Launceston Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Launceston.
Climate overview of Launceston
Launceston is Tasmania’s second-largest city, located in the northern part of the island. It serves as an ideal base for exploring Ben Lomond National Park, where visitors can enjoy mountain climbing and, weather permitting, skiing.
Launceston has a maritime climate, typical of this part of Australia. Due to its location in a lower-elevation area surrounded by mid- and low-altitude mountains, it is somewhat less affected by the Antarctic winds that frequently blow through the region. In summer (December to March), temperatures average just under 25°C (77°F). Winters, however, can be quite cold, with temperatures regularly dropping below freezing. The city is also known for its extremely foggy mornings during the winter months.
Launceston Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Launceston - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Launceston
Depending on the time of the year, temperatures range from comfortable to chilly in Launceston. Average daytime temperatures reach a comfortable 24°C (75°F) in January. In July, the coolest month of the year, temperatures drop to a chilly 12°C (54°F).
At night, temperatures range from around 11°C (52°F) in January to 3°C (37°F) in July.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Launceston
Generally, Launceston has a moderate amount of precipitation, averaging 776 mm (31 in) of rain/snowfall annually. Despite minor fluctuations, Launceston enjoys fairly consistent precipitation throughout the year. In August, you can expect around 82 mm (3.2 in) of precipitation, while in March, Launceston receives about 52 mm (2 in). For more details, please visit our Launceston 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 Launceston
Launceston can be enjoyed more throughout the sunniest month of January under a blue sky, with approximately 9.6 hours of sunshine daily. In contrast, the city experiences much darker days in June, with only 4.5 hours of sunlight per day.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Humidity in Launceston by Month
The relative humidity is moderate throughout the year in Launceston.
The city experiences its highest humidity in June, reaching 68%. In January, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 47%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Wind Speed in Launceston
The mean wind speed over the year ranges from 4 m/s (8 knots) in June to 6 m/s (12 knots) in January, September and October. What does this mean?
The mean monthly wind speed over the year (meters per second)
Best Time to Visit Launceston
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
- Best overall: January, February, March and December
- Warmest weather: January and February
- Most sunshine: January and December
- Seasonal pattern: Warm summers and cold winters
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Launceston
What is the best time to visit Launceston?
January, February, March and December typically offer the most optimal weather in Launceston. In contrast, June, July and August tend to have less optimal conditions. Launceston has warm summers and cold winters.
What temperatures can I expect in Launceston?
Daytime highs range from 12°C (54°F) in July to 24°C (75°F) in January. Nighttime lows range from 3°C (37°F) to 11°C (52°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does Launceston get?
Annual rainfall is around 776 mm (31 in). August is the wettest month with 82 mm (3.2 in), while March is the driest with 52 mm (2 in).
How sunny is Launceston?
Launceston receives around 2,601 hours of sunshine per year. January is the sunniest month with 287 hours, while June is the cloudiest with just 136 hours. Overall, Launceston enjoys abundant sunshine.
Launceston 3-Day Forecast
Launceston 3-Day Forecast
Launceston on the map
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