The climate of Glasgow
Located in the
United Kingdom,
Glasgow resides in the climatic region denoted as 'Cfb' according to the Köppen climate classification. This classification translates to a 'Marine west coast, warm summer' type of climate. The city experiences mild temperatures throughout the year with the maximum average temperature peaking at 16.8°C (62.2°F) and the lowest average dropping to 1.4°C (34.5°F). The average relative humidity remains high from 86% to 90%, lending a distinct dampness to the city's climate.
Precipitation ensues all year round with the heaviest rainfall occurring between
July and
December, the average monthly rainfall varies from 37mm (1.46") to 88mm (3.46"). Snowfall is limited, with
January encountering 32mm (1.26") of average snowfall and minor snowfall reoccurring in December. Despite the distinction of moderate temperatures, the number of average cloudy days remains high throughout the year with an average of 62% to 67% cloud cover. This results in lower sunshine duration of 3.4 hours to 7.1 hours per day.
The general wind speed in Glasgow varies from 12.1km/h (7.5mph) to 18.6km/h (11.6mph) with gusts reaching up to 30.9km/h (19.2mph). The pressure stays relatively stable from 1006.7mb to 1015.3mb. Daylight hours fluctuate significantly from 7.1 hours in December to 17.5 hours in
June.
The best time to visit Glasgow
Tourists often target the months between
May and
September to visit
Glasgow. This period is characterized by longer daylight hours, from 14.2 hours to 16.9 hours a day, and higher sunshine duration from 6.4 hours to 7.1 hours per day. The temperatures range from 10.5°C (50.9°F) to 16.2°C (61.2°F) and rainfall amount decreases to approximately 46mm (1.81") to 55mm (2.17"), offering pleasant conditions for sightseeing.
The worst time to visit Glasgow
Traveling to
Glasgow is less preferable during the winter months (
December -
February) due to shorter daylight hours, increased cloud cover, and increased precipitation. These months grasp only 7.1 hours to 9.6 hours of daylight a day and are further characterized by colder temperatures, averaging from 1.4°C (34.5°F) to 5.6°C (42.1°F).
Spring weather in Glasgow
Spring, spanning from
March to
May, witnesses moderate temperatures from 7.3°C (45.1°F) to 12.9°C (55.2°F). Sunshine hours extend gradually from 4.6 hours to 6.6 hours per day and daylight hours also increase from 11.9 hours to 16.3 hours per day. Rainfall remains relatively low in this period, ranging between 37mm (1.46") to 60mm (2.36").
Summer weather in Glasgow
Summer in the city, from
June to
August, brings the warmest temperatures ranging from 15.5°C (59.9°F) to 16.8°C (62.2°F). The daylight extends to a maximum of 17.5 hours in June. Despite some increase in rainfall amounts from 55mm (2.17") to 72mm (2.83"), the sunshine duration remains high, ranging from 6.4 hours to 7.1 hours a day.
Autumn weather in Glasgow
Autumn, from
September to
November, experiences temperatures declining from 14.2°C (57.6°F) to 7.5°C (45.5°F). Rainfall increases steadily from 54mm (2.13") to 75mm (2.95"). The daily sunshine hours decrease from 5.5 hours to 4 hours, and daylight hours decrease from 12.7 hours to 8.3 hours per day, marking the transition into the darker winter months.
Winter weather in Glasgow
Winter, lasting from
December until
February, is characterized by colder temperatures dwindling between 1.4°C (34.5°F) to 5.6°C (42.1°F). The city receives less daylight, varying from 7.1 hours to 9.6 hours a day. Rainfall increases, showing a peak of 88mm (3.46") in December while snowfall becomes more common in
January and December. Despite the cold and damp conditions,
Glasgow wraps itself in festive joy during these months.
Weather in January
In the start of the new year,
Glasgow experiences a blend of clouds, rain, and snow. The first month remains slightly colder with the lowest temperature recording of 1.4°C (34.5°F) and a bit of snowfall with 32mm (1.26") accumulating throughout.
Weather in January »Weather in February
The weather remains quite consistent in
Glasgow during
February with a similar feel to
January. The temperatures stay chilly, slightly increasing on average to 1.4°C (34.5°F), and days with snowfall become less frequent with snow accumulation dropping to 49mm (1.93").
Weather in February »Weather in March
March in
Glasgow signals the budding signs of spring. Despite the small increase from
February, low temperatures no longer drop to 1.4°C (34.5°F) but encompass a new average of 2°C (35.6°F). The signs of winter dwindle with a substantial decrease in the snow presence, resulting in fresh green spaces.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April brings a noticeable warming trend to
Glasgow city. Individuals begin to shed their outerwear layers as a significant rise from
March to April sees average low temperatures hovering around 3.8°C (38.8°F). Rainfall continues to nurture the blossoming flowers, and the once snow-clad spaces are now blooming gardens.
Weather in April » Weather in May
The transition into summer becomes apparent in
Glasgow during
May. There is an upward curve in temperature, creating a more comfortable atmosphere for outdoor activities. The rain still drizzles often, yet lacks the chilling sensation of winter.
Weather in May »Weather in June
June is the official start of summer in
Glasgow. Longer daylight hours offer ample opportunities for exploration and excursions. The relatively cooler temperatures keep the summer uncharacteristically mild, a feature unique to the Glasgow summers.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July stands out as one of the warmest months, marking the peak of the summer season in
Glasgow with temperatures reaching as high as 16.8°C (62.2°F). However, it is not the dry, scorching heat but a milder, more bearable summertime.
Weather in July » Weather in August
August continues to boast the summer season in
Glasgow, although the temperature slightly decreases from
July's peak. The climate remains comfortable enough for people to bask in an array of outdoor activities. The city often goes about under cloudy skies, yet the sporadic sunshine gives just enough excuse for sunglasses.
Weather in August » Weather in September
September comes with subtle hints of the approaching fall in
Glasgow. The high temperatures of
August gradually dwindle, yet the warmth stays in the air as summer gives way to autumn. The leaves begin to show first signs of color change, preparing to offer dramatic fall landscapes in the days to come.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October embraces the full onset of the autumn season, and
Glasgow shines in tones of orange, red, and yellow. Despite the cooler weather settling in, the city remains vibrant with fall festivities and celebrations. The dropping temperature, although noticeable, still allows for comfy outdoor explorations.
Weather in October » Weather in November
November brings a chilling twist to
Glasgow's weather, preparing for the approaching winter. Though the bright autumn leaves still cling to trees, the winter winds begin to fill the city's alleys. This transition can be an excellent time for photography enthusiasts as they can capture the changing landscape across the city.
Weather in November » Weather in December
The year in
Glasgow ends on a wintry note with
December, bringing back the frosty temperatures and the first snowfall after several months. With an average snowfall of 21mm (0.83"), the cityscape transforms into a winter wonderland.
Weather in December » [Resources]