The Danish climate is moderated by the warm Gulf Stream and is therefore milder than in the surrounding Scandinavian countries. Denmark has four distinct seasons. The spring months, March to May, are the mildest, while the summer months of June, July and August are the hottest. Autumn, from September to November, tends to be rainy and more overcast. Winter runs from December to February and is normally cold, with frost and snow.

Temperatures

Denmark is in the North Temperate Zone and has a mean temperature of 7.7˚C (46˚F). Statistically, February is the coldest month (mean 0.0˚C/32˚F) and August the warmest (mean 15.7˚C/ 60˚F).

Winds

The prevailing wind is westerly, which means that the west coast of Denmark receives more rainfall than the rest of the country. The annual rainfall in Denmark averages 61 cm (24 in) of precipitation.

Sea temperatures

Denmark is surrounded by coastline and swimming in the sea is a popular pastime. The seawater temperature around Denmark, from June to August, is between 17˚C (63˚F) and 22˚C (72˚F). In August, this can rise to around 25˚C (77˚F).