Climates of France

Three main types of climate may be found within France: oceanic, continental, and Mediterranean. The oceanic climate, prevailing in the western parts of the country, is one of small temperature range, ample rainfall, cool summers, and cool but seldom very cold winters. The continental (including the transition zone) type of climate, found over much of eastern and central France, adjoining its long borders to the east, is characterised by warmer summers and colder winters than areas to the west; rainfall is ample, and winters tend to be cold and snowy, especially in the higher areas. The Mediterranean climate, widespread throughout the south of France (except in the much cooler, mountainous Alpine region), is one of cool winters, hot summers, and limited rainfall. The mean temperature is about 11° C in Paris and 15° C in Nice. In central and southern France, annual rainfall is light to moderate, ranging from about 68 cm at Paris to 100 cm at Bordeaux. Rainfall is heavy in Brittany, the northern coastal areas, and the mountainous areas, where it reaches more than 112 cm. The exception is Alsace to the north that’s shielded from the prevailing north Atlantic rains by the Vosges Mountains creating the driest region in France.