Weather & Climate In Dorfgastein
The weather of Dorfgastein is influenced by the Alps, which produce a continental climate with cold winters and nice summers. Nestled 830 meters above sea level, the settlement is surrounded by 2,700-meter-tall mountains. These mountains feed Dorfgastein with a lot of snowfall all winter long in addition to acting as a natural barrier from the frigid northern winds. The season, time of day, and topography of Dorfgastein may all affect how quickly and erratic the weather is. As such, it is essential to consult the weather forecast and dress appropriately before planning any outdoor activities.
Dorfgastein’s Location and Its Impact on Weather
Dorfgastein is situated in the Gastein Valley, a section of the biggest natural reserve in the Alps, Hohe Tauern National Park. Divided into three parts, the top, middle, and lower valleys, the Gastein Valley runs from south to north. Situated in the bottom, sunniest and broadest section of the valley, is Dorfgastein. Being lower in elevation than the other sections, the lower valley has less snowfall and warmer temperatures than the upper valley. The lower valley is, nonetheless, also more exposed to the wind, particularly the föhn, a warm, dry breeze that comes from the south and may quickly modify the humidity and temperature.
Seasonal Weather Patterns in Dorfgastein
Spring Weather in Dorfgastein
At Dorfgastein, spring is a transitional season when the snow melts and the flowers blossom. In March, the average temperature is 4°C; in May, it is 14°C; yet, the altitude and the weather may make a big difference in the temperature. With 110 mm on average of precipitation each month, spring is also the wettest time of year in Dorfgastein. Rain and snow are the most often occurring precipitation types, however thunderstorms and hail are sometimes possible. Spring skiing and hiking, together with the crisp air and verdant surroundings, are all best enjoyed in this season. But since the snowpack becomes unstable from the cycles of melting and freezing, spring also brings a higher risk of avalanches. It is thus prudent to heed the avalanche warnings and steer clear of narrow valleys and steep slopes.
Summer Weather in Dorfgastein
At 18°C on average and 7 hours of sunshine a day, summer in Dorfgastein is the hottest and sunniest time of year. July 2015 had Dorfgastein’s hottest temperature ever recorded—34°C. At 90 mm of precipitation on average per month, summer is also the driest time of year in Dorfgastein. Rain and thunderstorms are the most often occurring precipitation kinds; they usually happen in the afternoon and evenings. Enjoying Dorfgastein’s outdoor pursuits—hiking, riding, climbing, golfing, and swimming—is best done in the summer. But because the air is thin and the sun is powerful, summer is also a period of intense UV exposure. Drinking plenty of water and using sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are therefore crucial.
Autumn Weather in Dorfgastein
As the first snowflakes fall and the leaves turn yellow and crimson, Dorfgastein experiences a season of transition. Autumnal average temperatures vary from 13°C in September to 3°C in November, however at night they can go below zero. At 10 km/h average wind speed, autumn is also the windiest time of year in Dorfgastein. Rain and snow are the most often occurring precipitation types, although frost and fog are also prevalent. Autumn is a wonderful season for hiking and bicycling as well as for taking in the vivid colors and unobstructed mountain vistas. But fall may also be a season of erratic weather since the föhn wind can bring on unexpected warm periods or frigid spells. Dressing in layers and checking the weather forecast often are thus advised.
Winter Weather in Dorfgastein
Winter in Dorfgastein is the coldest and snowiest season, with an average temperature of -2°C and an average snowfall of 150 cm. The lowest temperature ever recorded in Dorfgastein was -23°C in January 1985. Winter is also the cloudiest season in Dorfgastein, with an average sunshine of 3 hours per day. The most common type of precipitation is snow, but rain and sleet are also possible. Winter is the best time to enjoy the winter sports that Dorfgastein is famous for, such as skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. However, winter is also a time of low visibility, low temperatures, and high avalanche risk. Therefore, it is important to wear warm and waterproof clothing, to carry a flashlight and a whistle, and to follow the ski patrol’s instructions.
Average Temperatures Throughout the Year
| Month | Average High | Average Low |
|---|---|---|
| January | -1°C | -7°C |
| February | 1°C | -6°C |
| March | 6°C | -3°C |
| April | 11°C | 1°C |
| May | 16°C | 5°C |
| June | 20°C | 9°C |
| July | 22°C | 11°C |
| August | 21°C | 11°C |
| September | 18°C | 8°C |
| October | 13°C | 4°C |
| November | 6°C | -1°C |
| December | 1°C | -5°C |
Precipitation Levels in Dorfgastein
| Month | Average Precipitation |
|---|---|
| January | 80 mm |
| February | 70 mm |
| March | 100 mm |
| April | 110 mm |
| May | 110 mm |
| June | 100 mm |
| July | 100 mm |
| August | 90 mm |
| September | 90 mm |
| October | 90 mm |
| November | 100 mm |
| December | 90 mm |
Average Humidity in Dorfgastein
| Month | Average Humidity |
|---|---|
| January | 83% |
| February | 79% |
| March | 75% |
| April | 72% |
| May | 71% |
| June | 71% |
| July | 72% |
| August | 74% |
| September | 77% |
| October | 80% |
| November | 83% |
| December | 84% |
Average Wind in Dorfgastein
| Month | Average Wind Speed | Average Wind Direction |
|---|---|---|
| January | 9 km/h | N |
| February | 9 km/h | N |
| March | 9 km/h | N |
| April | 10 km/h | N |
| May | 10 km/h | N |
| June | 10 km/h | N |
| July | 9 km/h | N |
| August | 9 km/h | N |
| September | 10 km/h | N |
| October | 10 km/h | N |
| November | 10 km/h | N |
| December | 10 km/h | N |
