Chamonix is located at the foot of Mont-Blanc, in the valley, at an altitude of more than 1,000 meters. It is located on the north-western side of the Alps, in Haute-Savoie.
The proximity to the Alpine massif influences the climate, which is logically similar to a mountain climate. The weather in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc results in showers and snow in winter accompanied by negative temperatures. Summer remains pleasant, sunny and mild.
The weather in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, located in the department of Haute-Savoie, is a mythical resort in the Alps and France. The valley is very popular with mountaineering enthusiasts and high mountain athletes, but not only. It is also a family place that offers many activities in summer and winter and has essential places to discover.
The Chamonix Valley, composed of Servoz, Les Houches, Chamonix, Argentière and Vallorcine, is dominated by Mont-Blanc, the highest peak in Western Europe, which rises to 4,810 meters above sea level.
Temperatures in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
As the region is subject to a mountain climate, the temperature, the feeling and the precautions vary a lot according to the seasons.
Overall, the cold season lasts 3 and a half months, from mid-November to early March. January and February are the coldest months with temperatures well below 0, often reaching -10 °C.
The mildest season starts at the end of May and can last until mid-September. The temperatures in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc are then very pleasant. The hottest months are July and August with peaks between 23°C and 27°C.
With the altitude, summer and winter, the mountains are much colder. At the top of Mont-Blanc, at a height of more than 4,800 meters, temperatures can reach -40°C. The wind also rapidly reinforces the cold effect and the temperatures experienced.
Another characteristic of the Mont-Blanc weather is the sudden changes. Typical of mountain ranges, weather conditions can change rapidly with the arrival of cloudy skies, showers, snow, gusts and fog in winter, or a violent storm in summer.
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, rainy city
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a rainy city. Over the year, the rainfall is significant and averages 985.9 mm. For comparison, to paris, the precipitations are 35% lower.
As early as October-November, the first snowfalls, even rare ones, are already appearing in Chamonix. In winter, the rains are heavy, the rainiest months are December, January and February, they are a delight for skiers, offering quality snow.
In spring, even April, the driest month, experiences a lot of rain and humidity. In June, we observe a pleasant thermometer, but there are many rainy days.
July and August are months with little rainfall and more sunshine, but there is a high risk of thunderstorms sometimes accompanied by showers. September remains a favorable month with little rain.
The seasons in Chamonix
A leading tourist destination, Chamonix attracts visitors in summer and winter alike. The best months to visit Chamonix, enjoy winter sports and summer outdoor activities are January, February, June, July, August, August, August, September, December.
Winter
Watch out for snowfall and negative mercury. But it is precisely these climatic conditions that promote quality snow. The period to take full advantage of the ski slopes or other snow activities extends from the end of January to mid-March.
Before, especially in December, the number of open slopes may be limited if there is a delay in snow. But if the white gold is not there, you still have the possibility to reach the highest peaks, to practice off-trail skiing or hiking.
Summer
Summer is a good time to discover Chamonix and the Mont-Blanc Valley. Hiking, climbing, discovering fauna and flora, are all leisure activities that attract vacationers. However, the summer season is cool and short. Prefer July or August to have as much sunshine as possible and the mildest temperatures.
The temperature varies a lot during the day in the mountains. Nights and mornings stay cold, make sure you are properly equipped. Also watch out for thunderstorms at the end of the day.
Spring and autumn
Mid-seasons are not necessarily the most favorable periods to discover Chamonix. The valley slows down to keep pace with the locals. But if you are looking for a quieter vacation, against the flow of tourists, now is the time to book in our Hotel in Chamonix. The number of activities remains substantial all year round.
Also think of the month of September, which is not very rainy and sometimes full of sun. The temperatures in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc are still mild at the end of summer.
Weather Chamonix webcams: live weather
To check the mountain weather conditions live, in addition to the daily report, the Chamonix Valley has placed several webcams at strategic points. At the foot of the slopes, at the start of the ski lifts, at the top of the ski area, in the city center, you can keep an eye on the weather at all times.
In order to prepare for your stay or in the morning before getting out of bed, get a clear idea of the weather conditions, snow conditions, but also the level of attendance at the resort.
To check the weather live, but also to enjoy the most beautiful panoramas of the valley, 6 panocams have been installed. These are high quality webcams that offer exceptional 360° views of the Alps. Better than photos, you can consult them live at any time of the day, morning, noon or even at night.
Here are the 6 360° webcams placed in the Chamonix-Mont-Blanc valley:
- Aiguille du Midi Panoramic
- Panoramic light
- Panoramic Brevent
- Les Houches panoramic view
- Panoramic balme
- Panoramic Montenvers
Fifteen other fixed webcams have also been placed all over the Chamonix valley. Whether in the city center, at the foot or at the arrival of the cable cars, on the ski slopes, but also on the mythical places of the French Alps: Mont-Blanc, the Aiguille du Midi or even the Mer de Glace.
