Hamburg, Germany – Climate and Average Weather Year Round: What to Expect

Hamburg, located in the northern hemisphere, experiences a range of weather conditions throughout the year.

The hottest month, July, boasts an average high of 72°F and a low of 55°F. This makes it an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploring the city’s many sights.

In contrast, the cold season in Hamburg spans from mid-November to mid-March, with daily high temperatures averaging below 45°F.

January is the coldest month, with temperatures ranging from a low of 31°F to a high of 39°F. It’s during these months that visitors should prepare for harsher conditions.

The weather varies significantly by month.

August, for instance, is typically warm with an average temperature of 65°F. On cooler nights, temperatures might drop to around 46°F.

For those planning a visit, understanding Hamburg’s year-round climate can be immensely beneficial in picking the best time to explore this vibrant city.

Average Temperature in Hamburg, Germany

Hamburg experiences a mild climate throughout the year.

The hottest month is July, with an average high temperature of 72°F and a low of 55°F.

Winter months can be quite cold.

January is the coldest month, with temperatures ranging from an average low of 31°F to a high of 39°F.

Here’s a breakdown of average temperatures by month:

During the summer months, temperatures remain comfortable with average highs in the low 70s.

Winter season runs from mid-November to mid-March, marked by temperatures often dropping below 45°F.

January stands out as particularly chilly with freezing temperatures.

In spring and fall, temperatures are moderate and pleasant, with highs ranging from the mid-40s to mid-60s.

Summer brings the warmest temperatures averaging around 72°F, creating an inviting atmosphere for outdoor activities.

For those who dislike cold temperatures, it’s best to avoid visiting between December and February, when temperatures can be harsh and drop close to freezing.

On the hottest days, temperatures can reach up to 91°F, but these instances are rare.

Average Precipitation in Hamburg, Germany

Hamburg experiences consistent precipitation throughout the year, making it important for visitors to be prepared for rain or snow depending on the season.

Average Rainfall in Hamburg, Germany

Rainfall in Hamburg is evenly distributed over the year. Each month sees significant rainfall, ensuring no truly dry periods.

Hamburg’s wettest month is typically July, with about 3 inches of rain. This time often coincides with warm summer temperatures.

The driest month is February, receiving around 1.6 inches, although this still adds considerable wetness to the cold winter days.

Hamburg experiences rain roughly 154 days annually, meaning travelers can expect rain in Hamburg about 42% of the year.

Average Snow in Hamburg, Germany

Snowfall in Hamburg is primarily concentrated during the winter months. December through February generally see the most snow days.

Snowfall is most frequent in January, when temperatures are also at their coldest.

Annual snowfall averages are less than 10 inches, making significant accumulations rare. Snow can still make travel and outdoor activities more challenging.

Although snow is relatively light, it is worth considering when planning visits during the winter months.

Average Sun in Hamburg, Germany

Hamburg experiences varied sunlight throughout the year. Key factors include hours of sunshine, daylight hours, and cloud cover. These elements are essential in understanding the city’s solar energy patterns.

Average Daily Shortwave Solar Energy in Hamburg, Germany

Hamburg’s sunlight is influenced by significant seasonal shifts.

From June to August:

• Daylight hours peak around 16-17 hours.
• Sunshine hours average 6-8 hours per day.
• UV index can reach moderate levels, peaking at around 6.

During winter months, November to February:

• Daylight hours decrease to just 7-8 hours.
• Sunshine hours drop to around 1-2 hours per day.
• Cloud cover is higher, limiting UV exposure to low levels.

Average Humidity in Hamburg, Germany

Humidity in Hamburg varies throughout the year. Relative humidity tends to stay higher in the winter months.

Average dew point in Hamburg shows how moist or dry the air feels. A higher dew point means it feels more humid.

Monthly Humidity Averages

Perceived temperature is affected by humidity and dew point. High relative humidity makes it feel warmer in the summer and colder in the winter.

During winter, Hamburg has a higher average relative humidity.

For example, January has an average relative humidity of 85%. The dew point at this time is around 33°F.

Summer months show a small drop in relative humidity. July and August see averages around 74-75% with dew points around 54°F.

Lower temperatures combined with high humidity increase the chance of a perceived colder atmosphere in winter while in summer it feels warmer. Native Hamburg residents and visitors should plan accordingly.

Average Wind in Hamburg, Germany

Hamburg experiences mild to moderate wind throughout the year. The average wind speed often varies by season.

Monthly Average Wind Speeds

The windiest month tends to be February, with an average wind speed of 11.5 mph.

Winter months in Hamburg are more prone to higher wind speeds.

From November to February, average speeds regularly exceed 10 mph.

In contrast, summer months, especially June through August, tend to have the calmest conditions, as average speeds drop to around 8.3 to 8.8 mph.

Wind patterns in Hamburg don’t change drastically, making it ideal for those who prefer consistent weather.

Average wind speeds ensure that while it may get breezy, it seldom becomes overwhelmingly windy.

For more detailed information on wind patterns, Wind – ChaseDay.com provides several articles.

This consistent wind pattern is ideal for sailing and other wind-dependent activities.

Hamburg’s wind varies enough to impact weather conditions but remains manageable throughout the year.

Average Air Quality in Hamburg, Germany

Hamburg, Germany, known for its oceanic climate (Cfb under the Köppen-Geiger classification), has air quality levels that vary throughout the year.

The air quality index (AQI) in Hamburg typically ranges between 30 and 60. This range generally indicates good to moderate air quality, which means the air is acceptable, though sensitive groups may experience minor issues.

Monthly Average AQI in Hamburg:

Factors Influencing Air Quality:

1. Traffic Emissions: High traffic density contributes to pollutants, especially nitrogen dioxide (NO2).
2. Industrial Output: Proximity to industrial areas can affect particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) levels.
3. Weather Conditions: Marine west coast winds help disperse pollutants, maintaining moderate air quality.

Precautions for Sensitive Groups:

• On days with higher AQI, individuals with respiratory conditions should limit outdoor activities.
• Using air purifiers indoors can help reduce exposure to pollutants.

Annual Precipitation and AQI:

Higher precipitation, common in Hamburg’s temperate climate, can reduce particulates from the air, often resulting in lower AQI values during rainy months.

For more details on Hamburg’s climate and weather, including air quality impacts, visit Climate and Average Weather Year Round in Hamburg.

Topography of Hamburg, Germany

Hamburg, located at a latitude of approximately 53.55°N, is Germany’s second-largest city. The city is situated in the northern part of the country and has a varied topography.

Elevation: Hamburg’s elevation is relatively low, averaging around 22 feet above sea level. The landscape is mostly flat, which contrasts with other parts of Germany that have more hills and mountains.

Rivers and Lakes: The Elbe River is a significant feature of Hamburg’s topography. It flows through the city, dividing it into northern and southern parts and providing a picturesque waterfront landscape. Many canals and smaller rivers also crisscross the city, earning it the nickname “Venice of the North.”

Harbors: Hamburg boasts one of the world’s largest harbors, further shaping its topography. The port area extends over a vast region, featuring numerous docks and quays, which influence the city’s landscape and economy.

Green Spaces: Despite its urban nature, Hamburg has an abundance of parks, gardens, and recreational areas. Planten un Blomen, a large urban park, adds greenery and natural beauty to the city’s topography.

Plan Your Visit by Month:

This blend of natural and urban features makes Hamburg unique. Its topography is an essential part of what defines the city’s character and beauty.

Extreme Weather Events That Occur in Hamburg, Germany

Hamburg, Germany, experiences various extreme weather events each year. These events can include storms, heavy rain, hail, and flooding.

Storms

Hamburg is prone to severe storms, particularly during the fall and winter months. These storms can bring strong winds and heavy rainfall.

Heavy Rain and Flooding

Heavy rain is common, especially during the spring and summer. Flooding often accompanies these heavy rains, affecting infrastructure and homes.

Hail

Hailstorms can occur, mostly in the summer, causing damage to buildings, cars, and crops.

Hamburg’s location near the coast also increases the risk of storm surges, which can lead to severe flooding. These events pose significant challenges for the city’s emergency services and local population. For more information on recent extreme weather, you can check out the severe storms sweeping across Germany in 2024.

Best Time of the Year to Visit Hamburg, Germany

Visitors will find Hamburg’s climate varies significantly through the year. The best time to visit may depend on personal preferences for weather, activities, and avoiding crowds.

What Is Hamburg, Germany Like in Spring

Spring in Hamburg spans from March to May. This time of the year sees mild temperatures, typically ranging from the 40s to low 60s°F. Rainfall is moderate, with occasional showers refreshing the city.

Flowers start to bloom in parks and gardens, making it a great time for outdoor activities. Hamburg has fewer tourists, so it’s easier to enjoy attractions like the Elbphilharmonie and the Speicherstadt without crowds.

What Is Hamburg, Germany Like in Summer

Summer, from June to August, is peak tourist season. Temperatures are comfortable, typically in the 60s to 70s°F. Rain is less frequent, making it an ideal time for sightseeing and outdoor events.

The city hosts numerous festivals, including the popular Hamburg Summer Dom and music festivals. With extended daylight hours, visitors have more time to explore and enjoy activities like boat tours on the Alster River.

What Is Hamburg, Germany Like in Fall

Fall in Hamburg covers September to November. The weather cools down gradually, with temperatures dropping from the low 60s to the mid-40s°F.

Rainfall increases, and the city sees more overcast days.

Autumn is the wettest season. Despite this, the city is beautiful with its tree-lined streets covered in colorful leaves.

Events like the Reeperbahn Festival draw visitors, and the beer gardens are less crowded.

What Is Hamburg, Germany Like in Winter

Winter runs from December to February. This season is the coldest, with temperatures often in the 30s and 40s°F and occasional snow.

Rain is common, and days are shorter with limited sunshine.

Despite the cold, winter is a magical time, especially during the Christmas markets.

Although not ideal for boating or long walks, the cozy cafes and indoor attractions like museums provide warmth and entertainment.