Weather in Saare

Saaremaa, Estonia: Climate and Weather Year Round

Saaremaa is the largest island in Estonia, located in the Baltic Sea. Its unique geographical position influences its climate, creating distinct weather patterns throughout the year. This article provides a comprehensive overview of Saaremaa's climate, including temperature ranges, precipitation levels, and other important weather features.

Temperature

Saaremaa experiences a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild summers and relatively mild winters compared to other regions at similar latitudes. The average annual temperature on the island is around 7-8°C (45-46°F).

During the summer months, from June to August, temperatures reach an average of 16-18°C (61-64°F) during the day, with occasional heatwaves pushing the mercury above 25°C (77°F). The nights are cooler, with temperatures dropping to around 10-12°C (50-54°F).

Winter in Saaremaa, from December to February, tends to be relatively mild compared to inland areas. Average daytime temperatures range from 0 to 3°C (32-37°F), with nighttime temperatures dropping to -3 to -6°C (27-21°F). However, occasional cold spells can bring temperatures well below freezing, reaching as low as -20°C (-4°F).

Precipitation

Saaremaa receives a moderate amount of precipitation throughout the year, with the highest rainfall occurring in summer. On average, the island receives around 600-700 millimeters (24-28 inches) of precipitation annually.

The summer months, especially July and August, tend to be the wettest, with an average of 60-80 millimeters (2-3 inches) of rainfall per month. Showers and thunderstorms are common during this time, contributing to the island's lush vegetation.

Winter precipitation mainly falls as snow, although it is typically not heavy. Saaremaa receives an average of 30-40 centimeters (12-16 inches) of snow each year, which can create enchanting winter landscapes.

Sunshine Hours

Saaremaa benefits from a decent amount of sunshine throughout the year, with longer daylight hours in summer and shorter days in winter. On average, the island experiences approximately 1,800-2,000 hours of sunshine annually.

The summer months, particularly June and July, are the sunniest, with around 250-270 hours of sunshine per month. Conversely, the winter months, especially December and January, have significantly fewer hours of daylight, with only 30-40 hours of sunshine per month.

Wind

As an island located in the Baltic Sea, Saaremaa is subjected to frequent winds, which can have a significant impact on the local climate. The prevailing winds come from the west and southwest, bringing moderate to strong gusts at times.

The wind speed on Saaremaa varies throughout the year, with the strongest winds occurring in autumn and winter. During these seasons, wind speeds can reach 8-10 meters per second (18-22 miles per hour), occasionally exceeding 15 meters per second (33 miles per hour) during storms.

Seasonal Highlights

Saaremaa offers unique seasonal highlights that attract visitors throughout the year:

• Spring: Witness the island's awakening nature, with colorful blossoms and migrating birds.
• Summer: Enjoy long days, warm temperatures, and the opportunity to explore Saaremaa's beautiful beaches and nature reserves.
• Autumn: Experience the vibrant autumn foliage and participate in traditional festivals, such as the Saaremaa Food Festival.
• Winter: Embrace the tranquility of the island covered in snow, go ice skating on frozen lakes, and indulge in cozy sauna experiences.

Conclusion

Saaremaa's climate is characterized by mild summers, relatively mild winters, and ample precipitation throughout the year. Visitors can experience the island's unique seasonal highlights, from the blooming spring to the snowy winter. Whether you prefer outdoor adventures or cozy indoor activities, Saaremaa offers something for everyone, all year round.