Middlesbrough Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – United Kingdom

Summer in Middlesbrough

Middlesbrough experiences warm and pleasant summers, with average temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C). The city receives a moderate amount of rainfall during this season, with around 6 inches (150mm) spread out over the months of June, July, and August. Humidity levels are generally low, making for comfortable conditions. Days are typically sunny, with an average of 7 to 8 hours of sunshine per day. This makes summer an ideal time to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, or visiting the local parks.

Winter in Middlesbrough

Winters in Middlesbrough are cold and cloudy, with average temperatures ranging from 35°F to 45°F (2°C to 7°C). The city experiences significantly more rainfall during this season, with around 12 inches (300mm) falling between November and February. Snow is also common, with an average of 10 inches (25cm) falling throughout the winter. Humidity levels tend to be higher than in summer, which can make the cold feel even more penetrating. Days are generally short, with an average of only 4 to 5 hours of sunshine per day. This makes winter a less attractive time for outdoor activities, but there are still plenty of indoor attractions to enjoy, such as museums, theaters, and shopping malls.

Average Annual Temperature

Middlesbrough, situated in the North East of England, experiences a temperate oceanic climate greatly influenced by its coastal location. The average annual temperature in Middlesbrough is around 9.4°C (48.9°F), indicating a relatively mild climate all year round. The warmest months are July and August, with average temperatures reaching 15.6°C (60.1°F) and 15.5°C (59.9°F), respectively. Conversely, the coldest months are January and February, averaging 3.8°C (38.8°F) and 4.1°C (39.4°F).

Seasonal Variations

Middlesbrough’s climate exhibits distinct seasonal variations. Summers are typically warm and sunny, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities and events. However, occasional heatwaves can bring temperatures above 25°C (77°F). Winters, on the other hand, are generally mild, with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing. However, periods of frost and occasional snowfall are not uncommon. Spring and autumn bring unpredictable weather patterns, with a mix of sunshine, rain, and occasionally even snowfall. Overall, Middlesbrough’s temperate climate provides a balance of seasons, allowing for a wide range of activities throughout the year.

Cloud Cover and Types

Middlesbrough, located in the northeast of England, experiences a temperate climate with varying cloud cover throughout the year. During the winter months, cloud cover is often consistent, with low clouds and frequent precipitation. These clouds typically consist of stratus, nimbostratus, and cumulus clouds, which produce a gray and overcast sky. In the summer months, cloud cover is more variable, with a mix of sunny days and cloudier periods. Cumulus and stratocumulus clouds are common during this time, often bringing light showers or drizzle.

Seasonal Variations in Cloud Cover

The amount of cloud cover in Middlesbrough varies significantly throughout the year. The cloudiest months are November and December, with an average of 70-75% cloud coverage. During these months, the sky is often overcast, resulting in long periods of dull and gloomy weather. In contrast, the sunniest months are May and June, with an average of only 50-55% cloud coverage. These months provide a welcome respite from the winter gloom, although occasional cloudy days can still occur. The remaining months of the year experience moderate cloud cover, with the percentage of cloud cover ranging from 60-65%.

Annual Precipitation:

Middlesbrough, a city in the United Kingdom, experiences an average annual precipitation of approximately 640 millimeters (mm). This amount is relatively low compared to other parts of the country, particularly coastal regions, which receive significantly higher amounts. The precipitation in Middlesbrough is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year, with no distinct wet or dry seasons. However, the city does experience more precipitation during the winter months, especially in December and January.

Seasonal Variation:

The seasonal distribution of precipitation in Middlesbrough is influenced by the city’s location within a temperate maritime climate zone. During the summer months (June to August), precipitation is typically lower, with an average of 50mm per month. In contrast, the winter months (December to February) see an increase in precipitation, with an average of 75mm per month. This pattern is consistent with the general weather patterns in the United Kingdom, where winters tend to be wetter and summers drier.

Annual Rainfall

Middlesbrough, located in the northeast of England, experiences an average annual rainfall of approximately 650 millimeters (26 inches). This precipitation level is relatively low compared to the national average for the United Kingdom, which is around 1,150 millimeters (45 inches) per year. The distribution of rainfall throughout the year is fairly even, although there is a slight increase in precipitation during the winter months.

Rainfall Patterns

The rainfall in Middlesbrough primarily occurs in the form of showers, with occasional periods of drizzling rain. Heavy downpours are relatively infrequent, but can sometimes occur during thunderstorms. The area is not prone to severe rainstorms or flooding, making it a generally dry and stable climate. The rainfall patterns in Middlesbrough are influenced by its location on the North Sea coast. The prevailing wind direction is from the southwest, bringing moist air from the Atlantic Ocean. This moisture-laden air rises over the higher ground to the west of Middlesbrough, resulting in the formation of clouds and subsequent rainfall.

History of Snowfall in Middlesbrough

Middlesbrough, a city in the North East of England, experiences variable snowfall during winter months. Historically, significant snowfall has occurred in the area, with notable events recorded in 1981, 1987, 2009, and 2010. In January 1987, a snowfall of 18 inches paralyzed the city, disrupting transportation and forcing schools and businesses to close. The 2010 snowfall, known as the “Big Freeze,” brought heavy snow and freezing temperatures, resulting in widespread power outages and road closures.

Recent Snowfall

In recent years, snowfall has been less frequent and less severe in Middlesbrough. However, the city experienced a significant snowfall event in February 2021, with up to 6 inches accumulating in some areas. This snowfall led to school closures and travel disruptions. While snowfall in Middlesbrough is typically lighter than in other parts of the United Kingdom, it can still have a significant impact on daily life and infrastructure.

Climate Overview

Middlesbrough, situated in North East England, experiences a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild winters and cool summers. The city is influenced by the North Sea and the prevailing westerly winds, which bring frequent rainfall throughout the year. Average temperatures range from around 5°C in January to 16°C in July. Sunshine hours are relatively low, averaging approximately 1,400 hours per year. Summers can be punctuated by occasional heatwaves, while winters can be cold and damp.

Seasonal Variations

Spring in Middlesbrough typically begins in March, with temperatures gradually rising and rainfall remaining abundant. The city comes alive with wildflowers and blossoming trees, adding vibrant colors to the landscape. Summer settles in from June to August, bringing warmer temperatures and longer days. Although sunshine is still intermittent, occasional heatwaves can raise temperatures into the mid-twenties. Autumn arrives in September and brings with it cooler nights and more frequent precipitation. The leaves of deciduous trees turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow before falling to the ground. Winter sets in from December to February, bringing with it shorter days, cold temperatures, and frequent rain, occasionally accompanied by snow.

Lunar Phases and Visibility

The moon’s appearance and visibility in Middlesbrough, United Kingdom, vary throughout the lunar cycle. When the moon is closest to the sun, it is illuminated only on its far side, making it invisible from Earth. As the moon orbits the Earth, it gradually moves further from the sun, allowing more of its surface to become illuminated. This results in the moon’s progression through various phases, from new moon to full moon.

During the new moon phase, the moon is not visible because it is completely shrouded in darkness. As the moon moves through its crescent and waxing phases, it becomes progressively visible as a thin crescent or half-moon. At the full moon phase, the entire face of the moon is illuminated by the sun, making it fully visible from Earth. The moon then transitions through its waning phases, gradually diminishing in size and visibility until it reaches its new moon phase once again.

Moonrise and Moonset Times

The times of moonrise and moonset in Middlesbrough vary depending on the day of the month and the time of year. During the period when the moon is visible, it typically rises in the east and sets in the west. The precise times of moonrise and moonset can be calculated using astronomical tables or online calculators. Observing the moonrise or moonset can be a beautiful and tranquil experience, especially on clear nights when the moon is at its brightest.

Average Humidity Levels

Middlesbrough, United Kingdom, experiences moderate humidity levels throughout the year, with annual average humidity ranging from 75% to 85%. The highest humidity occurs during the winter months, particularly in December and January, when it can reach up to 90%. Conversely, the lowest humidity levels are observed during the summer months, especially in June and July, dropping to around 65%.

Seasonal Variations

Humidity in Middlesbrough follows a distinct seasonal pattern. During the warm summer months, when temperatures rise, the air can hold more moisture, resulting in higher humidity levels. In contrast, during the colder winter months, the air has a lower capacity to hold water vapor, leading to lower humidity levels. Additionally, the proximity to the North Sea can influence humidity levels, with easterly winds bringing in more moisture and increasing humidity.

Wind Speed and Direction

Middlesbrough, situated along the River Tees in North Yorkshire, England, experiences moderate wind speeds and variable wind directions throughout the year. The average wind speed in Middlesbrough ranges from 13 to 15 kilometers per hour (8 to 9 miles per hour). During the summer months, winds tend to be lighter and predominantly from the west or southwest. In the winter, winds become stronger with more frequent gusts, with winds typically blowing from the northeast or east.

Impact on Local Climate

The prevailing winds in Middlesbrough have a significant influence on the local climate. Westerly winds bring in warm and humid air from the Atlantic Ocean, contributing to the city’s temperate weather conditions. During the summer, these winds can bring relief from the heat, while in the winter they can exacerbate the cold and damp conditions. Easterly winds, on the other hand, carry cold and dry air from the North Sea, which can bring foggy and chilly weather to Middlesbrough. The combination of these wind patterns creates a diverse and often unpredictable weather experience in the city.

Summer

Middlesbrough enjoys a temperate climate with warm summers and mild winters. The best time to visit is during the summer months, from June to August, when temperatures average between 15-20 degrees Celsius (59-68 degrees Fahrenheit). The days are long and sunny, providing ample opportunity to explore the city’s attractions, such as the Transporter Bridge, the Dorman Museum, and Albert Park. The warm weather also makes it ideal for outdoor activities like walking, cycling, and boating on the River Tees.

Spring and Autumn

Spring and autumn are also pleasant times to visit Middlesbrough. The months of March to May and September to November offer milder temperatures, ranging from 10-15 degrees Celsius (50-59 degrees Fahrenheit), and provide an opportunity to experience the city’s changing seasons. The spring brings an abundance of wildflowers, while the autumn showcases vibrant foliage. These seasons are ideal for exploring Middlesbrough’s parks and gardens, such as Stewart Park and Ormesby Hall.

Solar Energy Potential:

Middlesbrough has a moderate solar energy potential, with an average of 3.5-4 sunshine hours per day. This amount of sunlight is sufficient for generating electricity using photovoltaic (PV) panels. The availability of open spaces, such as industrial areas and rooftops, provides suitable locations for solar PV installations. By maximizing the utilization of these spaces, Middlesbrough can harness significant solar energy and contribute to its renewable energy goals.

Solar Energy Initiatives and Projects:

Middlesbrough has implemented various solar energy initiatives to promote its adoption. The council has installed solar PV systems on municipal buildings, including the Town Hall and the Civic Centre. These installations showcase the potential of solar energy and serve as examples for residents and businesses. Additionally, the council has partnered with local energy companies to provide subsidies and incentives for solar PV installations. These initiatives aim to encourage the uptake of solar energy in the community, reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable energy practices.

Upland Topography

Middlesbrough is situated on the banks of the River Tees, in the North East of England. The town is surrounded by a number of hills and dales, which provide it with a distinctive topography. The highest point in Middlesbrough is Eston Nab, which stands at 213 meters above sea level. Eston Nab is a popular beauty spot, offering stunning views of the town and the surrounding countryside. Other notable hills in Middlesbrough include Roseberry Topping, which is a popular destination for hikers.

River Valleys

The River Tees meanders through Middlesbrough, creating a number of valleys. The most notable of these is the Tees Valley, which is home to a number of villages and towns. The Tees Valley is a fertile region, with a long history of agriculture. The river Tees has also been important for industry, with a number of iron and steel works being built on its banks. The Tees Valley is now a major economic center, with a number of businesses and industries located in the area.

Teesside International Airport (MME)

Teesside International Airport is the closest airport to Middlesbrough, located approximately 10 miles (16 kilometers) south of the city center. It serves domestic and international destinations, including London, Amsterdam, and Dublin. The airport features a single terminal with modern facilities, including a duty-free shop, restaurants, and a currency exchange kiosk. The journey from Teesside International Airport to Middlesbrough takes around 30 minutes by car or taxi, or slightly longer by bus or train. The airport is easily accessible via the A19 and A66 roads.

Durham Tees Valley Airport (MME)

Previously known as Teesside International Airport, Durham Tees Valley Airport is located 25 miles (40 kilometers) southwest of Middlesbrough. It offers a smaller selection of destinations compared to Teesside International Airport, primarily serving domestic routes to London, Aberdeen, and Belfast. The airport has undergone significant redevelopment in recent years, including the construction of a new terminal building. The journey from Durham Tees Valley Airport to Middlesbrough takes approximately 45 minutes by car or taxi, or around an hour by bus or train.

History of Middlesbrough

Middlesbrough is a historic industrial town in North Yorkshire, England, with a rich past. Its origins can be traced back to 1801 when Captain James Cook discovered the River Tees and the area became a major center for iron and steel production during the Industrial Revolution. The town grew rapidly, and by the late 19th century, it was a thriving industrial hub with a population of over 100,000. Middlesbrough’s industrial heritage is still evident today, with many of its former factories and warehouses now converted into modern businesses and cultural spaces.

Modern Middlesbrough

Today, Middlesbrough is a vibrant and diverse city with a population of around 140,000. It is a major regional center for business, education, and culture, with a wide range of industries, including manufacturing, engineering, and retail. The city is home to Teesside University, which has a strong reputation for teaching and research, and the Middlesbrough Institute of Modern Art (mima), which houses a collection of contemporary and modern art. Middlesbrough is also a popular destination for tourists, who come to visit its historic sites, museums, and sporting venues.