Belgium, a country nestled in Western Europe, experiences a climate largely shaped by its geographical position. Its location near the North Sea and the Atlantic Ocean significantly influences the atmospheric conditions the country experiences throughout the year.
Overall Climate Profile
Belgium is characterized by a temperate maritime climate. This climate type results in moderate temperatures throughout the year, featuring mild winters and relatively cool summers. The country generally experiences abundant cloud cover and frequent precipitation, which is distributed fairly evenly across all seasons.
Average annual temperatures in Belgium hover around 10°C. During the coldest month, January, average temperatures in Brussels are approximately 3.5°C, though coastal areas like Ostend can be slightly milder at around 4°C. In contrast, the warmest month, July, sees average temperatures in Brussels reaching about 18.5°C. Annual precipitation typically totals just over 800 millimeters nationwide, with Brussels receiving about 785 millimeters per year.
Seasonal Weather Patterns
Winters, spanning from December to February, are generally mild, with temperatures rarely falling below 0°C in the plains. However, cold air masses from Eastern Europe can occasionally cause temperatures to drop significantly, sometimes to -15°C. Snowfall is infrequent outside of the elevated Ardennes region.
Spring, from March to May, tends to be cool and often cloudy, with temperatures gradually rising. March and early April can still experience highs around 10°C. This season is generally less rainy compared to autumn, making it the driest period of the year.
Summers, from June to August, are typically cool and humid. Inland areas may experience slightly warmer conditions than the coast. While hot days are uncommon, afternoon thunderstorms contribute to increased rainfall during this time, particularly in central and eastern regions. Autumn, from September to November, is characterized by cool and cloudy weather, often accompanied by strong winds, especially near the coast. This period, leading into winter, is generally the rainiest, with November often being one of the wettest months.
Factors Shaping the Climate
Belgium’s climate is predominantly influenced by air masses originating from the Atlantic Ocean. The North Sea plays a significant role in moderating temperatures, providing a cooling effect during the summer months and preventing severe temperature drops in winter. This oceanic influence also contributes to the country’s consistent humidity and frequent rainfall throughout the year.
Prevailing westerly winds from the Atlantic bring moist air and contribute to the abundant cloud cover and frequent precipitation. Altitude also introduces regional variations, particularly in the Ardennes region. Being higher and further inland, the Ardennes experiences colder temperatures and receives more precipitation, including more frequent snowfall, compared to the lower-lying plains.