Szombathely Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Hungary

Temperatures in Szombathely, Hungary

Szombathely, Hungary experiences moderate temperatures throughout the year. Summer months from June to August are typically warm and sunny, with average high temperatures ranging from 23 to 27 degrees Celsius (73 to 81 Fahrenheit). Winter months, on the other hand, can be cold and cloudy, with average low temperatures dipping below freezing from December to February. The coldest month is January, with an average low of -2 degrees Celsius (28 Fahrenheit). In autumn and spring, temperatures hover around 10 to 15 degrees Celsius (50 to 59 Fahrenheit).

Precipitation in Szombathely, Hungary

Precipitation is relatively evenly distributed throughout the year in Szombathely, Hungary. The wettest months are June and July, which receive an average of 70 to 80 millimeters of rainfall. January and February are the driest months, with an average of only 30 to 40 millimeters of rainfall. Snowfall is common during the winter months, with an average of 10 to 20 centimeters (4 to 8 inches) of snowfall from December to February. Thunderstorms are also common, especially during the summer months.

Average Temperature in Summer

Szombathely, Hungary experiences warm and humid summers with an average high temperature of 25°C (77°F) in July and August. The average daily temperature during the summer months ranges from a comfortable 20°C (68°F) to 27°C (81°F). Rainfall is moderate during this time, with occasional thunderstorms bringing much-needed relief from the summer heat. The city’s central location in western Hungary ensures plenty of sunshine, making it an ideal time to visit and explore its historical and architectural landmarks.

Average Temperature in Winter

The winters in Szombathely are cold and moderately snowy, with average temperatures hovering around -1°C (30°F) in January and February. Snowfall can occur throughout the winter months, with an average annual accumulation of 60 centimeters (24 inches). The city’s elevation and proximity to the Alps contribute to its colder temperatures. Despite the cold, Szombathely offers a festive winter atmosphere with Christmas markets, ice skating rinks, and cozy cafes to warm up in. The city’s rich thermal springs also provide a welcome respite from the chilly winter weather.

Cloud Patterns in Szombathely, Hungary

Szombathely, located in western Hungary, experiences a variety of cloud patterns throughout the year. The city has a humid continental climate, with warm summers and cold winters. In the summer, cumulus and cumulonimbus clouds are common, bringing frequent showers and thunderstorms. These clouds appear as puffy cotton balls, with anvils spreading out at high altitudes. In the winter, stratus and stratocumulus clouds dominate the sky, creating a gray and overcast atmosphere. These clouds form low in the troposphere and often result in drizzle or light snow.

Influence on Weather and Climate

The presence of clouds has a significant influence on the weather and climate of Szombathely. Cumulus and cumulonimbus clouds can produce heavy precipitation, leading to flooding or hail. They also block sunlight, reducing temperatures and creating a cooler environment. Conversely, stratus and stratocumulus clouds trap heat near the ground, creating a warm and humid atmosphere. These clouds can also reduce visibility and cause fog, impacting transportation and daily activities. By understanding the different types of clouds and their frequency, residents and visitors can better anticipate weather conditions and plan accordingly.

Yearly Precipitation

Szombathely, Hungary, receives an average of 600 mm (23.6 in) of precipitation per year. This precipitation is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with the wettest months being May and November, and the driest months being January and February. Szombathely’s precipitation is influenced by its location in the Pannonian Basin, which is surrounded by mountains that block moisture-carrying winds from reaching the region. As a result, Szombathely’s climate is characterized by hot, dry summers and cold, snowy winters.

Seasonal Precipitation

The majority of Szombathely’s precipitation falls during the summer months, with May and June being the wettest months. This is due to the influence of the Azores High, a high-pressure system that brings warm, moist air to the region. During the winter months, precipitation is less frequent and typically falls as snow. Szombathely’s average annual snowfall is 40 cm (15.7 in), which is relatively low for a city in Hungary. This is due to the fact that Szombathely is located in a relatively sheltered area of the Pannonian Basin.

Average Rainfall Patterns

Szombathely, a city in western Hungary, experiences a humid continental climate with moderate rainfall throughout the year. On average, the city receives approximately 600mm (24 inches) of precipitation annually. Rainfall is relatively evenly distributed across the months, with slightly higher amounts during the summer months from May to August. The average monthly rainfall during this period ranges from 60 to 80mm. In contrast, winter months, from November to February, tend to be drier, with an average monthly rainfall of around 30-40mm.

Seasonal Variations and Extremes

As in many temperate regions, rainfall in Szombathely exhibits seasonal variations. During the spring and autumn months, rainfall is influenced by the passage of weather fronts associated with low-pressure systems. These systems often bring periods of moderate to heavy rain. In summer, rainfall can be more localized and often occurs in the form of thunderstorms. These storms typically bring intense but brief downpours. Occasionally, the city may experience heavy rainfall events, particularly during the summer months, which can lead to flooding and other localized impacts.

Historical Snowfall Patterns

Szombathely, Hungary, has experienced historical snowfall patterns that exhibit variability in both the annual total snowfall and the timing of snowfall events. The city’s geographical location in the western part of the country, which is influenced by both the Atlantic Ocean and the continental climate, plays a significant role in determining its snowfall patterns. Over the long term, average annual snowfall in Szombathely has ranged from around 25 cm (9.8 in) to 45 cm (17.7 in). However, individual years can deviate significantly from this range, with some years experiencing much higher or lower snowfall totals.

Recent Trends in Snowfall

In recent years, Szombathely has experienced a slight decline in average annual snowfall. This trend is consistent with observations of decreasing snowfall across much of Central and Eastern Europe. The decline in snowfall is attributed to several factors, including changes in atmospheric circulation patterns, rising temperatures, and reduced moisture availability. As a result, snowfall events in Szombathely have become less frequent and less intense compared to historical averages. The timing of snowfall events has also shifted, with the first snowfall occurring later in the year and the last snowfall occurring earlier in the spring.

Summer Sunshine in Szombathely

During the summer months, Szombathely basks in an abundance of sunshine. The city experiences long, warm days with an average of 8-10 hours of direct sunlight daily. Temperatures often reach into the high 20s or even low 30s Celsius, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation. The clear skies and bright sunshine make it an ideal time to explore the city’s historical landmarks, such as the Iseum Savariense, an ancient Roman temple dedicated to the Egyptian goddess Isis, or to stroll through the picturesque Botanical Garden.

Winter Sunshine in Szombathely

While the winter months in Szombathely are generally cooler and shorter daylight hours, the city still receives a fair share of sunshine. The sun typically rises around 8 am and sets around 4 pm during December and January, providing an average of 4-6 hours of daylight. Despite the shorter days, the sky can often be clear and bright, allowing for pleasant walks or outdoor activities in the snow. The snow-covered landscapes create a picturesque winter wonderland, inviting visitors to engage in winter sports like ice skating, sledding, or snowshoeing.

Phases and Visibility

The Moon’s phases depend on its position relative to Earth and the Sun. In Szombathely, Hungary, the Moon goes through all its phases, from new moon, when it is not visible, to full moon, when it is fully illuminated and appears as a bright, disk-shaped object in the sky. The visibility of the Moon also depends on local weather conditions, with clear nights providing better viewing opportunities.

Moonrise and Moonset Times

The exact times of moonrise and moonset vary throughout the month and year due to the Moon’s changing position. In Szombathely, the Moon typically rises in the east and sets in the west. The specific times can be found using online moon calculators or through astronomical apps. During full moons, the Moon is visible for the entire night, rising shortly after sunset and setting just before sunrise.

Seasonal Humidity Trends

Szombathely, Hungary, experiences significant seasonal variations in humidity. Winters are typically dry with average relative humidity levels hovering around 70%. As temperatures rise in the spring, humidity increases gradually, reaching its peak in the summer months. August, the warmest month of the year, sees humidity levels soar to an average of 78%. As autumn approaches, humidity levels start to decline, returning to levels similar to those observed during winter.

Impact on Comfort and Health

High humidity levels can make Szombathely feel warmer than the actual temperature, especially during the summer. This can lead to discomfort and heat-related illnesses such as heat stroke or heat exhaustion. On the other hand, low humidity levels during winter can cause dry skin, respiratory irritation, and other uncomfortable conditions. Optimal humidity levels for human comfort generally range between 40% and 60%, and Szombathely’s humidity levels frequently fall outside this range during both winter and summer.

Wind Patterns in Szombathely

Szombathely, located in Western Hungary, experiences a temperate continental climate characterized by moderate winds. The prevailing wind direction in the city is from the west and northwest, influenced by the nearby Alps. These winds typically bring cool and moist air from the Atlantic Ocean, leading to frequent precipitation. During the summer months, Szombathely can also experience southwesterly winds, which bring warm and humid air, contributing to the city’s warm and sunny climate.

Seasonal Wind Variations

Seasonal variations in wind patterns in Szombathely are primarily driven by the city’s location within the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) system. During the winter months, the NAO enters a positive phase, characterized by stronger westerlies and higher pressure over the Atlantic Ocean. This pattern results in increased wind speeds and more frequent precipitation in Szombathely. In contrast, during the summer, the NAO enters a negative phase, leading to weaker westerlies and lower pressure over the Atlantic. This phase brings calmer winds and drier conditions to Szombathely.

Peak Season (May-August)

Szombathely experiences its peak tourist season during the summer months of May to August. This period offers warm and sunny weather, perfect for exploring the city’s historical landmarks, parks, and outdoor attractions. The average temperature ranges from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius (59 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit), making it comfortable for walking and sightseeing. However, it’s important to note that the summer months can also be crowded, particularly during weekends and holidays.

Shoulder Season (April-October)

The shoulder season, spanning from April to October, also provides pleasant weather for visiting Szombathely. While the temperatures may not be as high as during the peak season, they remain mild and comfortable for outdoor activities. This season offers the advantage of fewer crowds and more affordable accommodation rates. The foliage during autumn (September-October) adds a vibrant splash of color to the city, creating picturesque scenes.

Solar Energy Potential in Szombathely

Szombathely, located in western Hungary, exhibits promising solar energy potential. The city enjoys abundant sunshine throughout the year, averaging around 2,000 sunshine hours annually. This favorable solar radiation exposure makes Szombathely suitable for harnessing solar energy to meet its energy needs. Additionally, the city’s relatively flat topography and ample open spaces provide ample land area for the installation of solar panels. Szombathely’s commitment to sustainability and its strategic location make it an attractive location for solar energy development.

Policy Support for Solar Energy in Szombathely

The Hungarian government and local authorities in Szombathely actively support the development of solar energy. Hungary has established a comprehensive renewable energy policy framework, including feed-in tariffs and tax breaks, to incentivize solar energy production and deployment. Szombathely has implemented its own solar energy strategy, which includes financial incentives and streamlined permitting processes for solar installations. Furthermore, the city promotes solar energy through public awareness campaigns and educational programs, fostering a positive attitude towards this clean energy source among its citizens.

Terrain Features

Szombathely is situated in the western region of Hungary, known as Western Transdanubia. The city’s topography is dominated by the gently rolling hills of the Kemenesalja and Kemeneshát regions. These hills rise gradually from the Little Hungarian Plain, providing a picturesque backdrop to the cityscape. The highest point within city limits is the Sága-tető, which reaches an elevation of 312 meters (1,024 feet). The city also boasts several notable lakes, including Lake Csónakázó, Lake Aranyhegyi, and Lake Sárda, which offer recreational opportunities and scenic beauty.

Hydrology

Szombathely’s hydrology is shaped by its location near the confluence of two major rivers, the Rába and the Marcal. The Rába River flows along the northern edge of the city, while the Marcal River meanders through the southern part. These rivers provide an important source of water for the city and its surrounding agricultural areas. Additionally, Szombathely is home to numerous thermal springs, which have been used for medicinal purposes since ancient times. The most well-known thermal spring is the Kristályfürdő, which features a complex of swimming pools and therapeutic treatments.

Nearest Airport in Szombathely, Hungary

Szombathely, a historic city in western Hungary, is approximately 220 kilometers from Budapest, the country’s capital, and its main international airport. For travelers seeking air travel to or from Szombathely, the nearest airport is Vienna International Airport (VIE), located in Schwechat, Austria, just 90 kilometers southwest of Szombathely. VIE is a major hub for Central and Eastern Europe, with numerous airlines operating flights to destinations worldwide.

From Szombathely, visitors can reach VIE by car or public transportation. The drive takes about 90 minutes, while several bus services operate between the two cities, taking approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. For those traveling by car, the M86 highway provides a direct route between Szombathely and VIE. After arriving at VIE, travelers have access to a wide range of ground transportation options, including trains, buses, and rental cars, for onward travel to Szombathely or other destinations in Hungary and Austria.

History and Architecture

Szombathely, located in western Hungary, boasts a rich history dating back to Roman times. Known as Savaria, it was an important provincial capital and a major hub for trade and commerce. The city played a significant role in the Roman Empire, and its legacy is evident in the numerous archaeological remains that can be found throughout the city. Today, Szombathely is home to a blend of architectural styles, from the ancient ruins to the baroque buildings of the 18th and 19th centuries. Particularly notable is the Szombathely Cathedral, a grand edifice with a neo-classical facade and an opulent interior.

Culture and Attractions

Szombathely is a vibrant cultural center with a thriving arts and heritage scene. The city is home to several museums and galleries, including the Savaria Museum, which houses an extensive collection of Roman artifacts and a fascinating exhibit on the history of the city. The Iseum Sanctuary is a well-preserved Roman temple, dedicated to the Egyptian goddess Isis, offering a glimpse into ancient religious practices. Szombathely also hosts a variety of festivals throughout the year, including the Savaria Festival, a month-long celebration of music and theater.