Climate and monthly weather forecast
Florida, USA

Florida has a climate that ranges from a humid subtropical (Köppen climate classification Cfa) in its north and central parts to tropical (Köppen climate classification Aw) in the south.
The state has the Gulf of Mexico to the west, Alabama, and Georgia to the north, the Atlantic Ocean to the west, and the Straits of Florida to the south. Florida has the longest coastline and is the southernmost contiguous state of all American states. Most of the state is at sea level - low elevation, low latitude, and proximity to vast bodies of water significantly influence the climate.

The best time to visit Florida is during spring from March to Mid-May when the weather is pleasant, with temperatures relatively milder than the peak summer and clear skies.
The average sea temperature in the 70°F (21.1°C) to 75°F (23.9°C) range makes it refreshing for swimming and surfing.
Though the temperatures are not extreme in summer, it is a good idea to avoid it due to the arrival of the wet season and the increased probability of thunderstorms and hurricanes. Sometimes the hurricane season stretches until December, which makes it a little dicey to visit Florida in winter compared to the brilliant spring weather.

August to October is the worst time to visit Florida during the wet season that lasts from May to October.
Thunderstorms and hurricanes pose a threat to the usually pristine weather, particularly from August to October. Afternoon storms are frequent from late spring to early fall with lightning and heavy rain. Hail often accompanies the storms that produce two-thirds of the annual precipitation of the state. Rain and stormy conditions can sometimes last until December in an odd year. The hurricane season seldom passes without a single storm that affects Florida.

Florida's spring, which spans from March to mid-May, promises pleasant and enjoyable weather. During this period, the state experiences moderately warm temperatures and clear skies, offering the perfect backdrop for outdoor activities. The ocean water, warmed by the Gulf Stream, hovers between 70°F (21.1°C) to 75°F (23.9°C), which is conducive for water sports. Thunderstorms are less frequent, and the overall climate feels mild and refreshing, making it a favorite among visitors.

Florida's summer, from June to August, is characterized by its high temperatures and intense humidity. Afternoon thunderstorms become a daily occurrence, often accompanied by lightning. The state holds the title for the most lightning strikes in the United States during this period. Despite the scorching heat, high temperatures are regulated by the nearby ocean and rarely exceed 100°F (37.8°C). African dust outbreaks, while affecting air quality, still leave Florida with some of the cleanest air in the United States.

Autumn in Florida, which spans September to November, continues to see substantial rainfall, especially in the earlier months. Thunderstorms remain common, although they decrease in frequency as winter approaches. Temperatures begin to drop gradually, yet remain relatively warm, especially closer to the coastline where the Gulf Stream's influence is more pronounced. The risk of hurricanes is also higher during this season, especially in the early months.

Winters in Florida, from December to February, are milder compared to many other American states. Northern parts of the state might experience temperatures from 40°F (4.4°C) to 45°F (7.2°C), while southern regions enjoy milder conditions from 60°F (15.6°C) to 65°F (18.3°C). Snowfall is a rare event in southern Florida and sparse in the north. However, frost is not uncommon, and fog tends to be a regular feature during this season. The occasional passage of storms from the north can bring light rainfall in the early winter months.

January stands as one of the cooler months in Florida's calendar. Geographically speaking, the state experiences a disparity in temperature based on its latitude. In the northern regions, cities such as Tallahassee and Jacksonville generally witness temperatures from 40°F (4.4°C) to 45°F (7.2°C). Weather in January »

February, being a transitional month in Florida, experiences a gradual warming trend. Cities in the north such as Tallahassee and Jacksonville typically witness temperatures that slightly edge past those of January, ranging from 42°F (5.6°C) to 50°F (10°C). Weather in February »

March in Florida marks the beginning of spring and comes with a noticeable increase in temperatures across the state. In the northern cities, such as Tallahassee and Jacksonville, temperatures generally vary from 50°F (10°C) to 58°F (14.4°C). Weather in March »

April in Florida signifies a deeper dive into spring, accompanied by a palpable rise in temperatures. The northern sectors of the state, encompassing cities such as Tallahassee and Jacksonville, typically experience temperatures ranging from 55°F (12.8°C) to 65°F (18.3°C). Weather in April »

May ushers in a definitive turn towards the warmer months in Florida. In northern regions, encompassing cities like Tallahassee and Jacksonville, temperatures typically settle between 65°F (18.3°C) and 75°F (23.9°C). Conversely, in the southern belt, including locales like Miami and Key West, the thermometer often reads between 78°F (25.6°C) and 83°F (28.3°C). When juxtaposed with April, May exhibits an enhanced warmth, nudging the state closer to its characteristic summer heat. Weather in May »

June in Florida is emblematic of the full-fledged onset of summer, characterized by rising temperatures and significant humidity. Northern cities, such as Tallahassee and Jacksonville, typically experience temperatures ranging from 70°F (21.1°C) to 80°F (26.7°C). Weather in June »

July, situated at the heart of Florida's summer, is known for its sweltering heat and high humidity. In the northern regions, cities like Tallahassee and Jacksonville usually experience temperatures between 72°F (22.2°C) and 85°F (29.4°C). Weather in July »

August in Florida is emblematic of the peak summer season, marked by persistent warmth and pronounced humidity. The northern parts of the state, encompassing areas like Tallahassee and Jacksonville, generally experience temperatures from 70°F (21.1°C) to 84°F (28.9°C). Weather in August »

In Florida, September is a transitional month, signaling the gradual shift from summer's peak heat to the milder conditions of fall. In the northern regions, such as Tallahassee and Jacksonville, temperatures commonly float between 68°F (20°C) and 82°F (27.8°C). Weather in September »

As Florida welcomes October, there's a palpable shift from the sweltering summer to the more temperate conditions of fall. The northern regions, comprising cities like Tallahassee and Jacksonville, witness temperatures generally ranging between 58°F (14.4°C) and 77°F (25°C). Weather in October »

November in Florida heralds the arrival of late fall, characterized by discernibly cooler temperatures and drier conditions. In the northern locales, like Tallahassee and Jacksonville, temperatures usually span between 48°F (8.9°C) and 70°F (21.1°C). Weather in November »

December in Florida symbolizes the commencement of winter, although its manifestations are quite different from many northern states. In the northern pockets, encompassing cities like Tallahassee and Jacksonville, temperatures generally fluctuate between 42°F (5.6°C) and 64°F (17.8°C). Weather in December »