Quick Weather Facts - When to come if...
you want some SUNSHINE...
The sunniest months are April to June. The sunniest day on record in the last 30 years was the 20th June 1977 in Benbecula when 16.9 hours of sunshine were recorded. July and August are duller, with more sunshine again usually in September. However, August is, on average, the warmest month, when the mean maximum temperature reaches nearly 16°C.
Sunshine Hours per annum
Benbecula - 1333 Stornoway - 1237 London - 1400
you require some WIND...
Wind is the element most associated with the Hebrides' weather. Mean monthly wind speeds range from about 12 knots (13 mph) in July/August to about 16 knots (18 mph) in December/January though daily mean wind speeds over 30 knots (35 mph) with gusts in excess of 50 knots (58 mph) are not uncommon even occasionally during the summer months. The highest gust recorded at Stornoway in recent years was 98 knots (113 mph) in February 1962. The prevailing wind direction is southwesterly though some of the strongest winds are often from the northwest.
you like RAIN... (or like to avoid it)
45% of our rainfall comes in October to January, with a total annual rainfall of just over a metre (1200 mm.) April and May are our driest months.
you need some SURF...
We have the most consistent surf in Europe: the Outer Hebrides collect surf from almost every point of the compass. Derek Macleod at Hebridean Surf Holidays can provide invaluable advice on the best breaks and best times to surf the Hebrides. Alternatively, look at the wave information on the weather buoys for current conditions, or the Met Office.
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