The Channel Islands' climate is a maritime one, with moderate temperatures experienced throughout the year. Sheltered by England and France, the islands are spared the strong winds of most offshore locations. Winters tend to be damp and cloudy, while summers are warm and sunny. Jersey is well known for experiencing the most annual sunshine in the whole of the British Isles.The summer months, between May and September, are the best time to visit Jersey, when sun is plentiful and temperatures comfortably warm. July and August are the hottest months, when temperatures have been known to exceed more than 72°F (22°C). Although rain is possible at any time of year, summer is also the driest season in Jersey. The driest months are between June and August, while the wettest months are between October and January, in winter.Winters in Jersey are relatively mild and the average temperature during January, the coldest month, hovers around the 48°F (9°C) mark. However, it is not unheard of for temperatures to drop below freezing during the winter. Snowfall on Jersey is rare, and some years pass with no snowfall on the island at all.