The climate of Indianapolis
Geographically situated within the mid-west portion of the United States,
Indianapolis,
Indiana, typifies the Humid Subtropical climate. Under the Köppen climate classification, it holds the designation of Cfa, with high levels of humidity and no dry season. A year-round analysis of weather patterns in Indianapolis indicates mild to occasionally high temperature variances with distinct seasonal changes.
The city experiences temperatures ranging from a low 21°F (-6.1°C) during winter months to a high of up to 82°F (27.8°C) during summer. Similarly, humidity levels fluctuate between 73% to 82%, portraying the persistently high moisture content typical of a subtropical climate. Rainfall in Indianapolis shows moderate variability throughout the year, with monthly averages fluctuating from 1.22" (31mm) to 2.68" (68mm).
The quantity of daylight, sun exposure, and UV index each align with seasonal expectations. Extended daylight hours from 14.4 to 15 hours mark the summer months. Concurrently, warmer months exhibit more sunshine hours and a higher UV index of 6. Winter, on the other hand, sees shorter daylight hours from 9.4 to 10.7 hours, fewer hours of sunshine, and a lower UV index of 2.
The best time to visit Indianapolis
Visitors may find the period between
May and
June to be the most favorable for planning a trip to
Indianapolis. The city experiences moderately high temperatures from 61.5°F (16.4°C) to 71.8°F (22.1°C) during this period. Coupled with the longest daylight hours and a favorable UV index, these months offer excellent conditions for outdoor activities.
The worst time to visit Indianapolis
Travelers might want to avoid the coldest months of
January and
February, as
Indianapolis experiences rather chilly conditions during this time. The average low temperatures sink to 21°F (-6.1°C) and go up to just 38.3°F (3.5°C) making it less inviting for outdoor excursions or activities.
Spring weather in Indianapolis
Spring ushers in
Indianapolis gradually with temperatures ascending from a cool 50°F (10°C) in
March to a warmer 71.8°F (22.1°C) in
May. It's also the start of the rainy season, with rainfall reaching up to 2.68" (68mm) in the culminating month of May. The expanding daylight hours and increased sunshine hours certainly boost the allure of the spring season.
Summer weather in Indianapolis
Summer in the city usually runs from
June through
August, with temperatures rocketing between 80.2°F (26.8°C) to 82°F (27.8°C), making it the hot spot of the year. Rainfall inches down marginally from 2.48" (63mm) to 1.65" (42mm) during these months. The extended hours of daylight, consistent UV index, and highest sunshine exposure accentuate the heat of the season.
Autumn weather in Indianapolis
Autumn starts to settle in
Indianapolis around
September, as temperatures descend comfortably from 75.9°F (24.4°C) to a cooler 49.3°F (9.6°C) by
November. While warm clothing might be needed, this season experiences relatively less rainfall ranging from 1.46" (37mm) to1.3" (33mm). Daylight hours and sunshine hours gradually shrink, reflecting the seasonal transition.
Winter weather in Indianapolis
As
December ushers in winter,
Indianapolis commences a phase of cold, with temperatures settling between 38.3°F (3.5°C) to a low of 21°F (-6.1°C) throughout the season. Light snowfall begins to mark the landscape with their presence, accumulating about 2.28" (58mm) in December. The shortened daylight hours and minimal sunshine mirror the frosty conditions characteristic of this season.
Weather in January
The start of the year in
Indianapolis,
Indiana brings with it a typical winter climate. Blankets of snow cover the city as temperatures struggle to surpass 33.4°F (0.8°C) and can dip as low as 21°F (-6.1°C). Expect frost-crusted mornings and frostbite-inducing nights.
Weather in January »Weather in February
Moving into
February,
Indianapolis experiences a slight climate shift as temperatures begin to slowly rise, reaching a peak of 38.3°F (3.5°C). The snowfall tapers off from
January levels, but one can still expect to see the snow-capped cityscape.
Weather in February »Weather in March
March marks a significant change in weather for
Indianapolis as the city finally begins to thaw. Temperatures rise to a comfortable maximum of around 50°F (10°C) making outdoor activities more appealing. The dusting of snow the city receives is a residual goodbye wave from the winter.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
The arrival of
April signals the arrival of spring in full bloom across
Indianapolis. Temperatures, more agreeable now, swing between 61.5°F (16.4°C) to a minimum of 45.1°F (7.3°C). The snow has completely retreated leaving greenery in its wake.
Weather in April »Weather in May
May brings with it the true essence of spring in
Indianapolis. The climate attains a pleasant balance as temperatures hover around 71.8°F (22.1°C). Longer days provide ample sunshine to the city, ensuring beautiful days for picnics and walks in the parks.
Weather in May » Weather in June
June in
Indianapolis signals the onset of summer with a high average temperature reaching around 80.2°F (26.8°C). The weather becomes more inviting for use of the city's outdoor amenities. Increased daylight hours certainly add a charm to the city's numerous outdoor events.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July rightly earns the distinction of being the hottest month in
Indianapolis with an average high temperature of 82°F (27.8°C). The summer sun shines brightly, dominating the city's weather pattern. Although the city is at its warmest, it's a great time for locals and tourists to enjoy water-sports and other outdoor activities.
Weather in July » Weather in August
In
August,
Indianapolis sees slightly lower temperatures than the previous month, with temperatures varying from 81.1°F (27.3°C) to 64°F (17.8°C). While the sun continues to rule the sky, there's no dearth of refreshing breezes.
Weather in August »Weather in September
September brings with it a welcoming transition from the heat of summer to the cool of autumn in
Indianapolis. While temperatures remain high at about 75.9°F (24.4°C), there’s an evident decrease towards the end of the month.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October in
Indianapolis carries the essence of autumn, an intermediate period between the warm summer and brisk winter. As temperatures moderate, falling to an average low of 47.3°F (8.5°C), the city is imbued with a refreshing chill.
Weather in October » Weather in November
November witnesses a significant drop in temperature, as
Indianapolis braces for the upcoming winter. With the mercury dropping to an average low of 36.1°F (2.3°C), the city dons its winter attire. The chill air brings with it a sense of anticipation for the impending holiday season.
Weather in November » Weather in December
December in
Indianapolis can be described as a perfect winter wonderland with the landscape turning shades of white thanks to an average snowfall of 2.28" (58mm). The temperature hovers around a chilly 38.3°F (3.5°C), while the holiday lights twinkle across the cityscape.
Weather in December »