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Contents
- The climate of Chapel Hill
- The best time to visit Chapel Hill
- The worst time to visit Chapel Hill
- Spring weather in Chapel Hill
- Summer weather in Chapel Hill
- Autumn weather in Chapel Hill
- Winter weather in Chapel Hill
- 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
Red flowers and green trees around the Old Well at the iconic UNC in Chapel Hill, North Carolina
The climate of Chapel Hill
Experiencing a humid subtropical climate based on the Köppen climate classification, Chapel Hill is located in the state of North Carolina, USA. This characteristic weather means that there exists no dry season in Chapel Hill. Through the year, temperatures exhibit a wide range from an average low of 32°F (0°C) to an average high of 90.3°F (32.4°C) in extreme conditions. Precipitation can be expected throughout the year with a monthly average rainfall oscillating between 0.83" (21mm) to 1.77" (45mm).
Humidity levels remain consistently high with a minor difference from the lowest average of 71% to the highest of 77%. Wind speeds feature minimal fluctuations ranging from 4.7mph (7.6km/h) to 7.3mph (11.7km/h) on average. On sunnier days, Chapel Hill enjoys approximately 5.4 hours to 10.7 hours of sunshine, bearing an ultraviolet (UV) index of 2 in winters and climbing up to 7 during the summer months.
The peak of summer in July brings the highest temperatures averaging around 90.3°F (32.4°C), contrasting starkly with its winter counterpart in January experiencing the coldest temperatures of 32°F (0°C) on an average. Interesting to note is the fact that while December experiences the least days of sunshine, it has the highest relative humidity of 77%.
Humidity levels remain consistently high with a minor difference from the lowest average of 71% to the highest of 77%. Wind speeds feature minimal fluctuations ranging from 4.7mph (7.6km/h) to 7.3mph (11.7km/h) on average. On sunnier days, Chapel Hill enjoys approximately 5.4 hours to 10.7 hours of sunshine, bearing an ultraviolet (UV) index of 2 in winters and climbing up to 7 during the summer months.
The peak of summer in July brings the highest temperatures averaging around 90.3°F (32.4°C), contrasting starkly with its winter counterpart in January experiencing the coldest temperatures of 32°F (0°C) on an average. Interesting to note is the fact that while December experiences the least days of sunshine, it has the highest relative humidity of 77%.
The best time to visit Chapel Hill
If lighter temperatures, ample sunshine, and moderate rainfall are preferred, April to June would serve as an ideal time to visit Chapel Hill. During this time, temperatures range comfortably from 50.5°F (10.3°C) to 66.2°F (19°C) riding high on an average of around 9.2 hours to 10.6 hours of daily sunshine. With a modest UV index of 5 to 6, outdoor activities can be enjoyed despite a rainfall average of up to 1.57" (40mm).
The worst time to visit Chapel Hill
The period from July to August could be considered unfavourable for travel due to high temperatures, humidity, and rainfall. During this phase, Chapel Hill experiences temperatures soaring up to an average of 90.3°F (32.4°C) coupled with the jointly highest relative humidity of 74% observed during the year. The rainfall average also touches nearly its highest at 1.73" (44mm) during August.
Spring weather in Chapel Hill
March to May signals the advent of Spring in Chapel Hill bringing in warmer temperatures ranging from 41.2°F (5.1°C) to 59.4°F (15.2°C). Humidity shows a slight increase as does rainfall with April being the wettest Spring month receiving an average rainfall of 1.06" (27mm). Sunshine persists in a healthy amount for nearly 7 to 9.5 hours per day with a moderate UV index of 4 to 6.
Summer weather in Chapel Hill
Summer weather in Chapel Hill spans from June to August with temperatures escalating from an average of 66.2°F (19°C) to 90.3°F (32.4°C). Relative humidity stays high during these months. Rainfall peaks in August reaching an average of 1.73" (44mm). Despite this, sunshine averages between 10.2 hours to 10.7 hours daily accompanied by a high UV index of 7 in July.
Autumn weather in Chapel Hill
Autumn descends upon Chapel Hill from September to November. During these months, temperatures recede gradually from a warm 63.3°F (17.4°C) to a cooler 41.4°F (5.2°C). Rainfall figures dip slightly before hiking up to 1.1" (28mm) in November. Even as the daylight hours reduce, Chapel Hill glows with an average of 6.1 hours to 8.9 hours of sunshine per day.
Winter weather in Chapel Hill
Winter envelops Chapel Hill from December through to February. The chill sets in with December recording the coldest average temperature of 37.2°F (2.9°C) which plummets to 32°F (0°C) in January. Snowfall rarely appears during these months. Despite this, the relative humidity touches the year's highest at 77% in December, while sunshine hours fall to their lowest.
Weather in January
January in Chapel Hill, North Carolina greets residents with cold days and frosty nights. Average high temperatures hover near 47.7°F (8.7°C) making it one of the coldest months of the year. The cool conditions are made crisper by 6.5mph (10.5km/h) winds brushing the city. Weather in January »
Weather in February
Chapel Hill sees a gradual rise in temperatures in February. Relative to January, the month is marked by slightly milder weather, with daytime highs pushing the 50s°F. The city also receives a slightly higher share of sunshine, which adds a touch of warmth to the wintery chill. Weather in February »
Weather in March
March brings noticeable changes to the weather in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. As winter loosens its grip, the city experiences the start of spring with a marked rise in temperatures and lengthening daylight hours. March sees a decline in snowfall, and the chances of experiencing winter's final flurries fade away as the month progresses. Weather in March »
Weather in April
April introduces consistent warmth as Chapel Hill transitions fully into spring. The weather is marked by a remarkable leap in average high temperatures, reaching up to the low 70s°F. The climb in mercury is accompanied by one of the year's peak months for rainfall and the highest average visibility of 6 miles. Weather in April »
Weather in May
May in Chapel Hill brings the onset of summer, characterized by significant warming and occasional, but notable rain showers. Daytime temperatures start pushing towards 80°F (26.7°C), offering the residents a taste of the approaching hot season. Weather in May »
Weather in June
June ushers in the peak summer season in Chapel Hill. The city starts experiencing the year’s highest temperatures, hitting up to 86.2°F (30.1°C). It is among the city's sunniest months, boasting an average of almost 14.6 daylight hours. Weather in June »
Weather in July
July stands as the warmest month in Chapel Hill, with temperatures occasionally reaching a sweltering 90.3°F (32.4°C). The city's residents adapt to this peak summer heat coupled with high humidity levels by partaking in various cooling activities. Weather in July »
Weather in August
In August, Chapel Hill's weather starts showing the subtle signals of an approaching transition into fall. While August continues to register high temperatures much like July, there is a slight dip, creating an inkling of cooling. Weather in August »
Weather in September
September marks the beginning of fall in Chapel Hill. With a considerable drop in temperatures from August, residents start experiencing cooler days and brisker nights. An evident change in the atmosphere becomes pronounced by a distinct fall crispness pervading the air. Weather in September »
Weather in October
October in Chapel Hill presents quintessential fall weather. The receding heat from the preceding summer months makes way for calmer, cooler temperatures. As the month progresses, the city witnesses a significant transition with trees turning various hues of ochre and crimson. Weather in October »
Weather in November
November in Chapel Hill marks the tail end of fall and the onset of winter. With the mercury dipping progressively, the city starts gearing up for the colder months ahead, registering a low of 32°F (0°C). November turns the city into a canvas painted with autumn's riotous colors, even as winter starts quietly ushering in. Weather in November »
Weather in December
Winter pseudo-officially arrives in Chapel Hill, North Carolina in December. The weather turns distinctively colder as the city welcomes one of the coolest months of the year. As temperatures continue to drop, the chilly environment leads to a transformation in the city's mood and activities. Weather in December »
Updated: Feb 13, 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 is the coldest time of year in Chapel Hill?
January tends to be the coldest month in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, with temperatures averaging a daily high of 47.7°F (8.7°C) and a low of 32°F (0°C).
How many days does it rain in Chapel Hill?
In Chapel Hill, during the entire year, the rain falls for 130 days and collects up to 14.21" (361mm) of precipitation.
When does it snow in Chapel Hill?
Months with snowfall are January through March, November and December.
When does it snow the most in Chapel Hill?
January is the month with the most snowfall. Snow falls for 1.3 days and accumulates 0.47" (12mm) of snow.
How many days does it snow in Chapel Hill?
In Chapel Hill, North Carolina, during the entire year, snow falls for 4 days and aggregates up to 1.5" (38mm) of snow.
What is the month with the lowest UV index in Chapel Hill?
The months with the lowest UV index are January and December, with an average maximum UV index of 2.
When is Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Chapel Hill?
On Sunday, March 10. 2024, at 2:00 am, Daylight Saving Time starts in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, 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 it does not snow in Chapel Hill?
In Chapel Hill, North Carolina, snow does not fall in April through October.
What is the rainiest month in Chapel Hill?
The month with the most rainfall in Chapel Hill is May, when the rain falls for 14.6 days and typically aggregates up to 1.77" (45mm) of precipitation.
When are the longest days in Chapel Hill?
The month with the longest days in Chapel Hill is June, with an average of 14h and 36min of daylight.
What are the warmest months in Chapel Hill?
The warmest time of the year in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, is July, with temperatures averaging a high of 90.3°F (32.4°C) and a low of 69.4°F (20.8°C).
What is the least humid month in Chapel Hill?
The least humid month is July, with an average relative humidity of 71%.
What month has the most sunshine in Chapel Hill?
With an average of 10.7h of sunshine, July has the most sunshine of the year in Chapel Hill.
What is the month with the highest UV index in Chapel Hill?
With an average maximum UV index of 7, July is the month with the highest UV index.
What is the driest month in Chapel Hill?
The month with the least rainfall in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, is October, when the rain falls for 7.6 days and typically collects 0.83" (21mm) of precipitation.
What is the most humid month in Chapel Hill?
December is the most humid month in Chapel Hill, with an average relative humidity of 77%.
What is the month with the shortest days in Chapel Hill?
The month with the shortest days is December, with an average of 9h and 48min of daylight.
What is the month with the least sunshine in Chapel Hill?
December has the least sunshine of the year in Chapel Hill, with an average of 5.4h of sunshine.
Average temperature
Chapel Hill, NC
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (90.3°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (47.7°F).
The month with the highest average low temperature is July (69.4°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (32°F).
Average pressure
Chapel Hill, NC
- Average pressure in January:
30.14"Hg - Average pressure in February:
30.11"Hg - Average pressure in March:
30.09"Hg - Average pressure in April:
30.01"Hg - Average pressure in May:
30.02"Hg - Average pressure in June:
29.96"Hg
- Average pressure in July:
29.99"Hg - Average pressure in August:
30"Hg - Average pressure in September:
30.03"Hg - Average pressure in October:
30.05"Hg - Average pressure in November:
30.15"Hg - Average pressure in December:
30.14"Hg
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is November (30.15"Hg).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is June (29.96"Hg).
Average wind speed
Chapel Hill, NC
- Average wind speed in January:
6.5mph - Average wind speed in February:
6.9mph - Average wind speed in March:
7.1mph - Average wind speed in April:
7.3mph - Average wind speed in May:
6.1mph - Average wind speed in June:
5.4mph
- Average wind speed in July:
4.9mph - Average wind speed in August:
4.7mph - Average wind speed in September:
5.3mph - Average wind speed in October:
6mph - Average wind speed in November:
6.1mph - Average wind speed in December:
6mph
The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is April (7.3mph).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is August (4.7mph).
Average humidity
Chapel Hill, NC
The month with the highest relative humidity is December (77%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is July (71%).
Average rainfall
Chapel Hill, NC
- Average rainfall in January:
0.91" - Average rainfall in February:
0.87" - Average rainfall in March:
0.91" - Average rainfall in April:
1.06" - Average rainfall in May:
1.77" - Average rainfall in June:
1.57"
- Average rainfall in July:
1.54" - Average rainfall in August:
1.73" - Average rainfall in September:
0.98" - Average rainfall in October:
0.83" - Average rainfall in November:
1.1" - Average rainfall in December:
0.94"
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is May (1.77").
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is October (0.83").
Average rainfall days
Chapel Hill, NC
- Average rainfall days in January:
8.1 days - Average rainfall days in February:
8.3 days - Average rainfall days in March:
11.4 days - Average rainfall days in April:
12.2 days - Average rainfall days in May:
14.6 days - Average rainfall days in June:
13 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
15.1 days - Average rainfall days in August:
14.4 days - Average rainfall days in September:
11.4 days - Average rainfall days in October:
7.6 days - Average rainfall days in November:
6.4 days - Average rainfall days in December:
7.5 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is July (15.1 days).
The month with the least rainy days is November (6.4 days).
Average snowfall
Chapel Hill, NC
The month with the highest snowfall is January (0.47").
The months with the least snowfall are April, May, June, July, August, September and October (0").
Average snowfall days
Chapel Hill, NC
- Average snowfall days in January:
1.3 days - Average snowfall days in February:
1.5 days - Average snowfall days in March:
0.5 days - Average snowfall days in April:
0 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 days - Average snowfall days in November:
0.2 days - Average snowfall days in December:
0.5 days
The month with the highest number of snowfall days is February (1.5 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are April, May, June, July, August, September and October (0 days).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Chapel Hill, NC
- Average daylight in January:
10h and 0min - 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 1min - Average daylight in June:
14h and 4min
- Average daylight in July:
14h and 2min - Average daylight in August:
13h and 3min - 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 36min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 9h and 48min).
- Average sunshine in January:
5h and 3min - Average sunshine in February:
5h and 5min - Average sunshine in March:
7h and 0min - Average sunshine in April:
9h and 1min - Average sunshine in May:
9h and 3min - Average sunshine in June:
10h and 4min
- Average sunshine in July:
10h and 4min - Average sunshine in August:
10h and 1min - Average sunshine in September:
8h and 5min - Average sunshine in October:
6h and 1min - Average sunshine in November:
5h and 4min - Average sunshine in December:
5h and 2min
The month with the most sunshine is July (Average sunshine: 10h and 42min).
The month with the least sunshine is December (Average sunshine: 5h and 24min).
Average sunshine days
Chapel Hill, NC
- Average sunshine days in January:
21.1 days - Average sunshine days in February:
17.8 days - Average sunshine days in March:
18.3 days - Average sunshine days in April:
16.2 days - Average sunshine days in May:
13.8 days - Average sunshine days in June:
14.8 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
12.8 days - Average sunshine days in August:
12.8 days - Average sunshine days in September:
17.3 days - Average sunshine days in October:
22.3 days - Average sunshine days in November:
22.1 days - Average sunshine days in December:
21.5 days
The month with the most sunshine days is October (22.3 days).
The months with the least sunshine days are July and August (12.8 days).
Average UV index
Chapel Hill, NC
The month with the highest UV index is July (UV index 7).
The months with the lowest UV index are January and December (UV index 2).
Average cloud cover
Chapel Hill, NC
The months with the most cloud cover are February and March (Cloud cover 43).
The month with the least cloud cover is June (Cloud cover 31).
Average visibility
Chapel Hill, NC
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).
Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
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