Cornwall's climate

Cornwall is a land of stunning coastlines, rugged cliffs, and picturesque countryside. But what really sets this region apart from the rest of England is its unique weather patterns. If you've ever visited Cornwall, you'll know that the weather can be unpredictable, with rain, sunshine, and winds all in one day. In this blog post, we'll explore why Cornwall's weather is so different from the rest of England, and how it affects life in this beautiful part of the world.

Location, location, location

One of the main factors that contribute to Cornwall's unique weather is its location. Situated on the southwestern tip of England, Cornwall is surrounded by water on three sides - the English Channel to the south, and the Atlantic Ocean's Celtic Sea to the north and west. This means that the weather in Cornwall is heavily influenced by the ocean, with sea temperatures playing a big role in determining the climate.

The Gulf Stream

Another key factor that affects Cornwall's weather is the Gulf Stream. This warm ocean current flows from the Gulf of Mexico across the Atlantic Ocean, bringing with it warm water and air. As the Gulf Stream reaches the coast of Cornwall, it has a warming effect on the local climate, keeping temperatures milder than in other parts of the UK.

Rain, rain, go away

While Cornwall may be known for its picturesque beaches and stunning scenery, it's also known for its rain. In fact, Cornwall is one of the wettest regions in the UK, with an average rainfall of around 1200mm per year. This is due in part to its location on the western coast, which is exposed to prevailing winds from the Atlantic, as well as its proximity to high ground, which can cause orographic rainfall.

However, it's not all bad news - the rain is what makes Cornwall so lush and green, with a landscape that's dotted with wildflowers, ferns, and other vegetation. And despite the rain, Cornwall still enjoys around 1540 hours of sunshine each year, making it one of the sunniest regions in the UK.

Winds of change

Another unique aspect of Cornwall's weather is its winds. The region is exposed to strong winds from the Atlantic, which can cause gusts of up to 60mph in some areas. However, the winds are not all bad - they also help to keep the air fresh and clean, and make Cornwall a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts.

How the weather affects life in Cornwall

Cornwall's unique weather patterns have a big impact on life in the region. For example, the mild climate means that Cornwall is home to a range of plant and animal species that can't be found anywhere else in the UK. The wet weather also means that farming is an important industry in the region, with farmers able to grow a range of crops, including potatoes, cauliflowers, and daffodils.

However, the weather can also pose challenges for locals and visitors alike. For example, heavy rainfall can cause flooding in some areas, and strong winds can make driving hazardous. But despite the challenges, the people of Cornwall have learned to embrace their unique weather patterns, and have even turned them into a source of inspiration for artists, writers, and other creatives.

Cornwall's weather is one of the things that makes this region so special. From the mild climate to the frequent rain, the windswept beaches to the lush green hillsides, the weather in Cornwall is as varied and beautiful as the landscape itself. So if you're planning a trip to Cornwall, make sure to pack for every eventuality, and prepare to be surprised and delighted by the ever-changing weather patterns of this beautiful region.