The climate of Elgin
Situated in the midwestern region of the United States,
Elgin,
Illinois, operates under a Dfa climate according to the Köppen climate classification. The Dfa climate encapsulates a humid continental climate, defined by no dry season, with a relatively hot summer.
Elgin's annual weather pattern sees a striking difference in temperatures from winter to summer, offering a wide range.
January exhibits the coldest temperatures, with low averages sitting around 15.4°F (-9.2°C) and highs reaching up to 27.3°F (-2.6°C). Transitioning into the height of summer,
July records the warmest temperatures with an average low of 63.9°F (17.7°C), peaking at a hot 80.6°F (27°C). As the months progress, the temperature gradually decreases into autumn and winter.
Humidity remains relatively stable, fluctuating lightly from 76 to 84%. A consistent pattern characterizes precipitation, with rainfall amounting between 1.14" (29mm) to 3.03" (77mm) across the year. Interaction with significant snowfall is also seen from
December to
March with peaks reaching 3.62" (92mm) in January.
The most sunshine in Elgin radiates between
June and
August, recording up to 9.8 hours per day. However, this period also sees the least cloud cover - notable in July with cloud presence at 34% - signifying clearer skies during this period. On the other hand, the winter months record shorter daylight hours and a higher density of cloud coverage.
The best time to visit Elgin
For those who appreciate mild, comfortable temperatures, the best time to visit
Elgin would be during the late spring and early summer months. From
May to
June, the average high temperature hovers between 67.6°F (19.8°C) and 76.6°F (24.8°C). Along with these inviting temperatures, Elgin boasts long days with an average daylight duration exceeding 14.5 to 15.2 hours. Furthermore, the weather during these months is typically sunny, with average sunshine hours per day reaching 8.3 to 9.5 hours.
The worst time to visit Elgin
Deciding the worst time for visiting
Elgin depends largely on an individual's weather preferences. However, for those who are unenthusiastic about cold weather and limited sunshine, the winter months of
December through
February could be considered less appealing. During these months, the average high temperature falls between 27.3°F (-2.6°C) and 33.4°F (0.8°C) with lows dipping down to 15.4°F (-9.2°C) in
January. Daylight is also significantly reduced, with an average of 9.2 hours in December.
Spring weather in Elgin
Spring in
Elgin brings a pleasant shift in climate after the chilling winter months.
March typically marks the end of the snowy season with a decline to just 1.22" (31mm) of snowfall. As the season progresses from March to
May, temperatures rise from an average high of 44.2°F (6.8°C) to 67.6°F (19.8°C). Spring also experiences an extension in daylight hours with an increase from 12 hours to 14.6 hours from March to May.
Summer weather in Elgin
Summers in
Elgin are characteristically warm with temperature highs between 76.6°F (24.8°C) in
June and 80.6°F (27°C) in
July. It's also the time of year with the longest days, with daylight hours peaking at 15.2 hours in June. The warmth of the summer months is complemented by a surge in sunshine hours, escalating to an impressive 9.8 hours per day in July.
Autumn weather in Elgin
Autumn in
Elgin sees a gradual decrease in temperature from the summer highs.
September introduces the season with an average high of 73°F (22.8°C), falling by
October to a milder 59.9°F (15.5°C). By the end of
November, temperatures dip significantly with average highs at 45.1°F (7.3°C). Autumn weather in Elgin also indicates a change in precipitation, with rainfall reducing to an average of 1.14" (29mm) by November.
Winter weather in Elgin
Winter in
Elgin is defined by cold temperatures and elevated amounts of snowfall. Starting from
December, average high temperatures hover around the freezing point, maintaining at 27.3°F (-2.6°C) in
January, and rising slightly to 33.4°F (0.8°C) by
February. Corresponding low temperatures can reach a shivering 15.4°F (-9.2°C) in January. The season also carries a fair amount of snow, with January seeing the maximum average snowfall of 3.62" (92mm).
Weather in January
January marks the coldest month in
Elgin,
Illinois. High temperatures average at a frosty 27.3°F (-2.6°C), while lows can plummet to 15.4°F (-9.2°C), offering chills that penetrate through even the thickest winter clothing.
Weather in January » Weather in February
February continues with substantially cold conditions in
Elgin. While there is a slight increase from
January's frigid conditions, it is not enough to consider it a breakthrough from winter's grasp. Due to the persistently low temperatures, snowfall remains prevalent, adding to the white wintertime vista.
Weather in February » Weather in March
March signifies a transitional month regarding the weather in
Elgin. Conditions start to soften with warmer temperatures, which is a welcome change from the biting cold of the previous months. This transition brings occasional light showers and a reduction in snowfall.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
In
April, spring blossoms fully in
Elgin, bringing with it milder temperatures and longer hours of daylight. However, the increase in temperature ushers in a high chance of rainfall, with a monthly average of 2.8" (71mm). Interestingly, April boasts the most rainfall days, with a monthly average of 15.9 days.
Weather in April »Weather in May
May in
Elgin documents a significant shift in weather conditions. The arrival of spring's peak marks a farewell to the cold and mellow welcoming of the warmth. Rainfall persists albeit with reduced frequency, maintaining a stable supply of water for flora and fauna.
Weather in May » Weather in June
The weather in
June is synonymous with the cheerful arrival of summer in
Elgin. Clear skies, warm temperatures, and reduced rainfall characteristics define this period. Reduced humidity cooperates with the rising temperatures, producing a pleasantly warm climate.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July underlines the middle of summer in
Elgin. On average, this month is the warmest, with temperatures hitting a peak of 80.6°F (27°C). This period promises plenty of sunshine and longer daylight hours, suitable for various outdoor activities.
Weather in July » Weather in August
August in
Elgin characterizes the tail end of summer. Although temperatures begin to subside compared to
July, they continue to thrive in the high range, extending the warmth of the summer season. Rainfall begins to pick up slightly, yet the generally dry conditions persist.
Weather in August » Weather in September
September in
Elgin observes the onset of fall. As summer dissipates, autumn takes its course with milder temperatures and sporadically raining skies. The vivid green nature backdrop starts to transform into a kaleidoscope of fall colors.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October in
Elgin translates into the prime of autumn. Signifying a complete departure from summer, the city is cloaked in multi-hued foliage, creating a picturesque setting. Falling temperatures signal a transition towards the colder end of the year.
Weather in October » Weather in November
The arrival of
November in
Elgin suggest the outset of the colder season. Rapid temperature changes gradually push the city towards winter. The first frost usually appears during this month, shaping the path for the upcoming winter.
Weather in November »Weather in December
December in
Elgin brings with it a climatic close to the year. Winter fully sets in, throttling down temperatures to a low average of 23.4°F (-4.8°C). The month introduces high possibilities of snowfall, leading to striking winter scenes.
Weather in December »