Freiburg im Breisgau Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Germany

Summer in Freiburg

Freiburg im Breisgau experiences a warm and humid summer with average temperatures ranging from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius (59 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit) in June to August. The humidity level is often high, making it feel muggy and uncomfortable on some days. However, the frequent afternoon thunderstorms bring refreshing relief and help to lower the temperature. Additionally, the city’s location in the Rhine Valley provides a buffer from strong winds, making it a pleasant place to be during the summer months.

Winter in Freiburg

In winter, Freiburg’s climate is influenced by its location in the Black Forest. The average temperatures in December, January, and February range from 0 to 5 degrees Celsius (32 to 41 degrees Fahrenheit), with occasional snowfall. The city often experiences cold spells, but they are usually short-lived. Due to the elevation of Freiburg, it is not uncommon for temperatures to drop below freezing at night, leading to icy roads and sidewalks. Despite the cold, Freiburg’s winter is generally mild compared to other parts of Germany, and outdoor activities are still possible with proper clothing.

Climate and Weather Patterns

Freiburg im Breisgau, situated in southwestern Germany, experiences a temperate climate characterized by warm summers and relatively mild winters. The average annual temperature hovers around 48.2°F (9°C). Due to its location in the Upper Rhine Valley, Freiburg enjoys a unique microclimate with plenty of sunshine and significantly milder temperatures than other German cities.

Seasonal Variations

The city’s weather patterns vary throughout the year. In the summer months (June to August), average temperatures range from 64°F (18°C) to 77°F (25°C). These warm conditions make Freiburg an ideal destination for outdoor activities and festivals. However, summer storms are not uncommon and can bring occasional heavy rainfall. In the winter months (December to February), average temperatures drop to between 32°F (0°C) and 43°F (6°C). Snowfall is infrequent but does occur occasionally.

Cloud Cover and Types

Freiburg im Breisgau, nestled in southwestern Germany, experiences a temperate climate with varying cloud patterns throughout the year. The city’s proximity to the Alps and Rhine Valley influences its cloud cover. During winter months, thick, gray stratus clouds frequently blanket the skies. As the weather transitions to spring, fluffy cumulus clouds often dot the horizon, gradually giving way to towering cumulonimbus clouds during summer afternoons, potentially bringing thunderstorms. In autumn, the skies are typically characterized by wispy cirrus clouds and altostratus layers, creating picturesque sunsets.

Seasonal Variation

Cloud cover in Freiburg exhibits distinct seasonal variations. During the winter, overcast conditions prevail, with an average cloud cover of around 75%. This is due to the city’s position in a low-pressure zone, resulting in frequent precipitation and limited sunshine. In contrast, spring and summer witness a decrease in cloud cover, averaging around 50%. This is a consequence of the influence of high-pressure systems, bringing clear skies and ample sunlight. Autumn typically experiences higher cloud cover than spring and summer, with an average of 60%, as the weather becomes more unstable with the arrival of cold fronts.

Precipitation Patterns

Freiburg im Breisgau experiences a moderate amount of precipitation throughout the year, with an average annual rainfall of around 750 millimeters. The city is located in a temperate climate zone, and precipitation is influenced by both Atlantic and continental air masses. Rainfall is relatively evenly distributed throughout the year, but there is a slight increase in precipitation during the summer months, particularly in June and July. During these months, convective thunderstorms are common, which can bring heavy rainfall and occasional hail.

Seasonal Variations

The amount of precipitation in Freiburg im Breisgau varies considerably from season to season. Winter months are typically the driest, with an average of around 50 millimeters of rainfall per month. Snowfall is infrequent, but it does occasionally accumulate during the colder months. In contrast, summer months are typically the wettest, with an average of around 90 millimeters of rainfall per month. During the summer, thunderstorms are common, and these can produce heavy downpours and flooding in some cases.

Average Rainfall and Precipitation

Freiburg im Breisgau, located in southwestern Germany, experiences a moderate amount of rainfall throughout the year. The average annual precipitation is around 800 mm (31.5 in), which is distributed relatively evenly over the course of 12 months. May and June are typically the wettest months, with an average of 80-90 mm (3.1-3.5 in) of rainfall each. The driest months are January and February, with an average of around 50 mm (2 in) of precipitation.

Seasonal Variations in Rainfall

Freiburg’s rainfall patterns exhibit significant seasonal variations. During the winter months (December to February), the city receives less rainfall due to the influence of cold, dry air masses from the north and east. As temperatures rise in the spring, precipitation gradually increases, culminating in the wettest period from May to June. This increase in rainfall is attributed to the increased moisture content in the air and the passage of low-pressure systems from the west. In the summer months (July to August), rainfall tends to be more sporadic and often occurs in the form of thunderstorms. Autumn is generally a drier season, although occasional periods of heavy rainfall can occur.

Climate and Geography

Freiburg im Breisgau, nestled in southwestern Germany, experiences a temperate climate with a mix of influences from the Atlantic Ocean and the Alps. The city’s location at the foot of the Black Forest contributes to its mild climate, sheltering it from the cold northern winds. While Freiburg receives frequent rainfall throughout the year, snowfall is a relatively rare occurrence.

Snowfall Patterns

The average annual snowfall in Freiburg is around 10 centimeters (4 inches). Snowfall typically occurs during the winter months, from December to February, with the heaviest snowfalls usually falling in January. The duration and intensity of snowfalls vary from year to year, depending on weather patterns and the influence of the surrounding mountains. Occasionally, heavy snowfalls can cause temporary disruptions to daily life, leading to road closures and transportation delays.

Sunrise and Sunset Times

Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany experiences varying sunrise and sunset times throughout the year due to its location and the Earth’s tilt. In general, the days are longest during the summer months, and the nights are longest during the winter months.

During the summer solstice, which occurs around June 21, the sun rises around 5:30 AM and sets around 9:30 PM, giving Freiburg residents approximately 16 hours of daylight. In contrast, during the winter solstice, which occurs around December 21, the sun rises around 8:30 AM and sets around 4:30 PM, resulting in only about 8 hours of daylight.

Daylight Hours

The number of daylight hours in Freiburg im Breisgau changes significantly throughout the year. In December, the city receives an average of only 8 hours of daylight per day. This increases to around 10 hours per day in March and April, and to around 14 hours per day in June and July. By September, the number of daylight hours decreases again, reaching 10 hours per day in October and November.

Moon Phase and Times

The current moon phase in Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany is the Waning Crescent. This phase occurs when approximately 30.4% of the Moon is illuminated by the Sun. The moon will continue to decrease in illumination until reaching the New Moon phase on February 20, 2023. The next Full Moon occurred on January 21, 2023.

Moonrise and Moonset Times

Today, February 19, 2023, in Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany, the Moon will rise at 05:01 AM and set at 03:16 PM. Tomorrow, the Moon will rise at 06:07 AM and set at 04:09 PM. Throughout the week, the moonrise and moonset times will continue to shift slightly, with later moonrises and earlier moonsets as the month progresses.

Seasonal Humidity Variations

Freiburg im Breisgau experiences significant seasonal variations in humidity levels. During the summer months, the city is characterized by high humidity, with average readings ranging from 70% to 80%. This humidity is caused by the influence of moist air masses originating from the Atlantic Ocean. As a result, the summer evenings in Freiburg can be muggy and uncomfortable.

In contrast, winter humidity levels are much lower, typically ranging from 50% to 60%. This is due to the presence of colder air masses and less frequent precipitation. The lower humidity levels during winter make the air feel drier and more comfortable.

Effects of Humidity on Health and Comfort

The high humidity during summer in Freiburg can pose challenges for both locals and visitors. Excessive humidity can lead to discomfort, especially for those with respiratory or skin conditions. High humidity also provides a favorable environment for the growth of mold and mildew, which can exacerbate respiratory issues.

On the other hand, the lower winter humidity levels can cause dryness of the skin, eyes, and nasal passages. This can lead to irritation and discomfort, especially for those who are prone to dryness. To mitigate the effects of low humidity, it is important to stay adequately hydrated and use humidifiers in indoor spaces during winter.

Wind Conditions in Freiburg im Breisgau

Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany, experiences moderate wind speeds throughout the year. The average wind speed ranges from 10 to 15 kilometers per hour (6.2 to 9.3 miles per hour). The wind direction is predominantly from the west and southwest, with occasional influences from the north and east. During the summer months, the wind tends to be lighter and more variable, while in the winter, stronger winds are more common.

Seasonal Patterns

In the spring and summer, Freiburg experiences more frequent and stronger winds from the west and southwest. This is due to the influence of the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) and the jet stream. During these seasons, wind speeds can reach up to 20 kilometers per hour (12.4 miles per hour). In the fall and winter, the wind direction tends to shift more towards the north and east, bringing colder and drier air from the continental interior. Wind speeds during these months are typically lower, averaging around 10 kilometers per hour (6.2 miles per hour).

Spring (March-May)

Freiburg im Breisgau awakens from its winter slumber in spring, with temperatures gradually rising and nature bursting into bloom. The city becomes a vibrant tapestry of colors as cherry blossom trees adorn the streets and parks. The air fills with a gentle breeze, making it perfect for leisurely strolls or bike rides through the city’s charming cobblestone streets. Temperatures hover around 60-70°F (15-21°C), providing comfortable weather for outdoor exploration.

Summer (June-August)

Summer in Freiburg is a time of warmth and sunshine. Temperatures average in the mid-70s to low 80s°F (24-28°C), making it ideal for sunbathing in the市内中心区or swimming in the Dreisam River. The city’s many festivals and open-air concerts come alive during this season, creating a lively and festive atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy live music, street performers, and food stalls while reveling in the long summer evenings. The average rainfall is relatively low in summer, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Freiburg’s Commitment to Solar Energy

Freiburg im Breisgau, a city in southwestern Germany, has emerged as a global leader in solar energy adoption. Since the 1980s, the city has championed the use of solar power as a sustainable and renewable source of energy. Freiburg’s commitment to solar energy is reflected in its ambitious “Solar City Freiburg” program, which aims to make the city the world’s first renewable energy city by 2050.

Advancements and Initiatives

Freiburg has implemented numerous innovative initiatives to promote solar energy. The city offers financial incentives, such as subsidies and feed-in tariffs, to encourage residential and commercial buildings to install solar panels. Additionally, Freiburg has adopted stringent building regulations that require new constructions to meet high energy efficiency standards and incorporate renewable energy sources, including solar. The city has also established several research institutions and initiatives to advance solar technology, such as the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems and the Solar Info Center.

City Topography

Freiburg im Breisgau is a picturesque city nestled within the scenic Black Forest region of southwest Germany. Its unique topography is characterized by a mix of gently rolling hills and meandering streams. The city center lies on a hilltop overlooking the Dreisam River, which winds its way through the city. The surrounding hills, known as the Rieselfeld, provide panoramic views of the city and the nearby Black Forest peaks.

Valley and Plateau

The city is situated within a valley formed by the Dreisam and its tributaries. The valley floor is relatively flat, with the city center and most urban areas located here. However, the eastern and western edges of the city rise into plateaus, known as the Schlossberg and the Kaiserstuhl. The Schlossberg, a prominent hilltop, offers stunning views over the city, while the Kaiserstuhl is a volcanic plateau that extends beyond the city limits. The presence of these plateaus further diversifies the topographic landscape of Freiburg im Breisgau.

EuroAirport Basel Mulhouse Freiburg (BSL)

EuroAirport Basel Mulhouse Freiburg (BSL) is the nearest airport to Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany. Located just 46 kilometers (28.6 miles) southwest of the city center, BSL is a tri-national airport that serves the cities of Basel, Switzerland; Mulhouse, France; and Freiburg, Germany. The airport is a major hub for easyJet and Edelweiss Air, offering direct flights to destinations throughout Europe and beyond. Freiburg city center can be reached from BSL in around 45 minutes by car or 60 minutes by public transport, which includes a train ride and a bus connection.

Offenburg Airport (FKB)

Offenburg Airport (FKB) is another nearby airport to Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany. Located approximately 55 kilometers (34.2 miles) northeast of the city center, FKB is a smaller regional airport that primarily serves domestic and seasonal flights. Lufthansa operates regular flights from Offenburg to Frankfurt Airport (FRA), which is one of the largest and busiest airports in Europe. Freiburg city center can be reached from FKB in around 90 minutes by car or 120 minutes by public transport, which involves a train ride and a bus connection.

History and Culture

Freiburg im Breisgau is a historic city in southwest Germany known for its medieval architecture and lively cultural scene. Founded in 1120 by Duke Berthold III of Zähringen, Freiburg has been a center of learning and culture for centuries. The city is home to the Albert Ludwig University of Freiburg, one of Germany’s oldest and most prestigious universities. Freiburg’s historic Old Town is filled with cobblestone streets, gabled houses, and Gothic churches, including the striking Freiburg Minster, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. The city’s cultural heritage is celebrated through numerous museums, theaters, and music venues.

Tourism and Leisure

Freiburg is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its picturesque scenery and abundance of attractions. The city offers a blend of history, culture, and nature. Visitors can explore the historic Old Town, visit the Freiburg Minster, and wander through the scenic Schlossberg hillside park. The city is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with a wide selection of bars, clubs, and restaurants. Freiburg is surrounded by the Black Forest, offering opportunities for hiking, cycling, and winter sports. The city is easily accessible by train and is well connected to major cities in Germany and Europe.