The climate of Grand Marais
Grand Marais in
Michigan, USA is distinguished by a Humid Continental climate, as defined by the Koppen Climate Classification. This location bears witness to a warm summer with no dry season, and is characterized by large variations in temperature that span from one end of the spectrum to the other.
Navigating the year, the temperature ranges dramatically from 13.6°F (-10.2°C) in
February to 72.1°F (22.3°C) in
July. While residents of Grand Marais anticipate the warm summer, the cold stations itself quite prominently in the area. Indeed, the winter months of
December,
January, and February trail behind with the coldest temperatures, dipping as low as 13.8°F (-10.1°C) in January. Extremely cold winters and comparatively warm, humid summers, with
April serving as the transition period, define the district backdrop of this diverse climate.
Rainfall is relatively even throughout the year, if leaning slightly towards the autumn months, with monthly averages duration between 1.5" (38mm) in
March and 2.8" (71mm) in
October. The snowfall, however, is more seasonally dependent. High snowfall is most associated with the winter months, stretching from December to February, and spilling into March with 10.08" (256mm) in snow in January. In the summer, no snow typically touches the ground.
The Best Time to Visit Grand Marais
When looking to visit
Grand Marais, the duration of
May to
September may be the most rewarding. During these months, the weather is at its warmest and most inviting, with temperatures peaking between 57°F (13.9°C) to 72.1°F (22.3°C), making it favorable for outdoor activities. It's also the period when the daylight shines brightest, reaching its zenith in
June and
July at 15.8 hours. This provides ample time for sightseeing, trekking, and other outdoor pursuits.
The Worst Time to Visit Grand Marais
Grand Marais experiences harsh winters, especially between
December to
March when the temperatures clock in at a chilling 13.8°F (-10.1°C) to 43.5°F (6.4°C). Snowfall is also at its heaviest. A considerable volume of 10.08" (256mm) hits the area in
January, consequently reducing visibility. This, in combination with shorter daylight hours ranging from 8.6 to 13.6 hours, might impose limitations on outdoor activities, making it a less desirable time for tourists.
Spring Weather in Grand Marais
Spring sets foot in
Grand Marais in
April, releasing the city from a long-drawn winter's grip and serving temperatures that eventually touch 57°F (13.9°C) by
May end. Although warmer, spring also escorts with it an increased rainfall seen between 1.5" (38mm) in
March to 1.54" (39mm) by May. Even though the rate of rainfall escalates, April and May only engage in an average of 11.1 to 13.3 rainy days, thus not much hindrance to outdoor activities. With more moderate weather, lengthier daylight, and the magic of blossoming nature, spring can offer a delightful experience for visitors.
Summer Weather in Grand Marais
Summer in
Grand Marais starts in
June, rendering an atmospheric average of 66°F (18.9°C) to 72.1°F (22.3°C). This season is marked by increased humidity levels, at times reaching 78% in
July. It is also the driest season of the year with lower rainfall of 1.93" (49mm). It's crucial to note that there can still be an average of 13.2 rainy days in July. The persistent warm ambiance under the longest daylight hours makes summer a perfect time to enjoy Grand Marais's beaches and scenic landscapes.
Autumn Weather in Grand Marais
Autumn enters
Grand Marais in
September and stays until
November. During this period, temperatures typically moderate, falling from 65.1°F (18.4°C) in September to 39.2°F (4°C) in November. However, with an increased average rainfall amounting to 2.8" (71mm) by
October, it makes autumn the wettest season. Despite this, the fall foliage displays a stunning palette of colors contributing to the beauty of the city's landscape.
Winter Weather in Grand Marais
Winter in
Grand Marais, stretching from
December through
March, carries intense cold, with temperatures as low as 13.8°F (-10.1°C). The presence of considerable snowfall up to 10.08" (256mm) in
January can produce breathtaking winter landscapes, although it may hinder outdoor activities. During this period, daylight hours are shortest, ranging from 9.1 hours in December to 13.6 hours by March end. Winters in Grand Marais are for those who appreciate the raw beauty and silence of frosty landscapes, or the challenge of winter sports.
Weather in January
Snow dominates the
January weather in
Grand Marais,
Michigan, creating a perfect atmosphere for winter sports enthusiasts. The freezing air ensures comfortable conditions for snow accumulation, despite moderate wind intensity. Relative humidity is heightened, contributing to consistent snowfall.
Weather in January »Weather in February
Transitioning into
February, the prevailing snowfall in
Grand Marais lessens slightly. The climate continues to support winter activities with short daylight hours and low ultra-violet index. Sub-freezing temperatures persist, inducing a high snowfall frequency, though slightly reduced compared to
January.
Weather in February »Weather in March
The onset of
March witnesses a significant change in weather dynamics in
Grand Marais. Snowfall begins to decrease, and the increasing daylight hours hint at the approaching spring season. The wind speed reduces, making it less harsh than the winter months.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April, often seen as the harbinger of spring in
Grand Marais, brings a sharp drop in snowfall and a conspicuous rise in temperatures. The climate sees a remarkable increase in daylight duration and sunshine hours. Lower wind speeds create a pleasant ambiance, while the fairly strong sea temperatures hint at the influence of nearby water bodies.
Weather in April » Weather in May
May marks the complete arrival of spring in
Grand Marais, with temperatures starting to rise significantly. These temperature changes translate into decreasing snowfall and increasing rainfall. The increased sunlight hours bring a warming effect, supported by comparatively lower wind speeds.
Weather in May » Weather in June
June's arrival brings about the height of summer in
Grand Marais. The climate is characterized by the highest daylight and sunshine hours of the year. The numerous sunny days, combined with warm sea temperatures, make this a popular month for beach activities.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July witnesses the continuation of summer in full swing in
Grand Marais. The extended sunshine hours and longer daylight duration contribute to the warming effect. The cloud% remains low, allowing clear skies and great visibility. The climatic high point is the month's temperature stretch from 55°F (12.8°C) to the yearly peak of 72.1°F (22.3°C), with no snowfall events registered.
Weather in July » Weather in August
Despite being late summer,
August in
Grand Marais sustains high temperatures and extended daylight hours. There's a gradual increase in humidity and cloud%, indicating an impending change in season. The high temperature and abundant sunshine form the highlight of the month.
Weather in August »Weather in September
September marks the transition from summer to fall in
Grand Marais. The change is noted in the decreasing daylight hours and sunshine duration, as well as the falling sea temperature. The month experiences a moderate increase in cloud coverage, leading to somewhat reduced visibility.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October brings about a sharp change in
Grand Marais’ weather with a significant drop in temperature and the first signs of snowfall since
May. The number of sunshine hours are limited, signaling shorter days. The strong winds add a chill in the air, giving a hint of the forthcoming winter.
Weather in October » Weather in November
In
November, the weather in
Grand Marais takes a turn towards winter with a rapid drop in temperature. The days become even shorter, and the snowfall frequency increases. Besides, the month witnesses a slight decline in sea temperature and sunshine hours.
Weather in November »Weather in December
December is a time of peak winter conditions in
Grand Marais, with short daylight hours and limited sunshine. The high wind speeds contribute to the winter's harshness. Furthermore, the high humidity due to cold temperatures coupled with increased rainfall heightens the wintry feel.
Weather in December »