Climate and monthly weather forecast
Rhode Island, USA

Rhode Island has a humid continental climate (Köppen climate classification Dfb) with warm to hot summers and cold, snowy winters. Rhode Island lies in the southeastern part of New England in the northeastern corner of the United States. Connecticut in the west, Massachusetts in the north and east, and the Atlantic Ocean in the southeast and south share borders with the state. The proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and the Narragansett Bay and westerly winds influence the climate to a limited extent.

Rhode Island, the Ocean State, is the smallest of all American states, with an average width of 30 miles and a north-south extension of 50 miles. The terrain is flat with numerous ocean beaches, with the highest point at Jerimoth Hill at 247 meters above sea level. The topography mainly consists of hilly uplands in the western two-third, with elevation ranging from 100 to 300 meters. Gently rolling uplands up to 70 meters high lie in the north and east of the Narragansett Bay, while a narrow coastal plain lies on the south shore of the bay. The Blackstone River and its tributaries form the primary river system in the state.

The best time to visit Rhode Island is during the beautiful summer from June to August. The temperatures range from warm to hot, and the days are long with bright sunshine. The peak of July is humid along the coast, but the rainfall mostly limits to occasional thunderstorms. Summer is an excellent time for a cruise on the ocean, surfing or snorkeling in the blue waters or simply lying on the pristine beaches. Fall is colorful but cold in the latter half of the season. Spring is often unpredictable, with mild to cold temperatures and unexpected precipitation in the form of rain or snow.

The worst time to visit Rhode Island is during the cold winter season from November to February. Snowfall is frequent, and occasional blizzards deposit a large amount of snow. Snowstorms limit visibility and stall everyday life. Winter days are short with mild sunshine at best. Few people enjoy ice skating on the frozen surfaces, but the lack of hills and mountains offers limited opportunities for skiing. Temperatures often drop below 0°F (-17.8°C) during the night at the peak of the winter. Budget travelers find attractive deals during New Year when the cold is at its peak.

Spring in Rhode Island presents a mixed bag of conditions. It can range from mild to decidedly cold. Precipitation becomes more frequent, sometimes surprising residents and tourists with an unexpected mix of rain or snow. While temperatures steadily rise from the chill of winter, Rhode Island's springs are known for their unpredictability. Yet, amidst these fluctuating conditions, the state begins to bloom, signaling the onset of warmer days.

Summers in Rhode Island are characterized by warmth and humidity. The state records an average of eight to ten days where temperatures soar beyond 90°F (32.2°C). While the interior regions can occasionally witness temperatures surpassing 100°F (37.8°C), coastal areas tend to remain a tad cooler. Despite the occasional high humidity, particularly in July, summer days are largely dominated by bright sunshine, making them ideal for various outdoor activities.

Autumn ushers in a spectacular display of colors across Rhode Island, but temperatures begin their downward journey. The start of the season might still feel mild, but by its latter half, the cold starts to set in. Rainfall becomes more torrential in the early and latter parts of the season. Despite its beauty, the unpredictable weather conditions mean that travelers need to be prepared for a mix of warmth and cold during their visit.

Winters in Rhode Island are marked by cold, snowy conditions. Average temperatures hover from 15°F (-9.4°C) to 20°F (-6.7°C) across most parts of the state. Coastal areas fare slightly better with averages around 25°F (-3.9°C). Inland regions experience between six to eight days where night temperatures plunge below 0°F (-17.8°C), a rarity for coastal areas. The state, especially its western parts, can accumulate snowfall ranging from 20" (508mm) to 55" (1397mm) over the season.

January in Rhode Island is synonymous with the depths of winter. The state, particularly its inland regions, experiences some of the coldest temperatures of the year during this month. Providence, being a notable city in the region, can serve as a reference for the state's weather patterns. The month sees temperatures ranging from 15°F (-9.4°C) to 20°F (-6.7°C) in most areas. Weather in January »

February continues the winter narrative for Rhode Island but offers glimmers of change as the month progresses. Providence, as a key city in the region, often experiences temperatures reflective of the state's general conditions. Across Rhode Island, temperatures in February typically range from 15°F (-9.4°C) to 25°F (-3.9°C). Weather in February »

March in Rhode Island signals the transition from winter's grip to the tentative stirrings of spring. Providence, a significant urban marker, provides insight into the evolving weather patterns that typify this changeover period in the state. During March, temperatures in Rhode Island usually fluctuate between 25°F (-3.9°C) and 40°F (4.4°C). Weather in March »

April in Rhode Island heralds a clearer shift into spring, with the landscape awakening from its winter slumber. As with previous months, Providence remains a pivotal point of reference for the state's unfolding weather scenarios. In April, Rhode Island's temperature spectrum typically spans from 35°F (1.7°C) to 55°F (12.8°C). Weather in April »

May in Rhode Island ushers in a robust spring ambiance, with nature in full bloom and a marked shift towards warmer weather. The city of Providence, central to Rhode Island's climatic dynamics, often mirrors the state's overall weather tendencies during this period. Throughout May, temperatures in Rhode Island generally oscillate between 50°F (10°C) and 70°F (21.1°C). Weather in May »

June in Rhode Island marks the commencement of summer, characterized by longer days, abundant sunshine, and a palpable warmth enveloping the state. Providence, acting as a barometer for the state's climatic tendencies, resonates with the summery vibes emblematic of this month. Throughout June, temperatures in Rhode Island are typically anchored between 60°F (15.6°C) and 80°F (26.7°C). Weather in June »

July in Rhode Island stands as the pinnacle of summer, with its zenith of warmth, extended daylight, and a bustling outdoor atmosphere. The city of Providence aptly captures the essence of this month, reflecting the overarching climate patterns prevalent across the state. In July, temperatures in Rhode Island usually fluctuate between 65°F (18.3°C) and 85°F (29.4°C). Weather in July »

August in Rhode Island is a summer month that carries with it a subtle hint of the impending fall. The sun remains a dominant presence, yet there's a perceptible mellowing in the atmosphere. Providence, a key climatic reference for the state, exhibits the gentle shifts emblematic of this month. Temperatures in August typically range from 63°F (17.2°C) to 83°F (28.3°C). Weather in August »

September in Rhode Island is synonymous with the onset of fall, a period marked by a mosaic of changing leaves, crisp air, and a gentle departure from the heat of summer. Providence, often reflective of the state's broader climatic nuances, showcases the temperate beauty and transitioning essence of this month. During September, temperatures in Rhode Island commonly hover between 55°F (12.8°C) and 75°F (23.9°C). Weather in September »

October in Rhode Island immerses itself deeply in the heart of fall, with nature donning a vibrant palette of oranges, reds, and yellows. Providence, a representative for the state's climatic tendencies, is draped in autumnal splendor, echoing the month's cool, reflective mood. In October, Rhode Island's temperatures typically span from 45°F (7.2°C) to 65°F (18.3°C). Weather in October »

Rhode Island in November is a testament to the transitional essence of late autumn, as it slowly ushers in the preliminary hints of winter. The city of Providence, a climatic microcosm for the state, feels the sharper bite of the cold, its trees gradually shedding the last of their autumn leaves. November sees temperatures in Rhode Island generally fluctuating between 35°F (1.7°C) and 55°F (12.8°C). Weather in November »

December in Rhode Island heralds the official onset of winter, characterized by a crystalline landscape, brisk temperatures, and the festive spirit of the holiday season. Providence, often a mirror reflecting the state's climate patterns, glistens under a blanket of snow, evoking a sense of wintry wonder. In December, Rhode Island's temperatures typically move between 25°F (-3.9°C) and 45°F (7.2°C). Weather in December »