The climate of Cambridge
Cambridge,
Massachusetts sees a highly varied seasonal cycle as per the Köppen climate classification Dfa, marking it as a place with a humid continental climate, no dry season and a hot summer period. This characteristic climate scheme is mainly due to Cambridge's geographical locus in the northern hemisphere and its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean.
Throughout the year, Cambridge experiences a substantial fluctuation in weather parameters including temperature, rainfall, daylight and wind. The yearly temperature range varies from a low of 22.5°F (-5.3°C) in cold season to a high of 81.9°F (27.7°C) in warmer period, depicting Cambridge's broad spectrum of temperatures. The yearly average rainfall measurement spans from 0.2" (5mm) in
September to as high as 0.63" (16mm) in
November, indicating notable variation in precipitation levels.
The daylight hours reflect the city's northern latitude, fluctuating from 9.1 hours in
December to an ample 15.2 hours in mid-summer, creating noticeable changes in day lengths throughout the year. Wind speed averages also alter with the seasons. Speeds are relatively higher in the cooler weather, peaking to 9.5mph (15.3km/h) in
January, and taper down to 6.1mph (9.8km/h) in the warmest month of
July.
Emphasizing unique aspects,
June to
August experiences the hottest months with temperatures frequently hitting the scale beyond 80°F (26.7°C). On the contrary, the city finds its chilliest phase during December to
February when temperatures often dip far below 30°F (-1.1°C). November presents as the wettest month, while September remains relatively dry with minimal rainfall.
The best time to visit Cambridge
Analyzing the weather patterns and climatic parameters, the best time to visit
Cambridge would be in late spring to early summer between
May and
June. Accommodating temperatures from 55.6°F (13.1°C) to 74.5°F (23.6°C), these months offer comfortable climatic conditions for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The moderate presence of rain during this period might bring temporary showers but shouldn't significantly hinder most plans. Furthermore, the daylight hours extending up to 14.6 hours in May and 15.2 hours in June ensure a longer day, providing ample time to explore Cambridge's attractions.
The worst time to visit Cambridge
Although each season holds its charm, winter months from
December to
February might prove challenging for visits given their low temperatures that fall below 30°F (-1.1°C) on an average. Combined with high humidity levels reaching up to 76% and regular snowfall, it can produce a rather harsh and cold weather experience. However, those who love snow and winter sports might find these conditions appealing.
Spring weather in Cambridge
Spring in
Cambridge starts in
March and continues until
May, demonstrating a gradual rise in temperature from 43.3°F (6.3°C) to 66.7°F (19.3°C). Rainfall increases progressively, peaking at 0.59" (15mm) in
April. The receding cold can still be felt during the night with temperatures dipping to 40.1°F (4.5°C), especially in early spring. However, daylight hours increase significantly, marking the transition from winter gloom to brighter spring days.
Summer weather in Cambridge
Summertime is prominently warm in
Cambridge from
June through
August, with average highs soaring up to 81.9°F (27.7°C) in
July. Nights offer little respite from the heat with temperatures hovering around 64.6°F (18.1°C). The summer months also bring substantial rainfall averaging around 0.51" (13mm) in June. The wind speed during this period drops to its yearly low at 6.1mph (9.8km/h), offering sultry days with relatively weak breezes.
Autumn weather in Cambridge
Autumn weather in
Cambridge puts on display a pleasant drop in temperature from 72.9°F (22.7°C) in
September to 49.5°F (9.7°C) in
November. The level of rainfall also sees a significant rise, peaking at 0.63" (16mm) during November. While daylight hours gradually decrease, autumn proves to be a balanced time with moderate climate conditions.
Winter weather in Cambridge
Cambridge's winter commences in
December and lasts till
February. This period is predominantly cold with average high temperatures only reaching up to 39.6°F (4.2°C), while the lows can plunge to a chilling 22.5°F (-5.3°C). In addition to icy temperatures, winter months witness frequent snowfall with measurements up to 0.71" (18mm) in December. These months also feature reduced daylight hours, with December only offering 9.1 hours of daylight, lending a distinct cold and harsh ambiance to the city during this period.
Weather in January
January in
Cambridge,
Massachusetts predominantly delivers snowfall, a common characteristic of weather in this area in winter. With a typical mix of snow-affected and dry days, the climate often alternates from snowy conditions to clear skies.
Weather in January » Weather in February
As the month follows suit to its predecessor,
February in
Cambridge,
Massachusetts continues to display winter's grip. Residents have grown acclimated to the chill by now. The trademark flurries of snow and bracing winds bring with them a reminder of the strength of Massachusetts' winter.
Weather in February »Weather in March
By the time
March arrives in
Cambridge,
Massachusetts, the hard-hitting winter begins to loosen its hold. Warmth starts returning to the weather patterns, signaling the beginning of the thaw. Patches of snow start melting, and the familiar chirping of birds signifies the arrival of spring.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April is a month of true transformation in
Cambridge,
Massachusetts, with the definitive arrival of spring. Traces of winter have finally faded and the city basks in the pleasant and mild temperatures. The beautiful blossoming of flora is hard to overlook, adding vibrancy to the city.
Weather in April » Weather in May
The mild weather of
April gives way to the warming month of
May in
Cambridge,
Massachusetts. A substantial hike in temperatures makes the days considerably warmer, while evenings remain cool and comfortable. The city landscape is teeming with life as flowers bloom and trees are lush.
Weather in May »Weather in June
June brings the introductory tastes of summer to
Cambridge,
Massachusetts. The city comes alive under the extended hours of daylight and the balmy weather. Folks begin to throng at local parks, engage in outdoor sports, and soak up the sunshine.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July is the prime summer month in
Cambridge,
Massachusetts, showcasing the year's highest temperatures. Frequent trips to nearby lakes and beaches become a favorite pastime for residents. Clear blue skies, vibrant green landscapes, and warmer nights describe this quintessential summer month.
Weather in July » Weather in August
The city of
Cambridge,
Massachusetts, experiences an extended summer season in
August. The warm weather continues, offering breathtaking sunsets over Charles River and lively evenings in outdoor cafés. Milder nights provide a welcome relief from the heat of the day.
Weather in August »Weather in September
September stands as a transition month in
Cambridge,
Massachusetts, marking the shift from summer to autumn. The weather becomes cooler, and the deciduous trees begin showing hints of fall colors. Locals enjoy outdoor activities as the weather remains warm but not excessively hot.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October in
Cambridge,
Massachusetts sees the full summary of autumn. With vibrant fall foliage adorning the city, the weather grows crisp and calls for light jackets. The streets brim with Halloween decorations towards the month's close, adding to the seasonal atmosphere.
Weather in October » Weather in November
November in
Cambridge,
Massachusetts is a month with brisk weather and earlier sunsets, pointing towards the arrival of winter. The deciduous trees shed their leaves, leaving behind a carpet of vibrant colors. The once-bustling parks slowly quiet down as cool breezes become more frequent.
Weather in November » Weather in December
December marks the onset of winter in
Cambridge,
Massachusetts. White-covered landscapes and Christmas decorations create a picturesque ambiance. The winter chill can be felt, but snowfall remains at the lower end, making travel less challenging.
Weather in December »