Climate and monthly weather forecast
Colstrip, MT

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The climate of Colstrip

Colstrip, Montana, USA is governed by a BSk classification according to the Köppen climate system. Characterized as a mid-latitude steppe zone, this classification represents regions distinguished by temperate weather with both hot summers and cold winters. Dwellers of Colstrip experience varying weather conditions that exhibit minor fluctuations throughout the year.

Unraveling the provided climatic data allows diverse weather parameters to be observed. Temperature shows consistent fluctuations, with the highest average highs peaking at 85.5°F (29.7°C) in July and plummeting to 30.4°F (-0.9°C) during December. Similarly, average lows shift from an agreeable 61.9°F (16.6°C) in July to a brisk16°F (-8.9°C) in January and December. Humidity averages also vary, with January and February recording 80% and 79% respectively, while July and August decrease to 44% and 42%.

Remarkable rainfall levels arise from May to July, reaching a climax of 2.56" (65mm) of rainfall in May. In contrast, the driest months, November and December, record an all-time low rainfall of 0.59" (15mm) and 0.47" (12mm) respectively. On average, snowfall commences from November through April with considerable dips from May to September. Sunshine hours are highest from June to August, stretching from 11.2 hours to as much as 11.8 hours daily, while falling to a low of 5.3 hours in January.

The best time to visit Colstrip

Considering the climatic patterns, the best period to visit Colstrip lies between June and August. During this period, temperatures are relatively warm, with average highs ranging from 75.6°F (24.2°C) to 85.5°F (29.7°C) and average lows falling between 54°F (12.2°C) and 61.9°F (16.6°C). In addition, these months enjoy extended sunshine hours, from 11.2 hours to 11.8 hours daily, providing ample daylight for outdoor activities. Humidity levels are also considerably low during summer, ensuring a comfortable atmosphere for sightseeing.

The worst time to visit Colstrip

The period encompassing December and January could arguably be deemed as the worst time to visit Colstrip. These months are marked by considerably low temperatures, with average highs recorded between 30.4°F (-0.9°C) and 30.6°F (-0.8°C) and average lows dropping to 16°F (-8.9°C). Furthermore, daylight hours are at their shortest, averaging at 8.7 hours to 9.1 hours, which limits the time available for outdoor explorations.

Spring weather in Colstrip

In Colstrip, spring weather occurs from March to May. During this season, temperatures gradually rise from an average high of 45°F (7.2°C) in March to 64°F (17.8°C) in May, while average lows transition from 28.2°F (-2.1°C) to 44.2°F (6.8°C) within the same period. The season is also characterized by escalating rainfall, beginning with 0.91" (23mm) in March, and culminating with the highest annual rainfall of 2.56" (65mm) in May. Sunshine hours also start to extend, with daylight increasing from 12 hours in March to 15 hours by the end of spring.

Summer weather in Colstrip

Summer in Colstrip spans from June to August, carrying warm temperatures and high sunshine hours. Average highs oscillate from 75.6°F (24.2°C) to 85.5°F (29.7°C), while the average lows maintain a comfortable level from 54°F (12.2°C) to 61.9°F (16.6°C). Despite the apparent warmth, summer months register a drop in humidity, producing a comfortable dry heat conducive for outdoor activities.

Autumn weather in Colstrip

Autumn in Colstrip begins in September and ends in November. This season brings cooler temperatures, with average highs descending from 73.8°F (23.2°C) in September to 42.6°F (5.9°C) by November, and average lows similarly decreasing from 53.2°F (11.8°C) to 27.1°F (-2.7°C) over the same period. Autumns in Colstrip are also marked by declining rainfall measurements. Daylight hours gradually shorten through the season, shrinking from 12.5 hours in September to 9.5 hours by November.

Winter weather in Colstrip

Taking place between December and February, winter in Colstrip is characterized by cold temperatures, snowfall, and limited daylight. Average temperatures oscillate between a high of 31.1°F (-0.5°C) in February and a low of 16°F (-8.9°C) in January. During these months, snowfall rates rise, with February observing the highest snowfall of 4.33" (110mm). Daylight is also at its annual minimum, with hours ranging from 8.7 in December to 10.4 in February.

Weather in January

The New Year in Colstrip, Montana, USA, starts with a chilled whistle. January's weather is marked by an icy grip, with snowfall reaching its fourth-highest level, 3.39" (86mm), alongside an average of 9.8 days under a snow-laden sky. Weather in January »

Weather in February

As February rolls into Colstrip, it brings a slight relief from the winter chill. However, it still ranks as the month with the highest amount of snowfall at 4.33" (110mm), spanning over 10.4 days. The gradual increase in daylight and sunshine hours in comparison to January makes this time a tad sunnier. Weather in February »

Weather in March

In March, Colstrip starts showing signs of spring. As compared to February, temperature figures gain a perceptible uptick and the snowfall declines to 3.66" (93mm) spread across 8.7 days. However, despite these signs, occasional cold fronts can drop the mercury, calling for warm clothes. Weather in March »

Weather in April

April marks a more definitive shift toward spring in Colstrip. Although it may seem like it is time to shelve the jackets, April records the highest frequency of rainfall at 1.69" (43mm) making it the wettest month of the year. Simultaneously, the snowfall all but ceases demonstrating the real transition from winter to warmer times. Weather in April »

Weather in May

The weather in May confirms the arrival of spring in Colstrip with temperatures still on a gentle upward curve from April. It is the time of year when regular rainfall continues, with an average of 2.56" (65mm) of precipitation. Lush greenery starts adorning the cityscape due to the prevalent precipitation and enhancing sunshine hours. Weather in May »

Weather in June

June welcomes the summer season in Colstrip, presenting significantly warmer temperatures compared to May. However, the increase in warmth does not mean a drought, as rainfall reaches 1.77" (45mm). Though there is a noticeable drop in humidity, it is not enough to cause discomfort during this time. Weather in June »

Weather in July

July is the peak of summer as Colstrip experiences its warmest month. The unique element of this month's weather is the high temperature reaching up to 85.5°F (29.7°C). Sunlight pours abundantly, marking it as the sunniest period of the year with the highest UV index of 7. Weather in July »

Weather in August

The month of August, in Colstrip, sees a slight decrease in the summer heat achieved in July. However, it still falls well within the summer category as the daily high temperature remains considerably above than in June. This time also records one of the lowest rainfalls of the year at 1.54" (39mm). Weather in August »

Weather in September

Colstrip ushers in the fall season during September. A palpable shift is observed in temperatures that cheekily dip from the August figures. Notably, September marks the end of the rainy season in the city with the rainfall at 1.38" (35mm). Weather in September »

Weather in October

As October unfolds in Colstrip, it manifests the full spirit of autumn. The mercury level lowers further than September, painting a clear picture of a plunging trend towards winter. This month becomes less wet than the preceding month with 1.14" (29mm) of rainfall and witnesses an increase in humidity. Weather in October »

Weather in November

The herald of winter begins with November in Colstrip. Following the declining trend from October, the temperatures dip further to give that specific winter nip in the air. The novelty of this month appears in the form of snowfall, resurfacing at 2.99" (76mm) after a long summer break. Weather in November »

Weather in December

December rings in the full might of winter to Colstrip, characterized by the lowest temperature ranges of the season. At the same time, snowfall mounts up to 3.15" (80mm) and befalls upon the city across the highest number of days in a year. Weather in December »
Updated: Aug 17, 2024
Published by: Weather U.S. | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate

Frequently asked questions

What is the most humid month?

January is the most humid month, with an average relative humidity of 80%.

How much does it rain?

In Colstrip, during the entire year, the rain falls for 113.9 days and collects up to 14.84" (377mm) of precipitation.

When does it snow?

January through June, September through December are months with snowfall.

How much does it snow?

In Colstrip, during the entire year, snow falls for 55.2 days and aggregates up to 23.5" (597mm) of snow.

What is the month with the lowest UV index?

January through April, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 2, are months with the lowest UV index.

What is the snowiest month?

February is the month with the most snowfall. Snow falls for 10.4 days and accumulates 4.33" (110mm) of snow.

What is the month with the least sunshine?

February has the least sunshine of the year, with an average of 5h of sunshine.

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 MST to MDT. Daylight Saving Time ends Sunday, November 3. 2024, at 2:00 am, and the time zone reverts from MDT to MST.

What is the wettest month?

May is the month with the most rainfall. Rain falls for 16.8 days and accumulates 2.56" (65mm) of precipitation.

When are the longest days?

With an average of 15h and 42min of daylight, June has the longest days of the year in Colstrip.

What are the warmest months?

In Colstrip, July is identified by the average highest temperatures, reaching a peak of 85.5°F (29.7°C) and a low of 61.9°F (16.6°C).

When it does not snow?

In Colstrip, snow does not fall in July and August.

What month has the most sunshine?

With an average of 11.8h of sunshine, July has the most sunshine of the year.

When is the highest UV index?

With an average maximum UV index of 7, July is the month with the highest UV index.

What is the least humid month?

With an average relative humidity of 42%, August is the least humid month in Colstrip.

What is the coldest time of year?

December, recording an average high temperature of 30.4°F (-0.9°C) and a low temperature of 16.7°F (-8.5°C), is Colstrip's coldest month.

What is the driest month?

The month with the least rainfall is December, when the rain falls for 3.4 days and typically collects 0.47" (12mm) of precipitation.

What is the month with the shortest days?

The month with the shortest days is December, with an average of 8h and 42min of daylight.

Average temperature
Colstrip, MT

Average temperature - Colstrip, MT

The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (85.5°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is December (30.4°F).

The month with the highest average low temperature is July (61.9°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (16°F).

Average pressure
Colstrip, MT

Average pressure - Colstrip, MT

The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is January (30.13"Hg).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is June (29.84"Hg).

Average wind speed
Colstrip, MT

Average wind speed - Colstrip, MT

The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is April (10mph).
The calmest months (with the lowest average wind speed) are July and August (7.8mph).

Average humidity
Colstrip, MT

Average humidity - Colstrip, MT

The month with the highest relative humidity is January (80%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is August (42%).

Average rainfall
Colstrip, MT

Average rainfall - Colstrip, MT

The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is May (2.56").
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is December (0.47").

Average rainfall days
Colstrip, MT

Average rainfall days - Colstrip, MT

The month with the highest number of rainy days is May (16.8 days).
The month with the least rainy days is February (2.8 days).

Average snowfall
Colstrip, MT

Average snowfall - Colstrip, MT

The month with the highest snowfall is February (4.33").
The months with the least snowfall are July and August (0").

Average snowfall days
Colstrip, MT

Average snowfall days - Colstrip, MT

The month with the highest number of snowfall days is February (10.4 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are July and August (0 days).

Average daylight / Average sunshine
Colstrip, MT

Average daylight / Average sunshine - Colstrip, MT

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: 11h and 48min).
The month with the least sunshine is February (Average sunshine: 5h and 0min).

Average sunshine days
Colstrip, MT

Average sunshine days - Colstrip, MT

The month with the most sunshine days is December (20.5 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is May (11.3 days).

Average UV index
Colstrip, MT

Average UV index - Colstrip, MT

The month with the highest UV index is July (UV index 7).
The months with the lowest UV index are January, February, March, April, November and December (UV index 2).

Average visibility
Colstrip, MT

Average visibility - Colstrip, MT

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

Colstrip, Montana, USA

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