Climate and monthly weather forecast
Lake Charles, LA

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A large ship has docked on the shores of the iconic Lake Charles in Louisiana
A large ship has docked on the shores of the iconic Lake Charles in Louisiana

The climate of Lake Charles

Lake Charles, a city situated in Calcasieu Parish in the state of Louisiana, USA, experiences a Humid subtropical climate (Köppen climate classification Cfa). The geographical location of Lake Charles puts it firmly within the Gulf Coastal Plain, contributing to the year-round warmth and humidity this area endures. The city is prone to heavy downpours and high humidity levels, lacking a dry season.

Temperature changes throughout the year manifest a pattern of summer heat alongside winter coolness. Annual temperatures peak from July to August, with the mercury crossing 91°F (32.8°C). Similarly, the coldest temperatures are observed from December to January, when the thermometer drops to around 44.4°F (6.9°C).

Rainfall differs notably over the year, with the maximum monthly average recorded at 5.75" (146mm) in August. Minimum rainfall occurs in February with a monthly average of 2.32" (59mm). Rainfall activity is more than just occasional drizzle; the city has about 22.2 rainfall days in August, with the least number of rainy days recorded in November - a total of 10.1 days.

Lake Charles' weather is particularly unique due to its high level of humidity, which averages between 72% and 81% throughout the year. The highest humidity level can be expected in February, while the lowest typically occurs in October.

The best time to visit Lake Charles

The ideal period for visiting Lake Charles lies primarily between March and June. This duration offers the city's most pleasant temperatures, with averages ranging from 70.9°F (21.6°C) to 84.7°F (29.3°C). Concurrently, the amount of sunshine is at its highest, averaging between 7.2 and 10.3 hours daily. Moreover, rainfall during this period remains moderate when compared to later months. Visitors can benefit from the longer daylight hours, which range from 12 hours in March to a maximum of 14.1 hours in June.

The worst time to visit Lake Charles

The period from July to August represents the least favorable time to visit Lake Charles, addressing the city's severe weather conditions. Temperatures peak during these summer months, with averages soaring up to 91.4°F (33°C). Additionally, these months also bring the highest amount of rainfall, averaging around 4.21" (107mm) to 5.75" (146mm). The number of rainfall days also sees a spike, with up to 21.4 days in July and 22.2 days in August. The high temperatures combined with heavy rains highly diminish the comfort levels for outdoor activities.

Spring weather in Lake Charles

The climate of Lake Charles during Spring (March to May) is characterized by a steady increase in temperature coupled with mild rainfall. Average temperatures can be expected to fluctuate between 55°F (12.8°C) in March and 68.4°F (20.2°C) in May. Correspondingly, rainfall during spring averages between 2.44" (62mm) in March to a slightly higher 3.19" (81mm) in May. Days are longer, allowing for more sunlight and outdoor activities - daylight hours range from 12 hours in March to 13.7 hours by May.

Summer weather in Lake Charles

Lake Charles' Summer season (June to August) invites high temperatures and heavy rainfall. The average temperature remains high across all three months, with a peak at 91.4°F (33°C) during August. Correspondingly, rainfall totals to abundant downpours, with an average of 3.31" (84mm) in June progressing to a heavy 5.75" (146mm) by August. Despite the uncomfortable climate, daylight hours during this period are long, ranging from 14.1 hours in June to 13.2 hours in August.

Autumn weather in Lake Charles

The Autumn season in Lake Charles (September to November) announces a gradual decrease in temperature and reduced rainfall when compared to the previous months. The average temperature drops to 68.9°F (20.5°C) by November, a significant cool-down from the 87.4°F (30.8°C) temperatures recorded in September. Additionally, the monthly average rainfall decreases significantly to 2.4" (61mm) by November, which is nearly a third of the average rainfall recorded in August. The daylight hours range from 12.3 hours in September, gradually decreasing to 10.6 hours by November.

Winter weather in Lake Charles

Winter season in Lake Charles (December to February) is characterized by comfortably cool temperatures and increased humidity. A steady decrease in temperature is observed during this period, with the lowest average temperature of 44.4°F (6.9°C) in December and a slight increase to 49.5°F (9.7°C) by February. The rain showers drop to an average of 2.91" (74mm) in December and decrease further to 2.32" (59mm) by February. The daylight hours dwindle to their shortest duration of 10.2 hours in December, then incrementally increasing to 11.1 hours by February.

Weather in January

The onset of the New Year brings cool temperatures to Lake Charles, Louisiana. People experienced promises of warmer days to come as the climate gradually grew milder. Under this fluctuating weather, the warmest number went up to 59.4°F (15.2°C), making January's weather ideal for cozy indoor activities. Weather in January »

Weather in February

Clouds start garnering space in the sky, marking a jump from 40% to 48% cloud cover. The temperatures in Lake Charles, Louisiana rise just slightly, hinting at the approach of Spring. February sees more daylight with longer afternoons heralding the end of winter. Weather in February »

Weather in March

The harmonious ballet of spring fully engulfs Lake Charles, Louisiana in March. With the blooming of flora and improved visibility, one can appreciate the natural appeal of the city under clear skies. Experiencing a high of 70.9°F (21.6°C), the days become significantly warmer. Weather in March »

Weather in April

April continues the reign of the annual spring, enhancing the aesthetic imagery with flowers in full bloom. Sunlight grows more abundant signaling nearing summer. Note that April registers a higher UV index of 6 determining the intensity of protective measures required against sun damage. Weather in April »

Weather in May

May opens the door wide for warmer temperatures in Lake Charles, Louisiana. With a significant leap in temperatures, residents anticipate the arrival of summer. The observed rise in temperature gets confirmed with May's maximum temperature reaching the 80s°F mark, standing at 84.7°F (29.3°C). Weather in May »

Weather in June

Lake Charles, Louisiana, is set ablaze with summer heat in June. The endearing qualities of summer come alive with fun, outdoor activities. The highest temperature noted this month is 89.4°F (31.9°C), as June stands tall as the first month of the peak summer. Weather in June »

Weather in July

July brings in the pinnacle of summer with temperatures rising noticeably in Lake Charles, Louisiana. Although July sees a slight increase in clouds, they do little to alleviate the heat. The city records the highest temperature of the year at 91°F (32.8°C) in July, marking the peak of summer. Weather in July »

Weather in August

As the final month of summer, August sheds a bit of the intense heat experienced in Lake Charles, Louisiana. August recaptures July's heat, boasting the second-highest recorded temperature of 91.4°F (33°C) for the year. The increase in cloud cover provides a much-welcomed cooling effect against the high temperatures. Weather in August »

Weather in September

September rings the bell for the onset of Fall in Lake Charles, Louisiana. The city witnesses a notable drop in temperature, inaugurating the beginning of cooler days. Registering a maximum temperature of 87.4°F (30.8°C), September initiates the decline of the summer heat. Weather in September »

Weather in October

October in Lake Charles, Louisiana, brings in the cool autumn breeze. The drop in temperature is easily noticeable as the city prepares for the annual 'fall' festival. The decline in summer heat gets confirmed with October's highest temperature standing at 79.9°F (26.6°C). Weather in October »

Weather in November

Lake Charles, Louisiana, prepares to welcome winter as November reduces temperatures further. The fall foliage starts to drop, leaving behind the vibrant colors of autumn. A significant temperature drop is felt, with the highest temperature coming down to 68.9°F (20.5°C). Weather in November »

Weather in December

December marks the arrival of winter chill in Lake Charles, Louisiana. With Christmas around the corner, the mood in the city becomes festive, the chilly weather enhancing the holiday spirit. The mercury slips down to offer a maximum temperature of 61.5°F (16.4°C), firmly establishing the start of winter. Weather in December »

Frequently asked questions

What is the coldest time of year?

Lake Charles experiences its lowest temperatures in January, with an average peak of 59.4°F (15.2°C) and a low of 44.4°F (6.9°C).

How much does it rain?

Throughout the year, there are 182.1 rainfall days, and 39.25" (997mm) of precipitation is accumulated.

When does it snow?

Months with snowfall are January and December.

What is the snowiest month?

The month with the most snowfall is January, when snow falls for 0.3 days and typically aggregates up to 0.2" (5mm) of snow.

How many days does it snow?

In Lake Charles, during the entire year, snow falls for 0.4 days and aggregates up to 0.31" (8mm) of snow.

What is the most humid month?

The most humid month is February, with an average relative humidity of 81%.

What is the driest month?

The month with the least rainfall is February, when the rain falls for 13.1 days and typically collects 2.32" (59mm) of precipitation.

When it does not snow?

February through November are months without snowfall.

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

When is the highest UV index in Lake Charles?

May through August, with an average maximum UV index of 7, are months with the highest UV index.

When are the longest days?

With an average of 14h and 6min of daylight, June has the longest days of the year.

What month has the most sunshine?

With an average of 10.6h of sunshine, June has the most sunshine of the year.

What is the warmest month?

August is the warmest month, with the temperature often reaching an average high of 91.4°F (33°C) and an average low of 75.6°F (24.2°C).

What is the rainiest month?

August is the month with the most rainfall. Rain falls for 22.2 days and accumulates 5.75" (146mm) of precipitation.

What is the least humid month?

With an average relative humidity of 72%, October is the least humid month.

What is the month with the shortest days?

The month with the shortest days is December, with an average of 10h and 12min of daylight.

What is the month with the least sunshine?

December has the least sunshine of the year, with an average of 5.1h of sunshine.

When is the lowest UV index?

December is the month with the lowest UV index, with an average maximum UV index of 3.

Average temperature
Lake Charles, LA

Average temperature - Lake Charles, LA

The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is August (91.4°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (59.4°F).

The month with the highest average low temperature is July (75.7°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (44.4°F).

Average pressure
Lake Charles, LA

Average pressure - Lake Charles, LA

The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is January (30.16"Hg).
The months with the lowest atmospheric pressure are June and August (29.94"Hg).

Average wind speed
Lake Charles, LA

Average wind speed - Lake Charles, LA

The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is April (9.3mph).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is August (6mph).

Average humidity
Lake Charles, LA

Average humidity - Lake Charles, LA

The month with the highest relative humidity is February (81%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is October (72%).

Average rainfall
Lake Charles, LA

Average rainfall - Lake Charles, LA

The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is August (5.75").
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is February (2.32").

Average rainfall days
Lake Charles, LA

Average rainfall days - Lake Charles, LA

The month with the highest number of rainy days is August (22.2 days).
The month with the least rainy days is November (10.1 days).

Average snowfall
Lake Charles, LA

Average snowfall - Lake Charles, LA

The month with the highest snowfall is January (0.2").
The months with the least snowfall are February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October and November (0").

Average snowfall days
Lake Charles, LA

Average snowfall days - Lake Charles, LA

The month with the highest number of snowfall days is January (0.3 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October and November (0 days).

Average daylight / Average sunshine
Lake Charles, LA

Average daylight / Average sunshine - Lake Charles, LA

The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 14h and 6min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 10h and 12min).

The month with the most sunshine is June (Average sunshine: 10h and 36min).
The month with the least sunshine is December (Average sunshine: 5h and 6min).

Average sunshine days
Lake Charles, LA

Average sunshine days - Lake Charles, LA

The month with the most sunshine days is November (18.5 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is August (7.3 days).

Average UV index
Lake Charles, LA

Average UV index - Lake Charles, LA

The months with the highest UV index are May, June, July and August (UV index 7).
The month with the lowest UV index is December (UV index 3).

Average visibility
Lake Charles, LA

Average visibility - Lake Charles, LA

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

Lake Charles, Louisiana, USA

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