The climate of Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor,
Michigan, USA, is located in a geographical zone characterized by a predominant Dfa Köppen classification, which represents a humid continental climate with hot summers and no dry season. The month-to-month shift in the climate of this region provides a rich tapestry of weather variety throughout the year, greatly contributing to the city's seasonal charm.
Temperatures during the rotational year period vary significantly, with the rise and fall in temperature replicating a wave pattern. The warmest periods typically occur from
May, averaging at 67.6°F (19.8°C), and extend through
September, when the mean temperature is 72.5°F (22.5°C). Sharp drops in temperature are evident from
October, as it decreases to 59.2°F (15.1°C), descending through winter to the coldest month of
January averaging at 28.2°F (-2.1°C).
Humidity shows slight variability, peaking in January and
February as high as 86%, and remaining relatively high for much of the year, with the lowest average in October being 77%. The monthly disparity in cloud coverage ranges from 68% cloud cover in January to low of 29% in
July, correlating to the variation in sunshine hours from as high as 15.2 hours in
June to as low as 9.1 hours in
December.
Precipitation in Ann Arbor, spanning rainfall and snowfall, presents a noteworthy aspect of its climate. The months from
March to July witness higher rainfall scales ranging from 2.24" (57mm) up to 2.4" (61mm), while snowfall is dominant from December to February, with the heaviest in January measuring 2.48" (63mm).
The best time to visit Ann Arbor
The optimal period for a visit to
Ann Arbor is synonymous with the high point of sun hours, lower cloud cover, and moderate rainfall. The calendar pages between
May and
September offer such conditions. During these months, the temperatures range from 67.6°F (19.8°C) to 72.5°F (22.5°C), with relatively less rain, which positively influences outdoor activities and sightseeing.
The worst time to visit Ann Arbor
The adverse period to plan a visit to
Ann Arbor is typically in the winter months — from
December through
February. Aside from the cold weather with temperatures dipping to as low as 17.8°F (-7.9°C) in
January, daylight hours are at their shortest. Heavier cloud cover, higher snowfall and fewer sunshine hours can also limit outdoor activities.
Spring weather in Ann Arbor
March signals the arrival of spring in
Ann Arbor. Temperature averages start to climb up from 43°F (6.1°C) in March to 54.3°F (12.4°C) in
April and escalate to 67.6°F (19.8°C) by
May. Humidity level observes a downward trend from 77% to 78%, while rainfall amount increases progressively, peaking in May at 2.4" (61mm). The city blossoms under the increased daylight hours progressing from 12 hours in March to 14.6 hours in May.
Summer weather in Ann Arbor
Summers in
Ann Arbor, from
June to
August, are warm with temperatures between 75.6°F (24.2°C) and 78.3°F (25.7°C). Daily sunshine peaks at 15.2 hours in June and then starts to slightly diminish. Humidity and cloud cover remain low, enhancing the summer appeal. However, this season also experiences a peak in rainfall, 2.2" (56mm) in
July, yet it does not significantly impede outdoor activities and events.
Autumn weather in Ann Arbor
The descent of autumn upon
Ann Arbor from
September till
November brings a change in the overall weather. The temperature begins to drop from 72.5°F (22.5°C) in September to 59.2°F (15.1°C) in
October and eventually reaches 45.5°F (7.5°C) by November. Daylight hours also reduce from 12.5 hours to 9.8 hours from the beginning till the end of this season. Rainfall also sees a diminishing trend during these months.
Winter weather in Ann Arbor
Winter sets into
Ann Arbor from
December and continues through
February. During this season, the temperature plummets to average lows of 25.7°F (-3.5°C) to 28.2°F (-2.1°C). These months bear witness to increased snowfall, with
January showcasing the heaviest at 2.48" (63mm). The daylight and sunshine hours are also at their leanest, with sunshine ranging from 3.5 hours to 3 hours only, giving the city a stark winter appeal.
Weather in January
The weather in
Ann Arbor,
Michigan, is characteristic of a typical Midwest winter, as the city enters the new year.
January's temperatures often plummet, presenting chilly conditions during the month with frequent snowfalls. As the days remain short and with minimal sunshine hours, residents often experience cold, frosty mornings and evenings.
Weather in January »Weather in February
Atlhough similar to
January,
February has a slight shift in weather patterns in
Ann Arbor. The city remains in winter's grip, bringing snowfalls, frost, and icy roads. However, the increased daylight hours hint at the forthcoming spring season, with an increase in visibility and sunlight.
Weather in February »Weather in March
March represents a pivotal shift in
Ann Arbor's weather patterns, as the region transitions from winter's chill to spring's milder conditions. Snowfall periods start to recede, with more sun-soaked hours, indicating the onset of brighter and warmer days.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
In
April,
Ann Arbor witnesses full-fledged spring with a mix of rainy and sunny days. The city's streets and parks come alive with colorful blossoms, reflecting the fresh energy April brings. More rainfall than any other month is no surprise as spring showers contribute to the blossoming greenery.
Weather in April »Weather in May
By the time
May arrives,
Ann Arbor residents prepare for increasingly warm temperatures and clear skies, a sign of the imminent summer. The weather remains mild and pleasant, making it the perfect time for outdoor activities and events.
Weather in May »Weather in June
June in
Ann Arbor is synonymous with the start of summer, with long sunny days and warm nights. The city witnesses increasing outdoor activities, with picnics and walks by the Huron River being favorite pastimes. The humidity also tends to rise during this time, leading to muggy afternoons.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
The peak of summer in
Ann Arbor is in
July, with scorching temperatures throughout the day. Residents and tourists flock to local pools, rivers, and lakes to cool down and enjoy the high summer. Despite the humidity, the evenings are perfect for exploring and enjoying the city's vibrant nightlife.
Weather in July »Weather in August
August maintains the summer heat in
Ann Arbor, with a slight dip in temperature compared to
July. The warm, sunny days continue to dominate the city's weather, inviting people to enjoy the outdoors, whether it is picnicking, hiking, or water activities.
Weather in August » Weather in September
September in
Ann Arbor marks the beginning of fall and triggers a gradual decline in temperature. It is a transitional period, as hot summer afternoons make way for crisp autumn evenings. While the leaves begin to burst into autumn colors, residents prepare for cooler weather.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October is a time when
Ann Arbor is fully engulfed in fall, with mild days and cooler nights. With leaves changing into vibrant hues of red, orange, and gold, the city is a visual treat. Cultural events and Halloween festivities dominate the social calendar of October, indicating the city's residents' high spirits despite the dipping temperatures.
Weather in October » Weather in November
November in
Ann Arbor ushers in the start of the cold season, with a significant drop in temperature. The trees shed their leaves preparing for winter, while the city gears up for the holiday season. The first snowfall often occurs during this time, officially marking winter's arrival.
Weather in November » Weather in December
In
December,
Ann Arbor is in the midst of winter with frequent snowfall, freezing temperatures, and short days. The city's cold winter combines with the holiday season to create a festive ambiance. As families gather for holiday celebrations, snow-covered streets and holiday lights make Ann Arbor a winter wonderland.
Weather in December »