January 16, 2025, 5:56 am | Read time: 3 minutes
Have you ever wondered why it rarely snows in the UK compared to Germany, even though large parts of it are further north? TRAVELBOOK asked a weather expert and explains the phenomenon.
A comparison of the climate statistics for the UK and Germany in recent years reveals a very clear picture with regard to the frequency of snowfall: While there is an average of five to 15 snow days in the British Isles, depending on the region, in Germany there is an average of 10 to 30—roughly twice as many.
The impression that snow falls less frequently on the British Isles than in Germany is therefore true. But why exactly is this the case? TRAVELBOOK asked meteorologist Dominik Jung from wetter.net. “The reason for this is mainly due to climatic differences caused by geographical factors,” explains the expert. According to Jung, the following factors play a role.
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Why There Is Less Snow in the British Isles
1. Mild Temperatures Due to the Atlantic
The UK is influenced by the North Atlantic Current, a part of the Gulf Stream, which transports warm water masses from the tropics to Europe. According to Jung, this ocean current ensures milder winter temperatures in the UK. Even in the coldest months, temperatures often do not fall far below freezing, especially in the southern and western parts of the country. Germany, on the other hand, has a more continental climate, especially in the east, where winters are colder.
2. Location and Geographical Differences
The UK is further west and is directly influenced by the Atlantic Ocean, while Germany is further inland. The weather expert goes on to explain that the air masses coming from the Atlantic are usually moist and mild, which makes snowfall difficult, as temperatures often remain just above freezing. In Germany, on the other hand, continental cold air masses can flow in more easily, which allows for more frequent and heavier snowfall, especially in winter.
3. Altitudes
Another important point according to Jung: Snowfall also depends heavily on altitude. In the UK, most cities (e.g., London, Manchester, Glasgow) are at low altitude, while in Germany many regions (e.g., Bavaria or parts of the Black Forest) are higher and, therefore, more prone to snowfall.
4. Precipitation Pattern
Although the British Isles often receive precipitation in winter, according to the weather expert, this often falls as rain rather than snow, as temperatures are mostly just above freezing. Germany has more days with temperatures below 0 degrees Celsius in the winter months, so precipitation can fall as snow more often.