Climate and monthly weather forecast
Mackinaw City, MI

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The lovely seaside Mackinaw City in Michigan, with a view of the intense road network therein and a part of the long Mackinac Bridge
The lovely seaside Mackinaw City in Michigan, with a view of the intense road network therein and a part of the long Mackinac Bridge

The climate of Mackinaw City

The predominant climate in Mackinaw City, Michigan, USA, is classified as Dfb under the Köppen climate classification, indicative of a Humid Continental climate with no dry season and warm summers. This classification is largely due to its geographical position, nestled in the northern region of Michigan's Lower Peninsula.

Dfb climates are characterized by significant temperature variation throughout the year, and Mackinaw City exhibits this feature quite vividly. Throughout the course of each year, the mean high temperature fluctuates from a cold 23.4°F (-4.8°C) in January to a pleasant 71.4°F (21.9°C) in July. Similarly, the mean low temperature ranges from a chilling 14.7°F (-9.6°C) in January to a more comfortable 58.6°F (14.8°C) in August.

Typical weather factors such as humidity and cloud cover also vary throughout the year, with the former peaking at 89% in both January and February, and the latter having a high of 80% in January, diminishing to a low of 32% in both July and August. Additionally, visibility throughout the year remains steady between 5 to 6 miles.

Rainfall and snowfall present distinct patterns throughout the year. January and February receive the highest snowfall, nearing 5.91" (150mm) and 5.67" (144mm), respectively. On the contrary, rainfall is most significant in October with an average of 2.72" (69mm) of rain.

The best time to visit Mackinaw City

With the combination of weather factors into account, the prime time to visit Mackinaw City appears to be from June through to August. Temperatures during this span range from 63.5°F (17.5°C) to 71.4°F (21.9°C), quite pleasant for outdoor activities. Rainfall is moderate, and the region experiences the highest average daylight hours, ranging from 15 hours to 15.7 hours per day.

The worst time to visit Mackinaw City

The period from late fall to early spring, specifically from November to March, could be ranked as the least appealing time for visits. The mean temperature dwells between 23.4°F (-4.8°C) and 42.3°F (5.7°C) for these months, with the chilliest months being January and February. Coupled with substantial snowfall and reduced visibility, travel and outdoor activities may be hindered.

Spring weather in Mackinaw City

Springtime in Mackinaw City, from March to May, sees a steady elevation in temperatures, with highs ranging from 32.7°F (0.4°C) to 55°F (12.8°C) and lows from 22.3°F (-5.4°C) to 41.4°F (5.2°C). The period is paired with increased daylight hours and modest rainfall, making it welcoming for visitors seeking relatively mild weather and greener landscapes.

Summer weather in Mackinaw City

Summer, stretching from June to August, is the most temperate season in Mackinaw City. The average high temperature ranges from 63.5°F (17.5°C) to 71.4°F (21.9°C), and low temperature ranges from 49.5°F (9.7°C) to 58.6°F (14.8°C). The weather is most conducive for outdoor activities during this period.

Autumn weather in Mackinaw City

Mackinaw City's autumn season, from September through November, presents a mixed bag in weather conditions. Average high temperatures drop between 64.8°F (18.2°C) and 40.3°F (4.6°C), while average lows range from 53.1°F (11.7°C) down to 32.9°F (0.5°C). Rainfall peaks in October with an average of 2.72" (69mm), and snow begins to make an appearance in November.

Winter weather in Mackinaw City

Winters, spanning December through February, are marked by severe cold in Mackinaw City, with average lows ranging from 23°F (-5°C) in February to 14.7°F (-9.6°C) in January. Snowfall is frequent during these months, with January receiving the highest volume at 5.91" (150mm).

Weather in January

Mackinaw City, Michigan, experiences a clear transition from the prior year, with low temperatures and heightened snowfall. The frigid chill of January paired with the lingering short daylight hours, calls for thick coats and snow boots. Weather in January »

Weather in February

If January introduces the Michigan winter, February reinforces it. The city is still under the umbrella of winter, but with slightly higher temperatures, shorter snowfall, and increased daylight hours. Residents continue to experience the frostbite cold, making warm dressing an essential for the daily routines. Weather in February »

Weather in March

The advent of March marks the beginning of gradual transition from harsh winter to calmer spring. March weather displays an upward trend in temperatures and longer daylight hours, putting the winter's relentless cold on a retreat. Weather in March »

Weather in April

Signifying the heart of spring, weather in April takes a decisive step away from winter's frigid temperatures. Temperatures rise steadily, daylight hours increase, and flower patches start to replace the melted snow piles, altering the landscape. Weather in April »

Weather in May

Weather in May acknowledges the full arrival of spring, marking a significant deviation from April. The pleasant sunshine becomes a constant companion, extending daylight hours, spurring nature, and lifting locals' spirits. Temperature variations moderate, while the expanded color palette revives the city's vistas, meaning increased outdoor adventures. Weather in May »

Weather in June

June ushers in the much-anticipated summer, promising longer sunny days. Mackinaw's residents relish the change, enjoying the comfortable warmth, extended daylight hours, and the ability to spend ample time outside. Activities shift towards water-based recreation, from boat cruises to swimming and fishing. Weather in June »

Weather in July

As summer peaks in July, the month basks in its warmest weather. Locals enjoy the period's stability, marked by longer daylight hours and reduced rainfall. Summer activities continue unabated, ensuring the city buzzes with recreational and leisurely pursuits. Weather in July »

Weather in August

August in Mackinaw City continues July’s warm trend, albeit slightly cooler. Locals relish the last of the summer's extended sunshine, amid reduced rain and continued outdoor activities. This month, while being part of the warm season, begins to hint at an approaching transition. Weather in August »

Weather in September

September in Mackinaw City welcomes the onset of fall, although the temperatures remain relatively warm. The daylight hours shorten, but the sun-drenched days ensure enjoyable outdoor activities. The clear weather combined with the fall colors makes the city a picturesque sight. Weather in September »

Weather in October

In October, Mackinaw City fully embraces autumn. Fall foliage peaks during this month, decorating the city in vibrant hues of orange, red, and yellow. The warmth of summer is replaced by more crisp days and cool nights, calling for layers and jackets. Weather in October »

Weather in November

November in Mackinaw City heralds a clear departure from fall and a steady transition into winter. The city prepares for the harsh winter weather ahead, and residents swap autumn leaves for winter gear. Snow begins to appear and the temperatures start declining, leading to increased indoor interactions and reduced outdoor activities. Weather in November »

Weather in December

Finally, December in Mackinaw City welcomes the full onslaught of winter. The snow-covered landscape, frigid temperatures, and brief daylight hours create a festive backdrop for the holiday season. Residents bundle up and festive lights adorn homes and streets, creating a unique winter atmosphere. Weather in December »

Frequently asked questions

What time of the year is the coldest?

Mackinaw City reaches its average lowest temperatures in January, measuring 23.4°F (-4.8°C) at the peak and 14.7°F (-9.6°C) at the lowest.

What is the most humid month?

The months with the highest humidity are January and February, with an average relative humidity of 89%.

What is the driest month?

January is the month with the least rainfall in Mackinaw City. Rain falls for 5.8 days and accumulates 1.3" (33mm) of precipitation.

How many days does it rain?

Throughout the year, there are 131 rainfall days, and 21.22" (539mm) of precipitation is accumulated.

When does it snow?

Months with snowfall are January through May, October through December.

When does it snow the most?

January is the month with the most snowfall. Snow falls for 21.9 days and accumulates 5.91" (150mm) of snow.

How much does it snow?

Throughout the year, there are 93.6 snowfall days, and 27.91" (709mm) of snow is accumulated.

What is the month with the least sunshine?

The month with the least sunshine in Mackinaw City is January, with an average of 1.9h of sunshine.

When is the lowest UV index?

The months with the lowest UV index are January through March, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 1.

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?

May is the least humid month, with an average relative humidity of 75%.

When it does not snow?

June through September are months without snowfall.

When are the longest days?

The month with the longest days is June, with an average of 15h and 42min of daylight.

What are the months with the highest UV index?

The months with the highest UV index are June through August, with an average maximum UV index of 5.

What are the warmest months?

In Mackinaw City, the peak temperatures are generally noted in July, averaging a high of 71.4°F (21.9°C) and a low of 57.6°F (14.2°C).

What month has the most sunshine?

The month with the most sunshine is July, with an average of 10.1h of sunshine.

What is the wettest month?

The month with the most rainfall is October, when the rain falls for 16.5 days and typically aggregates up to 2.72" (69mm) of precipitation.

What is the month with the shortest days?

With an average of 8h and 42min of daylight, December has the shortest days of the year.

Average temperature
Mackinaw City, MI

Average temperature - Mackinaw City, MI

The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (71.4°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (23.4°F).

The month with the highest average low temperature is August (58.6°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is February (14.4°F).

Average pressure
Mackinaw City, MI

Average pressure - Mackinaw City, MI

The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is March (30.09"Hg).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is June (29.92"Hg).

Average wind speed
Mackinaw City, MI

Average wind speed - Mackinaw City, MI

The windiest months (with the highest average wind speed) are November and December (10.9mph).
The calmest months (with the lowest average wind speed) are June and July (7.6mph).

Average humidity
Mackinaw City, MI

Average humidity - Mackinaw City, MI

The months with the highest relative humidity are January and February (89%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is May (75%).

Average rainfall
Mackinaw City, MI

Average rainfall - Mackinaw City, MI

The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is October (2.72").
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is January (1.3").

Average rainfall days
Mackinaw City, MI

Average rainfall days - Mackinaw City, MI

The month with the highest number of rainy days is October (16.5 days).
The month with the least rainy days is February (5.3 days).

Average snowfall
Mackinaw City, MI

Average snowfall - Mackinaw City, MI

The month with the highest snowfall is January (5.91").
The months with the least snowfall are June, July, August and September (0").

Average snowfall days
Mackinaw City, MI

Average snowfall days - Mackinaw City, MI

The month with the highest number of snowfall days is January (21.9 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are June, July, August and September (0 days).

Average daylight / Average sunshine
Mackinaw City, MI

Average daylight / Average sunshine - Mackinaw City, MI

The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 15h and 42min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 8h and 42min).

The month with the most sunshine is July (Average sunshine: 10h and 6min).
The month with the least sunshine is January (Average sunshine: 1h and 54min).

Average sunshine days
Mackinaw City, MI

Average sunshine days - Mackinaw City, MI

The month with the most sunshine days is September (16.9 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is January (7.1 days).

Average UV index
Mackinaw City, MI

Average UV index - Mackinaw City, MI

The months with the highest UV index are June, July and August (UV index 5).
The months with the lowest UV index are January, February, March, November and December (UV index 1).

Average visibility
Mackinaw City, MI

Average visibility - Mackinaw City, MI

The months with the highest visibility are April, May, June, July, August, September, October and November (6mi).
The months with the lowest visibility are January, February, March and December (5mi).

Mackinaw City, Michigan, USA

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