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Contents
- The climate of White Sands National Monument
- The best time to visit White Sands National Monument
- The worst time to visit White Sands National Monument
- Spring weather in White Sands National Monument
- Summer weather in White Sands National Monument
- Autumn weather in White Sands National Monument
- Winter weather in White Sands National Monument
- 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 daylight
The stunning landscape of the White Sands National Monument in New Mexico
The climate of White Sands National Monument
Situated geographically in New Mexico, USA, White Sands National Monument falls under the BSk or Mid-latitude steppe category of the Köppen climate classification. This climate is marked by low precipitation levels and a considerable differential between summer and winter temperatures.
A closer look at the provided climatological data reveals that the overall climate reflects clear seasonal patterns for maximum and minimum temperatures, precipitation amounts, rainfall days, snowfall, and daylight hours. Monthly maximum temperatures range from a low of 57.2°F (14°C) in January to a high of 97.2°F (36.2°C) in July, while the minimum temperatures vary from 21.7°F (-5.7°C) in December to 64.1°F (17.8°C) in July. In terms of precipitation, rainfall amounts fluctuate between 0.3" (8mm) in March and April to a high of 1.8" (46mm) in August. Rainfall days range from 2 days in March, April, and May to a maximum of 7 days in August.
Interestingly, White Sands National Monument experiences its maximum rainfall during the summer months. This is in stark contrast to most BSk climates that experience dry summers. On the other hand, minimal snowfall, typically less than an inch, occurs from January to March and in December. Daylight hours range from a low of 10.0 hours in December to a high of 14.3 hours in June.
A closer look at the provided climatological data reveals that the overall climate reflects clear seasonal patterns for maximum and minimum temperatures, precipitation amounts, rainfall days, snowfall, and daylight hours. Monthly maximum temperatures range from a low of 57.2°F (14°C) in January to a high of 97.2°F (36.2°C) in July, while the minimum temperatures vary from 21.7°F (-5.7°C) in December to 64.1°F (17.8°C) in July. In terms of precipitation, rainfall amounts fluctuate between 0.3" (8mm) in March and April to a high of 1.8" (46mm) in August. Rainfall days range from 2 days in March, April, and May to a maximum of 7 days in August.
Interestingly, White Sands National Monument experiences its maximum rainfall during the summer months. This is in stark contrast to most BSk climates that experience dry summers. On the other hand, minimal snowfall, typically less than an inch, occurs from January to March and in December. Daylight hours range from a low of 10.0 hours in December to a high of 14.3 hours in June.
The best time to visit White Sands National Monument
Visit timing largely depends on the interests of the visitor. For those seeking to experience the warmest weather, the period between June and September could be optimal as maximum temperatures soar to between 88.1°F (31.2°C) and 97.2°F (36.2°C). Moreover, these months enjoy extended daylight hours, averaging between 14.1 hours in July and 13.3 hours in September.
The worst time to visit White Sands National Monument
On the adverse side, the months of December to February could present harsh conditions for visitors. These months record the lowest minimum temperatures, ranging from 21.7°F (-5.7°C) to 25.7°F (-3.5°C). Consequently, they may not be the most favorable for outdoor activities.
Spring weather in White Sands National Monument
Spring, from March to May, showcases a gradual progression in weather conditions. The maximum temperatures range from 70.5°F (21.4°C) to 88.1°F (31.2°C), and minimum temperatures rise from 31.4°F (-0.3°C) to 48.6°F (9.2°C). Rainfall remains low, with recorded amounts from 0.3" (8mm) to 0.4" (10mm).
Summer weather in White Sands National Monument
Summer months of June through August are characterized by high temperatures and increased precipitation. The highest temperature of the year, 97.2°F (36.2°C), is recorded in July. Rainfall during this period peaks in August with 1.8" (46mm) and 7 rainfall days.
Autumn weather in White Sands National Monument
Autumn, encompassing September to November, brings declining temperatures and a gradual decrease in precipitation. Maximum temperatures drop from 89°F (31.7°C) in September to 66°F (18.9°C) in November. Moreover, the rainfall amount also reduces from 1.3" (33mm) in September to 0.4" (10mm) come November.
Winter weather in White Sands National Monument
Winter begins in December with the lowest recorded temperature of the year, 21.7°F (-5.7°C). This period also records limited daylight hours, with December having only 10 hours of daylight. Interestingly, despite the cold temperatures, precipitation during these months is relatively modest, with rainfall ranging from 0.5" (13mm) to 0.7" (18mm) and snowfall of less than 1 inch.
Weather in January
Cold temps reign in January at White Sands National Monument, New Mexico, as the remaining winter chill takes hold. Skies are occasionally painted with the crisp white of snowfall, while daylight hours tally at approximately 10.3 hours, marking the shortest light periods of the year. Weather in January »
Weather in February
Launching into February, temperatures inch upward, making for slightly less frigid outings. Brighter days greet visitors as the duration of daylight extends, offering more time to explore the whimsical dunes. The month witnesses a decrease in rainfall as compared to January, indicative of drier weather conditions. Weather in February »
Weather in March
The advent of March brings noticeable shifts in weather phenomena, shaping the environment into a more hospitable space. The transition from winter to spring can be observed as the days get longer and the temperatures take an upward trajectory. Weather in March »
Weather in April
By the time April arrives, the weather has shifted significantly from the colder months. Temperatures, both maximum and minimum, are on the rise, marking the onset of warmer months. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the lengthening daylight hours, offering more time to engage in their interests. Weather in April »
Weather in May
Embracing the heart of spring, May presents an excellent time to visit the White Sands National Monument. The temperature continues its upward ascension, bringing along longer days and shorter nights. Rainfall remains relatively consistent with the onset of warmer weather. Weather in May »
Weather in June
June announces the arrival of summer, bringing along accompanying heat waves. This is easily the sunniest month at White Sands National Monument, with daylight hours peaking at approximately 14.3 hours. Dunes can become notably hot due to the intense sunlight, driving temperatures up to a blistering 97°F (36.1°C). Weather in June »
Weather in July
July sees no respite from the summer heat, with temperatures remaining at an all-time annual high. The hot desert sun generously pours its rays, ensuring an average of 14.1 daylight hours. Marking the height of summer, rainfall is at its maximum, with precipitation totals topping at 1.4" (36mm). Weather in July »
Weather in August
August paves the way for a slight dial down in temperatures while preserving the generalized summer feel. White Sands National Monument witnesses a decrease in daylight hours, indicating that summer is entering its twilight period. Weather in August »
Weather in September
September brings the fall season, with a notable decrease in temperatures, indicating a respite from the intense summer heat. Daylight hours reduce significantly as part of autumn's arrival. Rainfall registers a downward shift from August, signaling the onset of drier conditions. Weather in September »
Weather in October
October witnesses a more pronounced drop in temperatures, marking a clear movement towards the cooler months of the year. Daylight hours continue their autumnal decrease, casting long shadows over the monumental dunes. Rainfall reduces further, making for drier and cool adventure conditions at the park. Weather in October »
Weather in November
November comfortably slips into chilly weather, reinforcing the onset of winter. White Sands National Monument experiences noticeable temperature drops and further reduction in daylight hours, driving the winter narrative. Rainfall becomes brief and sparse, foregrounding frosty conditions. Weather in November »
Weather in December
December, characterized by shorter days and longer nights, sees frigid weather conditions establishing firm footing. The number of daylight hours contracts to approximately 10 hours, marking a year-round low. A slight increase in rainfall from November fulfills the month's need for moisture. Weather in December »
Updated: Aug 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
How much does it rain?
In White Sands National Monument, during the entire year, the rain falls for 42 days and collects up to 9.02" (229mm) of precipitation.
When does it snow?
January through March, November and December are months with snowfall.
How much does it snow?
In White Sands National Monument, during the entire year, snow aggregates up to 2.4" (61mm).
What is the driest month?
The month with the least rainfall is March, when the rain falls for 2 days and typically collects 0.28" (7mm) of precipitation.
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?
In White Sands National Monument, snow does not fall in April through October.
When are the longest days?
With an average of 14h and 18min of daylight, June has the longest days of the year.
What time of the year is the hottest?
The warmest time of the year is July, with temperatures averaging a high of 97.2°F (36.2°C) and a low of 64°F (17.8°C).
What is the rainiest month?
August is the month with the most rainfall. Rain falls for 7 days and accumulates 1.77" (45mm) of precipitation.
What time of the year is the coldest?
With average temperatures fluctuating between a high of 56.7°F (13.7°C) and a low of 21.7°F (-5.7°C), December stands out as the coldest month.
What is the snowiest month in White Sands National Monument?
December is the month with the most snowfall, with 0.98" (25mm) of accumulated snow.
What is the month with the shortest days?
The month with the shortest days is December, with an average of 10h and 0min of daylight.
Average temperature
White Sands National Monument, NM
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (97.2°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is December (56.7°F).
The month with the highest average low temperature is July (64.1°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is December (21.7°F).
Average rainfall
White Sands National Monument, NM
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is August (1.8").
The driest months (with the least rainfall) are March and April (0.3").
Average rainfall days
White Sands National Monument, NM
- Average rainfall days in January:
3 days - Average rainfall days in February:
3 days - Average rainfall days in March:
2 days - Average rainfall days in April:
2 days - Average rainfall days in May:
2 days - Average rainfall days in June:
3 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
6 days - Average rainfall days in August:
7 days - Average rainfall days in September:
5 days - Average rainfall days in October:
4 days - Average rainfall days in November:
2 days - Average rainfall days in December:
3 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is August (7 days).
The months with the least rainy days are March, April, May and November (2 days).
Average snowfall
White Sands National Monument, NM
The month with the highest snowfall is December (1").
The months with the least snowfall are April, May, June, July, August, September and October (0").
Average daylight
White Sands National Monument, NM
- Average daylight in January:
10h and 2min - Average daylight in February:
11h and 0min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 0min - Average daylight in April:
13h and 0min - Average daylight in May:
13h and 5min - Average daylight in June:
14h and 2min
- Average daylight in July:
14h and 1min - 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 3min - Average daylight in December:
10h and 0min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 14h and 18min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 10h and 0min).
White Sands National Monument, New Mexico, USA
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