Weather & Climate In Austria
With its location on the northern boundary of the subtropics, Austria enjoys four different seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Nevertheless, because the climate varies according to the altitude, latitude, and orientation of the landforms, it is not constant across Austria. As to Köppen & Geiger’s effective climatic categorization, the low areas are in the summer-warm, humid continental climate, the Alps’ montane heights are in the subarctic mountain climate, and the areas above the tree line are in the alpine tundra climate up to the ice climate. Furthermore, the air masses and pressure systems that come from various directions also have an impact on the climate of Austria. There is an oceanic climate in the west and north of Austria, which is frequently typified by hot westerly winds. But in the east, a more continental, low-precipitation climate with hot summers and chilly winters rules. The Southern Alps show the most effect of Mediterranean high-precipitation low-pressure zones.
Actually, the Alpine geography has a significant impact on the regional climate of Austria. Not only the principal Alpine ridge divides the Atlantic and Mediterranean climates. The structure and orientation of the valleys, basins, and mountains determine a great deal of local changes in the climate as well. Sunny Foehn valleys (such as Inntal) are contrasted, for instance, with foggy basin landscapes (such as Klagenfurt Basin), and mountain borders with heavy rainfall (such as Bregenzerwald) with inner-Alpine dry valleys (such as the Ötztal Alps). The vegetation and wildlife, agriculture and forestry, tourism and leisure, as well as the culture and way of life of the Austrian people, are all greatly impacted by these variations in the climate.
Austrian temperature varies with the season, height, and place. The yearly mean air temperature in Austria varies generally from more than 12 °C in the inner parts of Vienna to about −7 °C on the highest peaks. Mainly, the lowlands are 9 to 11 °C. The regional average, at 7.4 °C, is roughly 8 degrees lower than the world average. Around 2400 meters is where the zero degree Celsius isotherm averages annually. Lower than 800 to 1200 m, in closed basins, valleys, and hollows, temperature increases with altitude frequently occur in the winter (temperature inversion).
Additionally affecting precipitation in Austria include the time of year, the elevation, and location. Less than 500 mm of rain fall in the eastern areas and more than 3000 mm in the western Alps each year. About 1100 mm makes up the region average, which is little higher than the world average. The year’s precipitation is dispersed unevenly; summer and winter see more of it than spring and fall do. Furthermore influencing the precipitation are the mountains’ orographic influence and the direction of the wind. Austria is drier in the northeast and east because of the continental impact, but it receives more precipitation from the Atlantic and Mediterranean air masses in its northwest and southern regions.
Particular variations in temperature and precipitation define the seasons in Austria. December to February are the months of the winter, when much of the nation experiences bitterly cold and snowy weather. In the high elevations, January averages −7 °C and in the lowlands, approximately 0 °C. The Alps have great snow cover, often reaching several meters, making skiing and other winter activities possible. March to May is the spring season, when the winter weather is progressively replaced by pleasant, rainy days. In April, the lowlands see an average temperature of about 10 °C and the high mountains of 3 °C. The plants emerge and blossom as the snow melts. Summer is defined by warm, muggy weather that prevails throughout most of the nation from June to August. In July, the average temperature in the lowlands is about 20 °C and in the high mountains it is 10 °C. With its regular thunderstorms and deluges, summer is also the wettest season. September through November is known as the autumn season, during which time dry and chilly weather progressively sets in. In October, the lowlands often see temperatures of roughly 10 °C and the high mountains 4 °C. Falling and changing color leaves signal the start of harvest season.
In Austria, the extremes are connected to changes in precipitation and temperature. Usually, winter and summer are when the hottest and coldest days of the year are recorded. In basins and valleys vulnerable to temperature inversion, where a layer of warmer air traps the cold air, the coldest days happen. The hottest days fall in the eastern and southern parts of the country that are exposed to the foehn, a warm, dry wind that originates in the alps. Record low and high temperatures in Austria are −36.6 °C and 40.5 °C, respectively. Summer and winter are also when the wettest and driest days of the year are noted. The wettest days fall in the western and southern parts of the country, which get a lot of rain from the Atlantic and Mediterranean air mass. The mountains that protect the eastern and northeastern regions from the damp air bring the driest days. In Austria, the record daily precipitation and snowfall amounts are 312 mm and 177 cm.
Month | Average Temperature (°C) | Precipitation (mm) | Average Humidity (%) | Average Wind (km/h) | Average Sunshine Hours (h) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Jan | 0 | 39 | 79 | 14 | 2 |
Feb | 1.6 | 37 | 75 | 14 | 3 |
Mar | 5.6 | 52 | 71 | 15 | 4 |
Apr | 11.1 | 51 | 65 | 15 | 6 |
May | 15.5 | 75 | 67 | 14 | 7 |
Jun | 19.5 | 79 | 65 | 13 | 8 |
Jul | 21.4 | 82 | 64 | 12 | 8 |
Aug | 21 | 72 | 65 | 12 | 7 |
Sep | 16.1 | 74 | 71 | 13 | 6 |
Oct | 11 | 50 | 78 | 14 | 4 |
Nov | 6.1 | 49 | 81 | 14 | 2 |
Dec | 1.2 | 43 | 81 | 14 | 2 |
Table Of Contents
- 1 Climate Zones in Austria
- 2 Seasonal Weather Patterns in Austria
- 3 Precipitation in Austria
- 4 Sunshine Hours in Austria
- 5 Wind in Austria
- 6 Related Articles
- 6.1 Museums In Austria
- 6.2 Things To Do In Austria
- 6.3 Food And Drinks In Austria
- 6.4 Festivals And Holidays In Austria
- 6.5 Shopping In Austria
- 6.6 Culture Of Austria
- 6.7 Nightlife in Austria
- 6.8 Stay Safe And Healthy In Austria
- 6.9 Lakes In Austria
- 6.10 National Parks In Austria
- 6.11 Attractions And Landmarks In Austria
- 6.12 Entry Requirements For Austria
- 6.13 Cultural Etiquette and Customs in Austria
- 6.14 Geography Of Austria
- 6.15 Demographics Of Austria
- 6.16 Economy Of Austria
- 6.17 Tourism In Austria
- 6.18 History Of Austria
- 6.19 Best Time To Visit Austria
- 6.20 How To Get To Austria
- 6.21 How To Get Around In Austria
- 6.22 Austria
- 7 Go Next...
Climate Zones in Austria
Alpine Climate
Stretching majestically over more than 62% of the landmass of the nation, the Alpine climatic province includes all of the Austrian Alps and all of their related slopes and valleys. This predominance of significant altitudinal variations helps to create a mosaic of climatic conditions. While summers are brief and often quite cold, winter rules supreme and is covered in a thick layer of snow for long stretches of time.
The Alpine temperature tapestry weaves a remarkable range of annual values. The annual average temperature lowers to freezing -2°C at 3,000 meters. On lower altitudes, around 500 meters, a milder 9°C is experienced. Precise patterns of precipitation reflect this altitudinal difference. The highlands, being natural catchment areas, get, on average, 1,000–2,000 millimeters of rain annually—much more than the plains get. Higher elevations can thus show snow cover for up to nine months, transforming the ground into the ideal for winter sports and supporting a thriving tourism industry.
The effect of the Alpine temperature and precipitation goes beyond mere fluctuations. It determines how different altitudinal zones get different distributions of plant and animal life, so influencing the very character of the fauna and flora of the region. From the cold nival zone to the subalpine meadows, a variety of species calls home. With their vivid blossoms and edelweiss, a symbol of alpine resilience, the majestic golden eagle and the surefooted Alpine ibex coexist peacefully with the gentian, all of which are evidence of the particular adaptations encouraged by this unique climatic regime.
Central European Transitional Climate
About 11% of Austria’s landmass, the Central European Transitional Climatic Province consists of the northern portion of Upper Austria and the northwest of Lower Austria and is a fascinating illustration of a meteorological balance. This is where the predominance of continental and Atlantic air masses ushers in a climate marked by quite mild annual temperature variations. The year-round average temperature is a nice 8°C; precipitation is distributed over the year with a summertime peak.
The gentle embrace of summer gives way to mild, sometimes dark winters. Though there are sporadic frosts and snowfalls all through the season, its inclination is rather mild. Mostly composed of deciduous forests, this temperate area boasts a rich scenery featuring oak, beech, maple, and ash trees in sway. With a brilliant tapestry of birds and insects coexisting with deer, foxes, badgers, and hares, the fauna reminds one of the well-known symphony of Central European wildlife.
Pannonian Climate
Comprising all of Burgenland and stretching eastward into Lower Austria, the Pannonian climate province occupies a distinctive geographical area within Austria and accounts for roughly 12% of the nation’s total land area. Here the dominant continental air masses from the east define the climate, which is distinguished by strong contrasts. Summers are hot and dry; temperatures usually rise to forty-degree Celsius. On the other hand, the area gets quite cold winters with lows as low as -20°C. Precipitation, which averages only 500–700 mm, is still a rarefied resource mostly found around the spring and fall equinoxes. This strong temperature swing and the lack of rain produce a broad diurnal and seasonal range.
The Pannonian countryside reflects this climatic austerity. Mostly composed of steppes and grasslands, the province has occasional refuges only in isolated areas of hardy oak and pine woodlands. The wildlife has likewise adapted to these challenging conditions. Here coexist robust species including lizards, snakes, ground squirrels, hamsters, rabbits, and raptors, all vital to the complex ecological fabric of the area.
Illyrian Climate
The effect of southerly Mediterranean air masses distinguishes the Illyrian climate province, which comprises roughly 15% of Austria’s total land area and includes sections of Carinthia and southern Styria. Strong seasonal variations follow from this in the temperature. Temperatures in summers range from 35°C to 35°C; winters are frigid with lows as low as -15°C. Particularly in the summer, this area is well-known for its great humidity. Additionally quite different are the precipitation patterns; annual totals range from 1,000 to 1,500 mm. Particularly heavy in the late summer and early fall, rainfall often causes floods and landslides.
The copious amounts of precipitation reflected in the Illyrian province’s rich landscape. Mixed woodlands predominate in the terrain; the arboreal canopy consists of spruce, beech, fir, and chestnut trees. This rich habitat supports a quite varied fauna. Along with bigger animals including wolves, bears, lynxes, wild boars, and roe deer, many types of birds and insects call this home. This means that the Illyrian climate province provides a unique ecological tapestry within the greater Austrian terrain.
Seasonal Weather Patterns in Austria
Season | Months | Average Temperature (°C) | Average Rainfall (mm) |
---|---|---|---|
Spring | March-May | 10.8 | 163 |
Summer | June-August | 19.2 | 208 |
Autumn | September-November | 10.5 | 157 |
Winter | December-February | 1.7 | 121 |
Austria in Spring: A Season of Blossoming Beauty
Austria becomes a vibrant tapestry of mild springtime weather and blooming scenery that paints a striking picture of the nation. This lovely time of year appeals to those seeking a respite from the cold of winter since it also offers a chance to see the natural world come alive.
From a chilly 5°C in March to a comfortable 16°C by May, the temperature shows a lovely rise on average. Though occasionally the season may be broken by clouds and rain, particularly in April, the overall trend is longer, sunnier days. Spring precipitation averages 163 mm, somewhat higher than the annual average. This infusion of moisture feeds the ground and produces the amazing show of wildflowers and rich landscape.
Low elevations see the slow thawing of winter’s icy hold as snowmelt transforms once-barren hills into vivid meadows. Higher elevations, on the other hand, could retain their snow-capped peaks long into the winter, offering a startling juxtaposition with spring.
Two main advantages springtime in Austria presents for adventurous tourists: less traffic and less travel costs. Without having to deal with the throngs of visitors that arrive during the busiest travel season, this time of year provides the best opportunity to go on hiking adventures, discover small towns, and take in the national cultural treasures.
Austria in Summer: A Season of Sun-Drenched Splendor
Austria’s travel season ends in the summer when ideal weather draws visitors from all around the globe. Perfect for outdoor activities and exploration, the rich settings are bathed in lovely sunshine. Though some days, especially in the eastern and southern areas, may soar to scorching temperatures, summer averages usually range from a comfortable 18°C in June to a balmy 21°C in August. Although they are rare, the country’s highest recorded temperature—40.5°C—was set in July 2013 at Bad Deutsch-Altenburg, so illustrating the possibility of very high temperatures. Still, evenings are usually quite cool, a welcome respite from the daytime heat. Sometimes July and August bring heat waves mixed with thunderstorms that give the summertime experience a dramatic touch.
With an average of 208mm, summer sees the seasonal high point of precipitation. Usually arriving in brief but intense showers, this moisture can occasionally cause isolated flooding or landslides. A visually striking contrast exists in higher alpine areas where there may be some snow cover while lower elevations lose all of their winter attire.
The friendly embrace of summer creates a universe of leisure opportunities. From swimming in glistening lakes and exciting boating trips to amazing camping experiences and difficult climbs, the Austrian landscape appeals to a great range of outdoor enthusiasts. World-class operas, enthralling concerts, and energetic celebrations—all of which also thrive during this active season—add a layer of artistic enrichment to the summer agenda.
Austria's Enchanting Fall: A Symphony of Colors and Comfort
Austria calls in the fall for those seeking a seductive mix of fresh air, vibrant surroundings, and great local cuisine. This lovely season paints a magnificent tapestry of color over the nation, transforming once-verdant settings into a kaleidoscope of warm yellows, burnished golds, and fiery reds.
September provides guests a respite from the heat of summer with an average temperature of 15°C. As November approaches, the air cools still more and reaches a pleasant 6°C. However, especially up in the mountains, be ready for those few evenings when the temperature falls below zero.
The days progressively get shorter and the light gets softer even if there might be occasional flashes of brilliant sunshine, particularly in September and October. Usually in the form of light, consistent drizzles that occasionally cover some areas in a layer of mist, autumn brings 157 mm of rain on average.
Skiing and snowboarding aficionados should not visit higher altitudes even if there is a light dusting of snow since winter has not fully arrived. But the frigid preamble lends magic to the fall foliage.
Maybe now, in this lovely season, is the best time to really appreciate Austria’s stunning surroundings. The clear air wakes the senses, and vibrantly colored hiking paths present fantastic scenery for discovery.
Fall is a wonderful gastronomic adventure as well as aesthetically pleasing. Savour the local specialties, which celebrate the abundance of the moment and include warm roasted chestnuts, cosy pumpkin soup and flaky apple strudel. In Austria, autumn is a sensory extravaganza when one can enjoy the unique cuisine and the striking natural beauty.
Austria's Winter Wonderland: A Season of Chill and Thrill
Winter transforms Austria into a glittering fantasy land with low temperature, fresh snow, and a hypnotic, wintry atmosphere. This season is the driest and coldest in the nation with normal temperatures ranging from a brisk 0°C in December to a rather milder 3°C in February. But get ready for those infrequent days—especially in the mountains—when the temperature might drop to a bone-chilling -10°C. Set in Zwettl in January 1932, the record low of -37.4°C shows the possible savagery of winter.
Winter does occasionally produce periods of brilliant sunshine, especially in January and February, which gives the snow-covered landscapes a magical glow even if the days are definitely short and usually covered in clouds. Precipitation reaches its seasonal lowest in winter, averaging only 121 mm. Mostly replacing rain is snow, ranging from light flurishes to strong, gusty blizzards. Although lower elevations get a fair covering, higher altitudes enjoy a deeper, heavier layer of snow.
The frigid embrace of winter reveals a universe of exciting sports. Go on an exciting sledding trip, execute graceful pirouzes on ice skates, or slide down pristine slopes on skis or snowboards. Apart from outdoor sports, winter calls with a unique appeal. Explore the delightful Christmas markets, bursting with great food and happiness. See castles and museums to really engage in the rich cultural tapestry; the striking beauty of the winter scene emphasizes the historical importance of these constructions. Wintertime in Austria presents an amazing mix of icy adventure, cultural immersion, and seasonal wonder for those seeking a revitalizing and unique escape.
Precipitation in Austria
Rainfall patterns
Particularly in the summer, rainfall is the most often occurring kind of precipitation all over Austria. Assuming no evaporation or runoff, the depth of water that would develop on a level surface in millimeters (mm).
Though annual averages are rather 1,100 mm, there are clear geographical variations all around the nation. Because of their Atlantic and North Seas influence, the western and northern parts of Austria get wetter than their eastern and southern counterparts. In mountainous regions, the orographic impact also generates a surge in precipitation. Mountains force air masses to rise and cool when they come into touch with them, which generates condensation and precipitation.
With an average of 140 mm of rain, July is the wettest month; January comes in driest with just 50 mm. The data supplied by the Central Institute for Meteorology and Geodynamics (ZAMG) helped to produce the following table, which offers a thorough monthly average rainfall analysis of Austria.
Month | Rainfall (mm) |
---|---|
January | 50 |
February | 55 |
March | 65 |
April | 75 |
May | 85 |
June | 100 |
July | 140 |
August | 120 |
September | 95 |
October | 80 |
November | 65 |
December | 50 |
Snowfall patterns
Although rainfall dominates precipitation in Austria, snowfall—especially in the alpine areas—takes front stage during the winter. Measuring in centimeters (cm), snowfall is the depth of snow that would gather on a level surface in the absence of melting or compacting.
Though there are considerable regional variations, Austria has 150 snowy days on average annually. Getting their fair share of winter’s bounty, the alpine areas experience snowfall as early as November and as late as April, occasionally even later. On the other hand, shorter and lighter snowfall events—typically concentrated between December and February, or even for a less period of time—occur at lower elevations.
Many factors affect Austria’s snowfall patterns, including humidity, temperature, wind direction, and elevation. January is the snowiest month; July usually shows no snowfall at all; average snowfall for January is forty centimeters. The average monthly snowfall in Austria is shown in the following table based on Central Institute for Meteorology and Geodynamics (ZAMG) data.
Month | Average snowfall (cm) |
---|---|
January | 40 |
February | 30 |
March | 20 |
April | 10 |
May | 0 |
June | 0 |
July | 0 |
August | 0 |
September | 0 |
October | 10 |
November | 20 |
December | 30 |
Average precipitation levels
Over a specified period of time, average precipitation is the total amount of water falling from the sky—rain or snow. Usually stated in millimeters (mm) or liters per square meter (l/m²), it is the depth of water that would develop in a container of that size.
Though there are considerable geographical variations, Austria’s average annual precipitation is 1,100 mm, or 1,100 l/m². Because of their Atlantic and North Seas influence, the western and northern parts have wetter conditions than their eastern and southern counterparts. Higher precipitation benefits mountainous areas also from the orographic effect, in which rising air masses cool and condense, releasing moisture as rain or snow.
The data used to compile the following table—which displays the average annual precipitation levels in some of Austria’s largest cities and areas—was supplied by the Central Institute for Meteorology and Geodynamics (ZAMG).
Table: Average Annual Precipitation in Select Austrian Locations (mm)
Location | Average Precipitation (mm) |
---|---|
Cities | |
Vienna | 620 |
Salzburg | 1,325 |
Innsbruck | 850 |
Graz | 1,120 |
Linz | 750 |
Regions | |
Burgenland | 600 |
Carinthia | 1,300 |
Lower Austria | 700 |
Salzburg (state) | 1,400 |
Styria | 1,200 |
Tyrol | 1,000 |
Vorarlberg | 1,200 |
Sunshine Hours in Austria
Austria is rather less sunny than the rest of Europe (1750 hours), averaging 1650 hours of sunlight annually. This national statistic does, however, conceal an incredible truth: geography, weather patterns, and altitude all interact dynamically to define Austria’s sunshine distribution.
Winter’s Shadowy Grip:
Winter inversion events loom large over some areas of Austria. These meteorological events cause warm air to trap cold air under it, so generating layers of continuous fog. Particularly found in valleys and basins, this fog clouds the view and reduces solar radiation. Should there be no notable rain or winds, this hazy purgatory could last several days or even several weeks.
Sunshine Havens:
Fortunately, Austria also boasts regions with lots of sunshine. For instance, the terraces rising above the fog layer are typically found tucked within the Lower Tauern, the Tyrolean low mountain range, and the Eisenerzer Alps. Bathed in fresh, dry air masses from the north or east, these areas get up to 2,100 hours of sunshine annually, a lot of which falls during the winter. Higher altitudes also benefit from longer daylight hours and a more favorable sun angle, so augmenting their share of solar energy.
Eastern Austria’s Sunny Disposition:
Though summer is by far the hottest season, some unexpected contenders surface. Regarding sunlight hours, the regions around Lake Neusiedl, Marchfeld, sections of the Weinviertel, and the middle Waldviertel match the previously mentioned mountain resorts. This could be their position in Austria’s eastern continental zone, which gets hot, dry summers with less cloud cover and precipitation than the alpine areas. The warm, dry föhn wind blowing from the southeast or south removes clouds, so helping these areas as well.
Summer’s Cloud Cover:
During the winter, lower-lying areas might be covered in fog; in the summer, source clouds present another challenge. Especially in mountainous regions like the Mühlviertel, the Salzkammergut, and the Enns Valley, these clouds—formed over mountains by rising and cooling moist air masses—can block out afternoon and evening light. Along with a few steeply shaded north-facing slopes, these areas get the least amount of sunlight in Austria—an average of less than 1500 hours annually.
Wind in Austria
Large-scale wind conditions
The great wind symphony sweeping Austria is produced by its unique topography and complex interaction of pressure systems. Westerly winds, the most frequent visitors, bring Atlantic Ocean temperate, humid air. Particularly in the west and north, these winds are regular allies of frontal zones and low-pressure systems, usually providing cloud cover and precipitation.
On the other hand, the amazing Alps greatly influences Austria’s wind patterns. Deflected or blocked westerly winds can build strong barriers. The stau effect is the phenomena whereby westerly winds interact with the northern Alps. This process drives the air to rise and cool, so producing clear, dry weather on the leeward side—the sheltered side—and heavy precipitation on the windward side—the side facing the wind.
Easterly winds bring cold, dry air from the Eurasian continent, so offering a different experience. Particularly helpful to eastern and southern Austria, these winds are regularly connected to high-pressure systems and anticyclones. They also bring stable, clear weather. Still, the terrain of Austria affects even easterly winds. The nation’s complex topography causes these winds to produce localized changes in temperature and humidity.
The interesting dance between Austria’s mountainous topography and atmospheric pressure systems is found in her wind patterns. From the moisture-laden westerlies and their dramatic stau effect to the clean sky brought about by the easterlies, these winds are absolutely vital in determining the weather and climate of Austria.
Local and regional wind systems
Topography and major weather patterns mostly define Austria’s winds; yet, there is also a fascinating interaction on a smaller scale. The unique topography of the country is tightly related to local and regional wind systems, which significantly affect the bioclimate, air quality, and weather patterns.
The Dance of Mountain and Valley Winds:
One of the most often occurring local wind systems in regions with noticeable valleys and slopes is the mountain-valley wind system. Solar radiation acts as the conductor to coordinate temperature fluctuations over the day. As the sun strikes the slopes, the air warms and rises throughout the day producing a low-pressure area over the mountain and a high-pressure area in the valley. Beginning from this pressure differential, the valley wind is a mild current carrying cool air upward from the valley. The script turns around night. The air on the slopes cools by radiation, sinking and producing a low-pressure area on the mountain and a high-pressure area over the valley. This reversal makes the mountain wind—which drops into the valley from the mountain slopes carrying cool, dry air possible.
These winds considerably affect the local temperature. Because it carries warm, humid air from the valley, the valley wind can boost cloud cover and precipitation on the mountain tops. Conversely, the mountain wind brings dry, cool air that helps to moderate the valley’s temperature and humidity. Furthermore acting as a natural air freshener, the valley wind diffuses and distributes pollutants that might otherwise gather in the valley. On the other hand, occasionally the mountain wind can trap these pollutants, so lowering the air’s quality.
The Foehn’s Dramatic Entrance:
Another interesting local wind system is the foehn, a warm, dry breeze that starts on the leeward side of a mountain range. As air masses pass over mountains, they are forced to climb and cool and release moisture on the windward side as precipitation. On the leeward side, though, the air falls and warms adiabatically—that is, without heat transfer—producing a warm, dry fog breeze. This wind can rapidly raise temperatures, lower humidity, and lessen precipitation on leeward slopes, so fundamentally changing the local climate.
The most famously known example is the southern fog, which blows from the south across the Alps and influences Austria’s northern areas. In terms of bioclimatic conditions, this wind can generate a calming and energizing environment that helps people as well as plants. Still, the southern climate can aggravate allergies, headaches, and even start wildfires.
The northern fog, which blows over the Alps from the north and influences southern Austria, presents an other kind of weather. Usually colder and less stable than its southern relative, it offers less bioclimatic advantages. Moreover, the strong gusts and turbulence of the northern furnace could hinder navigation and air transportation.
The complex and dynamic images Austria’s winds produce The climate, air quality, and general environmental fabric of the nation depend critically on these local and regional wind systems. From the daily dance of the mountain and valley winds to the dramatic entrance of the foehn, they affect everything.