III.

Climate

Cornwall has a generally mild climate, although the north coast can be bracing. The sheltered south coast enjoys higher temperatures than the rest of England, and for this reason is often referred to as the Cornish Riviera. However, the prevailing westerly and south-westerly winds bring comparatively heavy rainfall to the entire county, and sea mists and fog are common. Average annual rainfall over most of Cornwall is in the region of 1,000 to 1,520 mm (40 to 60 in).