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Contents
- The climate of Tempe
- The best time to visit Tempe
- The worst time to visit Tempe
- Spring weather in Tempe
- Summer weather in Tempe
- Autumn weather in Tempe
- Winter weather in Tempe
- Weather in January
- Weather in February
- Weather in March
- Weather in April
- Weather in May
- Weather in June
- Weather in July
- Weather in August
- Weather in September
- Weather in October
- Weather in November
- Weather in December
- Frequently asked questions
- Average temperature
- Average pressure
- Average wind speed
- Average humidity
- Average rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average sunshine days
- Average UV index
- Average cloud cover
- Average visibility
The Tempe Town Lake of Tempe City, Arizona
The climate of Tempe
Map lines of Köppen climate classifications place Tempe, Arizona, USA firmly within a BWh, or subtropical desert, climate zone. This categorization reveals a landscape that experiences high temperatures and scant precipitation throughout the year.
A closer inspection of the region's typical climate information shows that peak temperatures fluctuate vastly over the year, ranging from a more mild 62.8°F (17.1°C) in December to a sweltering 102.6°F (39.2°C) in July. Minimum temperatures also follow this trend. Though the nights are cooler, they, too, range broadly from 46.9°F (8.3°C) in January to an overnight high of 84.4°F (29.1°C) in August. Relative air humidity, another important weather marker, has its lowest values in June at 16%, while it reaches a high of 44% in December.
Precipitation is a rare event in this desert climate. Respective values peak in July at 1.14" (29mm), but drop to a mere 0.08" (2mm) in June, the driest month. If measured in days, rainfall occurs only once in June but hits a maximum of 10.2 days in July. Despite the limited rainfall, Tempe enjoys abundant daylight from 10 hours per day in December to 14.3 hours in June. As for sunshine hours, they remain generous year-round, varying between 6.8 hours in December and 12.1 hours in both June and August.
In subtropical desert climates like Tempe's, wind remains fairly consistent throughout the year, with average speeds generally staying between 4.4mph (7.1km/h) in December and 6.3mph (10.1km/h) from April to May. Nonetheless, sporadic gusts can reach speeds of up to 9.2mph (14.8km/h) in April.
A closer inspection of the region's typical climate information shows that peak temperatures fluctuate vastly over the year, ranging from a more mild 62.8°F (17.1°C) in December to a sweltering 102.6°F (39.2°C) in July. Minimum temperatures also follow this trend. Though the nights are cooler, they, too, range broadly from 46.9°F (8.3°C) in January to an overnight high of 84.4°F (29.1°C) in August. Relative air humidity, another important weather marker, has its lowest values in June at 16%, while it reaches a high of 44% in December.
Precipitation is a rare event in this desert climate. Respective values peak in July at 1.14" (29mm), but drop to a mere 0.08" (2mm) in June, the driest month. If measured in days, rainfall occurs only once in June but hits a maximum of 10.2 days in July. Despite the limited rainfall, Tempe enjoys abundant daylight from 10 hours per day in December to 14.3 hours in June. As for sunshine hours, they remain generous year-round, varying between 6.8 hours in December and 12.1 hours in both June and August.
In subtropical desert climates like Tempe's, wind remains fairly consistent throughout the year, with average speeds generally staying between 4.4mph (7.1km/h) in December and 6.3mph (10.1km/h) from April to May. Nonetheless, sporadic gusts can reach speeds of up to 9.2mph (14.8km/h) in April.
The best time to visit Tempe
Tempe's blistering summer heat can be distressing for visitors unaccustomed to such conditions. Therefore, the preferable time to visit falls largely in the milder months of Spring and Autumn. Lighter temperatures, coupled with the region's abundant sunshine hours, create a pleasant climate which heightens the attractiveness of the months from March to May and September to November.
The worst time to visit Tempe
Unbearing heat marks the summer months as the most uncomfortable time to visit Tempe. The scorching temperatures often exceed 100°F (37.8°C) during this parched season, July's average high being 102.6°F (39.2°C). This extreme climate condition can be a significant deterrent to prospective tourists
Spring weather in Tempe
Typically, Spring graces Tempe with comfortably warm temperatures. The highs can be expected to hover between 64°F (17.8°C) in March and a warmth-filled 90.1°F (32.3°C) by late May, while the Springtime lows scale from 46.9°F (8.3°C) in March to 67.1°F (19.5°C) in May. This season also showcases a reduction in rainfall, diminishing from 0.63" (16mm) in March to as low as 0.12" (3mm) in May. A steady increase in sunshine hours and daylight complements the season, offering bright and long days to enjoy.
Summer weather in Tempe
The summer season in Tempe can be quite challenging due to the extreme heat. From June through August, temperatures frequently nudge their way above 100°F (37.8°C). The nights offer little respite as temperatures linger around a warm 75.7°F (24.3°C) in June and climb to an uncomfortable 84.4°F (29.1°C) in August. This is also the season of major contrast in rainfall patterns, June, with negligible precipitation, to the notably wet July, averaging 1.14" (29mm) of rain.
Autumn weather in Tempe
Autumn marks the retreat of the summer heatwave in Tempe. The transition from September's high of 95.9°F (35.5°C) to November's 73.4°F (23°C) indicates a steady cooling trend. A similar pattern is noticed during the night as the balmy temperature of 77.9°F (25.5°C) in September falls steadily to 55.8°F (13.2°C) in November. Rainfall rates and the number of rain days increase marginally during this period.
Winter weather in Tempe
Winter in Tempe brings the lowest temperatures of the year. With daytime averages oscillating from 73.4°F (23°C) in November down to 62.8°F (17.1°C) in December and overnight lows dropping to 47.3°F (8.5°C) toward the end of the year, this makes it the coolest season. Despite considerable chill in the air, the rainfall remains relatively low, oscillating from 0.51" (13mm) in November to 0.87" (22mm) in December. This period also offers shorter days and reduced sunshine hours compared to the rest of the year.
Weather in January
January is considered the coldest month in Tempe, Arizona, with temperatures ranging from 46.9°F (8.3°C) to 64°F (17.8°C). However, the city still receives more than 7.1 hours of sunlight, allowing for comfortable outdoor activities. Weather in January »
Weather in February
February in Tempe experiences a slight increase in temperatures, rainfall, and daylight hours compared to January. Known for its longer days, February gathers around 11 hours of daylight. The UV index remains relatively low, allowing for ample outdoor exploration without the worry of excessive sun damage. Weather in February »
Weather in March
March brings warmer weather to Tempe, with temperatures ranging from 55.4°F (13°C) to 75.7°F (24.3°C). The city enjoys a little over 12 hours of daylight, complemented by low cloud coverage and moderate wind speeds. Relative humidity drops, influencing a drier climate, and outdoor activities become more enjoyable. Weather in March »
Weather in April
As spring gets into full swing in April, Tempe sees further increases in temperature and sunlight. The amount of rainfall sees a significant decrease to just 0.16" (4mm), marking this month as the onset of the dry period. Expansive, clear blue skies dominate, with only 12% cloud cover, enhancing visibility across the city. Weather in April »
Weather in May
May introduces the residents of Tempe to the beginning of the summer heat with temperatures soaring up to 90.1°F (32.3°C). The cloud cover diminishes noticeably, and like April, May continues the trend of reduced rainfall with only 0.12" (3mm) falling throughout the month. Weather in May »
Weather in June
June in Tempe is marked by the summer solstice providing the most daylight hours of the year, approximately 14.3 hours. The dry landscape is characteristic of this month, with rainfall being almost negligible, only 0.08" (2mm). The comfort provided by the wind begins to wane, while cloud cover also dwindles. Weather in June »
Weather in July
July continues with the high summer temperatures, the mercury often reaching a peak of 102.6°F (39.2°C), the pinnacle for the year. However, this month sees a stark increase in the number of rainy days to 10.2, totalling 1.14" (29mm), offering relief to the parched landscapes of the previous month. Weather in July »
Weather in August
The weather in August maintains similar patterns to July with the city experiencing high temperatures nearing 101.8°F (38.8°C). Rainfall remains relatively high with 0.94" (24mm) spread over nine days. The wind speed slows down, complementing the increased humidity levels. Weather in August »
Weather in September
September sees a decline in temperature and rainfall in Tempe as the transition from summer to fall begins. Even as temperatures drop to a comfortable range, the length of daylight hours decreases noticeably. Relative humidity, cloud cover, and visibility remain fairly constant, ensuring consistent weather throughout the month. Weather in September »
Weather in October
October brings along a significant dip in temperatures, which now range from 66.7°F (19.3°C) to 84.7°F (29.3°C). The weather during this month is characterized by dry conditions with minimal rainfall of 0.94" (24mm). The wind speed remains constant alongside cloud cover, creating a balanced scenario suitable for various activities. Weather in October »
Weather in November
November signifies the onset of winter in Tempe with a noticeable drop in temperature down to 73.4°F (23°C). The amount of hours of sunshine and daylight reduces as the days become shorter. Despite the decrease in temperature, rainfall remains relatively low at 0.51" (13mm), ensuring the weather remains mostly dry. Weather in November »
Weather in December
December is known for its cooler temperatures in Tempe, with the thermometer generally fluctuating between 47.3°F (8.5°C) to 62.8°F (17.1°C). However, despite being the coolest month, the city still enjoys a significant amount of daylight and sunshine. Weather in December »
Updated: Feb 9, 2024
Published by: Weather U.S. | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Published by: Weather U.S. | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Frequently asked questions
How much does it rain in Tempe?
Throughout the year, in Tempe, there are 57.7 rainfall days, and 7.72" (196mm) of precipitation is accumulated.
When is the highest UV index in Tempe?
May through August, with an average maximum UV index of 8, are months with the highest UV index.
What is the least humid month in Tempe?
June is the least humid month, with an average relative humidity of 16%.
What is the driest month in Tempe?
June is the month with the least rainfall in Tempe, Arizona. Rain falls for 1 days and accumulates 0.08" (2mm) of precipitation.
When are the longest days in Tempe?
With an average of 14h and 18min of daylight, June has the longest days of the year.
What is the month with the most sunshine in Tempe?
June and August, with an average of 12.1h of sunshine, are months with the most sunshine in Tempe.
What month is the hottest in Tempe?
In Tempe, Arizona, the peak average temperatures are observed in July, with a high of 102.6°F (39.2°C) and a low of 83.7°F (28.7°C).
What is the rainiest month in Tempe?
July is the month with the most rainfall. Rain falls for 10.2 days and accumulates 1.14" (29mm) of precipitation.
What part of the year is the coldest in Tempe?
December is the coldest month of the year in Tempe, registering average temperatures as high as 62.8°F (17.1°C) and as low as 47.3°F (8.5°C).
What is the most humid month in Tempe?
December is the most humid month in Tempe, with an average relative humidity of 44%.
What is the month with the shortest days in Tempe?
With an average of 10h and 0min of daylight, December has the shortest days of the year in Tempe, Arizona.
Is there Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Tempe?
Tempe does not observe Daylight Saving Time (DST). MST timezone is used throughout the entire year.
What is the month with the least sunshine in Tempe?
December has the least sunshine of the year, with an average of 6.8h of sunshine.
When is the lowest UV index in Tempe?
With an average maximum UV index of 3, December is the month with the lowest UV index.
Average temperature
Tempe, AZ
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (102.6°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is December (62.8°F).
The month with the highest average low temperature is August (84.4°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (46.9°F).
Average pressure
Tempe, AZ
- Average pressure in January:
30.09"Hg - Average pressure in February:
30.02"Hg - Average pressure in March:
29.97"Hg - Average pressure in April:
29.88"Hg - Average pressure in May:
29.84"Hg - Average pressure in June:
29.81"Hg
- Average pressure in July:
29.88"Hg - Average pressure in August:
29.87"Hg - Average pressure in September:
29.87"Hg - Average pressure in October:
29.92"Hg - Average pressure in November:
30.01"Hg - Average pressure in December:
30.06"Hg
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is January (30.09"Hg).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is June (29.81"Hg).
Average wind speed
Tempe, AZ
- Average wind speed in January:
4.6mph - Average wind speed in February:
4.7mph - Average wind speed in March:
5.3mph - Average wind speed in April:
6.3mph - Average wind speed in May:
6.3mph - Average wind speed in June:
5.8mph
- Average wind speed in July:
5.8mph - Average wind speed in August:
5.1mph - Average wind speed in September:
5.1mph - Average wind speed in October:
4.8mph - Average wind speed in November:
4.8mph - Average wind speed in December:
4.4mph
The windiest months (with the highest average wind speed) are April and May (6.3mph).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is December (4.4mph).
Average humidity
Tempe, AZ
The month with the highest relative humidity is December (44%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is June (16%).
Average rainfall
Tempe, AZ
- Average rainfall in January:
0.59" - Average rainfall in February:
0.79" - Average rainfall in March:
0.63" - Average rainfall in April:
0.16" - Average rainfall in May:
0.12" - Average rainfall in June:
0.08"
- Average rainfall in July:
1.14" - Average rainfall in August:
0.94" - Average rainfall in September:
0.94" - Average rainfall in October:
0.94" - Average rainfall in November:
0.51" - Average rainfall in December:
0.87"
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is July (1.14").
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is June (0.08").
Average rainfall days
Tempe, AZ
- Average rainfall days in January:
4.3 days - Average rainfall days in February:
4.1 days - Average rainfall days in March:
3.6 days - Average rainfall days in April:
2.9 days - Average rainfall days in May:
1.8 days - Average rainfall days in June:
1 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
10.2 days - Average rainfall days in August:
9.3 days - Average rainfall days in September:
7.3 days - Average rainfall days in October:
3.9 days - Average rainfall days in November:
2.8 days - Average rainfall days in December:
6.5 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is July (10.2 days).
The month with the least rainy days is June (1 days).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Tempe, AZ
- Average daylight in January:
10h and 1min - Average daylight in February:
11h and 0min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 0min - Average daylight in April:
13h and 0min - Average daylight in May:
13h and 5min - Average daylight in June:
14h and 2min
- Average daylight in July:
14h and 1min - Average daylight in August:
13h and 2min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 2min - Average daylight in October:
11h and 2min - Average daylight in November:
10h and 2min - Average daylight in December:
10h and 0min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 14h and 18min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 10h and 0min).
- Average sunshine in January:
7h and 1min - Average sunshine in February:
9h and 1min - Average sunshine in March:
9h and 1min - Average sunshine in April:
10h and 5min - Average sunshine in May:
11h and 5min - Average sunshine in June:
12h and 1min
- Average sunshine in July:
12h and 0min - Average sunshine in August:
12h and 1min - Average sunshine in September:
9h and 4min - Average sunshine in October:
8h and 1min - Average sunshine in November:
7h and 2min - Average sunshine in December:
6h and 5min
The months with the most sunshine are June and August (Average sunshine: 12h and 6min).
The month with the least sunshine is December (Average sunshine: 6h and 48min).
Average sunshine days
Tempe, AZ
- Average sunshine days in January:
26 days - Average sunshine days in February:
23.8 days - Average sunshine days in March:
27.8 days - Average sunshine days in April:
27.8 days - Average sunshine days in May:
28.7 days - Average sunshine days in June:
27.8 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
16.8 days - Average sunshine days in August:
17.8 days - Average sunshine days in September:
20.9 days - Average sunshine days in October:
26.4 days - Average sunshine days in November:
26.4 days - Average sunshine days in December:
24.1 days
The month with the most sunshine days is May (28.7 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is July (16.8 days).
Average UV index
Tempe, AZ
The months with the highest UV index are May, June, July and August (UV index 8).
The month with the lowest UV index is December (UV index 3).
Average cloud cover
Tempe, AZ
The month with the most cloud cover is December (Cloud cover 21).
The month with the least cloud cover is June (Cloud cover 5).
Average visibility
Tempe, AZ
The months with the highest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (6mi).
The months with the lowest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (6mi).
Tempe, Arizona, USA
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