Climate and monthly weather forecast
Lexington, KY

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A sunset view of the ancient buildings in Lexington, Kentucky
A sunset view of the ancient buildings in Lexington, Kentucky

The climate of Lexington

Lexington, nestled in the heartland of Kentucky, USA, enjoys a Humid subtropical climate, with no dry season, according to Köppen climate classification's Cfa category. Its geographical position renders a weather picture that plays out over four distinct seasons, with abundant rainfall and a significant range in temperature throughout the year.

In Lexington, the year swings from cold winters with average low temperatures dipping down to 25.7°F (-3.5°C) in January to warm summers pushing the mercury up to 85.1°F (29.5°C) in July. The city's temperature gauge swings between these two extremes, punctuated by the more moderate readings of spring and autumn.

The region sees consistent rainfall throughout the year, with the rainfall amounts oscillating from 2.32" (59mm) in September to 3.82" (97mm) in May. This wetness impacts the relative humidity, with a marginally higher average of 81% in February and a slightly drier 75% in August. The proportion of the day bathed in sunshine expands from the winter low of 4.2 hours in December to the sun-soaked 10 hours in June and July.

Interestingly, the city does experience snow, with the frost often dusting the city primarily from December through to March. The wind also stirs the air of Lexington with speed ranging from 5.4mph (8.7km/h) in September to 9mph (14.5km/h) in January.

The best time to visit Lexington

Given Lexington's climate, the ideal time for a visit is during late spring or early autumn where warmer temperatures prevail. The average high temperatures from April to June range from 65.5°F (18.6°C), climbing to 82.4°F (28°C). However, the temperatures from September to November offer a more temperate climate, ranging from 78.1°F (25.6°C) and progressively easing to 52.9°F (11.6°C). During these periods, rainfall strikes a reasonable balance with averages around 2.52" (64mm) in October and 3.78" (96mm) in April. These seasons provide optimal conditions for outdoor activities such as hiking, horse riding, or enjoying the beautiful Lexington scenery with daylight hours ranging from 11.2 hours in October to 13.2 hours in April.

The worst time to visit Lexington

Visitors should consider Lexington's winter months, specifically from December to February, less favorable due to the cold conditions. During this period, temperatures can plummet to a chilly low of 25.7°F (-3.5°C) in January. In addition, the city receives most of its snowfall, January being the peak with an average of 2.8" (71mm). The sunshine hours also dwindle to 4.2 in December, the city's least sunny month.

Spring weather in Lexington

Spring in Lexington brings a refreshing change from the cold winter months. March opens the season with the temperatures gaining momentum from an average low of 36.7°F (2.6°C) to an average high of 53.4°F (11.9°C), culminating with an average high of 74.8°F (23.8°C) by the end of May. Rainfall also sees a rise during this period, reaching its peak in May at 3.82" (97mm). The longer daylight hours of about 12 hours in March, extending to 14.3 hours in May, coupled with increasing sunshine duration from 5.7 hours to 8.7 hours, make spring a great time to enjoy the outdoor bloom of Lexington.

Summer weather in Lexington

In Lexington, summer stretches from June to August, characterized by high temperatures and consistent rainfall. The months of June and July are the warmest with average high temperatures of 82.4°F (28°C) and 85.1°F (29.5°C), respectively. Humidity hovers around 77% adding to the warm weather feel, while rainfall remains consistent, averaging 3.54" (90mm) in June and 3.39" (86mm) in July. However, the summer months offer the year's longest daylight hours and maximum sunshine duration, peaking at 14.8 hours and 10 hours in June, making it ideal for various sun-soaked activities.

Autumn weather in Lexington

As autumn sets in, Lexington witnesses a gradual drop in temperatures from an average high of 78.1°F (25.6°C) in September to a much cooler 52.9°F (11.6°C) in November. Rainfall also sees a slight decrease during this period, with September being the driest month in Lexington with an average of 2.32" (59mm). The city offers plenty of daylight hours, starting with 12.4 hours in September and ending with 10.1 hours in November, providing ample opportunities to explore the colorful fall scenery in and around the city.

Winter weather in Lexington

Winter in Lexington is typically cold, with temperatures descending steadily from an average high of 43.9°F (6.6°C) in December to a chilly low of 25.7°F (-3.5°C) in January. While the city experiences snowfall during this season, it peaks in January in accumulation of 2.8" (71mm) on average. Sunshine hours are the year's lowest during winter, limited to 4.2 hours in December. Despite the cold, the winter season offers its own allure with the city's landscape transformed into a white winter wonderland.

Weather in January

January marks the onset of the New Year in Lexington, Kentucky, bringing with it a chilly climate featuring snow and high humidity levels. A prominent feature of this month is the cool temperature dropping down to 25.7°F (-3.5°C), with snowfall reaching 2.8" (71mm), thus providing a snowy retreat. Weather in January »

Weather in February

February in Lexington, Kentucky signifies a gradual shift from the harsh winter towards the approach of spring. Despite the cold evenings and mornings, the temperature is slightly higher compared to January. This month also exhibits a change in atmospheric conditions, with rain experiencing a slight upsurge, hitting 3.39" (86mm). Weather in February »

Weather in March

March ushers in the pleasant spring weather in Lexington, making it an attractive period for outings and outdoor activities. This time of the year witnesses a significant leap in temperature, signifying the end of the winter season. Weather in March »

Weather in April

April in Lexington promises more sunshine and warmer temperatures, enhancing the city's charm. With the departure of the rainy March, the temperature continues its upward trend, aligning with the spring feel. Amidst the rejuvenating conditions, April experiences the maximum average daylight hours, amounting to 13.2 hours. Weather in April »

Weather in May

May imbues Lexington with the early signs of summer, offering perfect weather for recreational pursuits. As citizens bid farewell to the cooler spring breeze, temperature surges higher, filling the city with warmth. Moreover, May sees the longest daylight hours at 14.3 hours, which boosts the outdoor activities around the city. Weather in May »

Weather in June

In June, Lexington enters the summer season with temperatures soaring up and humidity levels escalating. This month witnesses a substantial increase in temperature, setting in the summer heat. Interestingly, the month's UV index peaks at 6, signaling the intense summer sun rays usually experienced during June. Weather in June »

Weather in July

July is indeed the spotlight month of summer in Lexington marked by high temperature, humidity, and extensive daylight hours. The city experiences its warmest days, with the temperature peaking as high as 85.1°F (29.5°C). July promises long, hot days perfect for sun-lovers who relish in hot summer afternoons. Weather in July »

Weather in August

August in Lexington continues the trend of high summer temperatures and longer days. This time of the year brings ample sun, with the average daylight matching that of the previous month. August enjoys the least amount of rainfall amongst all the summer months, with the downpour measuring only 3.07" (78mm). Weather in August »

Weather in September

September in Lexington heralds the arrival of the fall season, with the cityscapes starting to show the first hints of autumn colors. The dramatic change in weather brings a sense of calmness to the otherwise hot summer days. Weather in September »

Weather in October

October celebrates the peak of autumn in Lexington, with visibly cooler temperatures and stunning colors of fall. The change in weather dresses the city in shades of red, orange, and yellow, gaining the attention of locals and tourists alike. Weather in October »

Weather in November

November in Lexington witnesses a sharp drop in temperatures, signifying the arrival of winter. The cityscape transforms from bright autumn colors to more subdued hues, showcasing nature's cyclical beauty. This month is marked by an increased amount of snow, recording 1.14" (29mm), signaling the start of the winter season. Weather in November »

Weather in December

December in Lexington embraces the full-blown winter season with colder temperatures and shorter days. The city prepares for a festive atmosphere with Christmas and New Year celebrations taking place amidst falling snow. Snowfall registers 1.69" (43mm), offering just the perfect backdrop for this festive month. Weather in December »
Updated: Aug 26, 2024
Published by: Weather U.S. | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate

Frequently asked questions

What is the coldest time of year?

With an average high-temperature of 39°F (3.9°C) and an average low-temperature of 25.7°F (-3.5°C), January is the coldest month.

How many days does it rain?

In Lexington, during the entire year, the rain falls for 172.1 days and collects up to 37.95" (964mm) of precipitation.

When does it snow?

January through April, October through December are months with snowfall in Lexington.

How many days does it snow?

In Lexington, Kentucky, during the entire year, snow falls for 34.8 days and aggregates up to 11.3" (287mm) of snow.

What is the month with the least sunshine?

The month with the least sunshine is January, with an average of 3.9h of sunshine.

When is the lowest UV index in Lexington?

The months with the lowest UV index are January, February, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 2.

What is the most humid month?

With an average relative humidity of 81%, February is the most humid month.

What is the snowiest month?

The month with the most snowfall is February, when snow falls for 9 days and typically aggregates up to 3.07" (78mm) of snow.

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 EST to EDT. Daylight Saving Time ends Sunday, November 3. 2024, at 2:00 am, and the time zone reverts from EDT to EST.

What is the wettest month in Lexington?

May is the month with the most rainfall. Rain falls for 18.1 days and accumulates 3.82" (97mm) of precipitation.

When it does not snow?

May through September are months without snowfall.

When are the longest days?

The month with the longest days is June, with an average of 14h and 48min of daylight.

What month has the most sunshine?

With an average of 10h of sunshine, June has the most sunshine of the year.

What are the months with the highest UV index?

June through August, with an average maximum UV index of 6, are months with the highest UV index.

What time of the year is the hottest?

July, with an average high of 85.1°F (29.5°C) and a low of 66.2°F (19°C), signifies the warmest month of the year.

What is the least humid month?

The least humid month is August, with an average relative humidity of 75%.

What is the driest month?

September is the month with the least rainfall. Rain falls for 13.7 days and accumulates 2.32" (59mm) of precipitation.

What is the month with the shortest days?

With an average of 9h and 36min of daylight, December has the shortest days of the year.

Average temperature
Lexington, KY

Average temperature - Lexington, KY

The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (85.1°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (39°F).

The month with the highest average low temperature is July (66.2°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (25.7°F).

Average pressure
Lexington, KY

Average pressure - Lexington, KY

The months with the highest atmospheric pressure are January and November (30.15"Hg).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is June (29.96"Hg).

Average wind speed
Lexington, KY

Average wind speed - Lexington, KY

The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is January (9mph).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is August (5.4mph).

Average humidity
Lexington, KY

Average humidity - Lexington, KY

The month with the highest relative humidity is February (81%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is August (75%).

Average rainfall
Lexington, KY

Average rainfall - Lexington, KY

The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is May (3.82").
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is September (2.32").

Average rainfall days
Lexington, KY

Average rainfall days - Lexington, KY

The month with the highest number of rainy days is July (18.3 days).
The month with the least rainy days is November (10.3 days).

Average snowfall
Lexington, KY

Average snowfall - Lexington, KY

The month with the highest snowfall is February (3.07").
The months with the least snowfall are May, June, July, August and September (0").

Average snowfall days
Lexington, KY

Average snowfall days - Lexington, KY

The month with the highest number of snowfall days is January (9.7 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are May, June, July, August and September (0 days).

Average daylight / Average sunshine
Lexington, KY

Average daylight / Average sunshine - Lexington, KY

The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 14h and 48min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 9h and 36min).

The month with the most sunshine is June (Average sunshine: 10h and 0min).
The month with the least sunshine is January (Average sunshine: 3h and 54min).

Average sunshine days
Lexington, KY

Average sunshine days - Lexington, KY

The month with the most sunshine days is October (16.6 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is February (9.8 days).

Average UV index
Lexington, KY

Average UV index - Lexington, KY

The months with the highest UV index are June, July and August (UV index 6).
The months with the lowest UV index are January, February, November and December (UV index 2).

Average visibility
Lexington, KY

Average visibility - Lexington, KY

The months with the highest visibility are April, June, August, September, October and November (6mi).
The months with the lowest visibility are January, February, March, May, July and December (5mi).

Lexington, Kentucky, USA

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