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Contents
- The climate of Sault Ste. Marie
- The best time to visit Sault Ste. Marie
- The worst time to visit Sault Ste. Marie
- Spring weather in Sault Ste. Marie
- Summer weather in Sault Ste. Marie
- Autumn weather in Sault Ste. Marie
- Winter weather in Sault Ste. Marie
- Weather in January
- Weather in February
- Weather in March
- Weather in April
- Weather in May
- Weather in June
- Weather in July
- Weather in August
- Weather in September
- Weather in October
- Weather in November
- Weather in December
- Frequently asked questions
- Average temperature
- Average rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average snowfall
- Average snowfall days
- Average sea temperature
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average UV index
The famous Soo Locks in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, with the deepwater section passage for large water vessels
The climate of Sault Ste. Marie
Sault Ste. Marie enjoys a Dfb Köppen climate classification, resulting in a humid continental climate with no dry season and a warm summer. This Michigan city occupies a geographical position that modifies these conditions to yield a remarkable climate pattern throughout the year.
The city experiences a distinct shift in weather as seasons transition. Monthly average temperatures range from 7.6°F (-13.6°C) to 76.2°F (24.6°C), establishing a clear annual temperature trajectory. January and February are the coldest months, with temperatures dipping as low as 7.6°F (-13.6°C) to 9.4°F (-12.6°C), while July reigns as the warmest month with a high hovering around 76.2°F (24.6°C).
In Sault Ste. Marie, rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year. The monthly average records change from 1.3" (33mm) in February to 3.8" (97mm) in both September and October, detailing a mild shift in rainfall patterns. Snowfall is a notable feature of the city, with heavy snowfalls observed from December to February. December tends to be the snowiest month, recording an average of 33.5" (851mm) of snow.
Regarding daylight and sunshine duration, the city sees the longest days in June with an average of 15.8 hours. Sunshine duration also peaks in this month, averaging at 9.4 hours. Other variables such as sea temperature and UV index mirror the annual temperature pattern, peaking in the summer months and dipping in the winter.
The city experiences a distinct shift in weather as seasons transition. Monthly average temperatures range from 7.6°F (-13.6°C) to 76.2°F (24.6°C), establishing a clear annual temperature trajectory. January and February are the coldest months, with temperatures dipping as low as 7.6°F (-13.6°C) to 9.4°F (-12.6°C), while July reigns as the warmest month with a high hovering around 76.2°F (24.6°C).
In Sault Ste. Marie, rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year. The monthly average records change from 1.3" (33mm) in February to 3.8" (97mm) in both September and October, detailing a mild shift in rainfall patterns. Snowfall is a notable feature of the city, with heavy snowfalls observed from December to February. December tends to be the snowiest month, recording an average of 33.5" (851mm) of snow.
Regarding daylight and sunshine duration, the city sees the longest days in June with an average of 15.8 hours. Sunshine duration also peaks in this month, averaging at 9.4 hours. Other variables such as sea temperature and UV index mirror the annual temperature pattern, peaking in the summer months and dipping in the winter.
The best time to visit Sault Ste. Marie
The ideal time for a trip to Sault Ste. Marie is during the late spring and early summer; from May to June. During this period, the city enjoys a comfortable temperature band, ranging from 62.7°F (17.1°C) to 71.3°F (21.8°C). It is worth noting that this period also features the longest daylight hours, allowing ample time for recreational and sightseeing activities. Moreover, the sea temperature, lying between 37°F (2.8°C) to 41°F (5°C), encourages water-based activities.
The worst time to visit Sault Ste. Marie
Visitors are advised against planning their trip to Sault Ste. Marie from late fall to early winter, specifically from November to December. This period witnesses the harshest weather conditions, with temperatures plummeting to lows of 28.1°F (-2.2°C) to 15.8°F (-9°C). Additionally, snowfall is at its highest in December with an average of 33.5" (851mm), forming a challenging environment for outdoor activities.
Spring weather in Sault Ste. Marie
Spring in Sault Ste. Marie is a time of transition. March sees temperatures rise from a low of 17.9°F (-7.8°C) to highs of 34.7°F (1.5°C), while by May, the temperature has escalated to a more comfortable range, from 40.9°F (4.9°C) to 62.7°F (17.1°C). Rainfall in spring fluctuates from 2" (51mm) in March to 2.6" (66mm) in May, indicating a slight increase over the season.
Summer weather in Sault Ste. Marie
Summer in Sault Ste. Marie offers favourable weather conditions. The temperature graphs peak in July, with lows of 54.4°F (12.4°C) and highs touching 76.2°F (24.6°C). Rainfall appears more consistent than in other seasons, primarily lying between 2.7" (69mm) to 3.2" (81mm) from June to August. Moreover, the period boasts the maximum sunshine hours in a day, averaging from 9.4 hours in June to 8 hours in August.
Autumn weather in Sault Ste. Marie
Autumn introduces a downward shift in the climate of Sault Ste. Marie. The temperatures drop dramatically from the highs of 74.7°F (23.7°C) in September, to the cooler 40.1°F (4.5°C) by November. Rainfall during this period records an increase, peaking at 3.8" (97mm) in September and October.
Winter weather in Sault Ste. Marie
Winters are formidable in Sault Ste. Marie, with December to February seeing the most severe conditions. During these winter months, temperatures occasionally dip to 15.8°F (-9°C) and highs rarely cross 34.7°F (1.5°C). Winters also bring significant snowfall, registering a city record of 33.5" (851mm) in December. Sunshine hours reach their minimum during this period, averaging just 2.3 hours in December.
Weather in January
Steady snowfall is a distinctive trait of Sault Ste. Marie's January weather, resulting in a winter wonderland throughout the city. Those who relish the cold will appreciate this period, as the city's winter activities thrive. The highest temperature hits 23°F (-5°C), and the city experiences 31.4" (798mm) of snowfall, making it the second snowiest month of the year. Weather in January »
Weather in February
As it transitions from January, February in Sault Ste. Marie continues to be dominated by winter conditions. With snow still abundant, winter sports continue unabated, and picturesque sceneries remain. Snowfall decreases to 18.6" (472mm) in February, reflecting a diminishing winter activity. Weather in February »
Weather in March
March signifies the onset of spring in Sault Ste. Marie as temperatures start to increase. This period, while still cold, experiences less snowfall and slightly longer daylight hours. With snowfall down to 13.4" (340mm), winter slowly recedes, leaving behind remnants of its chilly grip. Weather in March »
Weather in April
With noticeably longer days and further rising temperatures, April in Sault Ste. Marie projects clear signs of spring. The snow finally stops piling up, making way for greenery to reclaim the landscape. The remnants of snow melt away, and the city receives only 6.7" (170mm) of snowfall in April, indicating winter's definitive exit. Weather in April »
Weather in May
By May, Sault Ste. Marie embraces the fully formed spring, with the city morphing into a green and vibrant landscape. The snowfall drops to a mere 0.1 inch, hinting at the arrival of summer as the days get warmer. With lush greenery stretching across the city, outdoor activities, from hiking to picnics, become the norm. Weather in May »
Weather in June
June heralds the start of summer in Sault Ste. Marie, with days becoming visibly longer and warmer. With no snowfall, the landscape is dominated by hues of green, imbuing a strong sense of summer in the city's atmosphere. While the weather becomes increasingly warmer, residents and tourists alike bask in the summer sunshine. Weather in June »
Weather in July
Sault Ste. Marie reaches its peak summer period in July, and the city basks in clear, sunny days. With the highest temperature reaching 76.2°F (24.6°C) and an impressive UV index of 8, this month stands as the warmest of the year. Weather in July »
Weather in August
In August, Sault Ste. Marie's temperature starts its gradual retreat from summer's peak. Notably, however, the city records the highest rainfall in August with 3.2" (81mm) of rainfall. Yet, the period continues to promote summer activities, thanks to the warm temperatures persisting. Weather in August »
Weather in September
The transition to fall starts to appear in Sault Ste. Marie by September. The city prepares to don a new robe of vibrant autumn colors, and the gradually dropping temperature allows for pleasant weather. The city experiences 3.8" (97mm) of rainfall, attributing to the vibrancy of the colors in foliage. Weather in September »
Weather in October
In October, Sault Ste. Marie enters fully into the fall season. The city is adorned with the rich hues of red, orange and gold that demonstrate the beauty of fall. The rainfall remains at 3.8" (97mm), fueling the lustrous fall colors throughout the city. Weather in October »
Weather in November
Compared to the vibrant October, November in Sault Ste. Marie sees nature preparing for the winter. With the temperature continuing to drop, the city receives a significant amount of snowfall as winter approaches. Notably, from 1.6" (41mm) in October, snowfall drastically increases to 15.1" (384mm) in November, preparing the city for its winter makeover. Weather in November »
Weather in December
In December, Sault Ste. Marie transforms into a winter wonderland, with the highest snowfall of 33.5" (851mm) recorded. The year ends with a white blanket covering the city, promising a magical holiday season. Despite the dropping temperature, the holiday spirit fills the air with warmth. Weather in December »
Updated: Aug 7, 2024
Published by: Weather U.S. | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Published by: Weather U.S. | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Frequently asked questions
What is the coldest time of year?
Sault Ste. Marie experiences its average lowest temperatures in January, reaching a peak of 23°F (-5°C) and a minimum of 7.5°F (-13.6°C).
How much does it rain?
In Sault Ste. Marie, during the entire year, the rain falls for 162.9 days and collects up to 32.95" (837mm) of precipitation.
When does it snow?
January through May, October through December are months with snowfall.
How many days does it snow?
In Sault Ste. Marie, during the entire year, snow falls for 79.2 days and aggregates up to 120.39" (3058mm) of snow.
What is the month with the lowest UV index in Sault Ste. Marie?
January, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 1, are months with the lowest UV index.
What is the driest month?
February is the month with the least rainfall. Rain falls for 13 days and accumulates 1.34" (34mm) of precipitation.
What are the months with the coldest ocean?
February through April, with an average ocean temperature of 35.6°F (2°C), are months with the coldest seawater.
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.
When it does not snow in Sault Ste. Marie?
In Sault Ste. Marie, snow does not fall in June through September.
When are the longest days?
With an average of 15h and 48min of daylight, June has the longest days of the year.
What is the hottest time of year?
July is the month when Sault Ste. Marie's temperatures reach their peak, with averages of 76.3°F (24.6°C) and lows of 54.3°F (12.4°C).
What month has the most sunshine?
July has the most sunshine of the year, with an average of 9.8h of sunshine.
What is the month with the highest UV index?
The month with the highest UV index is July, with an average maximum UV index of 8.
What month is the ocean warmest in Sault Ste. Marie?
August is the month with the warmest seawater, with an average ocean temperature of 59°F (15°C).
What is the wettest month?
September is the month with the most rainfall. Rain falls for 12.9 days and accumulates 3.82" (97mm) of precipitation.
What is the month with the least sunshine?
With an average of 2.3h of sunshine, November has the least sunshine of the year.
What is the snowiest month?
December is the month with the most snowfall. Snow falls for 18 days and accumulates 33.5" (851mm) of snow.
What is the month with the shortest days?
December has the shortest days of the year in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, with an average of 8h and 42min of daylight.
Average temperature
Sault Ste. Marie, MI
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (76.2°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (23°F).
The month with the highest average low temperature is August (54.5°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (7.6°F).
Average rainfall
Sault Ste. Marie, MI
The wettest months (with the highest rainfall) are September and October (3.8").
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is February (1.3").
Average rainfall days
Sault Ste. Marie, MI
- Average rainfall days in January:
18.4 days - Average rainfall days in February:
13 days - Average rainfall days in March:
12.3 days - Average rainfall days in April:
10.9 days - Average rainfall days in May:
11.2 days - Average rainfall days in June:
11.1 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
11.2 days - Average rainfall days in August:
10.9 days - Average rainfall days in September:
12.9 days - Average rainfall days in October:
15.5 days - Average rainfall days in November:
16.7 days - Average rainfall days in December:
18.8 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is December (18.8 days).
The months with the least rainy days are April and August (10.9 days).
Average snowfall
Sault Ste. Marie, MI
The month with the highest snowfall is December (33.5").
The months with the least snowfall are June, July, August and September (0").
Average snowfall days
Sault Ste. Marie, MI
- Average snowfall days in January:
19.6 days - Average snowfall days in February:
14.2 days - Average snowfall days in March:
10.1 days - Average snowfall days in April:
4.6 days - Average snowfall days in May:
0.4 days - Average snowfall days in June:
0 days
- Average snowfall days in July:
0 days - Average snowfall days in August:
0 days - Average snowfall days in September:
0.1 days - Average snowfall days in October:
2.2 days - Average snowfall days in November:
10 days - Average snowfall days in December:
18 days
The month with the highest number of snowfall days is January (19.6 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are June, July and August (0 days).
Average sea temperature
Sault Ste. Marie, MI
The best month for swimming (with the highest average sea temperature) is August (59°F).
The coldest months (with the lowest average sea temperature) are February, March and April (36°F).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Sault Ste. Marie, MI
- Average daylight in January:
9h and 1min - Average daylight in February:
10h and 2min - Average daylight in March:
11h and 5min - Average daylight in April:
13h and 4min - Average daylight in May:
15h and 0min - Average daylight in June:
15h and 5min
- Average daylight in July:
15h and 2min - Average daylight in August:
14h and 1min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 3min - Average daylight in October:
10h and 5min - Average daylight in November:
9h and 2min - Average daylight in December:
8h and 4min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 15h and 48min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 8h and 42min).
- Average sunshine in January:
3h and 2min - Average sunshine in February:
5h and 1min - Average sunshine in March:
6h and 4min - Average sunshine in April:
7h and 4min - Average sunshine in May:
9h and 0min - Average sunshine in June:
9h and 2min
- Average sunshine in July:
9h and 5min - Average sunshine in August:
8h and 0min - Average sunshine in September:
5h and 5min - Average sunshine in October:
4h and 0min - Average sunshine in November:
2h and 2min - Average sunshine in December:
2h and 3min
The month with the most sunshine is July (Average sunshine: 9h and 48min).
The month with the least sunshine is November (Average sunshine: 2h and 18min).
Average UV index
Sault Ste. Marie, MI
The month with the highest UV index is July (UV index 8).
The months with the lowest UV index are January, November and December (UV index 1).
Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, USA
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