerland
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