The Climate

The Climate

In the Cantal the dominant climate is ‘mountain’ but with many microclimates. The principle characteristics of a mountain climate are more than 80 days frost per year, important rainfall and heavy cloud on the summits. The position in France of the Massif and its geography produce the local variations of the microclimates. The west flank, subjected to moist winds, is wetter and has a higher snowfall. The total volume of the precipitation is among the highest in France. The continental eastern slopes are drier and less cold.

The snowfall of the Cantal, fluctuating from year to year, is more than all the other areas of the Massif Central. Above 1500m the snow stays for five months. In the relatively southern regions the winter can be interrupted by a milder spell. Though avalanches are rare, the snow storm, called "l’écir" is more frequent and dangerous. From ancient times there are accounts of travellers lost in storms and found dead from cold and exhaustion. The col joining Prat de Bouc with the Brezons valley is called ‘Col de Tombe de Père’ after one such incident. The snow drifts can remain into the summer, and occasionally stay till the next winter.

However, sunny days are not rare and not only during the summer. Autumns are late in the massif, and there are many beautiful sunny days. Winter can also provide a warm sun on the summits with no mist. June and July are the driest months in the mountain. Half as much precipitations fall in this period than in December and January, the months with the most fall. August and September can have heavy rain, but more days of sunshine than June. During this period storms can be frequent, but they are followed by a calmer autumn. The heat from the sun can be intense at altitude. As each area has its own microclimate, averages are of little use. At Super-Lioran in February, the mean low temperature is -3.6°C and the mean high is +2.5°C. However, on a clear day the sun can feel very warm. During the summer exposed slopes are real ‘ovens’. Yet it is the mild summers that gives the mountain its invigorating air.

The rain creates abundant rivers that never run dry. The volcanic breccia acts as a control and regulates the flow.

Walking in the Cantal for information on walking and walks in France and the Cantal, accommodation, food and wine.
Walking in France for information on France and GR footpaths.
Auvergne active Self guided walking holidays in the Cantal
Hôtel des Chazes - 2Star and Les Sources - Table & Chambre d'Hôte, St Jacques des Blats. Both excellent bases from which to explore the Cantal.
Monts d'Auvergne-Auvergne Hills for a description and pictures of the area, with suggested walks.
Éditions Chamina for walking guides in the Massif Central.

Classic Geology in Auvergne by Peter Cattermole ISBN 1-903544-05-x available from Blackwells