The climate of Marquette
Positioned at the heart of the Great Lakes region in
Michigan, USA,
Marquette enjoys a Humid continental climate, characterized by warm summers and no dry season, as outlined by the Köppen climate classification Dfb. This results in a diverse spectrum of weather conditions throughout the year, moderated by Lake Superior's significant influence.
In the annual weather cycle, fluctuations in temperature and precipitation significantly contribute to the changing climate.
January witnesses the lowest average temperature of 12.7°F (-10.7°C) with
December and
February trailing close by. A shift to the warmer side occurs around
July, with average temperatures reaching a peak of 73.2°F (22.9°C).
Relative humidity ranges between 72-89%. Higher humidity levels emerge during the colder months, with February having the highest level at 89%. Surface visibility on average spans across 4-6 miles throughout the year, influenced mainly by humidity levels and temperature gradients.
Observing rainfall patterns, it can be noted that
April bears the highest rainfall of 2.91" (74mm), maintaining a generally consistent rainfall level throughout the year. On the other hand, snowfall prominently features from
November to
March, with the highest figure reaching 9.8" (249mm) in December.
The best time to visit Marquette
Considering temperatures and sunshine hours, the optimal time for a visit to
Marquette falls between
May and
September. During these months, temperatures steadily increase, starting from 58.3°F (14.6°C) in May, reaching a peak of 73.2°F (22.9°C) in
July, and gently receding to 65.3°F (18.5°C) in September. Coupled with long sunlight hours, stretching from 15 to 15.8 hours, summer months in Marquette offer plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, whether it's hitting the hiking trails or exploring the beautiful coastlines of Lake Superior.
The worst time to visit Marquette
Winter months from
December to
February could be less hospitable for visitors who are not accustomed to cold weather conditions. Snowfall dominates the scene with December witnessing the most accumulation up to 9.8" (249mm). Coupled with low, close to freezing temperatures, outdoor activities could be restricted during these months.
Spring weather in Marquette
Spring in
Marquette unveils a desirable transition from winter's clutch. Between
March to
May, temperatures gradually rise from 32.5°F (0.3°C) to a comfortable 58.3°F (14.6°C), and daylight hours expand to 15 hours in May. Despite occasional rainfall during these spring months, the increase in sunshine hours up to 8.4 hours in May compensates, making it an ideal time for outdoor exploration.
Summer weather in Marquette
Summer brings warmth and brightness to
Marquette with the highest average temperature reaching 73.2°F (22.9°C) in
July. Sunlight is generous, revealing up to 15.8 hours of daylight in
June and July, complemented by up to 10 hours of sunshine. The occasional rainfall or light wind providing respite from the heat, makes this season desirable for tourists.
Autumn weather in Marquette
The Autumn months of
September through
November, see a gradual fall in temperature from 65.3°F (18.5°C) to 37.6°F (3.1°C), with an average decrease in daylight to 9.4 hours by November. Rainfall becomes more frequent, peaking in
October at 2.64" (67mm), but sunshine during this season lends an unmissable golden hue to the stunning fall foliage of
Marquette.
Winter weather in Marquette
Winter in
Marquette is characterized by heavy snowfall and cold temperatures.
December to
February sees a drop in temperature from 26.8°F (-2.9°C) to 12.7°F (-10.7°C) respectively, with a peak snowfall of 9.8" (249mm) in December. Though outdoor activities are limited, winter introduces a charm of its own with sparkling snow-laden landscapes. Add the crowning glory of 21 hours of sunshine in December, and Marquette transforms into a winter wonderland.
Weather in January
January in
Marquette,
Michigan characteristically sees cold weather and regular snowfall, creating a winter wonderland. With an average low temperature of 12.7°F (-10.7°C), the city experiences its coldest month. Skies remain significantly overcast, contributing to the wintry feel.
Weather in January » Weather in February
February's weather continues the winter trend set in
January, albeit with a slight increase in average high and low temperatures to 22.6°F (-5.2°C) and 12.9°F (-10.6°C) respectively. Snow continues to blanket the city regularly, while the increase in daylight hours by over an hour signals the approaching end of winter.
Weather in February » Weather in March
As winter gives way to spring,
March sees considerable changes in
Marquette's weather. The highest average temperature climbs significantly to 32.5°F (0.3°C), and the amount of daylight extends to nearly 12 hours. The snow begins to melt, and while there's still a good deal of overcast days, the change in season is palpable.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April's weather highlights a clear transition from winter to spring in
Marquette. Temperatures continue to rise, reaching an average high of 43.2°F (6.2°C), and the snowfall all but disappears. The increase in daylight hours and a downturn in cloudiness denotes the onset of warmer, clearer days.
Weather in April » Weather in May
May heralds the onset of warmer weather in
Marquette. By this time, snowfall has ceased on average, and rainfall decreases from previous months. A consistent uptick in sunshine hours entails the climate becoming more favorable for outdoor activities.
Weather in May » Weather in June
June signifies the arrival of summer in
Marquette,
Michigan, with temperatures averaging a high of 66.7°F (19.3°C). The city basks in its longest daylight hours of the year and the highest average number of sunny days. Simultaneously, the humidity climbs slightly since
May, adding a muggy feel to the air at times.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July is the warmest month in
Marquette, with an average high temperature soaring to 73.2°F (22.9°C). Clear, sunny days are more frequent now, making it perfect for beach and water activities. The increase in humidity maintains the muggy feel, yet residents enjoy the sunshine that dominates the weather during this month.
Weather in July » Weather in August
In
August,
Marquette experiences similar conditions to
July, signifying the peak of summer. The average high temperature remains steady at 72.1°F (22.3°C) while daylight hours start shortening, indicating the imminent approach of fall.
Weather in August »Weather in September
September brings subtle hints of autumn to
Marquette's weather with a decrease in average high temperature to 65.3°F (18.5°C), signaling the end of summer. The daylight hours noticeably decline, and the frequency of sunny days decreases as well.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October fully embraces autumn in
Marquette, with a notable drop in the average temperature to 50.5°F (10.3°C). An increase in rainfall adds to the moody ambiance of the fall season. The shorter days and cooler weather transform the city into an autumnal tableau.
Weather in October » Weather in November
November ushers in colder weather and the beginnings of winter in
Marquette. The transition is highlighted by a further decline in temperature with an average high of 37.6°F (3.1°C). Snowfall reappears with the colder temperatures, marking the start of the winter season.
Weather in November » Weather in December
December secures the arrival of winter in
Marquette, with an average high temperature plunging to 26.8°F (-2.9°C) and an average snowfall peaking at 9.8" (249mm). While it is the shortest daylight month, December is truly a winter wonderland.
Weather in December »