Yearly & Monthly weather

The climate of Sanford
The best time to visit Sanford
The worst time to visit Sanford
Spring weather in Sanford
Summer weather in Sanford
Autumn weather in Sanford
Winter weather in Sanford
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 Sanford

Sanford, North Carolina, USA, falls primarily under the Cfa Köppen climate classification, indicative of a humid subtropical climate sans a dry season. Its geographical position, tucked comfortably in the interior of North Carolina, influences the climate significantly and lends it its generally moderate but humid conditions.

Throughout the year, Sanford experiences a changeable weather pattern, with a wide swing between its coldest month, January, with average low temperatures of 32.5°F (0.3°C) and its hottest in July, with a corresponding high around 90.3°F (32.4°C). A relative humidity range of 72% to 77% across the year underscores the prevalent moisture-laden air, a characteristic feature of the humid subtropical climate.

Rainfall in Sanford is relatively steady throughout the year, with a gentle increase during summer reaching its peak in May at 3.23" (82mm). From a sunshine duration perspective, June presents the longest daylight of 14.5 hours and the highest average number of sunshine hours of around 10.5, as well as the highest UV Index of 7. Wind speeds in Sanford remain fairly consistent throughout the year, averaging around 5.8 to 7.3mph (11.7km/h), with the strongest gusts occurring in April at a speed of 11.8mph (19km/h).

Interestingly, though termed as the 'winter month', December has an average temperature of 52.7°F (11.5°C), nowhere near the freezing mark, and records a light snowfall of 0.55" (14mm), demonstrating Sanford's relatively mild winter conditions.

The best time to visit Sanford

The months from April to June present the best time to plan a visit to Sanford. During this period, the average high temperature hovers between 71.1°F (21.7°C) and 86.5°F (30.3°C), perfect for outdoor activities. These months also witness the longest average hours of daylight and sunshine, with the UV index gradually escalating from 5 in April to 7 in June.

Furthermore, while the rainfall volume is slightly above the annual average during this period, the frequency of wet days does not significantly increase, still enabling maximum utilization of the extended daylight hours. The moderate wind speeds during this time further enhance the overall pleasant weather conditions, perfect for sightseeing and engaging in recreational activities.

The worst time to visit Sanford

On the contrary, mid-summer to early-autumn months of July through September are typically the least favorable for visitors. During this period, the average high temperatures persist above 82.6°F (28.1°C), peaking at 90.3°F (32.4°C) in July. Concurrently, with the average number of rainfall days also reaching its highest in July, the humidity increases, making the climate more uncomfortable.

Moreover, the average number of hours of sunshine begins to dwindle from July onwards, reducing daylight's duration for outdoor activities. Deeper into these months, the wind speed starts to decrease, further intensifying the heat's impact due to the lack of a cooling effect.

Spring weather in Sanford

Spring in Sanford emerges in March and stretches until May. With the transition from winter, Sanford experiences a significant rise in temperatures, increasing from an average high of 60.3°F (15.7°C) in March to 79.3°F (26.3°C) in May. Similarly, the low temperatures rise from 41.9°F (5.5°C) to 59.9°F (15.5°C) during this period. Precipitation records a slight increase, with May witnessing the highest annual rainfall of 3.23" (82mm). A combination of increasing average sunshine hours from 7.1 in March to 9.6 in May and longer daylight hours makes spring a pleasant time in Sanford.

Summer weather in Sanford

Summers in Sanford, commencing in June and concluding by August, are characterized by high temperatures and increased precipitation. With the highest temperature of the year recorded as 90.3°F (32.4°C) in July and the lowest falling not below 66.9°F (19.4°C) in June, Summers are quite hot. Rainfall levels peak during the early summer, with June recording an average rainfall volume of 2.56" (65mm). Notably, during these there is a steady number of sunshine days per month as the city sits through the longest daylight hours of the year.

Autumn weather in Sanford

From September through November, Sanford experiences the fall season. Temperatures start to decrease during these months, averaging a high of 82.6°F (28.1°C) in September, which descends to 59.7°F (15.4°C) by November. Concurrently, the average low temperature drops from 64°F (17.8°C) to 41.9°F (5.5°C). A decrease in precipitation is seen from 2.95" (75mm) in September to 1.81" (46mm) in October. While the daylight hours reduce, the average sunshine hours per day remain fairly stable during this period.

Winter weather in Sanford

Winter in Sanford starts in December and lasts until February. Even during this frail winter, the average high temperature ranges from 52.7°F (11.5°C) in December to 53.4°F (11.9°C) in February. The lowest temperature recorded is during January at 32.5°F (0.3°C), still above freezing level. In terms of rainfall, winter months are marginally drier compared to the rest of the year, with the lowermost figures recorded in December, at 2.4" (61mm). Interestingly, the city only experiences a minuscule snowfall of 1.46-inch in January and much less in the other two months.

Weather in January

Sanford experiences cooler weather in January, with temperatures typically hovering between 32.5°F (0.3°C) to 48.6°F (9.2°C). This is the coldest month of the year with the lowest average temperatures. Humidity remains constant and wind speeds begin to increase, indicating a shift to the spring months. Weather in January »

Weather in February

Notable changes in Sanford’s weather are seen in February, with temperatures slightly rising to reach up to 53.4°F (11.9°C). Concurrently, snowfall decreases to an average of 1.14" (29mm), indicating the transition towards spring. Weather in February »

Weather in March

As Sanford exits the winter months, March weather showcases higher temperatures, reaching up to 60.3°F (15.7°C). It is a key transition month, where snowfall decreases to 0.24" (6mm), marking the end of winter. An increase in the daylight hours is also observed, signalling the upcoming spring season. Weather in March »

Weather in April

April in Sanford characterizes the vibrant spring season, with average high temperatures reaching 71.1°F (21.7°C). Notably, there is no snowfall from April onwards, marking the complete transition from the cooler months. With the increase in temperature, the daylight hours too rise dramatically. Weather in April »

Weather in May

May marks the definite start of the warmer months in Sanford, with temperatures increasing to attain a high of 79.3°F (26.3°C). The increase in temperature, however, coincides with the highest average rainfall of 3.23" (82mm) for the year. Weather in May »

Weather in June

Sanford witnesses the warmest weather by June, with average high temperatures rising up to 86.5°F (30.3°C). While there is a reduction in rainfall from the previous month, June carries the long-lasting daylight hours. This month is marked by its hot and humid weather with reduced wind speeds. Weather in June »

Weather in July

July is typically the hottest month in Sanford, with average high temperatures soaring up to 90.3°F (32.4°C). Despite the heat, rainfall is moderate, providing some respite. Visibility and humidity remain relatively constant, while wind speeds reduce to their lowest for the year. Weather in July »

Weather in August

August continues with the summer heat in Sanford, albeit with a slight drop in temperature to 88°F (31.1°C). Despite the high temperatures, rainfall increases to 2.95" (75mm), the second-highest for the year. August also maintains lengthy daylight hours, although not as extended as July. Weather in August »

Weather in September

As Sanford transitions from summer to fall, September weather cools down to 82.6°F (28.1°C). Rainfall decreases significantly and is well-spread across the month. Though warm, the month also brings an increase in wind speeds. Weather in September »

Weather in October

October brings a notable change in the weather of Sanford, with temperatures dipping to 71.8°F (22.1°C). The decreased rainfall of 1.81" (46mm), the lowest for the year, marks October as the driest month. With wind speeds increasing, it ushers in the cooler months ahead. Weather in October »

Weather in November

November is characterized by a further drop in temperature, reaching an average high of 59.7°F (15.4°C) in Sanford. The start of the cold months is heralded by the sharp fall in UV index. The approach towards winter is signified by a reduction in daylight hours and a slight increase in rainfall. Weather in November »

Weather in December

Sanford's December indicates the onset of winter, with temperatures reaching as low as 37.8°F (3.2°C). The cold weather is reflected in an increase in snowfall to 0.55" (14mm). Despite the lower temperatures, December experienced an average rainfall of 2.4" (61mm). Weather in December »

Updated: Aug 18, 2024
Published by: Weather U.S. | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate

Frequently asked questions

What is the coldest time of year?

Temperature readings reach their annual highs in January, averaging 48.6°F (9.2°C) and a minimum average of 32.5°F (0.3°C).

How much does it rain?

In Sanford, during the entire year, the rain falls for 151.7 days and collects up to 28.74" (730mm) of precipitation.

When does it snow?

January through March, November and December are months with snowfall in Sanford.

When does it snow the most?

January is the month with the most snowfall. Snow falls for 1.1 days and accumulates 1.46" (37mm) of snow.

How many days does it snow?

Throughout the year, there are 3.6 snowfall days, and 3.43" (87mm) of snow is accumulated.

What is the month with the least sunshine?

January and December, with an average of 5.5h of sunshine, are months with the least sunshine in Sanford.

What are the months with the lowest UV index?

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)?

On Sunday, March 10. 2024, at 2:00 am, Daylight Saving Time starts, 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 Sanford, snow does not fall in April through October.

What is the rainiest month in Sanford?

May is the month with the most rainfall. Rain falls for 16.2 days and accumulates 3.23" (82mm) of precipitation.

When are the longest days?

The month with the longest days is June, with an average of 14h and 30min of daylight.

What are the months with the highest UV index?

The months with the highest UV index are June and July, with an average maximum UV index of 7.

What is the warmest month?

July is the month when Sanford's temperatures reach their peak, with averages of 90.3°F (32.4°C) and lows of 70.3°F (21.3°C).

What is the least humid month?

July is the least humid month, with an average relative humidity of 72%.

What month has the most sunshine?

July has the most sunshine of the year, with an average of 10.8h of sunshine.

What is the driest month?

October is the month with the least rainfall. Rain falls for 8.8 days and accumulates 1.81" (46mm) of precipitation.

What is the most humid month?

December is the most humid month, with an average relative humidity of 77%.

What is the month with the shortest days in Sanford?

With an average of 9h and 48min of daylight, December has the shortest days of the year.

Average temperature
Sanford, NC

Average high temperature in January:
48.6°F
Average high temperature in February:
53.4°F
Average high temperature in March:
60.3°F
Average high temperature in April:
71.1°F
Average high temperature in May:
79.3°F
Average high temperature in June:
86.5°F

Average high temperature in July:
90.3°F
Average high temperature in August:
88°F
Average high temperature in September:
82.6°F
Average high temperature in October:
71.8°F
Average high temperature in November:
59.7°F
Average high temperature in December:
52.7°F

The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (90.3°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (48.6°F).

Average low temperature in January:
32.5°F
Average low temperature in February:
35.8°F
Average low temperature in March:
41.9°F
Average low temperature in April:
51.6°F
Average low temperature in May:
59.9°F
Average low temperature in June:
66.9°F

Average low temperature in July:
70.3°F
Average low temperature in August:
69.1°F
Average low temperature in September:
64°F
Average low temperature in October:
52.5°F
Average low temperature in November:
41.9°F
Average low temperature in December:
37.8°F

The month with the highest average low temperature is July (70.3°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (32.5°F).

Average pressure
Sanford, NC

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
Sanford, NC

The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is April (7.3mph).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is August (4.8mph).

Average humidity
Sanford, NC

The month with the highest relative humidity is December (77%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is July (72%).

Average rainfall
Sanford, NC

The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is May (3.23").
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is October (1.81").

Average rainfall days
Sanford, NC

Average rainfall days in January:
10.1 days
Average rainfall days in February:
10.3 days
Average rainfall days in March:
13 days
Average rainfall days in April:
13.8 days
Average rainfall days in May:
16.2 days
Average rainfall days in June:
14.3 days

Average rainfall days in July:
17.8 days
Average rainfall days in August:
16.7 days
Average rainfall days in September:
12.6 days
Average rainfall days in October:
8.8 days
Average rainfall days in November:
8.5 days
Average rainfall days in December:
9.6 days

The month with the highest number of rainy days is July (17.8 days).
The month with the least rainy days is November (8.5 days).

Average snowfall
Sanford, NC

The month with the highest snowfall is January (1.46").
The months with the least snowfall are April, May, June, July, August, September and October (0").

Average snowfall days
Sanford, NC

Average snowfall days in January:
1.1 days
Average snowfall days in February:
1.7 days
Average snowfall days in March:
0.4 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:
0.1 days
Average snowfall days in December:
0.3 days

The month with the highest number of snowfall days is February (1.7 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are April, May, June, July, August, September and October (0 days).

Average daylight / Average sunshine
Sanford, NC

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 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 30min).
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 1min
Average sunshine in April:
9h and 1min
Average sunshine in May:
9h and 4min
Average sunshine in June:
10h and 3min

Average sunshine in July:
10h and 5min
Average sunshine in August:
10h and 1min
Average sunshine in September:
9h and 1min
Average sunshine in October:
6h and 1min
Average sunshine in November:
5h and 5min
Average sunshine in December:
5h and 3min

The month with the most sunshine is July (Average sunshine: 10h and 48min).
The months with the least sunshine are January and December (Average sunshine: 5h and 30min).

Average sunshine days
Sanford, NC

Average sunshine days in January:
18.9 days
Average sunshine days in February:
15.8 days
Average sunshine days in March:
16.6 days
Average sunshine days in April:
14.5 days
Average sunshine days in May:
12.8 days
Average sunshine days in June:
13.8 days

Average sunshine days in July:
11.7 days
Average sunshine days in August:
12.4 days
Average sunshine days in September:
16 days
Average sunshine days in October:
21.1 days
Average sunshine days in November:
20.3 days
Average sunshine days in December:
19.8 days

The month with the most sunshine days is October (21.1 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is July (11.7 days).

Average UV index
Sanford, NC

The months with the highest UV index are June and July (UV index 7).
The months with the lowest UV index are January and December (UV index 2).

Average cloud cover
Sanford, NC

The month with the most cloud cover is February (Cloud cover 43).
The month with the least cloud cover is June (Cloud cover 31).

Average visibility
Sanford, 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).

Climate and monthly weather forecastSanford, NC

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