Geneva is situated at a high altitude, which together with the lake, tempers the prevailing continental climate. Summers are pleasantly warm to hot, and winters relatively mild with temperatures hovering just above or below freezing. In summer, between June and August, temperatures average between 54°F (12°C) and 79°F (26°C). In winter, between December and February, temperatures average between 29°F (-1°C) and 43°F (6°C). Rain falls all year round, and occasionally the city suffers the ravages of a harsh north wind known as the bise.
