If you are planning a trip to Paris, one of the questions that might be on your mind is whether there is a rainy season in the city. Paris, the capital of France, is known for its picturesque streets and iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum and Notre-Dame Cathedral. While it is true that Paris has a reputation for being rainy, it may not be as bad as you think.
Paris Weather Overview
Paris has a temperate climate with mild winters and warm summers. The city experiences rainfall throughout the year, but the heaviest rains occur from May to July and from September to November. The average annual precipitation in Paris is around 24 inches (610 mm).
The Rainy Months
The months of May, June and July are considered to be rainy months in Paris. During these months, you can expect an average of 10-12 rainy days per month. However, the rainfall during these months is usually light to moderate and does not last for long periods.
May
May is one of the most popular months to visit Paris because of its mild temperatures and beautiful spring blooms. However, it is also one of the rainiest months with an average precipitation of 2.5 inches (63 mm). Despite this, May still sees plenty of sunshine with an average of 7 hours per day.
June
June is another popular month to visit Paris because of its long days and warm weather. It has an average precipitation of 2.6 inches (67 mm) spread over 11-12 rainy days. The temperature ranges between 16°C to 23°C (61°F to 73°F) making it perfect for outdoor activities.
July
July is peak tourist season in Paris with long sunny days and average temperatures of 24°C (75°F). However, it is also one of the wettest months with an average precipitation of 2.6 inches (66 mm) and around 11-12 rainy days.
The Rest of the Year
The rest of the year in Paris is relatively dry with occasional rain showers. The months from September to November also see a higher amount of rainfall, but it is usually not as heavy as in May to July.
September
September marks the beginning of autumn in Paris with cooler temperatures and changing leaves. It sees an average precipitation of 2.4 inches (60 mm) spread over 9-10 rainy days.
October
October is a transitional month between autumn and winter in Paris.6 inches (67 mm) spread over 10-11 rainy days.
November
November marks the end of autumn and the beginning of winter in Paris.8 inches (70 mm) spread over 12-13 rainy days.
What to Pack for Rainy Season
If you are visiting Paris during the rainy season, it is important to pack accordingly. A lightweight rain jacket or umbrella can come in handy during sudden downpours. Waterproof shoes or boots are also recommended as the streets can get slippery when wet.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while there is no specific “rainy season” in Paris, the city does experience rainfall throughout the year with heavier rains from May to July and September to November. However, don’t let this deter you from visiting during these months as they still offer plenty of sunshine and enjoyable weather conditions overall. Just remember to pack appropriately for rain showers and enjoy all that this beautiful city has to offer.