The climate of Big Sky
Big Sky,
Montana is marked by a Humid Continental climate, falling into the Dfb category of the Köppen climate classification. Geographically placed in the Northern Hemisphere, the weather of this mountainous town varies widely throughout the year, with barely any respite from the variations.
The place experiences all four seasons, with consistent monthly alterations in the weather conditions. Monthly average temperatures fluctuate from a low of 9.9°F (-12.3°C) in
January to a significant high of 74.8°F (23.8°C) in
July, illustrating a clear diffusion of cold and warmth. Relative humidity also sees a reduction through the year, starting at 90% in January and decreasing to 51% in
August, emphasizing on the dry nature of the summer months.
Rainfall in Big Sky is not an uncommon phenomenon, with the maximum average monthly precipitation of 2.91" (74mm) occurring in
April and
May. There are significant variations in the rainfall days, peaking to 16.6 days in
June. In contrast,
December witnesses an average rainfall of just 1.34" (34mm), spanning around 6.3 days. Moreover, snowfall is a regular occurrence in the winter months, highly noticeable from December to
February.
The best time to visit Big Sky
The best time to visit
Big Sky would greatly depend on the activities visitors are keen to indulge in. If skiing or other winter sports are the activities of choice, then planning a visit between
December and
February is most apposite, as average snowfall ranges from 11.1" (282mm) to 16.93" (430mm) during these months.
On the other hand, summer in Big Sky is absolutely delightful for those who prefer milder climates, green landscapes, and outdoor music festivals. With temperatures ranging from 64°F (17.8°C) to 74.8°F (23.8°C) and lower humidity levels, the months of
June,
July, and
August offer just the right conditions to explore the
Montana wilderness.
The worst time to visit Big Sky
Big Sky's terrain and climate conditions do not lead to any specific unsuitable period for visitation. However, travelers aiming to avoid extreme weather changes or significant snowfall should steer clear of the winter months, particularly from
December to
February. During these months, average low temperatures can drop to a harsh 7.9°F (-13.4°C) and snowfall reaches up to 19.1 days in
January.
Spring weather in Big Sky
The spring months in
Big Sky present quite a variety in terms of weather conditions. Throughout
March,
April, and
May, temperatures progressively rise from 32.9°F (0.5°C) to 52°F (11.1°C). The spring season also brings sizeable precipitation, with rainfall volumes reaching up to 2.91" (74mm) in April and May. The town equally observes an upsurge in daylight hours during this period, extending from 12 hours in March to about 14.9 hours by the end of May.
Summer weather in Big Sky
Summer in
Big Sky appears to be the driest period of the year. Humidity levels drop significantly during these months. While temperatures hover between 64°F (17.8°C) in
June and 74.8°F (23.8°C) in
July, comparatively low rainfall levels are observed, ranging between 1.18" (30mm) in July to 2.68" (68mm) in June, highlighting the tranquillity of the season.
Autumn weather in Big Sky
As the year progresses into
September,
October, and
November,
Big Sky experiences a cool and crisp autumn. Average temperatures plunge from the pleasant 63.5°F (17.5°C) in September to a chilly 32.2°F (0.1°C) in November. Rainfall days are moderate during the autumn months, but the town experiences a steady increase in relative humidity.
Winter weather in Big Sky
Winter sets in
Big Sky by
December and stretches till
February. This period is characterized by severe cold, with average low temperatures plummeting down to 7.9°F (-13.4°C) in
January. These months also witness considerable snowfall, with snowfall days reaching up to 21 in
March. Despite these challenging conditions, winter proves to be a popular season among visitors with a penchant for skiing and snowboarding.
Weather in January
In
Big Sky,
January weather is defined by its chilly temperatures and a significant amount of snow. The lowest temperatures for the year occur in January, dipping to 9.9°F (-12.3°C), reinforcing its position as the coldest month.
Weather in January »Weather in February
The weather in
Big Sky in
February does not deviate greatly from
January's conditions. A slight increase in temperature is recorded, yet the city remains firmly in the grip of winter. Snow continues to be a prominent feature of February's weather, facilitating the continuation of winter sports activities.
Weather in February »Weather in March
March inaugurates the shift towards spring in
Big Sky, marked by increments in temperature and daylight hours. It struggles to shake off winter completely, with average highs reaching only to 32.9°F (0.5°C) and snow still appearing familiarly.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
In
Big Sky,
April weather further emphasizes the transition into spring. Temperatures begin to climb more noticeably now, with highs fluctuating around 40.1°F (4.5°C). However, snow remains a consistent feature, lightly dusting the city before the melting begins in earnest.
Weather in April »Weather in May
May arrives in
Big Sky heralding the arrival of warmer temperatures. The landscape begins to shed its winter coverage, showcasing its vibrant spring flora. Rain becomes the preferred form of precipitation, replacing the snow that dominated the previous months.
Weather in May » Weather in June
June solidifies summer's presence in
Big Sky, presenting warmer days and shedding the final vestiges of snow. The pleasant weather conditions set the stage for a host of outdoor activities. The beautiful surroundings under the longest daylight span of the year attract both residents and visitors.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July is the zenith of summer in
Big Sky, showcasing the iconic
Montana summer at its best. Temperature peaks at a high of 74.8°F (23.8°C), the highest average for the year. The fruitful blend of clear blue skies, balmy weather conditions, and longer sunshine hours solidify July as the perfect month for outdoor activities.
Weather in July » Weather in August
The weather in
Big Sky remains comfortably warm in
August, encouraging the continuation of summer activities. Although temperatures begin to dip slightly from
July's highs, the outdoor enjoyment doesn't taper off. It retains most of July's warmth while hinting at the upcoming transition to fall.
Weather in August »Weather in September
September ushers in autumn in
Big Sky, adorned by the fall colors painting the
Montana landscape. A clear drop in temperatures signifies the departure of summer. Still, it optimizes the comfortable condition between summer's heat and winter's chill.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October in
Big Sky brings about a stronger presence of autumn, coupled with a quick return to colder temperatures. The charm of fall becomes even more pronounced, rendering the atmosphere picture-perfect. However, winter begins to sneak in, with snow making a comeback towards the month's end.
Weather in October » Weather in November
The arrival of
November in
Big Sky indicates the steady encroachment of winter. Temperatures continue to drop, with average highs hovering around 32.2°F (0.1°C). The snow that heralded its arrival in
October becomes a more frequent visitor, spreading a white carpet over the region.
Weather in November »Weather in December
December brings
Big Sky full circle as it plunges back into the height of winter. The thermometer continues to drop, averaging highs of only 22.5°F (-5.3°C). Thunderous snowfall covers the town, preparing for an array of winter activities once again.
Weather in December »