The climate of Somerset
Positioned in the northeastern United States,
Somerset,
Pennsylvania falls under the Köppen climate classification Cfa, designating it as a region characterized by a humid subtropical climate with no defined dry season. In alignment with this classification, a clear differentiation exists between the four seasons with varying weather conditions throughout the years.
Throughout the year, the temperature fluctuates greatly from 18.3°F (-7.6°C) to a high of 78.8°F (26°C). Precipitation, in the form of both rainfall and snowfall, also varies throughout the months, with rainfall peaking at 3.66" (93mm) in
May and snowfall reaching up to 7.48" (190mm) in
January. Humidity remains relatively steady throughout the year, oscillating between 79% to 87%. Lastly, the levels of sunlight and cloud cover also oscillate, with sunlight ranging from 2.7 hours per day in January to a high of 9.4 hours in
July.
Exclusive to this region is the occurrence of significant snowfall, the absence of a dry season, and a consistent humidity level, making it a unique climate zone in the United States.
The best time to visit Somerset
The decision of when to visit
Somerset hinges upon individual preferences for temperature and activities. However, the warmer months from
May to
September, when temperatures range from 67.3°F (19.6°C) to 78.8°F (26°C), are generally more favorable. This period exhibits a dramatic increase in both daylight hours and sunshine with peak sunlight hours of 9.4 in
July. Rainfall during these months is steady but not excessive, ranging from 2.68 to 3.66" (93mm), which ensures a pleasant outdoor experience for visitors.
The worst time to visit Somerset
The least favorable time to visit
Somerset would be the winter months between
December and
February. The temperature dips to a low range between 18.3°F (-7.6°C) to 30.7°F (-0.7°C), which might be too chilly for some, especially those unaccustomed to colder climates. Snowfall during these months is prominent, reaching 7.48" (190mm) in
January. The limited daylight hours and lower sunshine durations during this season further discourage tourist activities.
Spring weather in Somerset
Spring is a period of rapid warming in
Somerset with temperatures rising from 44.2°F (6.8°C) in
March to 67.3°F (19.6°C) in
May. Rainfall levels are slightly higher during this season, especially in May where it escalates to 3.66" (93mm). This period also sees longer daylight hours, increasing from 12 hours in March to 14.4 hours by May.
Summer weather in Somerset
Summer is the season of warmth and sunshine in
Somerset. The period from
June through
August witnesses temperatures reaching a peak of 78.8°F (26°C) in
July and with the least rainfall in August at 2.32" (59mm). Daylight hours remain lengthy, peaking at 15 hours in June. This season provides ample opportunity for outdoor activities with maximum sunshine of 9.4 hours in July.
Autumn weather in Somerset
Autumn sees a significant cooling in
Somerset with temperatures steadily declining from a high of 71.1°F (21.7°C) in
September to a lower 46.2°F (7.9°C) by
November. Rainfall also sees a rise in this season, peaking at 2.87" (73mm) in
October. The duration of sunlight gradually decreases, dipping from 12.4 hours in September to 10 hours in November, indicating a transition to the colder months.
Winter weather in Somerset
Winter in
Somerset is epitomized by freezing temperatures and snowfall. The coldest months are
December to
February, with
January having the lowest average temperature of 18.3°F (-7.6°C). January also records the highest snowfall of 7.48" (190mm). The short daylight hours and cold conditions might deter outdoor activities but provide a unique winter landscape for those interested.
Weather in January
January manifests itself as one of the more wintry months in
Somerset,
Pennsylvania, with chilly temperatures combined with persistent precipitation. The town is shrouded frequently under a blanket of clouds with 74% cloud cover.
Weather in January » Weather in February
Comparatively milder than
January,
February in
Somerset sees a subtle uptick in temperature. Wind speed decreases slightly, complimenting the weather with comparatively less blustering gusts. However, the month is not devoid of snow, measuring 6.81" (173mm), making it another month that is attractive to winter sports enthusiasts.
Weather in February »Weather in March
With the arrival of
March begins the gradual transition out of winter. The town witnesses longer daylight hours as the days grow longer, nudging up the outdoor activity possibilities. Winter does not lose its grip just yet as snowfall persists although at a diminishing amount from the previous months.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April signals a clear migration away from winter towards warmer days in
Somerset. Spring bursts into life with the increasing duration of daylight and greater visibility. However, April receives the highest rainfall of the year, recording 3.27" (83mm), transforming the landscape into a lush green spectacle.
Weather in April » Weather in May
May in
Somerset is a celebration of spring with pleasant weather characterizing the town. The mercury level continues to trend upwards, while the frequency of rainfall starts to decrease. A mix of sunshine and rain sets up the perfect conditions for the blossoming of vibrant flowers.
Weather in May » Weather in June
June marks the advent of summer with noticeably higher temperatures. The days get longer, allowing more sunshine and warmth to envelop the town. The blend of warm temperatures and sufficient rainfall ensures that the lush greenery thrives.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July reigns as the warmest month in
Somerset, with the highest average temperature of 78.8°F (26°C). The long hours of daylight and clear weather make it the perfect month for outdoor activities. Somerset residents and tourists alike bask in the pleasant warmth during this peak summer month.
Weather in July » Weather in August
August maintains the summer heat, yet starts to show a slight regression in temperatures compared to
July. The days remain long, paving the way for numerous outdoor pursuits.
Somerset gleams under the clear blue skies with a low average cloud cover of 41%.
Weather in August » Weather in September
September reveals the early signs of fall with a dip in mercury levels. The transition phase between warm summer and cool fall gives birth to a delightful climate. A significant reduction in humidity marks the changing of the seasons, making way for the upcoming crisp autumn air.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
In
Somerset,
October fully embraces the Autumn season with a noticeable drop in temperatures and an increase in rainfall. Visitors and locals enjoy cooler breezes and vibrant fall foliage spread across the town. The shift in climate results in days getting shorter and an increased probability of rainfall, measuring 2.87" (73mm).
Weather in October »Weather in November
November sees
Somerset transitioning into winter with a further decrease in temperature and an increase in snowfall. The skies remain largely cloud-covered, setting a frosty ambiance across the town. After the dry
October, November hosts the year’s lowest rainfall, amounting to 1.97" (50mm) of precipitation.
Weather in November » Weather in December
December welcomes winter in full force, with temperatures dropping further as compared to
November. Snowfall intensifies as the month progresses, providing a charming white landscape for winter enthusiasts. With an average of 9.4 daylight hours, the days are considerably shorter, adding to the winter charm.
Weather in December »