The south west is generally very dry, but winds in the region can be dry and strong. In the south, they can be very strong indeed.
Average rainfall from April to July averages just three days of generally light 'drizzly' rain. August and September are relatively dry with just a couple of wet days in August and typically four in September.
December and January tend to be the wettest months with rain on an average eight days of which at least four are could be considered heavy. March is quite dry by comparison with rain on an average four days of which two are heavy.
Temperatures are almost the same as in Provence, but can be a little cooler by the sea or at higher altitudes. They are typically around 12°C during December / January with February the coldest month at 8°C. By March, there is a steep rise to just over 14°C. April and May produce balmy, spring-like weather with temperatures of 18°C rising to 21°C, but the frequent breezes can make the nights cool.
Summer temperatures are the highest in France and consistent throughout the region from a low of 24°C in June to 26°C in July and August. September sees them start to drop slightly to 22°C, dipping to about 19°C in October with a further drop in November.
Coastal area temperatures tend to be slightly lower than the rest of the region due to the effects of the sea breezes that are blow throughout the summer months. In general, areas around gorges and mountains tend to be slightly wetter and colder than the regional average.
By contrast, there is regular snowfall on the mountains and the very high hills. The Pyrenees, at the limits of the south-west, provide excellent skiing.