Donegal Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Donegal.
Climate overview of Donegal
Donegal, Donegal County, Ireland, has a moderate seasonal temperature range, with July reaching 19°C (66°F) and January cooling to 8°C (46°F).
Rain/snowfall is high, totalling around 1393 mm (55 in) per year. December is the wettest month and April the driest. The city also experiences pleasant summers and cold winters. The most sunshine falls in May, with an average of 6.8 hours of daily sunshine.
Donegal Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Donegal - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Donegal
In Donegal, seasonal changes bring about a moderate variation in temperatures. Average maximum daytime temperatures range from a pleasant 19°C (66°F) in July, the warmest time of the year, to a chilly 8°C (46°F) during cooler months like January.
At night, you can expect temperatures ranging from 12°C (54°F) in July to around 3°C (37°F) during January.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Donegal
Donegal is known for its substantial rain/snowfall, with annual precipitation reaching 1393 mm (55 in). Year-round, Donegal has a balanced climate with minimal variation in precipitation. The difference between the wettest month, December, with 132 mm (5.2 in), and the driest month, April, with 96 mm (3.8 in), is minimal. For more details, please visit our Donegal 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 Donegal
Seasonal changes in sunshine hours are quite dramatic in Donegal. While May receives considerable daily sunshine with up to 6.8 hours, December marks the darkest time of the year, where sunshine is scarce with only 1.3 hours of sunlight per day.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Best Time to Visit Donegal
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
- Best overall: July and August
- Warmest weather: June, July and August
- Most sunshine: May
- Seasonal pattern: Pleasant summers and cold winters
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Donegal
What is the best time to visit Donegal?
July and August typically offer the most optimal weather in Donegal. In contrast, January, February, March, November and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Donegal has pleasant summers and cold winters.
What temperatures can I expect in Donegal?
Daytime highs range from 8°C (46°F) in January to 19°C (66°F) in July. Nighttime lows range from 3°C (37°F) to 12°C (54°F).
How much rain does Donegal get?
Annual rainfall is around 1393 mm (55 in). December is the wettest month with 132 mm (5.2 in), while April is the driest with 96 mm (3.8 in).
How sunny is Donegal?
Donegal receives around 1,342 hours of sunshine per year. May is the sunniest month with 203 hours, while December is the cloudiest with just 39 hours.
Donegal 3-Day Forecast
Donegal on the map
Donegal is highlighted - select any city to see its climate.
Popular this month
Where to go in August - average daytime high across popular destinations.
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