Climate and monthly weather forecast
Big Bear Lake, CA

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Big Bear Lake, California, with close rocks amid trees, and mountains in the distance
Big Bear Lake, California, with close rocks amid trees, and mountains in the distance

The climate of Big Bear Lake

Resting in California, USA, Big Bear Lake boasts a prevailing Mediterranean warm summer climate, known in the Köppen climate classification as Csb. Quite contrary to popular belief about Californian weather, Big Bear Lake's climate offers a unique blend of seasonal variations.

Throughout the year, temperature fluctuations paint a diverse picture of weather conditions. On one extreme, temperatures can soar as high as 88.9°F (31.6°C) in July, marking this month as the warmest. On the cooler front, temperatures commonly plummet to a chilly 37.2°F (2.9°C) in December, reinforcing its claim as the coldest month.

Rainfall patterns also play a central role in shaping Big Bear Lake's climate, with precipitation levels fluctuating significantly from one month to another. February observes the heaviest downpour with 1.26" (32mm) of rainfall, while June witnesses the least rain showers, only recording a scant 0.12" (3mm).

A unique hallmark of Big Bear Lake's climate is its snowfall, which is a prominent feature during winter months. The highest snowfall is registered in April with a substantial 6.42" (163mm). However, Big Bear Lake remains snow-free in the summer months from June to September.

The best time to visit Big Bear Lake

From a meteorological perspective, the most favorable window to visit Big Bear Lake spans from June to September. During these months, visitors can appreciate the region's highest temperatures, ranging from 73°F (22.8°C) in May to 88.9°F (31.6°C) in July. In parallel, this period corresponds to the longest daylight hours, culminating at 14.4 hours in June. Coincidentally, the hours of sunshine peak during these months, providing ample time to soak in California's golden rays.

The worst time to visit Big Bear Lake

On the flip side, the least favorable time to visit Big Bear Lake is during the chillier months of December and January. These months witness the lowest temperatures, dipping to a frigid 37.2°F (2.9°C) in December. Alongside plummeting temperatures, the shorter daylight hours, down to 9.9 hours in December, create compact and colder days. December also sees the highest snowfall of 6.54" (166mm), potentially posing a challenge for visitors unaccustomed to snowy conditions.

Spring weather in Big Bear Lake

Springtime in Big Bear Lake, ranging from March to May, welcomes an uptick in temperatures and a decline in snowfall. March signals the arrival of spring with temperatures fluctuating between 38.8°F (3.8°C) to 60.6°F (15.9°C), coupled with 5.59" (142mm) of snowfall. As the spring season progresses, temperatures climb, reaching between 45.9°F (7.7°C) to 73°F (22.8°C) in May, while snowfall sees a considerable decline to just 1.02" (26mm).

Summer weather in Big Bear Lake

Big Bear Lake's summer, rolling from June to August, is characterized by warm temperatures, minimal rainfall, and ample sunshine. Temperatures are consistently high, peaking at 88.9°F (31.6°C) in July. Rainfall is scarce, plummeting to a mere 0.12" (3mm) in June. The month of June also offers the longest daylight hours, topping at 14.4 hours, allowing visitors an extended period to indulge in outdoor activities.

Autumn weather in Big Bear Lake

September to November denotes the autumn season in Big Bear Lake, with temperatures descending gradually from summer peaks. The mercury reads from a temperature range of 62.6°F (17°C) to 70.9°F (21.6°C) in September, falling to between 66.9°F (19.4°C) and 52.5°F (11.4°C) in November. Rainfall becomes more frequent, yet remains relatively light, amounting to 0.67" (17mm) by November.

Winter weather in Big Bear Lake

Winter in Big Bear Lake extends from December to February. During this time, temperatures further fall, reading between 37.2°F (2.9°C) and 55°F (12.8°C). Snowfall is paramount, with the heaviest snowfall recorded in December, amounting to 6.54" (166mm). Consequently, the charm of a snowy winter attracts a stream of visitors, undeterred by the cold temperatures and shorter daylight hours.

Weather in January

January is typically the coldest month in Big Bear Lake, California, characterized by a brisk chill in the early mornings and evenings. The average high temperature rings in at just 54.5°F (12.5°C), while the lows dip down to a chilly 38.8°F (3.8°C). Weather in January »

Weather in February

The temperatures in Big Bear Lake gradually begin to climb as February sets in. This month is the peak season for winter activities, thanks to the combination of increasing temperatures and substantial snowfall. Interestingly, the city records a rainfall of 1.18" (30mm) spread across 2.8 days along with a snowfall of 4.84" (123mm) across 3.9 days. Weather in February »

Weather in March

As March rolls around, the transition to a more favorable temperature gradient becomes apparent in Big Bear Lake. This month bears witness to a new spring with the temperatures displaying a consistent upward trend. There is a noticeable decrease in snowfall to 5.59" (142mm), hinting towards the arrival of the warmer seasons. Weather in March »

Weather in April

April ushers in the delightful spring season in Big Bear Lake with temperatures becoming increasingly pleasant. The city basks in the beauty of blossoming flowers and sprouting leaves as the last of the winter chills dissipate. This month records the highest level of snowfall for spring at 6.42" (163mm), concluding the snowy season and paving the way for more sunny days. Weather in April »

Weather in May

May brings a more definitive end to the cold weather at Big Bear Lake, with temperatures on the rise. In this month, landscapes transform dramatically as the greenery thrives and wildlife becomes more active. The city records a stark drop in snowfall to just 1.02" (26mm), marking a distinct end to the snowy period. Weather in May »

Weather in June

In June, summer comes into full swing in Big Bear Lake, delivering warm and enjoyable weather that attracts tourists from all over. The month boasts the longest days with 14.4 hours of daylight. An essential aspect to note is that this month records the lowest average rainfall at just 0.12" (3mm). Weather in June »

Weather in July

July is characterized by the highest temperatures of the year in Big Bear Lake, amplifying the festive summer spirit. Crowds flock to enjoy water and outdoor sports during this warm weather period. The city experiences a significant increase in rainfall up to 0.47" (12mm) in just five days. Weather in July »

Weather in August

August maintains the hot weather pattern in Big Bear Lake, with temperatures almost identical to those in July. Despite the heat, the increase in precipitation to 0.35" (9mm) indicates the upcoming return of the wet season. The high temperatures mixed with the increasing rainfall can bring about occasional thunderstorms, providing a captivating scene. Weather in August »

Weather in September

September starts to bring a hint of fall to Big Bear Lake's weather. Temperatures begin to drop slightly, welcoming the first touch of autumn's crisp coolness. A significant drop in rainfall to 0.28" (7mm) signals the gradual transition from the monsoons to fall. Weather in September »

Weather in October

October marks a significant shift in the weather of Big Bear Lake as the autumn season truly sets in. The city ushers in more refreshing mornings and evenings, making way for comfortable weather conditions. Despite the existence of 0.51" (13mm) of rainfall over 2.5 days, the city maintains a pleasant climate, suitable for various outdoor adventures and fall festivities. The average high-temperature drops in October, from September's moderately hot 83.3°F (28.5°C) to a pleasant 70.9°F (21.6°C). Weather in October »

Weather in November

As November arrives, the city of Big Bear Lake experiences a visible reduction in the average high and low temperatures. This heralds the onset of winter and the city prepares for the holiday season. Snow starts to fall once again, with an accumulation of 4.53" (115mm). Weather in November »

Weather in December

By December, the winter season has fully set in at Big Bear Lake, with temperatures dropping further. Snowfall is significant again at 6.54" (166mm) on an average of 2.9 days, setting the city abuzz with winter activities. Despite the colder temperatures, the holiday spirit in the city completely takes over, offering locals and tourists an enchanted winter wonderland experience. Weather in December »
Updated: Aug 23, 2024
Published by: Weather U.S. | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate

Frequently asked questions

How much does it rain?

In Big Bear Lake, California, during the entire year, the rain falls for 41.6 days and collects up to 7.8" (198mm) of precipitation.

When does it snow?

January through May, November and December are months with snowfall.

How many days does it snow?

Throughout the year, in Big Bear Lake, there are 16.1 snowfall days, and 31.22" (793mm) of snow is accumulated.

What is the month with the lowest UV index?

The months with the lowest UV index are January, February, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 3.

When is Daylight Saving Time (DST)?

On Sunday, March 10. 2024, at 2:00 am, Daylight Saving Time starts, and the time zone changes from PST to PDT. Daylight Saving Time ends Sunday, November 3. 2024, at 2:00 am, and the time zone reverts from PDT to PST.

What is the driest month?

June is the month with the least rainfall. Rain falls for 1.4 days and accumulates 0.12" (3mm) of precipitation.

When it does not snow?

June through October are months without snowfall.

When are the longest days?

The month with the longest days is June, with an average of 14h and 24min of daylight.

What is the month with the most sunshine?

June and July, with an average of 12.1h of sunshine, are months with the most sunshine.

When is the highest UV index?

June and July, with an average maximum UV index of 7, are months with the highest UV index.

What part of the year is the hottest?

July, on average, is the warmest month, registering a high temperature of 88.9°F (31.6°C) and a low of 66°F (18.9°C).

What is the least humid month?

The least humid month is August, with an average relative humidity of 29%.

What is the coldest time of year?

Big Bear Lake's December weather, with an average high temperature of 52.5°F (11.4°C) and an average low temperature of 37.2°F (2.9°C), tends to be the coldest of the year.

What is the most humid month?

December is the most humid month in Big Bear Lake, with an average relative humidity of 52%.

What is the wettest month?

December is the month with the most rainfall. Rain falls for 4.7 days and accumulates 1.26" (32mm) of precipitation.

What is the snowiest month?

December is the month with the most snowfall. Snow falls for 2.9 days and accumulates 6.54" (166mm) of snow.

What is the month with the shortest days?

With an average of 9h and 54min of daylight, December has the shortest days of the year.

What is the month with the least sunshine?

December has the least sunshine of the year, with an average of 6.9h of sunshine.

Average temperature
Big Bear Lake, CA

Average temperature - Big Bear Lake, CA

The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (88.9°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is December (52.5°F).

The month with the highest average low temperature is August (66.9°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is December (37.2°F).

Average pressure
Big Bear Lake, CA

Average pressure - Big Bear Lake, CA

The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is January (30.1"Hg).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is June (29.82"Hg).

Average wind speed
Big Bear Lake, CA

Average wind speed - Big Bear Lake, CA

The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is April (8.1mph).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is September (5.6mph).

Average humidity
Big Bear Lake, CA

Average humidity - Big Bear Lake, CA

The month with the highest relative humidity is December (52%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is August (29%).

Average rainfall
Big Bear Lake, CA

Average rainfall - Big Bear Lake, CA

The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is December (1.26").
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is June (0.12").

Average rainfall days
Big Bear Lake, CA

Average rainfall days - Big Bear Lake, CA

The month with the highest number of rainy days is July (5 days).
The month with the least rainy days is June (1.4 days).

Average snowfall
Big Bear Lake, CA

Average snowfall - Big Bear Lake, CA

The month with the highest snowfall is December (6.54").
The months with the least snowfall are June, July, August, September and October (0").

Average snowfall days
Big Bear Lake, CA

Average snowfall days - Big Bear Lake, CA

The month with the highest number of snowfall days is February (3.9 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are June, July, August, September and October (0 days).

Average daylight / Average sunshine
Big Bear Lake, CA

Average daylight / Average sunshine - Big Bear Lake, CA

The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 14h and 24min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 9h and 54min).

The months with the most sunshine are June and July (Average sunshine: 12h and 6min).
The month with the least sunshine is December (Average sunshine: 6h and 54min).

Average sunshine days
Big Bear Lake, CA

Average sunshine days - Big Bear Lake, CA

The month with the most sunshine days is June (28.1 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is February (22.2 days).

Average UV index
Big Bear Lake, CA

Average UV index - Big Bear Lake, CA

The months with the highest UV index are June and July (UV index 7).
The months with the lowest UV index are January, February, November and December (UV index 3).

Average visibility
Big Bear Lake, CA

Average visibility - Big Bear Lake, CA

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).

Big Bear Lake, California, USA

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