Cork Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Cork.
Climate overview of Cork
Temperatures in Cork, County Cork, Ireland, shift moderately through the seasons. The warmest month is July at 19°C (66°F), and the coolest is January at 10°C (50°F).
The city has a wet climate, receiving around 1002 mm (39 in) of rainfall per year. October is the wettest month. The sunniest month is May, with 6.5 hours of sunshine per day on average.
Cork Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Cork - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Cork
In Cork, seasonal changes bring about a moderate variation in temperatures. On average, daytime temperatures range from a pleasant 19°C (66°F) in July to a chilly 10°C (50°F) in January.
Nighttime temperatures range from 13°C (55°F) in July to 5°C (41°F) in January.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Cork
Cork has a notably wet climate with abundant precipitation, recording 1002 mm (39 in) of rainfall per year. The wettest period in Cork occurs in October, which receives around 102 mm (4 in) of precipitation. During the driest month, May, Cork experiences moderate rainfall, totaling 72 mm (2.8 in). The consistent precipitation levels throughout the year contribute to a relatively stable climate. For more details, please visit our Cork Precipitation page.
The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow
The average number of days each month with precipitation
Sunshine Hours in Cork
In Cork, summer days are longer and more sunny, with daily sunshine hours peaking at 6.5 hours in May. As the darker season arrives, the brightness of the sun becomes less. December sees a soft sun for only 1.9 hours per average day.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Daily percentage of sunshine
Water Temperature in Cork
The mean water temperature over the year ranges from 8°C (46°F) in March to 16°C (61°F) in August.
Water temperature over the year
Humidity in Cork by Month
The relative humidity is high throughout the year in Cork.
The city experiences its highest humidity in December, reaching 85%. In April, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 71%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Wind Speed in Cork
The average wind speed over the year ranges from 4 m/s (8 knots) to 6 m/s (12 knots). It is lower in June, July and August and higher in January, February, March and December. What does this mean?
The mean monthly wind speed over the year (meters per second)
Best Time to Visit Cork
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
- Best overall: July, August and September
- Warmest weather: July, August and September
- Most sunshine: May
- Warmest water temperature: July, August and September, although the water may still feel cool.
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Cork
What is the best time to visit Cork?
July, August and September typically offer the most optimal weather in Cork. In contrast, January, February and December tend to have less optimal conditions.
What temperatures can I expect in Cork?
Daytime highs range from 10°C (50°F) in January to 19°C (66°F) in July. Nighttime lows range from 5°C (41°F) to 13°C (55°F).
How much rain does Cork get?
Annual rainfall is around 1002 mm (39 in). October is the wettest month with 102 mm (4 in), while May is the driest with 72 mm (2.8 in).
How sunny is Cork?
Cork receives around 1,435 hours of sunshine per year. May is the sunniest month with 194 hours, while December is the cloudiest with just 56 hours.
Cork 3-Day Forecast
Cork 3-Day Forecast
Cork on the map
Cork is highlighted - select any city to see its climate.
Popular this month
Where to go in July - average daytime high across popular destinations.
Cork
19°C (66°F) Kilkenny
20°C (68°F) Dublin20°C (68°F) Kenmare
19°C (66°F) Galway20°C (68°F) Killarney19°C (66°F) Westport19°C (66°F) Doolin18°C (64°F) 
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