Climate[edit]
Manchester experiences a temperate Oceanic climate, like much of the British Isles, with mild summers and cool winters. There is regular but generally light precipitation throughout the year. The city's average annual rainfall is 806.6 millimetres (31.76 in)[62] compared to the UK average of 1,125.0 millimetres (44.29 in),[63] and its mean rain days are 140.4 per annum,[62] compared to the UK average of 154.4.[63] Manchester however has a relatively high humidity level and this, along with the abundant supply of soft water, was one of the factors that led to the localisation of the textile industry in the area.[64] Snowfalls are not common in the city, due to the urban warming effect. However, the Pennine and Rossendale Forest hills that surround the city to its east and north receive more snow and roads leading out of the city can be closed due to snow.[65] notably the A62 road via Oldham and Standedge, the A57 (Snake Pass) towards Sheffield,[66] and the M62 over Saddleworth Moor.