Climate and monthly weather forecast
Banner Elk, NC

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The climate of Banner Elk

Tucked in the mountains of North Carolina, the town of Banner Elk enjoys a Marine west coast climate with warm summers (Cfb according to Köppen climate classification). Observing the weather data, seasonal shifts in temperature, rainfall, and snowfall become strikingly prominent.

Throughout the year, the average high temperature varies from 38.8°F (3.8°C) in the colder month of January to 80.1°F (26.7°C) in the warmest month of July. Conversely, the average low temperature ranges from 24.3°F (-4.3°C) in January to 59.5°F (15.3°C) in July. Coupled with that, there is an incremental rise in relative humidity from 77% in November to a peak of 80% in February, May, and December, contributing to the overall feel of the weather.

Variations in rainfall and snowfall further define the climate. Banner Elk experiences rainfall all year round but it shows an upsurge in the amount of rain during summer with July witnessing the maximum rainfall of 3.07" (78mm). In contrast, the snowfall predominantly occurs in winter, specifically between the months of January.

The best time to visit Banner Elk

As warmth blankets the town, summer emerges as the most attractive time of the year to visit Banner Elk. The period from June to August, when the average high temperature stays between 69.6°F (20.9°C) and 80.1°F (26.7°C) and the relative humidity plays around 78%, furnishes pleasant and enjoyable weather. Visitors during this time will benefit from an abundance of sunshine hours, peaking at 10.3 hours in June and July. However, do remember to pack an umbrella as these months also witness the highest rainfall, with July receiving 3.07" (78mm) of precipitation.

The worst time to visit Banner Elk

For those averse to cold weather, winter can be the challenging time to visit Banner Elk, specifically from December through February. The average daily temperature in this period fluctuates between 24.3°F (-4.3°C) and 43.7°F (6.5°C), and the town also experiences the peak of snowfall with 4.65" (118mm) in December to 4.57" (116mm) in January. Coupled with the least daylight hours (9.7 hours in December), the weather can be biting cold and somewhat harsh.

Spring weather in Banner Elk

From March to May, the spectator can witness the transition from winter to spring in Banner Elk. During this period, the average highs hover between 51.3°F (10.7°C) and 69.6°F (20.9°C) while the lows shift from 34.3°F (1.3°C) to 50.7°F (10.4°C). Though the rainfall increases progressively from 1.73" (44mm) in March to reach 2.72" (69mm) in May, there is a decline in snowfall, dropping to as low as 0.47 inch in May. This season offers visitors the backdrop of blooming fauna amidst increasing daylight hours from 12 hours in March to 14.1 hours in May.

Summer weather in Banner Elk

Moving into summer, from June through August, Banner Elk experiences warm weather with the high temperature range from 69.6°F (20.9°C) to 80.1°F (26.7°C) and lows from 56.5°F (13.6°C) to 59.5°F (15.3°C). Increased rainfall, peaking in July with 3.07" (78mm), accompanies the high temperatures. Yet, it's the season of sunny sky with sunshine hours dwelling between 10.3 hours in June and August.

Autumn weather in Banner Elk

Autumn ushers in a cooling period from September to November. High temperatures gradually descend from 74.3°F (23.5°C) in September to 51.1°F (10.6°C) in November, while the lows also see a shift from 54°F (12.2°C) to 34.2°F (1.2°C). Rainfall persists, ranging from 1.38" (35mm) in September to 1.5" (38mm) in November. The average daylight hours also reduce from 12.4 hours in September to 10.3 hours in November.

Winter weather in Banner Elk

Winter in Banner Elk, encapsulating the period from December to February, introduces visitors to a cold and predominantly snowy landscape. High temperatures fluctuate between 38.8°F (3.8°C) to 43.7°F (6.5°C), and the low temperatures from 24.3°F (-4.3°C) to 30.6°F (-0.8°C). Snowfall peaks to around 4.57" (116mm) in January while rainfall also remains significant. Despite the shorter daylight hours (9.7 hours in December), an average of 5.4 hours of sunshine in December perpetuates the charm of this season.

Weather in January

January presents Banner Elk, North Carolina with a cool climate, with temperatures dropping to 24.3°F (-4.3°C) at the lowest. The fresh coat of 4.57" (116mm) of snow adds a winter wonderland feel to the city, creating picturesque scenes. Weather in January »

Weather in February

February is still enveloped in the chill of winter. However, snowfall decreases to 4.13" (105mm), leaving the streets less covered in white compared to January. Banner Elk experiences a small yet noticeable change in the overall temperature range. Weather in February »

Weather in March

March marks the advent of spring in Banner Elk. The temperature sees a significant increase with a high reaching up to 51.3°F (10.7°C), as the chilly winter winds make way for the gentler breezes of spring. Companies that hold snow-dependent activities might see a downturn as snowfall is down to 3.19" (81mm). Weather in March »

Weather in April

April in Banner Elk brings clear signs of spring's arrival as snow subsides to a mere 0.98" (25mm). The temperature continues to climb complemented by increasingly longer daylight hours. The emergence of fresh flora and the chirping of birds enhances the city's charming ambiance. Weather in April »

Weather in May

May offers the warm embrace of spring weather, with temperatures rising to a comforting 69.6°F (20.9°C). Snowfall is negligible and the city becomes greener, teeming with vibrant plant life. Rain showers are more frequent, providing a soothing cool-down effect. Weather in May »

Weather in June

June welcomes summer with higher temperatures and a peak daylight duration of 14.6 hours. The sun shines brighter, and Banner Elk exudes an invigorating vibe. Lush green landscapes complemented by clear blue skies make outdoor activities more enjoyable. Weather in June »

Weather in July

July is the hottest month in Banner Elk with the temperature soaring to 80.1°F (26.7°C). Bask in the sun and enjoy the beach weather, but ensure to wear sunblock as UV index peaks at 5. Despite the heat, rainfall hits its yearly high and a sudden downpour might be on the forecast. Weather in July »

Weather in August

August sustains the summer heat, but the highest temperature drops slightly to 78.6°F (25.9°C). The streets of Banner Elk still bustle with the activities of summer while the cityscape drapes itself in the golden hues of the setting sun. Weather in August »

Weather in September

September ushers in the fall with a soft tapering of the summer's heat. The cooler weather brings in a serene atmosphere. Natural scenery around Banner Elk begins its transformation, with the leaves taking on hues of golden yellow and burnt orange. Weather in September »

Weather in October

The cool breeze of October enhances the autumn vibe in Banner Elk. This month sees a marked decrease in temperature, adding a hint of chill to the air. The vibrant palette of the city changes, bringing out earthy tones as leaves shed their green. Weather in October »

Weather in November

November announces the arrival of colder climes in Banner Elk as temperatures drop and snowfall makes a return at 1.85" (47mm). The city begins to prepare for the upcoming winter season. With shorter days and longer nights, folks indulge more in indoor activities. Weather in November »

Weather in December

December encapsulates Banner Elk in a winter blanket with snowfall at 4.65" (118mm) and a minimum temperature falling to 30.6°F (-0.8°C). The city sparkles under the holiday lights, fostering an atmosphere of joy and celebration. Weather in December »
Updated: Feb 13, 2024
Published by: Weather U.S. | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate

Frequently asked questions

What part of the year is the coldest in Banner Elk?

January is the coldest month in Banner Elk, with an average high-temperature of 38.8°F (3.8°C) and an average low-temperature of 24.3°F (-4.3°C).

How many days does it rain in Banner Elk?

In Banner Elk, North Carolina, during the entire year, the rain falls for 178 days and collects up to 24.96" (634mm) of precipitation.

When does it snow in Banner Elk?

Months with snowfall in Banner Elk are January through May, October through December.

How many days does it snow in Banner Elk?

Throughout the year, there are 46.4 snowfall days, and 22.01" (559mm) of snow is accumulated.

What is the month with the least sunshine in Banner Elk?

January has the least sunshine of the year, with an average of 5.2h of sunshine.

What are the months with the lowest UV index in Banner Elk?

The months with the lowest UV index in Banner Elk are January, February, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 2.

What is the most humid month in Banner Elk?

February, March, May and December, with an average relative humidity of 80%, are most humid months in Banner Elk, North Carolina.

When is Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Banner Elk?

On Sunday, March 10. 2024, at 2:00 am, Daylight Saving Time starts in Banner Elk, and the time zone changes from EST to EDT. Daylight Saving Time ends Sunday, November 3. 2024, at 2:00 am, and the time zone reverts from EDT to EST.

When is the highest UV index in Banner Elk?

May through August, with an average maximum UV index of 5, are months with the highest UV index in Banner Elk, North Carolina.

What are the least humid months in Banner Elk?

The months with the lowest humidity are June and November, with an average relative humidity of 77%.

When it does not snow in Banner Elk?

In Banner Elk, snow does not fall in June through September.

When are the longest days in Banner Elk?

June has the longest days of the year, with an average of 14h and 36min of daylight.

What are the months with the most sunshine in Banner Elk?

June and July, with an average of 10.3h of sunshine, are months with the most sunshine in Banner Elk.

What is the hottest time of year in Banner Elk?

July, with its high-temperature average of 80.1°F (26.7°C) and a low-temperature average of 59.5°F (15.3°C), is the warmest month in Banner Elk.

What is the rainiest month in Banner Elk?

July is the month with the most rainfall in Banner Elk. Rain falls for 20.2 days and accumulates 3.07" (78mm) of precipitation.

What is the driest month in Banner Elk?

The month with the least rainfall in Banner Elk, North Carolina, is September, when the rain falls for 13.7 days and typically collects 1.38" (35mm) of precipitation.

What is the snowiest month in Banner Elk?

The month with the most snowfall is December, when snow falls for 8.5 days and typically aggregates up to 4.65" (118mm) of snow.

What is the month with the shortest days in Banner Elk?

With an average of 9h and 42min of daylight, December has the shortest days of the year in Banner Elk, North Carolina.

Average temperature
Banner Elk, NC

Average temperature - Banner Elk, NC

The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (80.1°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (38.8°F).

The month with the highest average low temperature is July (59.5°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (24.3°F).

Average pressure
Banner Elk, NC

Average pressure - Banner Elk, NC

The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is November (30.16"Hg).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is June (29.99"Hg).

Average wind speed
Banner Elk, NC

Average wind speed - Banner Elk, NC

The windiest months (with the highest average wind speed) are January and February (7.1mph).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is August (3.6mph).

Average humidity
Banner Elk, NC

Average humidity - Banner Elk, NC

The months with the highest relative humidity are February, March, May and December (80%).
The months with the lowest relative humidity are June and November (77%).

Average rainfall
Banner Elk, NC

Average rainfall - Banner Elk, NC

The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is July (3.07").
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is September (1.38").

Average rainfall days
Banner Elk, NC

Average rainfall days - Banner Elk, NC

The month with the highest number of rainy days is July (20.2 days).
The month with the least rainy days is November (10.6 days).

Average snowfall
Banner Elk, NC

Average snowfall - Banner Elk, NC

The month with the highest snowfall is December (4.65").
The months with the least snowfall are June, July, August and September (0").

Average snowfall days
Banner Elk, NC

Average snowfall days - Banner Elk, NC

The month with the highest number of snowfall days is January (12.3 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are June, July, August and September (0 days).

Average daylight / Average sunshine
Banner Elk, NC

Average daylight / Average sunshine - Banner Elk, NC

The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 14h and 36min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 9h and 42min).

The months with the most sunshine are June and July (Average sunshine: 10h and 18min).
The month with the least sunshine is January (Average sunshine: 5h and 12min).

Average sunshine days
Banner Elk, NC

Average sunshine days - Banner Elk, NC

The month with the most sunshine days is November (16.5 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is July (9 days).

Average UV index
Banner Elk, NC

Average UV index - Banner Elk, NC

The months with the highest UV index are May, June, July and August (UV index 5).
The months with the lowest UV index are January, February, November and December (UV index 2).

Average visibility
Banner Elk, NC

Average visibility - Banner Elk, NC

The months with the highest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (5mi).
The months with the lowest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (5mi).

Banner Elk, North Carolina, USA

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