The climate of Durango
According to the Köppen climate classification,
Durango,
Colorado in the United States, displays a Dfb climate. Dominating this locale is a humid continental climate, characterised by no dry season and warm summers. The geographical position of Durango contributes largely to its distinctive weather patterns, as it lies nestled within the mountainous regions.
Throughout the year, there are noticeable oscillations in temperature, humidity, and precipitation levels. Temperatures range from a humble 13.3°F (-10.4°C) in the coldest months to a warm 76.3°F (24.6°C) during the peak of summer. It's worth noting that humidity levels mimic a reverse bell curve, starting and ending the year at relatively high levels (82% in
January and 76% in
December), but dipping to a mild 37% in
June. Rainfall follows an intriguing trend, with the highest precipitation of 3.07" (78mm) occurring not in winter, but in the summer month of
July.
Durango's landscape is colored white for a significant part of the year. Snowfall is substantial between December and
March, with the city blanketed under 14.49" (368mm) of snow in December and 14.57" (370mm) in
February. It is quite unique that the city sees no snowfall from June to
September.
The best time to visit Durango
For those who seek mild temperatures and relatively low humidity,
June proves to be the most suitable month. Temperatures in June reach a pleasant 73.9°F (23.3°C) with the least humidity of 37%. This month also boasts the highest daylight hours of 14.7 hours per day. Despite receiving a moderate rainfall amount of 0.94" (24mm),
Durango in June proves to be quite welcoming for outdoor activities.
The worst time to visit Durango
July, despite being a summer month, might not be the ideal time for a visit. Rising to its annual peak, rainfall reaches 3.07" (78mm). Coupled with summer temperatures of 76.3°F (24.6°C), this period can feel relatively humid and uncomfortable. Moreover, July sees the least number of sunshine days, with only 6.9 days of clear skies.
Spring weather in Durango
Spring, encompassing the months from
March to
May, witnesses a significant rise in temperatures. From a cool 41.9°F (5.5°C) in March, temperatures rise to a comfortable 59.9°F (15.5°C) by May. Rainfall during this period is moderate, hovering between 1.73" (44mm) in March to 1.38" (35mm) in May. The amount of snowfall drops considerably, diminishing to 4.17" (106mm) in May. As spring progresses,
Durango also begins to bask in lengthier daylight hours, from 12 hours in March to 14.2 hours in May.
Summer weather in Durango
Temperatures peak during the summer months of
June,
July, and
August, reaching a high of 76.3°F (24.6°C) in July. Relative humidity is at its annual low during this season, creating ideal conditions for outdoor exploration. However, caution should be exercised in July, which sees a substantial increase in rainfall to 3.07" (78mm). The longer daylight hours, ranging from 14.7 hours in June to 13.5 hours in August, provide ample opportunities for sightseeing and adventure.
Autumn weather in Durango
Autumn in
Durango unveils a slight drop in temperatures from 73.9°F (23.3°C) in
September to 43.5°F (6.4°C) in
November. Rainfall decreases progressively from 2.01" (51mm) in September to 1.26" (32mm) in November. Despite the drop in temperature, the level of sunshine remains fairly stable, providing an average of 16.6 days of sunlight per month during the autumn.
Winter weather in Durango
Winter in
Durango comes with a significant drop in temperatures, plummeting to 13.3°F (-10.4°C) in
January and a slight rise to 14.7°F (-9.6°C) in
February. A blanket of snow covers the city in these chilly months, with substantial snowfall measurements of 13.39" (340mm) in January and 14.57" (370mm) in February. Despite the frigid temperatures, Durango receives a generous amount of sunshine, averaging 6.2 hours per day in
December. However, the town becomes a winter wonderland for those who enjoy cold temperatures and snowy landscapes.
Weather in January
January in
Durango,
Colorado commences with a distinct chilly essence. It is colder when compared to the following month with the lowest temperature descending to 13.3°F (-10.4°C). Snowfall, being a common occurrence, blankets the city, lending it a pristine, winter-wonderland charm.
Weather in January » Weather in February
February sees a subtle shift in
Durango's weather with a slight incline in temperature. Yet the dominant frosty conditions continue with a high of just 33.4°F (0.8°C), making warm clothing a necessity. A trend of snowfall persists from the preceding month, keeping the city’s ski slopes bustling with activity.
Weather in February » Weather in March
As
March sets in
Durango, the winter chill gradually begins to wane, ushering in signs of spring. This transition month witnesses diminishing snowfall while rainfall starts to take prominence. The average peak temperature gets a considerable boost to reach 41.9°F (5.5°C).
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April brings a definitive change in
Durango's weather scenario with the city bidding adieu to its last remnants of snowfall. Experiencing a considerable rise in temperature, the city sees a mild 50.2°F (10.1°C) as its highest. Rainfall is sporadic, however, it adds to the freshness of the month.
Weather in April » Weather in May
May in
Durango represents a distinct transition phase from spring to the onset of summer. Temperatures continue to elevate, adhering to the trend of the preceding month. Nature monopolizes the cityscape with its lush greens, courtesy of the 1.38" (35mm) average rainfall.
Weather in May » Weather in June
When
June arrives, summer is in full swing in
Durango. The weather warms up significantly and on average it peaks at 73.9°F (23.3°C). Sunshine dominates the majority of days providing ample opportunities for outdoor adventures. Relative humidity reaches its annual low, which allows for a comfortably dry climate.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July, being the peak of the summer season, boasts the highest temperature of the year in
Durango,
Colorado, with an average high of 76.3°F (24.6°C). Despite the increased heat, the months promises an abundance of fun under the sun with several outdoor activities and events taking place.
Weather in July » Weather in August
August maintains the rhythm of the preceding month in
Durango with a consistent high of 73.9°F (23.3°C). It blends the summer warmth with frequent rain showers which continue from
July. The landscapes remain lush and vibrant, making it an ideal time for hiking and exploring the scenic trails.
Weather in August » Weather in September
September brings about a noticeable change in
Durango's weather. With the peak temperature lowering to 67.5°F (19.7°C), the shift from summer to fall starts to show. The initial hints of fall colors start to flash in the city's picturesque landscapes.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October imbues
Durango in the full glory of fall with a kaleidoscope of colors adorning cityscapes. The plunge in temperature becomes more evident, hinting at the approaching winter season. Yet, with an average high of 55.4°F (13°C), the weather remains moderately comfortable.
Weather in October » Weather in November
November indicates the outset of winter in
Durango, with temperatures dropping rapidly. A marked decrease in temperature is observed with the high standing at only 43.5°F (6.4°C). The prominence of rain subsides, often replaced by the first snowflakes of the season towards the end of the month.
Weather in November » Weather in December
December in
Durango marks the height of winter with chilly days and colder nights. The high temperature dips to 32.4°F (0.2°C), highlighting the full effect of winter's grasp on the city. The prevalence of high humidity and frequent snowfall transforms the city into a snowy paradise, which attracts winter sports enthusiasts.
Weather in December »