Climate and monthly weather forecastFort William, United Kingdom

The climate of Fort William

Fort William, located in the United Kingdom, falls under the Cfc - Marine west coast, cool summer classification of the Köppen climate system. Notable for its frequent and steady rainfall, the distinct climate nature of this town is significantly influenced by its geographical position, lying within the proximity of Ben Nevis, Britain's highest mountain.

Temperatures in Fort William show a moderate variation throughout the year, with maximum averages ranging from 2.9°C (37.2°F) in the coldest months to 14.8°C (58.6°F) in warmer months. The general trend indicates that temperatures rise and fall progressively, reaching their peak in July. Minimum temperatures also present a similar pattern varying between -0.3°C (31.5°F) and 8.5°C (47.3°F).

Rainfall in Fort William can be characterized as frequent and moderate, presenting a fluctuation within 47mm (1.85") and 133mm (5.24") over the year. July and October mark two peaks in the rainfall distribution, reaching 92mm (3.62") and 107mm (4.21") respectively. The town also observes snowfall, although relatively less common, peaking at 99mm (3.9") in February. Due to the frequent rainfall and moderate temperatures, high relative humidity ranging from 83% to 92% is a common feature in the area.

[w2]The best time to visit Fort William

The worst time to visit Fort William

January and February could be considered challenging months to visit Fort William due to their colder temperatures. Average highs are recorded at a mere 2.9°C (37.2°F) and 3.4°C (38.1°F). Moreover, these months observe considerable snowfall, with 95mm (3.74") in January and peaking at 99mm (3.9") in February. Low sea temperatures, 7.3°C (45.1°F) to 7.9°C (46.2°F), coupled with reduced daylight hours, ranging from 7.6 to 9.5 hours, add to the heightened winter conditions.

Spring weather in Fort William

Spring in Fort William extends from March to May. As the season progresses, temperatures show a noticeable increase from an average high of 5.6°C (42.1°F) in March to 11.3°C (52.3°F) in May, with lows ranging from 0.6°C (33.1°F) to 4.8°C (40.6°F). Rainfall takes a dip to its lowest annual level in April, averaging at 47mm (1.85"). Despite this, the humidity remains fairly constant, averaging at 83%.

Summer weather in Fort William

The summer months, June to August, welcome more agreeable weather conditions. Average temperatures reach their highest for the year, ranging between 14°C (57.2°F) to 14.8°C (58.6°F), with lows falling between 7.3°C (45.1°F) and 8.5°C (47.3°F). Rainfall shows a moderate increase, culminating in August at 92mm (3.62"). Despite longer daylight hours varying from 15.1 to 17.7 hours, cloud cover remains high leading to moderate sunshine from 4.3 to 5.8 hours per day.

Autumn weather in Fort William

September to November marks the autumn season in Fort William. The temperatures begin to drop, with average highs ranging from 12.4°C (54.3°F) in September to 5.9°C (42.6°F) in November and the lows also showcase a similar downward trend from 7.4°C (45.3°F) to 2.1°C (35.8°F). Rainfall shows a steep rise in October, reaching 107mm (4.21"), which introduces a wet character to the autumnal season.

Winter weather in Fort William

Winter in Fort William runs from December through February. This period is defined by colder temperatures, with high temperatures averaging between 2.9°C (37.2°F) and 3.7°C (38.7°F). The minimum temperatures drop below freezing, down to -0.4°C (31.3°F) in February. Rainfall remains high, reaching its peak in December at 133mm (5.24"). While snowfall on average is less than the rainfall, there is a noticeable peak in February with an average snowfall of 99mm (3.9"). Despite shorter daylight hours, sunshine remains relatively consistent, ranging between 2.8 to 3 hours per day.

Weather in January

January in Fort William, United Kingdom, welcomes the New Year with some of the coldest temperatures, creating a frosty backdrop. Peculiarly, it records both a notably high average humidity of 92% and a significant snowfall of 95mm (3.74"), contributing to the overall wintery scene. Weather in January »

Weather in February

Moving into February, the weather conditions in Fort William remain quite similar to January, with cold temperatures persisting. Yet, February offers a slightly lower snowfall of 99mm (3.9"). Even though temperatures might still require the use of warm clothing, the additional daylight hours can indeed bring some cheer to the residents. Weather in February »

Weather in March

With March heralding the onset of Spring in Fort William, the weather changes become more evident. A clear indicator of this transition is the noticeable drop in snowfall to a lower 65mm (2.56"). As the land thaws from the winter freeze, early Spring flowers start to tease through the soil, painting a colorful picture against the fading shades of Winter. Weather in March »

Weather in April

April in Fort William brings more evident signs of Spring. The most obvious indication is the drastic drop in snowfall, reaching almost negligible levels at 3mm (0.12"). Longer daylight hours encourage people to venture out, soaking in the warm sun rays and the vibrant colors of Spring. Weather in April »

Weather in May

As May rolls around in Fort William, the weather makes a charismatic turn towards the pleasant. An apparent distinction in the weather pattern is the cessation of snowfall, indicating a definitive farewell to the last vestiges of winter. Weather in May »

Weather in June

June in Fort William stands as a welcoming portal to summer, with the weather conditions beginning to get warmer. However, despite the increasing temperatures, the month sees a relatively high humidity level of 86%. Boasting the longest daylight hours of the year, it becomes an ideal time for camping and other outdoor recreational activities. Weather in June »

Weather in July

July, being the heart of summer in Fort William, sees the highest average temperatures of a warm 14.8°C (58.6°F). Yet, there is a steady level of humidity at 89%, making the city's climate pleasantly mild rather than extremely hot. Weather in July »

Weather in August

As Fort William slides into August, the summer sun continues to shine, though the temperature sees a slight dip from July's peak. The month witnesses an increase in rainfall, averaging a respectable 92mm (3.62"). However, the showers do little to dampen the spirits of the residents who continue to indulge in outdoor activities, armed with vibrant umbrellas and waterproof boots. Weather in August »

Weather in September

September in Fort William denotes the advent of Autumn, with the weather beginning to get cooler. Coupled with a slight decrease in temperature, it also sees a modest rainfall of 77mm (3.03"), setting the stage for the upcoming fall season. Weather in September »

Weather in October

With October, Fort William truly embraces Autumn. The weather takes a further dip towards chilly, though without a drastic change from September's pattern. Rainy days are quite common, contributing to the overall damp and chilly environment. Weather in October »

Weather in November

As November commences in Fort William, it gears up for the approaching winter. Apart from the falling temperatures, the month also sees an increase in snowfall from a mere 2mm (0.08") in October to a significant 6mm (0.24"). Nature's carpet of colorful leaves starts to thin out, signaling the end of Autumn. Weather in November »

Weather in December

December arrives in Fort William, marking the beginning of winter, with the atmosphere taking on a noticeably frosty character. The snowfall significantly jumps to 57mm (2.24") from the previous value of 6mm (0.24") in November. Weather in December »