The climate of Lafayette
Situated in the Southern region of the United States,
Lafayette,
Louisiana, is characterized by a Humid subtropical climate type, denoted as Cfa in the Köppen climatic classification. This classification signifies a climate with no dry season, high humidity, and significant rainfall throughout the year.
By analyzing the provided climatological data, it becomes apparent that Lafayette experiences a significant variation in temperatures throughout the year, ranging from an average high of 90°F (32.2°C) in
August to an average low of 44.2°F (6.8°C) in
January. Humidity remains relatively steady across the year, fluctuating slightly from 76% in
May to 81% in
February. Annual rainfall ranges from a high of 2.8" (71mm) in August to a low of 0.83" (21mm) in
March, demonstrating the existence of a substantial wet season during the late summer months.
Lafayette's unique weather patterns include the peak of rainfall in late summer and a steadily increasing UV index from January to May, with the highest recorded index value of 7 seen from May to August. The city also experiences an average maximum wind speed of 8.8mph (14.2km/h) in February and
April, decreasing to a minimum of 5.3mph (8.5km/h) in
July and August. These conditions contribute to Lafayette's climate, which is marked by mild winters and hot, humid summers.
The best time to visit Lafayette
The ideal time to visit
Lafayette would arguably be in the spri- ng, between
March and
May. During this period, average high temperatures fluctuate between 70.9°F (21.6°C) and 84.6°F (29.2°C), providing comfortable weather conditions for outdoor activities. Additionally, relative humidity values tend to be lower during this time, falling between 76% and 80%.
The worst time to visit Lafayette
Due to
Lafayette's subtropical climate, the month of
August proves to be the least hospitable for visitors. The worst of the summer heat is felt during this period, as demonstrated by the highest recorded average temperature of 90°F (32.2°C). Furthermore, this period also coincides with the highest average monthly rainfall of 2.8" (71mm), leading to increased likelihood of rain-related disruptions.
Spring weather in Lafayette
As the calendar turns to spring,
Lafayette undergoes a notable transition in its weather. From
March through to
May, high temperatures rise from 70.9°F (21.6°C) to 84.6°F (29.2°C). Correspondingly, the night-time low temperatures also increase from 54.3°F (12.4°C) to 67.5°F (19.7°C). Rainfall remains relatively consistent throughout the spring months, ranging from 0.83" (21mm) to 1.46" (37mm).
Summer weather in Lafayette
The summer months from
June to
August represent the apex of
Lafayette's subtropical climate. The city experiences its annual maximum average temperatures peaking from 89.2°F (31.8°C) to 90°F (32.2°C), while the night temperatures remain warm, fluctuating from 73°F (22.8°C) to 74.8°F (23.8°C).
Autumn weather in Lafayette
During the autumn months from
September to
November, average high temperatures in
Lafayette slowly drop from 86.7°F (30.4°C) to 68.4°F (20.2°C). Meanwhile, average low temperatures also decrease, moving from 70.5°F (21.4°C) in September down to 52°F (11.1°C) by November, signaling the approaching cold season.
Winter weather in Lafayette
Winter in
Lafayette is relatively mild. While
December sees average high temperatures of 61.9°F (16.6°C),
January experiences the coldest average low temperature of 44.2°F (6.8°C). Very nominal amounts of snowfall are expected during this period, with the highest recorded snowfall being 0.1 days in January.
Weather in January
The onset of a new year in
Lafayette,
Louisiana is accompanied by a mild winter. Compared to a typical Christmas,
January offers chilled evenings with temperatures lying between 44.2°F (6.8°C) and 58.8°F (14.9°C). The city usually experiences some rain, ample sunshine during the day, and consistent cloud coverage.
Weather in January »Weather in February
As the calendar flips to
February,
Lafayette witnesses an ascending trend in temperatures. Providing warmer experiences during the day compared to
January, rain can still be expected during this month. The increase in temperature influences the atmospheric humidity and pressure as well.
Weather in February »Weather in March
March brings along warmer temperatures, hinting at an early introduction to spring. This month presents less rainfall compared to previous months with a slight shift from 0.91" (23mm) in
February to 0.83" (21mm). Daylight stretches out as nature springs back to life, making this period ideal for outdoor activities.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April offers beautiful spring weather. It is a transformative period with temperatures lying between 60.1°F (15.6°C) and 77.5°F (25.3°C), the highest thus far in the year. The increased heat levels lead to a moderate drop in humidity, still, the city continues to enjoy plentiful sunshine.
Weather in April » Weather in May
May brings a distinct change, with the city being exposed to increased sunlight for up to 13.7 hours per day. It becomes considerably warmer from
April to May. However, the cool winds provide a relief from the impending hot summer. In spite of the heat, precipitation and humidity levels stay consistent, maintaining the environment's moisture.
Weather in May » Weather in June
During
June,
Lafayette transitions into summer with temperatures oscillating between 73°F (22.8°C) and 89.2°F (31.8°C). Daylight extends to its maximum duration post which it starts to dwindle. The city experiences its highest rainfall of the year in this month.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July is the season of high heat in
Lafayette with the temperatures soaring to a peak of 89.8°F (32.1°C). Despite the heat, there is a significant decrease in wind speed from 5.9mph (9.5km/h) to 5.3mph (8.5km/h), compared to
June.
Weather in July » Weather in August
August amplifies the summer conditions as it might turn out to be the hottest month, despite temperatures being between 74.8°F (23.8°C) and 90°F (32.2°C), similar to
July. Combining the peak heat with the highest levels of rainfall and humidity, it is the epitome of a typical
Louisiana summer.
Weather in August » Weather in September
Relief from the heat begins in
September as
Lafayette,
Louisiana starts moving towards fall. Post the extreme heat in
August, the temperatures drop providing residents with a glimpse of the forthcoming autumn season. As the city bids goodbye to the scorching summers, the frequency of rainfall reduces.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October plays a significant role in shifting
Lafayette's weather. It encompasses the lowest rainfall of the year, dropping from 1.38" (35mm) in
September to 1.46" (37mm). The arrival of fall brings along cool evenings while days remain warm.
Weather in October » Weather in November
November holds an essential place as it debuts the late fall season in
Lafayette. The temperatures drop further compared to
October, bringing along chilly evenings. The city starts preparing to welcome winter as the daylight hours lessen.
Weather in November » Weather in December
December marks the arrival of winter and brings a year-end chill. Compared to the warmth of
November, December is colder with temperatures fluctuating between 48°F (8.9°C) and 61.9°F (16.6°C). The shorter daylight hours are compensated by brilliant sunshine during the day.
Weather in December »