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Contents
- The climate of Rio Rancho
- The best time to visit Rio Rancho
- The worst time to visit Rio Rancho
- Spring weather in Rio Rancho
- Summer weather in Rio Rancho
- Autumn weather in Rio Rancho
- Winter weather in Rio Rancho
- 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 pressure
- Average wind speed
- Average humidity
- Average rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average snowfall
- Average snowfall days
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average sunshine days
- Average UV index
- Average cloud cover
- Average visibility
The climate of Rio Rancho
Location and climate classification play key roles in shaping the weather of Rio Rancho, New Mexico, USA. Falling in the Köppen climate zone BSk, Rio Rancho experiences a predominant mid-latitude steppe climate. This climate type is characterized by relatively dry and sunny conditions, with moderate temperature fluctuations.
Analyzing the meteorological variables, it is clear that the weather of Rio Rancho displays considerable variation over the course of the year. Temperature extremes are from 27°F (-2.8°C) in the winter months to 87.8°F (31°C) in the height of summer. Meanwhile, relative humidity levels show an upward trend from 27% in June to 62% in January.
Patterns can be discerned in the precipitation levels as well. Monthly averages show that rainfall occurs from 0.35" (9mm) on the lower side to 1.14" (29mm) in the month of July, coinciding with the peak of summer. Snowfall, on the other hand, peaks at 3.15" (80mm) in January and dwindles to negligible levels from April to November. In terms of overall annual daylight, Rio Rancho sees between 9.8 hours per day in December to 14.5 hours per day in June, with the corresponding sunshine hours ranging from around 7.1 to 12.1 hours.
Analyzing the meteorological variables, it is clear that the weather of Rio Rancho displays considerable variation over the course of the year. Temperature extremes are from 27°F (-2.8°C) in the winter months to 87.8°F (31°C) in the height of summer. Meanwhile, relative humidity levels show an upward trend from 27% in June to 62% in January.
Patterns can be discerned in the precipitation levels as well. Monthly averages show that rainfall occurs from 0.35" (9mm) on the lower side to 1.14" (29mm) in the month of July, coinciding with the peak of summer. Snowfall, on the other hand, peaks at 3.15" (80mm) in January and dwindles to negligible levels from April to November. In terms of overall annual daylight, Rio Rancho sees between 9.8 hours per day in December to 14.5 hours per day in June, with the corresponding sunshine hours ranging from around 7.1 to 12.1 hours.
The best time to visit Rio Rancho
The ideal time for a visit to Rio Rancho depends entirely on personal preferences. For those seeking milder weather conditions, spring (from March to May) serves as an excellent time. During this period, temperatures steadily rise from an average low of 37.4°F (3°C) to a comfortable 74.8°F (23.8°C), and rainfall averages are relatively low. The daylight extends to about 14 hours per day in May, and sunshine lasts for up to 11.9 hours per day.
The worst time to visit Rio Rancho
Those not fond of high temperatures or increased rainfall might want to avoid visiting Rio Rancho in the height of summer, particularly in July. This month experiences the highest average temperature of 87.8°F (31°C) along with the highest rainfall of 1.14" (29mm). Moreover, despite the daylight lasting for around 14.3 hours per day, the UV index also peaks during this period, rising to 7, indicating a higher likelihood of skin damage due to sun exposure.
Spring weather in Rio Rancho
Springtime brings a gradual rise in temperature in Rio Rancho, warming to an average of 59.4°F (15.2°C) in March and increasing to 74.8°F (23.8°C) by May. This season sees scant rain, averaging only 0.35" (9mm) per month, keeping the humidity relatively low. A sharp decrease in snowfall is also observed during spring, ceasing altogether by April. Meanwhile, wind speeds also see a rise during this period, peaking at 9.1mph (14.6km/h) in the month of April.
Summer weather in Rio Rancho
The onset of summer marks the warmest period in Rio Rancho, with temperatures soaring to an average high of 87.8°F (31°C) in July. While the duration of daylight reaches its peak of 14.5 hours in June, sunshine lingers over the city for 12.1 hours per day. Rainfall is at its maximum for the year, with July witnessing an average of 1.14" (29mm). The influence of these summer rains on the otherwise dry climate is noticeable in the rise in humidity levels, reaching up to 39% in July.
Autumn weather in Rio Rancho
Autumn sees a downward trend in temperature, dropping from a high of 78.8°F (26°C) in September to a milder 54°F (12.2°C) in November. Rainfall decreases during this season, with November receiving an average of 0.47" (12mm). The humidity levels also begin to rise during this period, increasing to 47% in November. The daylight in this season ranges from 12.4 hours in September to 10.3 hours in November.
Winter weather in Rio Rancho
Winter in Rio Rancho is characterized by colder conditions, with the average low temperature dipping to 27.1°F (-2.7°C) in December, while the highest does not exceed 43.2°F (6.2°C). Despite the drop in temperature, the rainfall remains relatively low, averaging 0.59" (15mm) for December. Snowfall makes its appearance, peaking at 3.15" (80mm) in January, leading to increased visibility. Cloud coverage increases during this period, with December witnessing a 20% cloud coverage. Despite the shorter days with daylight lasting for only around 9.8 - 10.1 hours, sunshine endures for approximately 7.1 hours per day.
Weather in January
In Rio Rancho, New Mexico, January signifies the height of winter with low temperatures and substantial snowfall. As the coldest month, it experiences average low temperatures of 27°F (-2.8°C) and a snowfall of 3.15" (80mm). With the chilly conditions, the length of daylight is also comparably shorter, limiting outdoor activities primarily to the daytime. Weather in January »
Weather in February
Proceeding towards warmer weather, Rio Rancho, in February, harbors a climate conversion from biting winter cold to relatively bearable temperatures. The city receives a decline in both snowfall and the number of snowfall days from 3.15" (80mm) and 4.2 days in January to 2.01" (51mm) and 3.3 days respectively in February. Weather in February »
Weather in March
March in Rio Rancho introduces spring with warmer temperatures, longer sunlight hours, and reduced snowfall. Considerably warmer than February, March observes an average high temperature of 59.4°F (15.2°C) and an almost negligible snowfall of 0.31" (8mm). Weather in March »
Weather in April
April is a delightful period in Rio Rancho as the city continues to warm up. April witnesses an enhancement in the temperatures with average daytime highs rising to 66.6°F (19.2°C) providing a balmy spring experience. Bright sunshine and minimal precipitation become the key weather features, bringing forth the season's blossoming flora. Weather in April »
Weather in May
Rio Rancho experiences the full bloom of the Spring season and the onset of Summer during May. With the high temperatures averaging around 74.8°F (23.8°C), it is a clear signal that the summer heat is around the corner. This is the first month of the year in which there is no recorded snowfall, signifying the end of winter's reign. Weather in May »
Weather in June
June in Rio Rancho is synonymous with the arrival of summer. This month is the onset of the warmest part of the year with temperatures soaring to a high of 87.4°F (30.8°C). The weather is generally dry, with relative humidity being quite low, making it less muggy and more comfortable for residents and visitors alike. Weather in June »
Weather in July
July is the pinnacle of summer in Rio Rancho, replete with high temperatures and sunny days. It is the warmest month of the year, with the temperature hitting an average high of 87.8°F (31°C). The area's outdoor activities are in full swing, with people taking advantage of the long, hot days. Weather in July »
Weather in August
In Rio Rancho, August represents the last full month of summer. The average high temperature measures a warm 85.8°F (29.9°C), reflecting a slight dip from the July peak. Increased rainfall instigates a slight decrease in temperatures, providing a mild respite from the intensive summer heat. Weather in August »
Weather in September
September in Rio Rancho signals the arrival of autumn, characterized by decreasing temperatures and diminishing daylight hours. The city observes a high of 78.8°F (26°C), a noticeable dip from the August average. As autumn advances, the weather begins to cool down gradually, preparing the city for the approaching winter. Weather in September »
Weather in October
October ushers in the core of fall in Rio Rancho with soft sunlight, cooler temperatures, and vivid landscapes. The high temperatures further soften down, averaging around 66.2°F (19°C), setting the stage for the arrival of winter. Weather in October »
Weather in November
November in Rio Rancho witnesses the transition from autumn to winter. The average high temperature further decreases down to 54°F (12.2°C), marking an evident change in climatic conditions. The city sees a slight rise in humidity, giving the air a crispness typical of the late fall. Weather in November »
Weather in December
December in Rio Rancho signifies the advent of winter, with low temperatures and increasing snowfall. The city experiences a high of 43.7°F (6.5°C) and sees the first substantial snowfall of the year, measuring up to 2.01" (51mm). Weather in December »
Updated: Jul 21, 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 time of the year is the coldest?
January is the month when Rio Rancho experiences its coldest temperatures, averaging a high of 43.2°F (6.2°C) and a low of 27°F (-2.8°C).
What is the most humid month?
The most humid month is January, with an average relative humidity of 62%.
How much does it rain?
In Rio Rancho, during the entire year, the rain falls for 80.6 days and collects up to 6.97" (177mm) of precipitation.
When does it snow?
Months with snowfall are January through April, October through December.
What is the snowiest month?
January is the month with the most snowfall. Snow falls for 4.2 days and accumulates 3.15" (80mm) of snow.
How much does it snow?
Throughout the year, there are 14.8 snowfall days, and 9.02" (229mm) of snow is accumulated.
What are the months with the least sunshine?
The months with the least sunshine are January and December, with an average of 7.1h of sunshine.
What is the month with the lowest UV index?
The months with the lowest UV index are January, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 2.
What is the driest month?
March through June are months with the least rain when the rain falls for 6.6 days and typically aggregates up to 0.35" (9mm) of rain.
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.
When it does not snow?
May through September are months without snowfall.
What is the least humid month?
June is the least humid month, with an average relative humidity of 27%.
When are the longest days?
June has the longest days of the year, with an average of 14h and 30min of daylight.
What month has the most sunshine in Rio Rancho?
With an average of 12.1h of sunshine, June has the most sunshine of the year.
What is the month with the highest UV index?
The month with the highest UV index is June, with an average maximum UV index of 7.
What is the warmest month?
The month of July, characterized by an average high of 87.8°F (31°C) and a low of 66.2°F (19°C), is recognized as the warmest in Rio Rancho.
What is the wettest month?
The month with the most rainfall is July, when the rain falls for 13.3 days and typically aggregates up to 1.14" (29mm) of precipitation.
What is the month with the shortest days?
December has the shortest days of the year, with an average of 9h and 48min of daylight.
Average temperature
Rio Rancho, NM
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (87.8°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (43.2°F).
The month with the highest average low temperature is July (66.2°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (27°F).
Average pressure
Rio Rancho, NM
- Average pressure in January:
30.16"Hg - Average pressure in February:
30.06"Hg - Average pressure in March:
29.99"Hg - Average pressure in April:
29.89"Hg - Average pressure in May:
29.89"Hg - Average pressure in June:
29.9"Hg
- Average pressure in July:
29.98"Hg - Average pressure in August:
30"Hg - Average pressure in September:
30.01"Hg - Average pressure in October:
30.01"Hg - Average pressure in November:
30.09"Hg - Average pressure in December:
30.11"Hg
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is January (30.16"Hg).
The months with the lowest atmospheric pressure are April and May (29.89"Hg).
Average wind speed
Rio Rancho, NM
- Average wind speed in January:
6.5mph - Average wind speed in February:
7.5mph - Average wind speed in March:
8.2mph - Average wind speed in April:
9.1mph - Average wind speed in May:
8.8mph - Average wind speed in June:
7.8mph
- Average wind speed in July:
6.4mph - Average wind speed in August:
5.7mph - Average wind speed in September:
6.2mph - Average wind speed in October:
6.7mph - Average wind speed in November:
6.5mph - Average wind speed in December:
6.4mph
The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is April (9.1mph).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is August (5.7mph).
Average humidity
Rio Rancho, NM
The month with the highest relative humidity is January (62%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is June (27%).
Average rainfall
Rio Rancho, NM
- Average rainfall in January:
0.59" - Average rainfall in February:
0.43" - Average rainfall in March:
0.35" - Average rainfall in April:
0.35" - Average rainfall in May:
0.35" - Average rainfall in June:
0.35"
- Average rainfall in July:
1.14" - Average rainfall in August:
0.94" - Average rainfall in September:
0.79" - Average rainfall in October:
0.59" - Average rainfall in November:
0.47" - Average rainfall in December:
0.59"
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is July (1.14").
The driest months (with the least rainfall) are March, April, May and June (0.35").
Average rainfall days
Rio Rancho, NM
- Average rainfall days in January:
4.8 days - Average rainfall days in February:
4.6 days - Average rainfall days in March:
6.6 days - Average rainfall days in April:
5.9 days - Average rainfall days in May:
5 days - Average rainfall days in June:
4.8 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
13.3 days - Average rainfall days in August:
12 days - Average rainfall days in September:
9 days - Average rainfall days in October:
5.5 days - Average rainfall days in November:
3.6 days - Average rainfall days in December:
5.5 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is July (13.3 days).
The month with the least rainy days is November (3.6 days).
Average snowfall
Rio Rancho, NM
The month with the highest snowfall is January (3.15").
The months with the least snowfall are May, June, July, August and September (0").
Average snowfall days
Rio Rancho, NM
- Average snowfall days in January:
4.2 days - Average snowfall days in February:
3.3 days - Average snowfall days in March:
1.3 days - Average snowfall days in April:
0.3 days - Average snowfall days in May:
0 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 days - Average snowfall days in October:
0.1 days - Average snowfall days in November:
1.2 days - Average snowfall days in December:
4.4 days
The month with the highest number of snowfall days is December (4.4 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are May, June, July, August and September (0 days).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Rio Rancho, NM
- Average daylight in January:
10h and 1min - Average daylight in February:
10h and 5min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 0min - Average daylight in April:
13h and 1min - Average daylight in May:
14h and 0min - Average daylight in June:
14h and 3min
- Average daylight in July:
14h and 2min - Average daylight in August:
13h and 2min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 2min - Average daylight in October:
11h and 2min - Average daylight in November:
10h and 2min - Average daylight in December:
9h and 5min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 14h and 30min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 9h and 48min).
- Average sunshine in January:
7h and 1min - Average sunshine in February:
7h and 2min - Average sunshine in March:
9h and 4min - Average sunshine in April:
11h and 3min - Average sunshine in May:
11h and 5min - Average sunshine in June:
12h and 1min
- Average sunshine in July:
11h and 5min - Average sunshine in August:
11h and 5min - Average sunshine in September:
11h and 2min - Average sunshine in October:
7h and 3min - Average sunshine in November:
7h and 2min - Average sunshine in December:
7h and 1min
The month with the most sunshine is June (Average sunshine: 12h and 6min).
The months with the least sunshine are January and December (Average sunshine: 7h and 6min).
Average sunshine days
Rio Rancho, NM
- Average sunshine days in January:
23.6 days - Average sunshine days in February:
21.1 days - Average sunshine days in March:
23.8 days - Average sunshine days in April:
22.5 days - Average sunshine days in May:
24.2 days - Average sunshine days in June:
20.3 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
11.8 days - Average sunshine days in August:
12.4 days - Average sunshine days in September:
15.8 days - Average sunshine days in October:
22.9 days - Average sunshine days in November:
25 days - Average sunshine days in December:
23.2 days
The month with the most sunshine days is November (25 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is July (11.8 days).
Average UV index
Rio Rancho, NM
The month with the highest UV index is June (UV index 7).
The months with the lowest UV index are January, November and December (UV index 2).
Average cloud cover
Rio Rancho, NM
The month with the most cloud cover is December (Cloud cover 20).
The month with the least cloud cover is June (Cloud cover 10).
Average visibility
Rio Rancho, NM
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).
Rio Rancho, New Mexico, USA
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