Discover what each month brings to Basildon’s local weather, from temperature shifts and rainfall patterns to seasonal wind changes and sunshine hours. Whether you’re planning outdoor activities, gardening, or simply curious about Basildon's climate, this guide offers detailed monthly insights to help you understand and prepare for the year ahead.
Overview of Basildon’s Climate
Basildon experiences a temperate maritime climate typical of southeast England, marked by mild winters, warm summers, and moderate rainfall throughout the year. The town is influenced by its proximity to the Thames Estuary and the urban heat island effect caused by local developed areas, leading to slightly warmer temperatures than surrounding rural parts of Essex.
Its coastal influence helps moderate extremes, reducing frost incidence and tempering summer highs. Additionally, Basildon’s microclimate can vary within short distances due to green spaces, urban density, and elevation differences. This creates subtle pockets where temperatures can differ by a degree or two, particularly during night-time cooling. Prevailing southwesterly winds bring moist Atlantic air, contributing to regular but generally light precipitation.
Monthly Weather Data & Seasonal Patterns
January Weather in Basildon
January is the coldest month in Basildon, with average daytime highs around 6°C and lows near 1°C. Rainfall is moderate, averaging about 50mm spread over 15 days, often as light rain rather than heavy downpours. Sunshine hours are limited to roughly 50 hours during the month, with daylight lasting around eight hours by the end of January.
Humidity remains relatively high at 80%, contributing to a damp feel despite temperatures. Winds web design services in Chelmsford are gentle to moderate, typically from the southwest at about 10-15 km/h. Frost can occur overnight but usually clears by mid-morning.
February Weather in Basildon
February sees a slight warming trend, with average highs of 7°C and lows around 2°C. Rainfall totals remain similar to January, approximately 45-50mm across 14-16 days. Sunshine increases marginally, reaching about 70 hours, and daylight extends to nearly 10 hours by late February.
Humidity levels hover near 78%, while wind speeds tend to be steady, favouring southwesterly directions. Frost remains possible on clear nights. Overall, February is still cool but signals the gradual approach of spring.
March Weather in Basildon
March brings noticeable signs of spring, with daytime temperatures climbing to an average high of 10°C and lows around 4°C. Rainfall decreases slightly to 40mm over 13 days. Sunshine hours rise significantly to roughly 110 per month, aided by longer daylight nearing 11.5 hours.
Humidity dips to about 75%, and winds pick up slightly, averaging 15 km/h with occasional gusts. Risk of frost diminishes as soil warms and vegetation begins to emerge.
April Weather in Basildon
April is a transitional month with average highs of 14°C and lows of 6°C. Rainfall stays moderate but more variable, around 45mm distributed over 13 days. Sunshine hours peak near 160, with daylight surpassing 13 hours by month's end.
Humidity lowers further to approximately 70%, while winds tend to calm, coming predominantly from the southwest. April’s mix of cool mornings and mild afternoons makes it favourable for gardening and outdoor pursuits.
May Weather in Basildon
May heralds late spring warmth with average highs approaching 18°C and lows around 9°C. Rainfall declines to about 35mm spread over 11 days, and sunshine hours climb above 180, benefiting from long days of up to 15 hours.
Humidity falls to near 65%, creating a comfortable environment. Winds are generally light to moderate. This month is ideal for planting and enjoying outdoor activities as the risk of frost becomes negligible.
June Weather in Basildon
June marks the beginning of summer with average highs of 21°C and lows near 12°C. Rainfall is lowest at roughly 30mm over 10 days, while sunshine peaks around 200 hours for the month.
Humidity levels stay moderate at about 60%. Winds are calmer, often below 15 km/h, with occasional breezes from the estuary helping to keep temperatures pleasant. Long daylight hours, sometimes exceeding 16, make June perfect for extended outdoor events.
July Weather in Basildon
July is typically the warmest month, with average maximum temperatures of 23°C and lows around 14°C. Rainfall remains low, near 35mm over 9 days. Sunshine continues at a high level, roughly 210 hours, and days stay long.
Humidity can rise slightly to about 65% on warmer days, and occasional light southerly winds provide cooling effects. Heatwaves are rare but possible, with temperatures occasionally exceeding 30°C during peak summer days.
August Weather in Basildon
August closely mirrors July's climate, with averages of 22°C for highs and 14°C for lows. Rainfall increases marginally to approximately 40mm across 10 days. Sunshine remains plentiful, around 190 hours.
Humidity stays near 65%, and winds are typically light, coming from the southwest. August is a popular month for outdoor festivals and gardening harvest thanks to stable, warm conditions.
September Weather in Basildon
September cools down to average highs of 19°C and lows near 12°C. Rainfall rises moderately to around 50mm over 12 days. Sunshine hours begin to taper off, averaging about 140 for the month, and daylight reduces to roughly 12 hours.
Humidity climbs back up to 70%, and winds become more variable with occasional northwesterly gusts signalling the approach of autumn.
October Weather in Basildon
October ushers in autumn with average highs dropping to 14°C and lows near 9°C. Rainfall increases to 60mm across 14 days, bringing wetter and often windier conditions.
Sunshine shrinks to around 100 hours, and daylight narrows to just under 10 hours by month end. Humidity levels rise above 75%, often making days feel cooler. Wind speeds frequently pick up, with prevailing westerlies common.
November Weather in Basildon
November continues autumn’s chill with average highs near 10°C and lows around 5°C. Rainfall peaks again near 65mm over 15 days. Sunshine is limited, about 60-70 hours, and daylight drops to around 8 hours.
Humidity remains high, often exceeding 80%, contributing to damp, foggy mornings. Winds strengthen with frequent southwesterly or westerly flows.
December Weather in Basildon
December is the start of winter, with average highs close to 7°C and lows near 2°C. Rainfall stays steady at about 55mm over 14 days, often as drizzle or light rain.
Sunshine is lowest here, roughly 50 hours, with short daylight of around seven and a half hours. Humidity peaks at about 85%, and calm to moderate winds prevail. Frost becomes more frequent overnight but usually disappears by mid-morning.
Extreme Weather Events and Historical Data
Although Basildon generally enjoys moderate weather, the town has experienced notable extreme events. The 2019 UK heatwave led to record highs of 34°C in Basildon, unusually warm for the region. Conversely, the cold snap of February 2012 brought several days of sub-zero temperatures and ground frost, with lows dipping below -6°C.
Storms accompanying autumn and early winter occasionally cause gusts over 60 km/h, leading to minor transport disruptions and power outages. Historic records from local Met Office stations highlight that Basildon’s temperature extremes range from -10°C in severe winters to 35°C during rare heatwaves.
Monitoring these events helps residents and planners better prepare for future anomalies.
Additional Climate Metrics
Basildon’s UV index peaks in July and August, reaching moderate to high levels (6-7), warranting sun protection during outdoor activities. Air quality in Basildon is generally good, although occasional spikes in pollutants can occur in winter due to residential heating emissions combined with calm conditions.
Pollen counts are highest from late March to July, affecting those with allergies, especially from grass and tree species common in local parks. Visibility levels average well but can be impaired in foggy early mornings during winter.
Barometric pressure fluctuates seasonally, with lower pressures during autumn storms and higher, stable readings in summer. Though Basildon is inland, tidal influences from the nearby Thames Estuary mildly affect local humidity and river conditions in surrounding areas during extreme weather events.
Impact of Weather on Daily Life and Activities
The monthly climate data provides a vital framework for gardeners in Basildon, indicating optimal planting times from March through May and harvest periods in late summer and early autumn. Mild winters and warm springs favour a long growing season exceeding 220 days annually.
Outdoor enthusiasts find late spring and summer months best for hiking, cycling, and open-air events, while wetter periods in autumn advise caution for prolonged outdoor exposure. Agriculturally, Basildon's consistent rainfall supports diverse crop types, but planning around wetter autumn months is crucial for harvest logistics.
The mild climate reduces energy consumption in homes during winter compared to northern UK regions, though heating demand peaks in December and January. Building designs benefit from insulation considerations addressing both urban heat retention and dampness during rainy seasons.
Weather Warnings and Safety Tips
Basildon residents should remain alert to typical weather warnings issued during autumn and winter, including strong wind advisories and heavy rainfall alerts that may disrupt travel. Occasional snow or frost warnings occur in colder months but are generally of low intensity.
Preparation includes ensuring vehicles are winter-ready, clearing gutters before heavy rains, and securing outdoor furniture ahead of windy conditions. During summer, heatwave notices may call for hydration and sun protection measures.
Transport delays associated with weather mostly happen in wetter months, so checking local updates during autumn and winter can prevent inconvenience.
FAQs About Basildon Weather
When is the best month to visit Basildon?
Late spring to early summer (May to July) offers the warmest temperatures, longest days, and the least rainfall, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
How often does it snow in Basildon?
Snowfall is infrequent, generally occurring 1-3 days each winter, rarely accumulating significantly due to milder coastal influences.
What are the wettest months in Basildon?
October and November tend to be the wettest, with increased rainfall and more frequent precipitation days.
How variable is wind speed throughout the year?
Wind speeds peak during autumn and early winter, ranging between 20-40 km/h with occasional gusts, while summer and spring experience calmer breezes under 15 km/h.
Conclusion
Basildon’s monthly weather presents a generally mild and manageable climate, shaped by its coastal proximity and urban factors. Understanding the seasonal shifts in temperature, rainfall, and sunshine helps locals and visitors alike plan their activities, gardening, and travel with confidence. Staying aware of historical extreme events and ongoing meteorological updates further enhances preparedness. Embrace each season in Basildon with these insights and enjoy all that this vibrant Essex town has to offer throughout the year.