Climate and Weather in La Brévine, Switzerland
La Brévine is a picturesque village located in the Jura Mountains of Switzerland. Situated at an altitude of 1,049 meters (3,442 feet), it is often referred to as the "Siberia of Switzerland" due to its extremely cold winters. Let's take a closer look at the climate and weather patterns that characterize La Brévine throughout the year.
Temperature
One of the defining features of La Brévine's climate is its frigid temperatures, especially during the winter months. The average temperature in January, the coldest month, hovers around -7°C (19°F), with frequent drops below -10°C (14°F) and even -20°C (-4°F) on particularly cold nights. In contrast, summers are relatively mild, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C (59°F) to 25°C (77°F) in July and August.
It is worth noting that La Brévine holds the record for the lowest temperature ever recorded in Switzerland, reaching an astonishing -41.8°C (-43.2°F) in February 1987.
Precipitation
La Brévine experiences a moderate amount of precipitation throughout the year, with an annual average of around 1,000 millimeters (39 inches). The highest rainfall occurs during the summer months, particularly in June and July. Snowfall is also significant, especially during the winter season, when the village is often blanketed in a thick layer of snow.
Sunshine Hours
Due to its location in the mountains, La Brévine receives fewer sunshine hours compared to other regions of Switzerland. On average, the village enjoys around 1,500 hours of sunshine per year, with the sunniest months being July and August.
Wind
La Brévine is known for its strong gusts of wind, particularly during the winter months. The Jura Mountains act as a barrier, causing wind to funnel through the valleys and intensify in strength. Wind speeds can reach up to 50 kilometers per hour (31 miles per hour) or more during stormy periods.
Climate Graph
The following climate graph provides a visual representation of the average monthly temperature and precipitation in La Brévine:
| Month | Temperature (°C) | Precipitation (mm) |
|---|---|---|
| January | -7 | 84 |
| February | -6 | 72 |
| March | -2 | 75 |
| April | 2 | 74 |
| May | 6 | 91 |
| June | 10 | 98 |
| July | 12 | 101 |
| August | 12 | 101 |
| September | 8 | 85 |
| October | 4 | 88 |
| November | -1 | 86 |
| December | -5 | 85 |
Note: All temperature values are in Celsius (°C) and precipitation values are in millimeters (mm).
Activities and Tourism
Despite its harsh climate, La Brévine attracts visitors throughout the year due to its natural beauty and the various activities it offers. In winter, the village becomes a haven for winter sports enthusiasts, with opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating. The pristine snow-covered landscapes also make it a popular destination for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
During the summer months, visitors can enjoy hiking and mountain biking in the surrounding Jura Mountains. The region is known for its picturesque trails and breathtaking vistas. Fishing and boating are also popular activities in the nearby lakes and rivers.
For those interested in cultural experiences, La Brévine offers a glimpse into the traditional Swiss way of life. The village is home to historic buildings, including a church dating back to the 17th century, as well as a museum that showcases local history and traditions.
Conclusion
La Brévine's climate is characterized by its extremely cold winters, moderate precipitation, and relatively mild summers. The village's unique weather patterns, combined with its natural beauty and outdoor activities, make it a captivating destination for both nature lovers and adventure seekers.
A - La Brévine's Latitude is 46.980549 & Longitude is 6.606390.
A - Weather in La Brévine is -4° today.
A - Climate Conditions in La Brévine shows light snow today.
A - Humidity in La Brévine is 86% today.
A - Wind speed in La Brévine is 20.38 km/h, flowing at 230° wind direction. today.
