The climate of Detroit Lakes
Situated in
Minnesota, the United States,
Detroit Lakes presents a predominant Humid Continental climate, classified within the Köppen climate system as Dfb, characterized by having no dry season and a warm summer. Comprehensive climate data imply a clear four-season cycle, with weather conditions varying significantly throughout the year.
Temperature variation in Detroit Lakes is extensive, from a low of 2.7°F (-16.3°C) in winter months to a peak of around 79°F (26.1°C) during the summer. Throughout the year, precipitation is quite consistent with rainfall occurring on an increasing scale from 0.67" (17mm) in
February to 3.19" (81mm) by
June, followed by a gentle decline towards the end of the year. Simultaneously, the number of rainfall days sees a comparable pattern, with the maximum number of rainy days in June, averaging 17.2.
The city experiences a considerable amount of snowfall as well, especially between winter and early spring months, where total snowfall is around 5.63" (143mm) in
December and 4.57" (116mm) in February. The daylight duration gradually increases from 9 hours in
January to 15.8 hours in June, decreasing gradually thereafter. The cloud cover changes throughout the year, moving from a high of 74% in January to a low of 29% in
July.
The best time to visit Detroit Lakes
The most recommended period to visit
Detroit Lakes would be from late spring to early fall, particularly between
May and
September, when the weather is comfortably warm, with high temperatures ranging from 63.7°F (17.6°C) to 77.4°F (25.2°C). During these months, there are extended daylight hours, ranging between 15.1 and 15.8 hours, providing ample time for outdoor activities.
The worst time to visit Detroit Lakes
The least recommended time to visit
Detroit Lakes would be the winter months of
December through
February, when the weather can get harsh with temperatures dropping even down to 2.7°F (-16.3°C). Unless winter sports and activities are the main purpose of visiting, these months have shorter daylight hours varying from 8.6 to 10.3 hours, and a high chance of snowfall, which could affect travel plans adversely.
Spring weather in Detroit Lakes
Spring in
Detroit Lakes, from
March to
May, experiences a significant increase in temperatures from 34.2°F (1.2°C) to 63.7°F (17.6°C). Rainfall also increases with the arrival of spring, from 1.18" (30mm) in March to 2.52" (64mm) by May. The length of daylight extends from 11.9 hours in March to 15.1 hours by May, providing more opportunities for outdoor activities.
Summer weather in Detroit Lakes
Summer in
Detroit Lakes,
June through
August, sees the warmest temperatures of the year, averaging from 73.2°F (22.9°C) to 79°F (26.1°C). There is substantial precipitation in June at 3.19" (81mm), although it declines in the following months. The daylight hours are at their peak, between 15.1 and 15.8 hours, perfect for summer vacations.
Autumn weather in Detroit Lakes
Fall, from
September to
November, brings cooler temperatures, ranging from 68.9°F (20.5°C) down to 35.8°F (2.1°C). The amount of rainfall also decreases from 1.42" (36mm) in September to 0.75" (19mm) by November. The daylight hours reduce from 12.5 hours in September to 9.4 hours by November.
Winter weather in Detroit Lakes
Winter in
Detroit Lakes,
December through
February, is characterized by the lowest temperatures of the year, dropping to as low as 2.7°F (-16.3°C), along with high snowfall amounts peaking at 5.63" (143mm) in December. The daylight hours are the shortest, ranging from 8.6 to 10.3 hours, decreasing outdoor activity opportunities. Despite these conditions, winter sports enthusiasts may find this season attractive.
Weather in January
In
Detroit Lakes,
Minnesota,
January sees the core winter season. The constant chill and regular snowfall mark this month, setting it apart from the rest of the year. The cold sustains a low average temperature of 2.7°F (-16.3°C), and the highest goes only up to 16.2°F (-8.8°C).
Weather in January »Weather in February
Following
January's intense cold,
February brings minor but noticeable shifts to the weather in
Detroit Lakes. The temperature averages rise marginally, and the amount of snowfall reduces, indicating the start of a transition phase in the climate.
Weather in February »Weather in March
March witnesses a definitive switch from winter to spring in
Detroit Lakes. The temperature highs spike up to 34.2°F (1.2°C), hinting at warmer days ahead. The change in weather is also marked by an increase in rainfall and daylight hours.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
Throughout
April, individuals in
Detroit Lakes experience a definite transition into spring. Temperatures become pleasant, and the city usually sees a considerable reduction in snowfall. Correspondingly, there is a noticeable drop in humidity levels.
Weather in April »Weather in May
May, in
Detroit Lakes, is marked by a consistent rise in temperatures, paving the way for the sweltering summer months that follow. The climate progressively heats up, and the amount of rainfall increases significantly, doubling the
March average to 2.52" (64mm).
Weather in May » Weather in June
Detroit Lakes weather in
June is characterized by longer days and significant warmth. The climate noticeably shifts from pleasant spring evenings to hot summer days. Routine activities adapt to the sunny conditions, with average daylight reaching up to 15.8 hours.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July is characterized by its peak summer conditions in
Detroit Lakes. The increase in temperature is accompanied by a parallel decline in cloud cover, plummeting to an annual low of 29%. Residents bask under the summer sun, enjoying the longest daylight hours of the year.
Weather in July » Weather in August
August remains intrinsically summer in
Detroit Lakes, yet the weather conditions begin to relax slightly. The month introduces a gradual shift towards autumn, bringing it in with reduced daylight hours and cooler breezes. Citizens receive respite from the intense
July heat.
Weather in August » Weather in September
As
September sets in,
Detroit Lakes starts unveiling signs of the impending autumn. The month sees a noticeable dip in temperature and daylight hours from
August to September. The combination of milder days and chilly nights indicate the onset of autumn.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October in
Detroit Lakes represents a classic autumn month. Temperatures drop further, and daylight hours decrease, signaling the approach of winter. While days become cooler, nights become progressively chilly. The vibrant colors of fall give Detroit Lakes its distinctive charm during October.
Weather in October » Weather in November
November initiates the transition from autumn to winter in
Detroit Lakes. The weather circumstances drastically transform, with temperatures falling and snowfall making its first significant appearance since early in the year.
Weather in November » Weather in December
December in
Detroit Lakes ushers in a full-fledged winter season. The temperature drops dramatically, and snowfall becomes a common phenomenon, marking the return of the winter cycle. The most substantial decline in daylight hours is observed during this month.
Weather in December »