The weather in Keith, a small town in the north-east of Scotland, is known for being quite unpredictable and variable. Located in the Moray council area, Keith experiences a maritime climate, with significant influence from the North Sea. The town's proximity to the coast means that it is prone to mild winters and cool summers, with a relatively small temperature range throughout the year. On average, the temperature in Keith ranges from around 2°C (36°F) in winter to 18°C (64°F) in summer.
Climate Overview
Keith’s climate is characterized by significant rainfall throughout the year, with an average annual rainfall of around 800 mm (31.5 in). The town experiences a relatively high number of rainy days, with an average of around 120 days per year. The rain is often light to moderate, but heavy downpours can occur, especially during the autumn and winter months. The town also experiences some snowfall during the winter, although this is relatively rare and usually only lasts for a short period.
Seasonal Variations
The weather in Keith varies significantly throughout the year, with distinct seasonal patterns. Spring (March to May) is a time of transition, with temperatures gradually warming up and rainfall becoming less frequent. Summer (June to August) is the warmest and driest season, with average high temperatures ranging from 17°C (63°F) to 19°C (66°F). Autumn (September to November) is a time of cooling temperatures and increasing rainfall, while winter (December to February) is the coolest and wettest season, with average low temperatures ranging from 0°C (32°F) to 2°C (36°F).
| Season | Average Temperature (°C) | Average Rainfall (mm) |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | 8-12 | 60-80 |
| Summer | 15-18 | 40-60 |
| Autumn | 8-12 | 80-100 |
| Winter | 2-5 | 100-120 |
In terms of extreme weather events, Keith is susceptible to strong winds, especially during the winter months. The town can also experience thunderstorms during the summer, although these are relatively rare. Flooding is also a risk, especially during periods of heavy rainfall, due to the town's location near the River Isla. However, the town has a number of flood defenses in place, including a flood protection scheme that helps to mitigate the risk of flooding.
Weather Forecasting
Accurate weather forecasting is essential for the residents and visitors of Keith, especially for those involved in outdoor activities such as farming, fishing, and tourism. The Met Office provides regular weather forecasts for the area, including hourly forecasts, 5-day forecasts, and 10-day forecasts. These forecasts take into account a range of factors, including temperature, rainfall, wind speed, and cloud cover, to provide a comprehensive picture of the weather.
Weather Warning Systems
The Met Office also operates a weather warning system, which provides advance notice of severe weather events such as heavy rainfall, strong winds, and flooding. These warnings are issued based on the latest forecast data and are designed to help people prepare for and respond to severe weather events. The warnings are categorized into three levels: yellow, amber, and red, with red being the most severe.
In addition to the Met Office, there are also a number of other weather forecasting services available, including the BBC Weather and AccuWeather. These services provide detailed forecasts and warnings, as well as satellite imagery and radar imagery, to help people stay up to date with the latest weather conditions.
What is the average temperature in Keith during the summer months?
+The average temperature in Keith during the summer months (June to August) is around 15-18°C (59-64°F).
How much rainfall can I expect in Keith during the winter months?
+The average rainfall in Keith during the winter months (December to February) is around 100-120 mm (3.9-4.7 in).
Are there any weather warning systems in place for Keith?
+Yes, the Met Office operates a weather warning system for Keith, which provides advance notice of severe weather events such as heavy rainfall, strong winds, and flooding.
In conclusion, the weather in Keith is characterized by mild winters and cool summers, with significant rainfall throughout the year. The town experiences a range of weather conditions, from sunshine and calm winds to heavy rainfall and strong winds. By understanding the local climate and weather patterns, residents and visitors can better prepare for and respond to the weather, making the most of their time in Keith.
