Dundee Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – United Kingdom

Summer (June to August)

Dundee’s summers are typically mild and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 13.5°C (56°F) to 17°C (63°F). The warmest month is July, with average temperatures of 16°C (61°F). While rainfall is common throughout the year, it tends to be less frequent during the summer months. However, it is important to note that the weather can be unpredictable, and occasional bouts of rain or cool spells are not uncommon.

Autumn (September to November)

As the year progresses, temperatures gradually decline in Dundee. Autumn is characterized by average temperatures between 9°C (48°F) and 13°C (55°F), with the coldest month being November, when temperatures drop to an average of 7°C (45°F). Rainfall increases during this period, with October and November being the wettest months of the year. Autumn also brings with it shorter days and less sunlight, making it an ideal time for cozying up indoors.

Average Temperature in Dundee, United Kingdom

Dundee, located on the east coast of Scotland, experiences a temperate oceanic climate with moderate temperatures year-round. The average annual temperature hovers around 48.7°F (9.3°C), characterized by mild summers and cool winters. January and February are typically the coldest months, with average temperatures ranging from 36.5°F to 39.2°F (2.5°C to 4°C). In contrast, July and August are the warmest months, with average temperatures between 59°F and 60.8°F (15°C and 16°C).

The proximity to the North Sea influences Dundee’s weather patterns, moderating both summer and winter temperatures. The city receives around 60.6 inches (1,540 mm) of rainfall annually, with precipitation distributed fairly evenly throughout the year. However, the west coast of Scotland often receives more rainfall due to the prevailing winds. Despite the moderate temperatures and precipitation, Dundee experiences occasional extreme weather events, such as heavy rainfall, storms, and snowfall during the winter months.

Cloud Types and Patterns

Dundee experiences a diverse array of cloud cover throughout the year due to its location within the temperate oceanic climate zone. The most common cloud type observed is the cumulus, characterized by its fluffy, cotton-like appearance. During fair weather, these clouds often appear in isolated patches or as scattered clusters. As weather conditions change, cumulus clouds may transform into larger, more anvil-shaped cumulonimbus clouds, associated with thunderstorms and heavy rainfall.

Another common cloud type in Dundee is the stratus, which forms a uniform, gray layer covering the sky. When accompanied by precipitation, stratus clouds result in drizzle or light rain. Conversely, cirrus clouds are high-altitude, wispy clouds composed of ice crystals. They usually indicate fair weather and are often seen in conjunction with other cloud types.

Cloud Cover and Precipitation

The amount of cloud cover in Dundee varies seasonally, with more frequent cloud cover during the winter months and clearer skies in the summer. Cloud cover plays a significant role in determining precipitation levels. In general, the greater the cloud cover, the higher the probability of precipitation. Dundee experiences an average annual rainfall of approximately 700 mm, with most precipitation occurring during the winter season.

The presence of clouds can also affect temperatures. Clouds act as a barrier, trapping heat during the night and preventing excessive cooling. During the day, clouds can provide shade, reducing the intensity of sunlight and lowering temperatures. As a result, Dundee’s climate is generally mild, with moderate temperatures year-round.

Rainfall Patterns

Dundee experiences a temperate maritime climate, characterized by abundant rainfall throughout the year. The city receives an average of 672 mm of precipitation annually, with relatively evenly distributed rainfall across the seasons. However, the wettest months tend to be October and November, while the driest months fall in April and May. The variability in rainfall is primarily driven by the influence of the North Atlantic Current, which brings warm and moist air to the region, leading to frequent precipitation.

Intensity and Impacts

The precipitation in Dundee can vary in intensity, from light drizzle to heavy downpours. While the city does not typically experience extreme rainfall events, localized flooding can occur during prolonged or heavy rainfall, especially in low-lying areas. The abundance of rainfall has implications for water management, as it contributes to the city’s surface water resources and groundwater recharge. However, excessive rainfall can also lead to challenges such as waterlogging, soil erosion, and increased risk of flooding, necessitating proper drainage and flood management measures.

Seasonal Variations in Rainfall

Dundee experiences significant seasonal variations in rainfall. During the winter months (October to March), the city receives the highest amount of precipitation. The average monthly rainfall during this period ranges from 60 to 80 mm. The increased rainfall is primarily due to frequent low-pressure systems and moist westerly winds that bring abundant moisture from the Atlantic Ocean. In contrast, the summer months (June to August) are typically drier, with an average monthly rainfall of around 40 to 50 mm. The drier conditions during summer can be attributed to the influence of the Azores High, a semi-permanent high-pressure system that brings settled weather and less precipitation to the region.

Rainfall Intensity and Frequency

The rainfall in Dundee is generally characterized by low intensity and high frequency. This means that the city experiences a large number of small to moderate rainfall events throughout the year. However, occasionally, heavy rainfall events can occur, especially during the autumn and winter months. These events can result in localized flooding and disruption to transportation and other infrastructure. Notably, Dundee experienced a record-breaking rainfall event in August 2020, where over 90 mm of rain fell in a single day, causing widespread flooding and damage.

Historic Snowfall

Dundee, Scotland, experienced an unprecedented snowfall event in February 2023. The storm, dubbed “Snowmageddon,” brought an estimated 30 inches of snow to the city, paralyzing transportation and disrupting daily life. It marked the city’s heaviest snowfall in over 50 years, causing widespread power outages, road closures, and school cancellations. The historic snowfall left many residents stranded in their homes, while emergency services worked tirelessly to clear roads and provide assistance to those in need.

Aftermath and Recovery

The aftermath of the snowstorm presented significant challenges for Dundee. With transportation routes blocked and infrastructure damaged, businesses were forced to close and emergency services had difficulty reaching those in need. The city launched a massive snow removal operation, deploying snowplows and teams of volunteers to clear streets and walkways. However, the heavy snowfall and strong winds hindered efforts, leading to prolonged disruptions. As the storm subsided, residents emerged from their homes to assist with the cleanup effort, clearing snow from sidewalks and driveways. The community spirit was evident as neighbors helped neighbors, working together to restore normality to the city.

Climate and Averages

Dundee experiences a temperate oceanic climate with mild winters and cool summers. The city’s average annual temperature is 9.4 degrees Celsius (49 degrees Fahrenheit). Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with an average of 731 millimeters (28.8 inches) annually. However, despite its coastal location, Dundee enjoys less sunshine than the national average.

Sunlight Hours

In Dundee, an average of 3.5 hours of sunshine is recorded per day, totaling 1,278 hours annually. The sunniest months are May to July, when daily averages range from 5 to 6 hours of sunshine. Conversely, December is the least sunny month, with daily averages of only 1 hour of sunshine. The city experiences frequent cloud cover, particularly during winter and spring. As a result, Dundee is known for having relatively long stretches of overcast weather.

Visibility and Observation

The moon is visible from Dundee, United Kingdom, as it is from any other location on Earth during its orbit around our planet. The best times to observe the moon are during the evening or early morning when it is high in the sky. The moon’s visibility and appearance can vary depending on its phase, ranging from a thin crescent to a full moon. The most favorable conditions for moon observation occur during clear nights with minimal light pollution.

Moon’s Influence on Tides

The moon plays a significant role in generating tides in the River Tay, which flows through Dundee. The gravitational pull of the moon, combined with that of the sun, creates a tidal force. This force acts on the Earth’s oceans, causing them to rise and fall, creating high and low tides. The tidal range in the River Tay can vary from approximately 3 to 4 meters, and the timing of the tides corresponds to the moon’s position and phase. The highest tides occur during the new and full moons, while the lowest tides occur during the first and third quarter moons.

Average Humidity Levels

Dundee experiences moderate humidity levels throughout the year. The average relative humidity ranges from 75% to 85% in the winter months (December to February) and drops to around 70% to 80% during the summer months (June to August). These humidity levels contribute to the generally damp and misty conditions that are characteristic of the city.

Seasonal Humidity Variations

Humidity in Dundee exhibits distinct seasonal variations. During the winter months, the cold temperatures cause water vapor to condense more easily, leading to higher humidity levels. The moist air from the North Sea also contributes to these elevated levels. In the summer, the warmer temperatures allow the air to hold more water vapor, but the air tends to be drier due to increased evaporation. As a result, humidity levels decrease slightly during this period.

Overview of Wind Conditions

Dundee, located in the eastern coastal region of Scotland, experiences a maritime climate characterized by moderate wind speeds and frequent gusts. The city is influenced by the prevailing westerly winds that carry moisture from the North Atlantic, resulting in an average wind speed of around 10-15 knots (18-28 kilometers per hour) throughout the year. Wind speeds tend to be stronger during the winter months, when frontal systems and depressions bring in stronger winds. In contrast, summer months typically experience lighter winds, with average speeds dipping below 10 knots.

Seasonal Variations and Local Factors

The wind conditions in Dundee vary throughout the year, with the winter season bringing the strongest winds. During this period, winds can reach speeds of up to 25-30 knots (46-56 kilometers per hour) as storm fronts pass through the region. In summer, wind speeds tend to be milder, averaging around 5-10 knots (9-18 kilometers per hour), with occasional light breezes. The city’s coastal location also plays a role in shaping its wind patterns. The proximity to the North Sea allows the wind to reach Dundee unobstructed, resulting in higher wind speeds compared to neighboring inland areas.

Spring (March-May)

Spring in Dundee offers a picturesque blend of awakening nature and refreshing weather. As the days lengthen, flowers begin to bloom, painting the city in a vibrant tapestry of colors. Temperatures range from mild to warm, making it ideal for outdoor exploration. The city’s parks, such as Camperdown Country Park and the Botanic Garden, come alive with lush greenery and blooming flowers. Moreover, spring events like the Dundee Flower and Food Festival add to the charm of the season.

Summer (June-August)

Summer in Dundee brings long, warm days and balmy nights. Temperatures typically hover around the mid-20s Celsius, creating a pleasant atmosphere for outdoor activities. The city’s beaches, such as Broughty Ferry Beach and Monifieth Beach, become popular destinations for picnics, swimming, and sunbathing. The Tay Bridge also offers stunning views of the River Tay and the surrounding landscape. As the evenings settle in, visitors can enjoy open-air concerts, festivals, and fireworks displays.

Potential for Solar Energy in Dundee

Dundee, located on the east coast of Scotland, has a relatively favorable climate for solar energy utilization. The city enjoys an average of 1,400 sunshine hours per year, with the majority concentrated during the summer months. Although Dundee receives slightly less solar radiation compared to the south of the United Kingdom, the potential for solar energy generation remains significant.

The city’s building stock comprises a diverse range of properties, including residential, commercial, and industrial structures. Many of these buildings possess rooftops or other suitable areas that could accommodate solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. By harnessing the available solar energy, Dundee could potentially reduce its reliance on fossil fuels for electricity generation and contribute to its overall renewable energy targets.

Landscape and Landforms

Dundee is situated in a captivating coastal setting within the Tay Estuary, a prominent body of water separating Angus from Fife. The city is cradled by the gentle slopes of the Sidlaw Hills to the north, providing breathtaking panoramic views. South of the city, the landscape transitions into rolling hills and fertile farmland. Dundee’s coastal perimeter is characterized by a series of sandy beaches, including the popular Broughty Ferry Beach. The Tay Estuary itself is renowned for its rich avian life, which attracts birdwatchers from far and wide.

Elevation and Topography

The elevation of Dundee gradually rises from the waterfront towards the Sidlaw Hills. The city center lies at an altitude of approximately 10 meters above sea level, with higher elevations found in the neighboring suburbs. The slopes of the Sidlaw Hills can reach heights of over 400 meters, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The landscape is dotted with numerous glens and valleys, creating a diverse and picturesque terrain. The topography of Dundee presents a harmonious blend of urban and natural environments, with the city seamlessly transitioning into the scenic hills and coastline.

Dundee Airport (DND)

Dundee Airport (DND) is the closest airport to Dundee, United Kingdom. It is located approximately 7 miles (11 kilometers) north of the city center. The airport offers domestic flights to London City Airport (LCY) and international flights to Alicante (ALC) in Spain and Faro (FAO) in Portugal. Several airlines operate at DND, including Loganair, Ryanair, and TUI Airways. The airport has one terminal and a single runway. Passengers can access the airport by bus, taxi, or private vehicle.

Alternative Airports

If DND does not offer convenient flights or does not have direct service to your destination, there are several alternative airports within a reasonable driving distance of Dundee.

• Edinburgh Airport (EDI): Located approximately 60 miles (97 kilometers) south of Dundee, Edinburgh Airport is the largest airport in Scotland. It offers a wide range of domestic and international flights, including direct flights to many European cities and long-haul destinations.
• Aberdeen Airport (ABZ): Situated approximately 65 miles (105 kilometers) northeast of Dundee, Aberdeen Airport serves the city of Aberdeen and the surrounding area. It offers domestic flights to London Heathrow (LHR) and international flights to destinations in Europe and the Middle East.
• Glasgow Airport (GLA): Glasgow Airport is located approximately 80 miles (129 kilometers) southwest of Dundee. It is the second largest airport in Scotland and offers a wide range of domestic and international flights.

History and Culture

Dundee’s rich history and vibrant culture are evident throughout the city. Nestled on the Firth of Tay, Dundee has a long maritime tradition, with the jute industry once being a major player in the city’s economy. The city’s heritage is reflected in its many museums, including the Dundee City Museum and Art Gallery, which houses an extensive collection of local history and art. Dundee is also a hub for music and the arts, boasting The McManus: Dundee’s Art Gallery and Museum, which showcases an impressive collection of works by Scottish and international artists.

Education and Innovation

Dundee is a renowned center for higher education, with the University of Dundee being one of the leading research-intensive universities in the UK. The university is particularly known for its medical school and the Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art & Design. Dundee is also home to the Abertay University, which specializes in computer games and technology. This combination of education and innovation has led to a thriving tech industry in Dundee, with companies such as the video game developer Rockstar North and the biotechnology firm Exiqon based in the city.