Climate and monthly weather forecast
Columbia, MD

Today
Tomorrow
Long-term
YearJFMAMJJASOND
°Celsius°Fahrenheit
Share
Contents
A beautiful and scenic setting around the waterfront homes at Wilde Lake in Columbia, Maryland
A beautiful and scenic setting around the waterfront homes at Wilde Lake in Columbia, Maryland

The climate of Columbia

Located in Maryland, USA, Columbia carries the Köppen climate classification Cfa. This signifies a predominately humid subtropical climate. This type of climate, encountered widely, brings no dry season, with precipitation interspersed all through the year.

Throughout the given year, Columbia sees a significant temperature range. The mercury varies from a low of 26.1°F (-3.3°C) noted in January to a peak of 85.8°F (29.9°C) observed in July. Humidity rates present relatively mild fluctuations during the year, maintaining an average between 72% and 77%. Similarly, cloud coverage remains reasonably constant, with a monthly average ranging between 29% in July to 46% in March.

Precipitation in Columbia shows no dry season while demonstrating an increment in rainfall from January's 1.85" (47mm) to August's 4.06" (103mm) maxima. Correspondingly, the number of rainfall days also shows a growth pattern, going from 8.4 days in January to 17.1 days observed in August.

Columbia's sunlight hours show an expected seasonal pattern, from an average low of 9.5 hours in December to a peak of 14.9 hours in June. As a parallel trend, the number of days with sun sees some variation, from 11 in May and July to 19.6 in November.

Wind speeds in Columbia remain relatively mild through the year, averaging from 5.3mph (8.5km/h) in August to 8.6mph (13.8km/h) in March. The max wind gusts recorded also stay within a moderate range, with the highest value being 13.8mph (22.2km/h) in February.

The best time to visit Columbia

Optimal visiting conditions in Columbia arise between May and September when the temperatures range from 63.1°F (17.3°C) to 85.8°F (29.9°C). Pair this with extended daylight periods of 13.3 to 14.6 hours, and visitors can make the most of their stay here. The rainfall during this period varies between 2.6" (66mm) to 4.06" (103mm), and even though the occasional shower may be present, it does not detract from the overall experience.

The worst time to visit Columbia

Given the colder conditions and shorter daylight hours, the period from November through March may not be the best for visiting Columbia. Temperatures drop to as low as 26.1°F (-3.3°C) in January and daylight hours are reduced to between 9.5 and 10.8. Additionally, snowfall is possible between December and March, with January registering the maximum at 3.03" (77mm).

Spring weather in Columbia

Spring in Columbia, from February to April, witnesses an uprise in temperatures from a lower threshold of 28.6°F (-1.9°C) to a comfortable 63.1°F (17.3°C). Rainfall averages between 1.97" (50mm) and 2.36" (60mm), and the number of rainy days increases from 9.5 to 15.3. During this period, daylight hours prolong from 10.8 hours to 13.3 hours, presenting a delightful setup for spring-time activities.

Summer weather in Columbia

Summer months in Columbia experience the warmest conditions, with temperatures scaling between 72.7°F (22.6°C) rising up to 85.8°F (29.9°C) by the end of July. Rainfall is distributed from 2.6" (66mm) to 4.06" (103mm) and there are up to 18 rainy days. However, the plentiful sunshine of 10.3 to 10.8 hours per day ensures a relaxing summer atmosphere.

Autumn weather in Columbia

Columbia’s autumn, from August through October, registers a progressive decline in temperatures from 83.8°F (28.8°C) to 65.1°F (18.4°C). The rainfall shows a reduction from 4.06" (103mm) in August to 2.24" (57mm) by October. Even as the number of daylight hours falls from 13.7 hours to 11.2 hours, the weather remains generally pleasant.

Winter weather in Columbia

Winters in Columbia, running from November through January, are characterized by cooling temperatures, falling from 53.1°F (11.7°C) to 26.1°F (-3.3°C) by the end of January. Rainfall is consistently around 2.17 to 2.24" (57mm) each month. Snowfall might be there from December onwards, with January experiencing the most at 3.03" (77mm). Although the daylight hours are the shortest, from 10 hours in November to 9.5 hours in December, the ambience remains invigorating for winter-lovers.

Weather in January

As the first month of the year, January in Columbia, Maryland presents a chilly landscape, marked by a transition from the freezing temperatures of December. An additional 1.0 hour of daylight is observed, a modest increase compared to the preceding month. Weather in January »

Weather in February

Maintaining the winter charm, February in Columbia, Maryland stays cold while inching towards Spring's arrival. A marginal rise in overall temperatures from January is observed along with continued but reduced snowfall. Significantly, February experiences up to 1.81" (46mm) of snowfall, a hint of mellowing winter. Weather in February »

Weather in March

March ushers in Spring in Columbia, marking a noticeable deviation from the winter months. Tempered by the cool touch of winter, the city's landscape begins to transition, offering a silver lining to the Winter-weary populace. With no traces of snowfall and a definitive rise in daylight hours, March bids adieu to Winter in a calm manner. Weather in March »

Weather in April

April is a monthly treat for Columbia, Maryland, presenting a lively Spring canvas. With the town bathed in more sunlight, the mood is positive and active, enhanced by cleaner skies and a rise in visibility. Interestingly, April relinquishes the final traces of snowfall from the preceding month. Weather in April »

Weather in May

Warm and welcoming, May transitions Columbia into the inviting season of Summer. With increased daylight and no signs of snow, the outside invite is hard to resist. A steep climb in both the temperature and humidity levels characterizes the basic nature of the month. Weather in May »

Weather in June

June in Columbia, Maryland, is typically reflective of the golden month of Summer. Days are longer, offering residents more time to experience the seasonal attractions the city provides. Changes in weather are evident, but the cooler nights provide a relieving contrast to the sometimes-sweltering days. Weather in June »

Weather in July

July in Columbia, Maryland, is synonymous with peak summer. Adorned by bountiful sunshine, the city glimmers, as locals and tourists bask in the warm temperature. Despite the heat, the beauty and vitality of Columbia remains undeterred. Weather in July »

Weather in August

August marks the gradual transition from the fierce heat of July towards a milder, yet still warm September. Despite the slight towel off from the heat, Columbia continues to boast of lovely sunlit days and clear skies. Humidity and rainfall increase, reflecting a frequent mix of sunshine and showers. Weather in August »

Weather in September

In Columbia, Maryland, September imparts a sense of nostalgia as it brings an end to the scorching summer. The city unravels under a balanced temperature spectrum, with nature putting on its mesmerizing fall display. The slight dip in temperatures is a notable change, predicting the oncoming coolness of Autumn. Weather in September »

Weather in October

October in Columbia, Maryland, announces the onset of Autumn in earnest, with temperatures tending towards more pleasant medians. The shortened daylight hours align with the shift, reinforcing the steady drop in temperature. The city basks in this transition, surrendering to the beauty of falling leaves and orange hues. Weather in October »

Weather in November

November in Columbia, Maryland, is a meeting point between Autumn's end and Winter's arrival, as temperatures continue to drop. The city evolves under the changing weather spectrum, laying bare trees and shifting landscapes. A mild increase in rainfall traces the shift, echoing the approaching Winter's breath. Weather in November »

Weather in December

Rounding off the year, December in Columbia, Maryland, brings Winter in its full glory. The drop in temperature is profound and signals the onset of the holiday season. Snowfall is not uncommon, and the city's landscape morphs into a winter wonderland, decorating Columbia in festive hues. Weather in December »
Updated: Aug 6, 2024
Published by: Weather U.S. | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate

Frequently asked questions

What month is the coldest?

The month of January sees the average lowest temperatures, reaching 38.1°F (3.4°C) at the peak and 26.1°F (-3.3°C) at the low.

What is the driest month?

The month with the least rainfall is January, when the rain falls for 8.4 days and typically collects 1.85" (47mm) of precipitation.

How much does it rain?

In Columbia, during the entire year, the rain falls for 159.3 days and collects up to 30.31" (770mm) of precipitation.

When does it snow in Columbia?

January through March, November and December are months with snowfall.

How many days does it snow?

Throughout the year, there are 15.9 snowfall days, and 8.7" (221mm) of snow is accumulated.

What is the month with the least sunshine?

January and February, with an average of 5.1h of sunshine, are months with the least sunshine.

What is the month with the lowest UV index?

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

What is the snowiest month?

The month with the most snowfall is March, when snow falls for 3.3 days and typically aggregates up to 3.03" (77mm) 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 least humid month?

April and July, with an average relative humidity of 72%, are the least humid months.

When it does not snow?

In Columbia, snow does not fall in April through October.

What are the most humid months?

The months with the highest humidity are May and October, with an average relative humidity of 77%.

When is the highest UV index?

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

When are the longest days?

June has the longest days of the year, with an average of 14h and 54min of daylight.

What month is the hottest?

Temperature records mark July as the warmest month, with highs averaging 85.8°F (29.9°C) and lows at 68.9°F (20.5°C).

What month has the most sunshine?

With an average of 10.8h of sunshine, July has the most sunshine of the year.

What is the rainiest month?

The month with the most rainfall is August, when the rain falls for 17.1 days and typically aggregates up to 4.06" (103mm) of precipitation.

What is the month with the shortest days?

With an average of 9h and 30min of daylight, December has the shortest days of the year.
Today
Tomorrow
Long-term
YearJFMAMJJASOND

Average temperature
Columbia, MD

Average temperature - Columbia, MD

The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (85.8°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (38.1°F).

The month with the highest average low temperature is July (68.9°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (26.1°F).

Average pressure
Columbia, MD

Average pressure - Columbia, MD

The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is November (30.14"Hg).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is June (29.94"Hg).

Average wind speed
Columbia, MD

Average wind speed - Columbia, MD

The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is March (8.6mph).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is August (5.3mph).

Average humidity
Columbia, MD

Average humidity - Columbia, MD

The months with the highest relative humidity are May and October (77%).
The months with the lowest relative humidity are April and July (72%).

Average rainfall
Columbia, MD

Average rainfall - Columbia, MD

The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is August (4.06").
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is January (1.85").

Average rainfall days
Columbia, MD

Average rainfall days - Columbia, MD

The month with the highest number of rainy days is May (18 days).
The month with the least rainy days is January (8.4 days).

Average snowfall
Columbia, MD

Average snowfall - Columbia, MD

The month with the highest snowfall is March (3.03").
The months with the least snowfall are April, May, June, July, August, September and October (0").

Average snowfall days
Columbia, MD

Average snowfall days - Columbia, MD

The month with the highest number of snowfall days is February (4.6 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are May, June, July, August, September and October (0 days).

Average daylight / Average sunshine
Columbia, MD

Average daylight / Average sunshine - Columbia, MD

The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 14h and 54min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 9h and 30min).

The month with the most sunshine is July (Average sunshine: 10h and 48min).
The months with the least sunshine are January and February (Average sunshine: 5h and 6min).

Average sunshine days
Columbia, MD

Average sunshine days - Columbia, MD

The month with the most sunshine days is November (19.6 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is May (11 days).

Average UV index
Columbia, MD

Average UV index - Columbia, MD

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

Average cloud cover
Columbia, MD

Average cloud cover - Columbia, MD

The month with the most cloud cover is March (Cloud cover 46).
The month with the least cloud cover is July (Cloud cover 29).

Average visibility
Columbia, MD

Average visibility - Columbia, MD

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).

Columbia, Maryland, USA

Weather forecast for today
Weather forecast for tomorrow
10 days weather forecast
Climate data
1January
2February
3March
4April
5May
6June
7July
8August
9September
10October
11November
12December

Weather forecast for your location

1. Click Locate me button
2. Allow the app to use your location