The Austria winter season begins in November and lasts until March. Temperatures drop to below zero regularly, and the proximity to the Alps makes the cold season even more extreme. Snowfall is also abundant and roads are closed in areas where it snows heavily. If you’re planning a holiday in Austria during this time, be sure to check road conditions before setting out. You don’t want to be stuck on a muddy road during the cold season.
Temperatures
The four distinct seasons in Austria have their own charm and activities, so be sure to wear appropriate clothing at all times. Summer in Austria is generally warm, with the highest temperatures in Vienna ranging from 27 to 30 degrees Celsius. Evening temperatures, however, usually drop to around 15 degrees. Austria is also subject to thunderstorms and rain showers, but there are usually plenty of sunny days. Temperatures are typically colder in November and December than they are in July and August.
The climate in Austria is broadly continental, although the Eastern part of the country extends into the Pannonian climate zone. Winter temperatures in Austria can drop to as low as minus 20 degrees Celsius at night, while summer temperatures can soar as high as 35 degrees in August. Temperatures in Austria range from 0 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit during winter, with the coldest months being January and February. Winter snowfall in Austria is moderate to heavy.
Snowfall
ECMWF shows a slight chance of snowfall across Austria on Thursday. The GFS forecast shows that there is a dominant high pressure area over Austria, and snowfall chances will decrease as the week progresses. However, this doesn’t mean that Austria won’t experience some snowfall. Snowfall is possible in the mountains through the middle of this week, so the snowfall chances are still quite high. Regardless of the amount, there is still a possibility of rain or snow in the region, bringing colder weather with it.
As of January 1, the snowfall in Austria will reach a record low. The snow line will be between 500 and 700 metres in the east, and around 1000 meters in the west. In addition, most snowfall will occur later in the day, during the evening hours, and it won’t be until the morning hours that temperatures warm. Despite the cold winter climate, Austria has relatively mild winters compared to its neighbor Switzerland. But if you’re interested in learning about the climate conditions, Austria is worth a visit.
Precipitation
There are three main types of precipitation in Austria, with the southernmost region enjoying a high precipitation rate. These types of precipitation are often associated with snow. The easternmost region receives an average of 650 millimeters of precipitation per year, while western Austria receives about two thousand millimeters. The precipitation pattern is determined by altitude, with high-level regions in the Alps receiving up to two thousand millimetres of rain per year, while flat areas in Austria only receive 600 mm. The wettest time of year is June to August, when heavy thunderstorms can be experienced. In the mountains, this precipitation is often accompanied by heavy hail and snowfall.
In January, a significant SSW and persistent blocking in the North Atlantic resulted in a northwesterly flow that pushed significantly cold air to the Alpine region. The snowfall totals at some stations in Austria were so high in January that they surpassed 100-year records. The national meteorological service of Austria, the Zentralanstalt fur Meteorologie und Geodynamik, issued the highest level of alert for the area.
Activities
Traveling to Austria during winter can be an experience to remember. Make sure you pack warm clothing and a good down jacket. Bring gloves and scarves for the winter months, as well as snow gear for mountain activities. During the summer months, temperatures can be very high, but winter weather will keep you warm and dry. Bring a hat and sunglasses as well. There are many ways to enjoy the winter weather in Austria.
The spring months are milder than the winter months and temperatures can rise above 25 degrees Celsius. The snow is not as heavy as during the winter months, and rain is less common. Springtime is also the best time to visit Austria’s food markets, when fresh local produce is in season. You can visit Salzburg’s famous Green Market and enjoy a local festival. Easter markets have various activities and entertainment for children, including classical concerts and egg-painting workshops.
Best time to visit
During the winter season, temperatures in Austria are unpredictable and can be cold. However, the calendar will begin to ease around Easter and the first half of April. The springtime is also a good time to visit, with cheaper accommodation options and reduced crowds. In the spring, you can take a hike through the natural landscapes to see rolling meadows and alpine forests. However, keep in mind that the weather is still erratic, and you should be prepared to change your plans if the weather turns cold or rainy.
In autumn, the weather is quite similar to that of spring, with the occasional fog and mist. Austrians tend to stay indoors during this time, so don’t expect to see a lot of tourists. However, if you are interested in observing fall colors, you can head to Austria’s Kahlenberg hills. You can also visit Vienna during the Long Night of Museums in October. There are also fewer tourists at this time of year, so you’ll have more time to explore the countryside.