Cardiff Climate and Weather Guide: Temperatures, Rainfall and Seasons

Cardiff, the capital city of Wales, has a temperate maritime climate characterised by mild winters, moderately warm summers, regular rainfall and changing weather conditions throughout the year. Its location in South Wales, close to the Bristol Channel, influences local temperatures, humidity, wind patterns and seasonal rainfall.

Understanding Cardiff’s climate helps residents, tourists, students, commuters and people planning to relocate prepare for everyday weather conditions. The city experiences four distinct seasons, although temperature differences between seasons are generally moderate compared with many other parts of Europe.

According to the UK Met Office’s 1991–2020 climate averages for Cardiff’s Bute Park weather station, the city records an annual average maximum temperature of approximately 15°C, an average minimum temperature of 7.3°C and annual rainfall of approximately 1,203mm. These figures provide a useful baseline for understanding Cardiff’s weather throughout the year.

What Type of Climate Does Cardiff Have?

Cardiff has a temperate maritime climate, classified as Cfb under the Köppen climate classification. This climate features mild winters, moderately warm summers, regular rainfall and limited temperature extremes throughout the year. Atlantic weather systems influence its seasonal temperatures, cloud cover and precipitation patterns.

A temperate maritime climate is a weather pattern commonly found in western parts of Europe. It develops under the influence of surrounding seas and prevailing westerly winds.

Cardiff experiences relatively moderate seasonal temperature changes. Winters are generally cool rather than severely cold, while summers are usually warm rather than extremely hot.

Rainfall occurs throughout the year. Unlike locations with a clearly defined dry season, Cardiff receives precipitation during winter, spring, summer and autumn.

The city’s coastal position also influences its weather. The Bristol Channel lies south of Cardiff, while the surrounding South Wales landscape includes hills, valleys and lowland areas. These geographical features contribute to local differences in wind exposure, rainfall and temperature.

How Does Cardiff’s Maritime Climate Work?

Cardiff’s maritime climate develops through the interaction of several environmental factors.

The Atlantic Ocean supplies moist air to western Britain. Prevailing south-westerly winds transport this air towards Wales, bringing cloud, rain and changing temperatures.

The Bristol Channel also influences local conditions by moderating temperature differences. Large bodies of water heat and cool more slowly than land, reducing some seasonal temperature extremes.

The result is a climate with relatively mild winters, comfortable summer temperatures and precipitation spread across the calendar year.

Is Cardiff’s Climate Similar to Other Parts of the UK?

Cardiff shares several climatic characteristics with Bristol, Newport and other settlements in southern Wales and western England.

However, local conditions differ according to elevation, distance from the coast and surrounding geography. Inland locations in Wales generally experience colder winter conditions, while exposed upland areas receive greater rainfall.

Cardiff’s relatively low elevation and southern location contribute to its milder conditions compared with many mountainous areas of Wales.

What Are Cardiff’s Average Temperatures Throughout the Year?

Cardiff’s average maximum temperature ranges from approximately 8.6°C in January to 21.8°C in July. Average minimum temperatures range from 2.5°C in January to 13.1°C in July, according to the Met Office’s 1991–2020 records.

Temperature is one of the most important measurements for understanding Cardiff weather. The Met Office records maximum and minimum temperatures at official weather stations and calculates long-term averages using observations collected over 30 years.

Cardiff’s Bute Park station provides a useful reference for the city’s temperature patterns.

The annual average maximum temperature is 14.95°C, while the annual average minimum temperature is 7.26°C. These figures represent long-term averages rather than guaranteed temperatures on particular days.

Which Months Are the Warmest in Cardiff?

July is generally the warmest month in Cardiff, with an average maximum temperature of 21.79°C and an average minimum of 13.12°C.

August follows closely, with an average maximum of 21.43°C and an average minimum of 12.92°C.

June also provides comfortable summer conditions. Its average maximum temperature reaches 20.07°C, while the average minimum is 11.27°C.

These conditions support outdoor activities, sightseeing, walking and visits to Cardiff’s parks and waterfront.

Which Months Are the Coldest in Cardiff?

January and February are generally the coldest months.

January has an average maximum temperature of 8.58°C and an average minimum of 2.50°C. February records an average maximum of 9.15°C and an average minimum of 2.47°C.

December is also cold, with average maximum and minimum temperatures of 9.06°C and 2.84°C respectively.

Frost occurs more frequently during winter. The Bute Park station records approximately 33 days of air frost annually, with the highest monthly averages in December and January.

How Do Spring and Autumn Temperatures Compare?

Spring temperatures increase steadily between March and May. Average maximum temperatures rise from 11.31°C in March to 17.38°C in May.

Autumn brings a gradual reduction in temperature. September has an average maximum of 19.10°C, October records 15.25°C and November falls to 11.61°C.

These transitions influence clothing choices, heating requirements and outdoor activities throughout the year.

How Much Rainfall Does Cardiff Receive Each Year?

Cardiff receives approximately 1,203mm of rainfall annually, based on the Met Office’s 1991–2020 Bute Park climate averages. Rain occurs throughout the year, although autumn and winter generally receive more precipitation than late spring and early summer.

Rainfall is a defining feature of Cardiff’s climate. Its location in South Wales exposes the city to moist Atlantic weather systems, which bring regular precipitation.

The Met Office records approximately 153 days of rainfall measuring at least 1mm annually at Cardiff’s Bute Park station.

This means measurable rainfall occurs on a substantial proportion of the year, although the intensity and duration vary considerably.

Which Months Receive the Most Rainfall?

December is the wettest month in the Bute Park climate record, with approximately 139.58mm of average rainfall.

November receives around 130.65mm, while October records approximately 129.05mm.

January also receives substantial precipitation, averaging 126.97mm.

These figures demonstrate the importance of preparing for wet weather during Cardiff’s autumn and winter seasons.

Which Months Are the Driest in Cardiff?

April is the driest month in the Bute Park 1991–2020 record, with approximately 72.07mm of average rainfall.

June follows with 73.54mm, while May records 78.45mm.

However, these figures do not mean that spring and summer remain consistently dry. Rainfall continues throughout the warmer months, and individual periods of heavy rain occur.

Does Cardiff Experience Heavy Rain?

Cardiff experiences both light rainfall and periods of heavier precipitation. Atlantic weather fronts, low-pressure systems and intense rain-producing weather systems contribute to these conditions.

Heavy rainfall becomes particularly important when drainage systems, rivers and surface water channels receive more water than they can manage.

Urban development also affects surface runoff. Roads, pavements, car parks and buildings contain impermeable surfaces that prevent rainwater from naturally soaking into the ground.

Consequently, intense rainfall can increase surface-water flooding risks in built-up neighbourhoods.

How Much Sunshine Does Cardiff Receive?

Cardiff receives approximately 1,573 hours of sunshine annually, according to the Met Office’s 1991–2020 Bute Park averages. Sunshine increases during spring, reaches its highest monthly average in July and decreases considerably during autumn and winter.

Sunshine duration measures the amount of time when direct sunlight reaches a location. It differs from daylight duration, which measures the period between sunrise and sunset.

Cardiff experiences changing sunshine conditions because of cloud cover, Atlantic weather systems and seasonal differences in daylight.

The city receives considerably more sunshine during late spring and summer than during winter.

When Does Cardiff Receive the Most Sunshine?

July has the highest average sunshine duration, recording approximately 199.56 hours.

May follows with 198.37 hours, while June records 195.21 hours.

April also provides relatively bright conditions, with approximately 176.98 hours of sunshine.

These months offer longer daylight periods for outdoor recreation, tourism and travel.

When Does Cardiff Receive the Least Sunshine?

December is the least sunny month, with approximately 50.44 hours of average sunshine.

January records around 53.53 hours, while November receives approximately 65.02 hours.

Shorter daylight hours and frequent cloud cover contribute to reduced winter sunshine.

These conditions also affect daily routines, outdoor working conditions and energy requirements.

Is Cardiff Cloudy Throughout the Year?

Cardiff experiences cloudy periods in every season, but cloud cover varies according to atmospheric conditions.

Atlantic weather fronts frequently transport moist air into South Wales. This encourages cloud formation and precipitation.

Summer also includes cloudy days, although longer daylight periods provide more opportunities for sunshine.

Cloudy weather does not necessarily indicate continuous rainfall. Many days include changing conditions, with periods of sunshine between showers.

What Is Cardiff Weather Like in Each Season?

Cardiff experiences four meteorological seasons: spring from March to May, summer from June to August, autumn from September to November and winter from December to February. Each season brings different temperatures, rainfall patterns and daylight conditions.

Seasonal weather influences tourism, transport, outdoor recreation and everyday life in Cardiff.

The Met Office’s long-term climate records provide a consistent way to compare seasonal conditions. However, individual years frequently differ from these averages.

What Is Spring Weather Like in Cardiff?

Spring in Cardiff runs from March to May. Temperatures gradually increase as daylight hours become longer.

March has an average maximum temperature of 11.31°C. April rises to 14.35°C, while May reaches 17.38°C.

Rainfall remains present throughout the season. April is particularly dry in the city’s long-term climate record, but showers still occur.

Spring is suitable for visiting outdoor destinations such as Bute Park, Roath Park and Cardiff Bay.

Residents and visitors generally benefit from layered clothing because morning temperatures are lower than afternoon temperatures.

What Is Summer Weather Like in Cardiff?

Summer extends from June to August. It is Cardiff’s warmest season, with average maximum temperatures ranging from approximately 20°C to 22°C.

July is generally the warmest month. August also maintains warm conditions, although rainfall increases compared with June and July.

Summer provides the longest daylight periods and the highest average sunshine totals.

Popular outdoor destinations include Cardiff Bay, Bute Park, Roath Park and the city’s public gardens.

Warm weather also increases demand for outdoor seating, recreational spaces and waterfront activities.

However, summer temperatures occasionally exceed long-term averages during heatwaves. Residents should monitor official weather warnings during periods of unusually high temperatures.

What Is Autumn Weather Like in Cardiff?

Autumn runs from September to November. Temperatures decrease gradually, while rainfall generally increases.

September remains relatively mild, with an average maximum temperature of 19.10°C.

October records an average maximum of 15.25°C, while November falls to 11.61°C.

Rainfall becomes more frequent during the later part of autumn. October and November receive approximately 129mm and 131mm respectively.

Changing leaf colours create seasonal landscapes in Bute Park and other green spaces.

Wet pavements, shorter daylight hours and cooler evenings become increasingly common during this period.

What Is Winter Weather Like in Cardiff?

Winter lasts from December to February. Cardiff experiences cool temperatures, limited sunshine and relatively high rainfall during this period.

January has an average maximum temperature of 8.58°C, while February averages 9.15°C.

Night-time temperatures frequently fall towards freezing, although prolonged severe frost is less common than in colder inland and mountainous locations.

Snowfall occurs occasionally, but substantial snow accumulation is not a normal feature of Cardiff winters.

Winter visitors benefit from waterproof jackets, warm clothing and suitable footwear.

Rainfall, wind and shorter daylight hours also influence public transport, road conditions and outdoor events.

How Does Cardiff’s Coastal Location Influence Its Weather?

Cardiff’s position near the Bristol Channel influences local temperatures, humidity, wind exposure and atmospheric conditions. Its coastal setting helps moderate seasonal temperatures, while Atlantic air masses bring moisture, cloud cover and changing weather throughout the year.

Geography plays an important role in determining the climate of Cardiff. The city sits in South Wales, close to the northern shore of the Bristol Channel.

The Bristol Channel is an important geographical feature separating South Wales from parts of south-west England. Its surrounding coastal environment influences local atmospheric conditions.

How Does the Bristol Channel Affect Cardiff Temperatures?

Water heats and cools more slowly than land. This physical characteristic reduces some temperature fluctuations in coastal locations.

During winter, relatively warmer sea temperatures influence nearby air. During summer, cooler marine air helps moderate temperatures, particularly during certain wind conditions.

This effect contributes to Cardiff’s comparatively mild seasonal climate.

How Do Atlantic Winds Influence Cardiff Weather?

Westerly and south-westerly winds frequently transport moist air from the Atlantic towards Wales.

These air masses interact with weather fronts and atmospheric pressure systems. The resulting conditions include cloud formation, rainfall and changes in temperature.

Wind exposure also affects how cold outdoor conditions feel. A temperature of 8°C can feel colder when accompanied by strong winds and rain.

Does Cardiff Experience Different Weather Across Its Neighbourhoods?

Local weather conditions vary according to elevation, buildings, vegetation and exposure.

Central Cardiff contains extensive built-up areas, while locations around the outskirts include more open landscapes and higher ground.

Bute Park, Cardiff Bay, Roath and the surrounding residential districts experience broadly similar regional weather. However, local wind exposure, shade and surface temperatures differ.

Urban buildings and roads also absorb and retain heat. This creates an urban heat island effect, where built-up areas experience higher temperatures than surrounding greener locations, particularly during suitable weather conditions.

Does Cardiff Experience Snow, Frost, Storms and Heatwaves?

Cardiff experiences occasional frost, snowfall, strong winds, heavy rainfall and summer heatwaves. These events are less frequent than ordinary mild and rainy weather, but they influence transport, public safety, infrastructure and outdoor activities.

Extreme weather describes conditions that differ substantially from the usual climate of a location.

Cardiff’s temperate maritime climate does not prevent extreme weather. Atlantic depressions, changing atmospheric circulation and wider climate conditions contribute to occasional disruptive events.

How Often Does Cardiff Experience Snow?

Snowfall occurs occasionally during winter, particularly when cold air reaches South Wales.

However, Cardiff generally experiences less persistent snow cover than higher-elevation areas of Wales.

Snow accumulation depends on temperature, moisture availability and the movement of weather systems.

When snow settles, road surfaces, pavements and railway connections can become difficult to use. Local authorities and transport operators monitor winter conditions to manage disruption.

Does Cardiff Experience Frost?

Frost occurs when temperatures near the ground fall sufficiently low for ice crystals to form.

The Met Office’s Bute Park records show approximately 32.94 days of air frost annually during the 1991–2020 period.

December records approximately 7.95 frost days, while January records 7.80.

Frost can affect gardens, outdoor surfaces, water pipes and road safety.

Does Cardiff Experience Heatwaves?

Cardiff experiences occasional periods of unusually hot weather during summer.

A heatwave is a prolonged period of unusually high temperatures relative to the local climate. The Met Office uses region-specific temperature thresholds to identify heatwaves in the UK.

During hot weather, urban areas experience additional heat exposure because roads, buildings and other artificial surfaces absorb solar energy.

Heatwaves increase the importance of hydration, shade, ventilation and checking on vulnerable residents.

Does Cardiff Experience Strong Winds and Storms?

Atlantic weather systems occasionally bring strong winds and storms to Cardiff.

Storm conditions include strong gusts, heavy rain and rapidly changing atmospheric pressure.

These events can affect trees, roofs, roads, electricity infrastructure and transport services.

Coastal locations also experience exposure to strong winds, particularly during severe weather systems moving across the Bristol Channel.

Residents should follow Met Office warnings when storms are forecast.

How Does Climate Change Affect Cardiff’s Weather?

Climate change is increasing temperatures and changing rainfall patterns across Wales. Cardiff faces growing risks from hotter summers, wetter winters, intense rainfall, coastal flooding and rising sea levels, creating long-term challenges for buildings, transport, public health and infrastructure.

Climate change refers to long-term changes in average temperatures, precipitation, wind patterns and other characteristics of the Earth’s climate system.

Human activities, particularly greenhouse gas emissions from burning fossil fuels, contribute significantly to modern global warming.

The Welsh Government recognises climate change as a major environmental and infrastructure challenge.

Are Temperatures Increasing in Cardiff?

Long-term observations show that the UK climate has become warmer.

The Met Office’s comparison of the 1961–1990 and 1991–2020 climate periods found that the UK’s average temperature increased by approximately 0.8°C. The analysis also identified increases in average rainfall and sunshine.

This wider warming trend affects Wales and Cardiff.

Higher temperatures increase the likelihood of hot days and warm nights. Urban areas face additional overheating risks because buildings and roads retain heat.

The consequences include greater cooling requirements, increased heat exposure and pressure on urban green spaces.

Will Cardiff Experience Hotter and Drier Summers?

Climate projections indicate that Wales will experience warmer summers and changes in seasonal rainfall.

Climate Action Wales, drawing on climate projections, reports that Cardiff’s summers are projected to become approximately 1.8°C hotter and 23% drier by the 2050s under the scenario presented in its guidance.

Drier summer conditions increase pressure on water resources, gardens, vegetation and urban green spaces.

Higher temperatures also increase the risk of heat stress, particularly for older people, young children and individuals with existing health vulnerabilities.

Will Cardiff Experience Wetter Winters?

Welsh Government climate adaptation guidance identifies wetter winters and hotter, drier summers as important future climate risks.

Increased winter precipitation creates challenges for drainage infrastructure, roads, rivers and properties.

Heavy rainfall can overwhelm drainage networks and increase surface-water flooding.

These conditions make effective flood management and sustainable drainage systems increasingly important for Cardiff’s future development.

How Will Rising Sea Levels Affect Cardiff?

Sea-level rise is an important long-term climate risk for coastal communities.

Cardiff’s location beside the Bristol Channel means that coastal flood management remains important.

Welsh Government material based on UK Climate Projections 2018 identifies projected sea-level rises for Cardiff of approximately 24cm by 2050 and 42cm by 2080, relative to the 1981–2000 baseline, under the stated projection scenario. These figures are projections, not guaranteed future measurements. GOV.WALES

Higher sea levels can increase the impact of storm surges and high tides.

Coastal infrastructure, flood defences, drainage systems and low-lying land require long-term planning to manage these risks.

How Is Cardiff Preparing for Climate Change?

Climate adaptation involves adjusting buildings, infrastructure, services and communities to reduce the effects of changing environmental conditions.

Important adaptation measures include:

• Improving flood defences and drainage infrastructure.
• Increasing urban tree coverage and green spaces.
• Designing buildings to reduce overheating.
• Protecting coastal communities from rising sea levels.
• Improving emergency planning for extreme weather.
• Supporting water conservation during dry periods.

The Welsh Government’s Climate Adaptation Strategy for Wales 2024 provides a national framework for addressing climate-related risks across water, infrastructure, ecosystems and communities. GOV.WALES

How Does Cardiff Weather Affect Daily Life and Local Activities?

Cardiff’s weather influences transport, housing, tourism, education, outdoor recreation and household energy consumption. Mild winters support year-round city activity, while rainfall, seasonal temperatures and changing daylight conditions affect how residents and visitors plan their routines.

Weather is an important part of everyday life in Cardiff. Residents regularly adjust their clothing, transport choices and outdoor activities according to changing conditions.

The city’s climate also influences businesses, public services and tourism.

How Does Rainfall Affect Cardiff Transport?

Regular rainfall creates wet road surfaces and reduces visibility during heavy showers.

Drivers need to account for longer stopping distances and changing road conditions.

Cyclists and pedestrians also face additional challenges during periods of persistent rain.

Heavy rainfall can affect drainage systems, low-lying roads and transport infrastructure. Strong winds occasionally disrupt rail services and road travel.

Checking travel information and weather warnings helps commuters prepare for adverse conditions.

How Does Weather Affect Tourism in Cardiff?

Cardiff attracts visitors throughout the year because of its cultural attractions, sporting facilities, historic buildings and waterfront destinations.

Weather influences the type of activities visitors choose.

During warmer months, visitors frequently explore Cardiff Bay, Bute Park and outdoor attractions.

During colder and wetter periods, indoor destinations provide alternatives.

Important visitor attractions include:

• Cardiff Castle – A historic castle and heritage attraction in the city centre.
• Bute Park – A large green space suitable for walking and outdoor recreation.
• National Museum Cardiff – An indoor cultural attraction featuring art, natural history and exhibitions.
• Cardiff Bay – A waterfront destination with restaurants, cultural venues and public spaces.

How Does Climate Affect Housing in Cardiff?

Cardiff’s weather influences building maintenance, insulation, heating and ventilation requirements.

Winter rainfall increases the importance of effective roof drainage, gutter maintenance and damp prevention.

Cooler temperatures increase household heating requirements, particularly in older properties with limited insulation.

Warmer summers also create a need for effective ventilation and indoor temperature management.

Property owners benefit from checking insulation, ventilation, roof conditions and external drainage systems.

How Does Weather Affect Cardiff’s Parks and Green Spaces?

Cardiff contains several public parks and green spaces that support recreation, biodiversity and environmental health.

These spaces include Bute Park, Roath Park and Victoria Park.

Rainfall supports vegetation and tree growth, while prolonged dry periods increase pressure on soil moisture and plant health.

Hotter summers also increase the importance of shade, accessible drinking water and suitable outdoor recreation facilities.

How Can Residents and Visitors Prepare for Cardiff Weather?

Residents and visitors can prepare for Cardiff weather by checking daily forecasts, carrying waterproof clothing, dressing in layers and monitoring severe weather warnings. Seasonal preparation also includes suitable footwear, sun protection, winter heating and awareness of local flooding risks.

Cardiff’s weather changes throughout the year. Preparing for different conditions helps people avoid unnecessary disruption.

The Met Office provides daily forecasts, temperature information, rainfall predictions and official weather warnings.

What Clothes Should You Wear in Cardiff?

Clothing requirements depend on the season and expected weather conditions.

During winter, warm coats, waterproof jackets, scarves and insulated footwear provide protection against cold and wet conditions.

Spring and autumn require layered clothing because temperatures change between mornings and afternoons.

Summer generally requires lighter clothing, comfortable footwear, sunglasses and sun protection. A lightweight waterproof jacket remains useful because summer showers occur regularly.

How Should Visitors Prepare for Rain?

Visitors should carry a compact umbrella or waterproof jacket when exploring Cardiff.

Waterproof footwear is useful for walking through parks, visiting outdoor attractions and travelling between city-centre destinations.

Checking hourly forecasts helps visitors select suitable times for outdoor activities.

What Do Cardiff’s Monthly Climate Averages Reveal?

Cardiff’s monthly climate averages show a clear seasonal pattern, with the warmest temperatures and greatest sunshine generally occurring between May and August. Rainfall increases during autumn and winter, while January and February record the lowest average temperatures.

The following figures come from the Met Office’s Cardiff, Bute Park station and its 1991–2020 climate reference period.

These measurements demonstrate the relationship between Cardiff’s temperature and rainfall patterns.

July offers the highest average maximum temperature, while December receives the most rainfall. April records the lowest average monthly rainfall.

The figures also show that Cardiff does not have a completely dry season. Rainfall remains an important climatic feature throughout the year.

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What Is the Difference Between Cardiff Weather and Climate?

Weather describes short-term atmospheric conditions, including daily temperature, rainfall, wind and cloud cover. Climate describes long-term weather patterns measured over several decades. Both measurements help explain Cardiff’s environmental conditions and seasonal changes.

Understanding this distinction is important when researching Cardiff’s climate.

Weather forecasts describe conditions expected over the coming hours and days. Climate records establish the typical conditions experienced over longer periods.

For example, a particularly cold January does not mean Cardiff has a generally cold climate. Similarly, one unusually hot summer does not independently establish a permanent temperature trend.

The Met Office normally uses 30-year periods to calculate climate averages. Its 1991–2020 dataset provides a standard reference for comparing locations and identifying long-term patterns. Met Office+1

Why Are Climate Averages Important?

Climate averages help residents, businesses, researchers and local authorities understand environmental conditions.

They support decisions involving:

• Housing insulation and building design, including ventilation and heating.
• Transport infrastructure, including roads and drainage.
• Agriculture and gardening, including planting and water requirements.
• Tourism planning, including seasonal visitor activities.
• Climate adaptation, including flood protection and heat management.

Climate averages also provide a baseline for identifying long-term environmental changes.

Why Do Annual Weather Conditions Differ From Climate Averages?

Annual weather conditions vary because atmospheric systems change from year to year.

One summer can be considerably warmer than the long-term average. Another summer can experience more rainfall and lower temperatures.

Similarly, individual winters differ in their rainfall, frost frequency and snowfall.

Climate averages should therefore be treated as reference measurements rather than precise descriptions of future weather.

What Is the Future of Cardiff’s Climate?

Cardiff’s future climate is expected to feature warmer temperatures, hotter and drier summers, wetter winters and increasing coastal flood risks. Climate adaptation, sustainable urban development and resilient infrastructure will become increasingly important for the city’s long-term environmental planning.

Climate change is an important consideration for Cardiff’s future development.

The city’s coastal location, urban population, transport networks and infrastructure create specific challenges when responding to changing environmental conditions.

The Welsh Government and environmental organisations continue to address these challenges through climate policies, adaptation strategies and infrastructure planning.

How Will Climate Change Affect Cardiff Residents?

Rising temperatures will influence household comfort, public health and energy consumption.

Older homes without sufficient insulation and ventilation can experience overheating during hot weather.

Higher temperatures also increase the importance of accessible green spaces, shade and public cooling facilities.

Wetter winter conditions create additional challenges for property maintenance and drainage infrastructure.

How Will Climate Change Affect Cardiff’s Natural Environment?

Changes in temperature and rainfall influence vegetation, wildlife habitats and water availability.

Prolonged dry periods place pressure on trees, plants and urban green spaces.

Intense rainfall can increase soil erosion and affect water quality.

Rising temperatures also influence seasonal plant growth and the distribution of certain wildlife species.

Protecting parks, rivers, wetlands and coastal habitats forms an important part of environmental adaptation.

Why Is Climate Resilience Important for Cardiff?

Climate resilience describes the ability of communities, infrastructure and natural environments to withstand and recover from climate-related impacts.

For Cardiff, resilience involves effective drainage, flood protection, sustainable building design and protection of natural environments.

These measures support the city’s ability to manage future weather-related challenges while maintaining essential public services.

Cardiff has a temperate maritime climate characterised by mild winters, moderately warm summers, regular rainfall and changing sunshine conditions. Its location beside the Bristol Channel and its exposure to Atlantic weather systems contribute to these characteristics.

The Met Office’s 1991–2020 climate averages show an annual average maximum temperature of approximately 15°C, annual rainfall of 1,203mm and around 1,573 hours of sunshine.

July is generally the warmest and sunniest month, while December receives the highest average rainfall. January and February are typically the coldest months.

Understanding Cardiff’s climate helps residents, tourists, students and businesses prepare for seasonal weather conditions. As climate change influences temperatures, rainfall and coastal conditions, environmental adaptation will remain important for Cardiff’s future.