April 2026 proved to be an exceptionally dry and cloudy month across Gelderland, with weather conditions significantly departing from historical norms. The province experienced notably subdued conditions throughout the period, marked by remarkably low precipitation and sunshine levels that stood in stark contrast to typical spring weather patterns.
Temperature Overview
The average temperature for April in Gelderland reached 8.7 degrees Celsius, falling 1.2 degrees below the normal average of 9.9 degrees. This cooler-than-usual pattern was evident from the month's opening, with Berkelland recording the lowest temperature of -1.9 degrees on April 1st. The warmest conditions occurred early in the month, with Harderwijk reaching 15.7 degrees on April 4th, providing a brief respite from the generally cool conditions that characterized most of the period.
Precipitation Patterns
April 2026 was extraordinarily dry across Gelderland, with total precipitation averaging just 5.3 millimeters—a dramatic 94 percent below the normal monthly total of 82.4 millimeters. This severe deficit in rainfall was one of the most striking features of the month. Montferland recorded the wettest single day on April 4th with 5.5 millimeters of precipitation, while Apeldoorn accumulated the highest total for any location at 8.2 millimeters across the entire month. The persistent lack of moisture highlighted an unusual spring pattern for the region.
Sunshine and Notable Conditions
Cloud cover dominated the month, with sunshine totaling just 28.0 hours—a severe 90 percent reduction compared to the normal 278.2 hours expected for April. This combination of cool temperatures, minimal rainfall, and persistent cloud cover created distinctly gloomy spring conditions throughout Gelderland. The month presented a stark contrast to typical April weather, with residents experiencing an unusually subdued and overcast period despite the calendar suggesting the arrival of spring.