Climate and Weather in Germany

The weather in Germany is not as stable and predictable as it is in southern Africa. Low and high pressure systems change much quicker, due to the fact that Germany is influenced by dry continental air masses from Eastern Europe and by maritime air masses from the Atlantic. This, generally, leads to a moderate climate with good rains throughout the year. Extreme temperature lows and highs are rare. The weather varies from year to year, so rainy summers can be followed by spectacular sunshine in the next year.

Spring

April - May. In April, the weather is most unpredictable in Germany. It can be sunny and warm or rainy, windy and cold. Even hail or snowshowers are possible, especially at the higher elevations. "April, April, der macht, was er will!" goes the saying. May is usually a beautiful month as plantlife starts again and the country turns green. The days get longer and you can smell spring in the air. It can be a rather mild and warm month with little precipitation. People swing onto their bicycles and enjoy the singing of the birds and the awakening of nature.

Summer

June - September. Precipitation in Germany peaks in the summer months. Humidity levels can be high and there is always a chance of an afternoon thunderstorm, especially during July and August. Summer temperatures usually range between 22 and 30°C. Prolonged heat waves with temperatures up to 35°C are rare. It is - usually - warmer in southern Germany. The particularly pleasant climate in the Rhine and Moselle regions allows for successful cultivation of vine.

Autumn

October - November. In October, weather can still be sunny and warm. People are sitting in the beer gardens and street cafés, enjoying the "Altweibersommer" (Indian summer). In November, however, the scene changes. Days are getting noticeably shorter, and even in the midday hours the distinction between sky and land becomes difficult. It usually is misty, foggy and cool, uniformly grey - a time to appreciate a cozy home and start engaging in pre-Christmas crafts and light some candles.

Winter

December - March. Winters are rather mild with daytime temperatures averaging between 0 and 5°C. However, temperatures can fall far below zero, especially at night. It is - usually - colder in eastern and southern Germany and warmer in the North and in the Rhine regions. Snowfall normally occurs in December, January and February. The amount of snowfall is influenced mainly by altitude. Apart from the Alpine regions, the Bavarian Forest receives the most snow.