Creteil Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – France

Temperature

Creteil experiences a temperate oceanic climate, characterized by mild winters and warm summers. The average temperature throughout the year ranges from 4.5°C (40°F) in January to 18.5°C (65°F) in July. Spring and fall are generally mild, with average temperatures hovering around 10-15°C (50-59°F). Due to its proximity to Paris, Creteil benefits from the urban heat island effect, which typically results in slightly higher temperatures than surrounding areas.

Precipitation

Creteil receives an average of 700 mm (27.5 inches) of precipitation annually, which is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year. However, rainfall is more frequent in the winter and early spring months, during which periods drizzle or light showers can be expected. The driest months are June and July, when rainfall is typically minimal. Snowfall is uncommon in Creteil, although it can occasionally occur during the coldest months of the year. Fog and mist can also be prevalent, especially during the morning hours in the winter and early spring.

Temperature Trends

Creteil, France, experiences distinct seasonal variations in temperature. The coldest months are January and February, when average temperatures hover around 4°C (39°F). During summer, temperatures peak in July and August, reaching an average of 22°C (72°F). These seasonal fluctuations are influenced by the city’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, which moderates extreme temperatures. The average annual temperature in Creteil is approximately 13°C (55°F).

Temperature Extremes

While Creteil generally enjoys moderate temperatures, occasional temperature extremes do occur. The highest temperature ever recorded in the city was 42.2°C (108°F) in July 2019, during an extended heatwave. Conversely, the lowest temperature on record was -16.6°C (2.1°F) in January 1985, during a period of severe cold. These extreme events, although rare, highlight the potential for temperature fluctuations outside the typical seasonal range.

Current Cloud Coverage

As of the moment, the skies above Creteil, France, are adorned with a tranquil blanket of clouds. The cloud cover can be classified as “partly cloudy,” signifying that approximately 50% of the celestial expanse is obscured by ethereal cotton-like formations. These clouds consist primarily of altocumulus varieties, characterized by their low elevation and rounded, puffy shapes. They gently drift across the sky, casting delicate shadows upon the urban landscape below.

Cloud Forecast

For the remainder of the day, the cloud cover is expected to remain relatively stable. The altocumulus clouds may dissipate slightly, revealing occasional patches of blue sky. However, by nightfall, a secondary layer of clouds, known as cirrocumulus, is anticipated to emerge. These high-altitude clouds, composed of ice crystals, will likely create a picturesque display, resembling miniature white cotton balls scattered across the vault of heaven. As the night progresses, both the altocumulus and cirrocumulus clouds are forecast to gradually diminish, leaving behind a clearer sky towards dawn.

Seasonal Precipitation Patterns

Creteil, France, experiences a temperate, oceanic climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. Precipitation is spread relatively evenly throughout the year, with no particularly dry or wet months. However, there is a slight increase in rainfall during the colder months, from October to March. During these months, precipitation typically falls as rain or snow, depending on the temperature. In contrast, the summer months, from April to September, tend to be drier, with less frequent rainfall.

Variations and Extremes

While precipitation in Creteil is generally consistent, there can be significant variations from year to year. In some years, the region may experience prolonged periods of heavy rainfall, leading to flooding and waterlogging. In other years, droughts can occur, with below-average precipitation and water shortages. The city has also experienced extreme rainfall events, such as the Great Flood of 1910, which caused widespread damage and loss of life. These events are becoming more frequent due to climate change, highlighting the need for adaptive measures to mitigate their impacts.

Climate of Creteil, France

Creteil, France experiences a temperate oceanic climate, characterized by mild temperatures year-round and significant rainfall throughout the year. The city’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean has a moderating effect on its climate, resulting in relatively cool summers and mild winters.

Rainfall is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year, with Creteil receiving an average of 620 millimeters (24.4 inches) of precipitation annually. However, the city does experience a slight increase in rainfall during the winter months, from November to March. Creteil is also subject to occasional thunderstorms and localized flooding during the summer months.

Snowfall in Créteil, France

Créteil, a southeastern suburb of Paris, experienced significant snowfall in January 2023. The heavy snowfall brought the city to a standstill, with roads becoming impassable and public transportation services being suspended. The snow also disrupted power lines, leaving thousands of homes and businesses without electricity. The French government deployed emergency responders to help clear the roads and restore power, but it took several days for the city to return to normalcy.

The snowfall in Créteil was a result of a combination of factors, including a cold front from the north and a low-pressure system from the Atlantic Ocean. The cold front brought frigid temperatures to the region, while the low-pressure system provided the moisture needed for snow. The snowfall was also exacerbated by high winds, which caused snowdrifts and made it difficult to travel. The snowfall in Créteil is a reminder of the importance of being prepared for extreme weather events and having emergency plans in place. It is also a reminder of the resilience of communities, who come together to help each other in times of need.

Climate of Creteil, France

Creteil, France, experiences a temperate oceanic climate with mild winters and warm summers. January is the coldest month with average temperatures ranging from 2 to 7 degrees Celsius (36 to 45 degrees Fahrenheit), while July is the warmest month with average temperatures ranging from 16 to 25 degrees Celsius (61 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit). The city receives an average of 650 mm (25.6 inches) of precipitation per year, which is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year. However, the city is prone to occasional heavy rainfall events, especially during the spring and autumn months.

Sunshine in Creteil, France

Creteil enjoys an average of 1,800 hours of sunshine per year. The sunniest months are May and June, with an average of 8 hours of sunshine per day. The cloudiest month is December, with an average of only 2 hours of sunshine per day. Overall, Creteil has a moderate amount of sunshine, making it a good place to live and work. The city’s relatively high levels of sunshine contribute to its pleasant climate and make it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

History of the “Moon” in Créteil

The “Moon” in Créteil, France, officially known as Maisons des Arts de Créteil, is a cultural center located in the southeastern suburbs of Paris. It was designed by renowned architect Gérard Grandval and completed in 1975. The building’s distinctive spherical shape, inspired by the moon, has become an iconic landmark in the region.

The “Moon” was conceived as a multidisciplinary arts center, housing a theater, art galleries, a library, and a music school. It has played a pivotal role in promoting contemporary art and culture in Créteil and beyond. Over the years, it has hosted numerous exhibitions, performances, and educational programs, featuring both emerging and established artists from various disciplines.

Unique Architectural Features

The “Moon” is a remarkable architectural achievement that reflects the spirit of the late 1960s and early 1970s. Its spherical form, clad in shimmering aluminum panels, creates a striking contrast to the surrounding urban landscape. The building’s interior is equally impressive, with its curved walls and large windows providing ample natural light.

The spherical shape of the “Moon” not only serves an aesthetic purpose but also enhances the building’s functionality. The curved walls allow for a more flexible use of space, creating intimate and expansive areas as needed. The building’s central atrium, known as the “Agora,” provides a versatile space for exhibitions, performances, and receptions. The “Moon” is also notable for its innovative use of suspended ceilings and movable partitions, which allow for quick and easy reconfiguration of the interior spaces.

Annual Humidity Patterns

Creteil, France experiences significant seasonal variation in humidity levels throughout the year. Winter months, from December to February, are typically the most humid, with average humidity levels ranging from 80% to 85%. This humidity is largely attributed to the frequent occurrence of precipitation and the influx of moist air from the North Atlantic.

As spring approaches, humidity levels gradually decrease. March and April see a noticeable drop in humidity, with average levels hovering around 75% to 80%. This decrease is due to the increasing temperatures and the prevailing westerly winds, which bring drier air from the mainland.

Summer and Autumn Humidity

Summer months, from June to August, are characterized by moderate humidity levels. Average humidity ranges from 65% to 75%, providing relatively comfortable conditions. This is because the higher temperatures and the influence of the Azores High, a subtropical pressure system, promote evaporation and the dispersion of moisture.

Autumn, from September to November, witnesses a gradual increase in humidity. Average levels rise from 70% in September to 80% in November. This is primarily due to the decrease in temperatures and the return of more frequent precipitation, which contributes to higher moisture content in the air.

Wind in Creteil, France

Creteil, a suburb of Paris, France, experiences a temperate climate with moderate winds throughout the year. The average wind speed in Creteil is around 10 km/h (6 mph), with the prevailing wind direction being from the west or southwest. During the summer months, winds tend to be light and variable, often coming from the north or northeast. In the winter, winds can be stronger and more persistent, often coming from the west or southwest.

Creteil is located in the Seine-et-Marne department, which is known for its strong winds. The department is home to several wind farms, which take advantage of the region’s windy conditions. The largest wind farm in the Seine-et-Marne department is the Rampillon Wind Farm, which has a capacity of 100 MW. The wind farm consists of 60 turbines, each with a height of 120 meters. The Rampillon Wind Farm generates enough electricity to power over 100,000 homes.

Spring (April-May):

Spring in Créteil offers the perfect blend of mild temperatures and vibrant greenery. With average highs in the mid-60s Fahrenheit and low humidity, the weather is ideal for exploring the city’s many parks and outdoor spaces. The Jardins de Créteil, with its serene lakes and blooming flowerbeds, is a particular highlight during this season. The city also hosts its annual Spring Festival in April, featuring live music, street performers, and cultural events.

Summer (June-August):

Summer in Créteil is characterized by warm, sunny days and balmy evenings. Average temperatures reach the high 70s Fahrenheit, providing plenty of opportunities to enjoy the city’s outdoor activities. The Parc des Sports de Créteil, with its tennis courts, soccer fields, and swimming pool, is a popular destination for sports enthusiasts. The city также hosts a summer music festival, offering a variety of concerts and performances in its outdoor venues.

Solar Potential in Creteil

Creteil, located in the southeastern suburbs of Paris, France, offers favorable conditions for solar energy utilization. The city receives an average of 1,650 sunshine hours annually, significantly higher than the national average of 1,990 hours. Additionally, Creteil’s urban density and extensive rooftops create ample opportunities for solar panel installations. The city’s commitment to sustainability and environmental preservation has also driven the adoption of solar energy.

Solar Energy Initiatives in Creteil

Recognizing the potential of solar energy, Creteil has implemented several initiatives to promote its development. In 2014, the city partnered with the French government and private companies to install a 7.2-megawatt solar farm on the former site of a landfill. This solar farm, one of the largest in the Ile-de-France region, generates enough electricity to power approximately 6,000 homes. Additionally, Creteil has implemented a program to provide subsidies for homeowners and businesses installing rooftop solar systems. These initiatives have significantly increased the installed solar capacity in the city, contributing to Creteil’s goal of becoming a sustainable and energy-efficient municipality.

Topography of Creteil, France

Located in the southeastern suburbs of Paris, Creteil is situated on the left bank of the Marne River. The city is characterized by a relatively flat terrain, with gentle slopes and no major hills. The lowest point in Creteil is along the banks of the Marne River, while the highest point is found in the northeastern part of the city at La Butte aux Cailles.

The flat terrain of Creteil has been shaped over time by the erosive forces of the Marne River and its tributaries. The river has created a series of meanders and oxbow lakes in the area, which contribute to the natural beauty of the city. In addition, there are several artificial lakes and ponds scattered throughout Creteil, which provide recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike.

Paris-Orly Airport (ORY)

The closest airport to Créteil, France is Paris-Orly Airport (ORY), located approximately 10 kilometers (6 miles) north of the city center. ORY is a major international airport serving the southern suburbs of Paris, with direct flights to over 140 destinations worldwide. The airport is easily accessible by car, taxi, or public transportation, including the RER B train line and several bus routes. ORY offers a wide range of amenities and services, including duty-free shops, restaurants, cafés, and car rental services.

Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG)

While not as close as ORY, Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) is another major international airport serving the Paris metropolitan area. CDG is located approximately 25 kilometers (15 miles) northeast of Créteil. The airport is a major hub for Air France and several other airlines, offering direct flights to destinations around the world. CDG is well-connected to Paris and the surrounding regions by public transportation, including the RER B train line and several bus routes. The airport features extensive amenities and services, including numerous shops, restaurants, cafés, and car rental services.

History and Culture

Creteil is a commune in the southeastern suburbs of Paris, France. It is located in the Val-de-Marne department and is the prefecture of the department. Creteil is home to approximately 90,000 people. The city has a long and rich history, dating back to the Roman era. During the Middle Ages, Creteil was a fortified town and played an important role in the defense of Paris. In the 19th century, Creteil became an industrial center, with factories producing chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and other products. In the 20th century, Creteil experienced rapid growth as a residential suburb of Paris.

Modern Creteil

Today, Creteil is a modern city with a diverse population. It is home to the University of Paris-Est Creteil Val-de-Marne, which is one of the largest universities in France. Creteil is also a major cultural center, with several museums, theaters, and libraries. The city is also home to the Lac de Creteil, a large artificial lake that is a popular spot for recreation and relaxation. Creteil is well-connected to Paris by public transportation, making it an easy and convenient place to live and work. The city is also home to several large shopping centers and business parks, making it a popular destination for shoppers and businesses alike.