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Contents
- The climate of Providence
- The best time to visit Providence
- The worst time to visit Providence
- Spring weather in Providence
- Summer weather in Providence
- Autumn weather in Providence
- Winter weather in Providence
- 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 sea temperature
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average sunshine days
- Average UV index
- Average cloud cover
- Average visibility
The city of Providence, Rhode Island, reflected in the water
The climate of Providence
Dominating the climatic conditions of Providence, Rhode Island, is a Köppen climate classification of Cfa, indicating a humid subtropical climate with no dry season. Geographically positioned at the mouth of Providence River, at the head of Narragansett Bay, Providence faces annual weather oscillations emblematic of this designation. The city's weather course starts with temperate winters to experience a calm transition to warm summers, punctuated by a distinct abundance of monthly rainfall throughout the year.
A quick look at the temperature readings shows a substantial range across the year. On the lower end, minimum temperatures peak at 23.5°F (-4.7°C) in January and 24.3°F (-4.3°C) in February, while maximum readings can reach up to 81°F (27.2°C) in July. The temperature span is indicative of the inland influence on Providence's climate, where the heat of the summer and the chill of the winter are mitigated by the Atlantic Ocean.
Humidity ranges from 72% in April up to 79% in June showcasing a predominantly moist environment. Rainfall varies from a low of 1.06" (27mm) in September to high values of 2.4" (61mm) in April and 2.28" (58mm) in October. Snowfall holds its own pattern, primarily appearing from 1.57" (40mm) in January to 2.01" (51mm) in February, then deescalates to negligible amounts in the warmer months.
When it comes to the sea temperature, it oscillates between 38.1°F (3.4°C) in February up to a comfortable 69.3°F (20.7°C) in August. Peak daylight hours increase gradually from 9.5 hours in January reaching a maximum of 15.2 hours in June before the downward trend in the later part of the year.
A quick look at the temperature readings shows a substantial range across the year. On the lower end, minimum temperatures peak at 23.5°F (-4.7°C) in January and 24.3°F (-4.3°C) in February, while maximum readings can reach up to 81°F (27.2°C) in July. The temperature span is indicative of the inland influence on Providence's climate, where the heat of the summer and the chill of the winter are mitigated by the Atlantic Ocean.
Humidity ranges from 72% in April up to 79% in June showcasing a predominantly moist environment. Rainfall varies from a low of 1.06" (27mm) in September to high values of 2.4" (61mm) in April and 2.28" (58mm) in October. Snowfall holds its own pattern, primarily appearing from 1.57" (40mm) in January to 2.01" (51mm) in February, then deescalates to negligible amounts in the warmer months.
When it comes to the sea temperature, it oscillates between 38.1°F (3.4°C) in February up to a comfortable 69.3°F (20.7°C) in August. Peak daylight hours increase gradually from 9.5 hours in January reaching a maximum of 15.2 hours in June before the downward trend in the later part of the year.
The best time to visit Providence
Taking into account the varying climatic trends and weather conditions, the best time to plan a visit to Providence would primarily be in the warmer months, from June to August. During this time, the average maximum temperatures range between 73.6°F (23.1°C) and 81°F (27.2°C). The rainfall remains fairly moderate, with July witnessing an average precipitation of 1.97" (50mm). The sea temperature also peaks during these months, ideal for dipping toes into Narragansett Bay. Visitors can also expect to bask in an average of 14.9 to 15.2 hours of daily daylight during this period.
The worst time to visit Providence
From a climate perspective, the winter months between January and February are comparatively less conducive for a visit to Providence. During this time, temperatures can dip to 23.5°F (-4.7°C), coupled with potential snowfall of up to 2.01" (51mm). This period also experiences one of the shortest daylight length of the year, averaging between 9.5 to 10.6 hours.
Spring weather in Providence
The spring period from March to May in Providence is marked by a sharp transition from the cooler temperatures of winter to a more temperate climate. During these months, daily temperatures climb from an average low of 30.9°F (-0.6°C) to an average high of 65.8°F (18.8°C). Rainfall surpasses the 2" (51mm) mark, making it a relatively wet time of the year. An increase in the length of daylight from 12 hours in March to 14.6 hours in May promotes outdoor activities.
Summer weather in Providence
From June to August, summer ushers in Providence's warmer days. The temperatures typically range from 57.2°F (14°C) to 81°F (27.2°C). While likely to experience an uptick in humidity, this period has modest levels of rainfall. Additionally, it is during these months that residents and visitors alike can expect to enjoy the longest daylight hours, ranging from 14.9 to 15.2 hours.
Autumn weather in Providence
From September to November, autumn introduces progressively cooler temperatures. During these months, Providence experiences a significant drop in temperatures from 57.2°F (14°C) to 38.1°F (3.4°C). Despite a reduction in rainfall, levels remain moderate, peaking at 2.28" (58mm) in October. Daylight hours diminish, descending from 12.5 hours in September to 9.8 hours in November.
Winter weather in Providence
The winter season in Providence is characterized by lower temperatures and the advent of snowfall. From December to February, temperatures range from a high of 40.8°F (4.9°C) to a low of 23.5°F (-4.7°C). Snowfall is also highest during these months, ranging from 1.42" (36mm) in December to 2.01" (51mm) in February. A decrease in daylight hours is also noted, with an average of 9.2 to 10.6 hours.
Weather in January
January rings in the new year in Providence, Rhode Island, with frosty conditions. A white blanket robes the city, with snowfall reaching 1.57" (40mm) and snow falling on nearly six days of the month. The start of the year is also marked by high humidity levels, making the cold nights seem even chillier. Weather in January »
Weather in February
February experiences a slight increase in temperatures compared to January. However, it notably brings greater snowfall with a peak of 2.01" (51mm) in the month. Otherwise, much of the weather remains the same as in January. The duration of daylight hours expands slightly, hinting at the approaching spring season. Weather in February »
Weather in March
March signals the arrival of spring in Providence. There is a noticeable decrease in snowfall, concluding at 1.97" (50mm), and a corresponding increase in rainfall. This is a sign that the city is beginning its thaw from the winter freeze. Weather in March »
Weather in April
April brings more warmth and extended daylight hours to Providence. The city experiences maximum rainfall during the month with 2.4" (61mm) over about 15 days. The excess rain, combined with the increasing temperatures, promotes the lush greenery for which Rhode Island is known as "The Ocean State". Weather in April »
Weather in May
The warmth of May in Providence allows residents and visitors to experience the city in all its splendor. However, despite the pleasant temperatures, a relative rainfall decrease to 1.77" (45mm) keeps the scenery lush and vibrant. Generally speaking, May is a wonderful time to visit for those who enjoy moderate temperatures and love to see nature in full bloom. Weather in May »
Weather in June
As the city transitions into summer in June, temperatures see a substantial boost, and the sea temperature rises to 59.6°F (15.3°C). The longer daylight hours make June a perfect month for beach activities as well as exploring the city's many landmarks. Weather in June »
Weather in July
July is the height of summer in Providence, observing the warmest temperatures in the year. Alongside these temperatures, the sea also peaks at a balmy 67°F (19.4°C) and the sunshine duration of 10.3 hours per day reaches its highest. Weather in July »
Weather in August
August plays a prolonged encore to July's weather performance, with even warmer sea temperatures reaching 69.3°F (20.7°C), the highest of the year. Despite these high temperatures, the rainfall sees a minor decrease which adds to the appeal of outdoor activities. Weather in August »
Weather in September
September in Providence signals the arrival of autumn with milder temperatures and shorter days compared to August. Although it continues to offer an abundance of sunshine, visible cloud cover increases slightly, resulting in beautiful, picturesque sunsets. Weather in September »
Weather in October
October sees a significant switch in Providence's weather, distinctly marking the transition from warm to cooler temperatures. Despite this, there is a notable increase in rainfall to 2.28" (58mm) over about 12 days. The cityscape is painted in rich colors of yellows, oranges, and reds as foliage reaches its peak in October. Weather in October »
Weather in November
November brings the onset of winter in Providence, with a sharp decline in temperatures from October. The weather also sees a resurgence of snowfall, albeit only 0.28" (7mm) over fewer than one day. November ushers in the holiday season with the city's display of festive decorations and activities. Weather in November »
Weather in December
December in Providence marks the full swing of winter, coming with the second highest snowfall of the year at 1.42" (36mm). The temperatures continue to decrease, and the amount of daylight continues shrinking. With a distinctive festive spirit in the air, Providence in December is a blend of chilly weather, warmly lit homes, and a holiday atmosphere. 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 part of the year is the coldest in Providence?
Providence's coldest month, January, generally records average temperatures ranging from a high of 35.1°F (1.7°C) to a low of 23.5°F (-4.7°C).
How much does it rain in Providence?
Throughout the year, in Providence, Rhode Island, there are 144.3 rainfall days, and 23.35" (593mm) of precipitation is accumulated.
When does it snow in Providence?
Months with snowfall in Providence are January through May, November and December.
How much does it snow in Providence?
Throughout the year, there are 22 snowfall days, and 7.83" (199mm) of snow is accumulated.
What is the month with the lowest UV index in Providence?
January through March, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 2, are months with the lowest UV index.
What is the snowiest month in Providence?
The month with the most snowfall is February, when snow falls for 5.4 days and typically aggregates up to 2.01" (51mm) of snow.
When is the ocean coldest in Providence?
February is the month with the coldest seawater in Providence, Rhode Island, with an average ocean temperature of 38.1°F (3.4°C).
What is the month with the least sunshine in Providence?
The month with the least sunshine in Providence, Rhode Island, is February, with an average of 4.8h of sunshine.
When is Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Providence?
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.
What is the least humid month in Providence?
April is the least humid month in Providence, Rhode Island, with an average relative humidity of 72%.
What is the rainiest month in Providence?
April is the month with the most rainfall in Providence, Rhode Island. Rain falls for 14.9 days and accumulates 2.4" (61mm) of precipitation.
What is the most humid month in Providence?
With an average relative humidity of 79%, June is the most humid month.
When it does not snow in Providence?
June through October are months without snowfall.
When are the longest days in Providence?
The month with the longest days in Providence is June, with an average of 15h and 12min of daylight.
When is the highest UV index in Providence?
The months with the highest UV index are June through August, with an average maximum UV index of 6.
What part of the year is the hottest in Providence?
July, characterized by an average high temperature of 81°F (27.2°C) and a low temperature of 64.9°F (18.3°C), is generally the warmest month in Providence.
When is the ocean warmest in Providence?
The month with the warmest seawater is August, with an average ocean temperature of 69.3°F (20.7°C).
What month has the most sunshine in Providence?
The month with the most sunshine in Providence is August, with an average of 10.5h of sunshine.
What is the driest month in Providence?
September is the month with the least rainfall in Providence, Rhode Island. Rain falls for 10.7 days and accumulates 1.06" (27mm) of precipitation.
What is the month with the shortest days in Providence?
The month with the shortest days in Providence is December, with an average of 9h and 12min of daylight.
Average temperature
Providence, RI
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (81°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (35.1°F).
The month with the highest average low temperature is July (64.9°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (23.5°F).
Average pressure
Providence, RI
- Average pressure in January:
30.01"Hg - Average pressure in February:
29.99"Hg - Average pressure in March:
30.03"Hg - Average pressure in April:
29.98"Hg - Average pressure in May:
30.01"Hg - Average pressure in June:
29.93"Hg
- Average pressure in July:
29.95"Hg - Average pressure in August:
29.98"Hg - Average pressure in September:
30.05"Hg - Average pressure in October:
30.01"Hg - Average pressure in November:
30.07"Hg - Average pressure in December:
30.04"Hg
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is November (30.07"Hg).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is June (29.93"Hg).
Average wind speed
Providence, RI
- Average wind speed in January:
9.9mph - Average wind speed in February:
9.9mph - Average wind speed in March:
9.9mph - Average wind speed in April:
9.3mph - Average wind speed in May:
8mph - Average wind speed in June:
7.3mph
- Average wind speed in July:
6.7mph - Average wind speed in August:
6.5mph - Average wind speed in September:
7.2mph - Average wind speed in October:
8.5mph - Average wind speed in November:
8.9mph - Average wind speed in December:
9.3mph
The windiest months (with the highest average wind speed) are January, February and March (9.9mph).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is August (6.5mph).
Average humidity
Providence, RI
The month with the highest relative humidity is June (79%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is April (72%).
Average rainfall
Providence, RI
- Average rainfall in January:
1.93" - Average rainfall in February:
1.65" - Average rainfall in March:
2.09" - Average rainfall in April:
2.4" - Average rainfall in May:
1.77" - Average rainfall in June:
2.2"
- Average rainfall in July:
1.97" - Average rainfall in August:
1.81" - Average rainfall in September:
1.06" - Average rainfall in October:
2.28" - Average rainfall in November:
1.93" - Average rainfall in December:
2.24"
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is April (2.4").
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is September (1.06").
Average rainfall days
Providence, RI
- Average rainfall days in January:
7.8 days - Average rainfall days in February:
8.1 days - Average rainfall days in March:
11.7 days - Average rainfall days in April:
14.9 days - Average rainfall days in May:
14.2 days - Average rainfall days in June:
15.3 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
15.5 days - Average rainfall days in August:
13 days - Average rainfall days in September:
10.7 days - Average rainfall days in October:
12.3 days - Average rainfall days in November:
9.5 days - Average rainfall days in December:
11.3 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is July (15.5 days).
The month with the least rainy days is January (7.8 days).
Average snowfall
Providence, RI
- Average snowfall in January:
1.57" - Average snowfall in February:
2.01" - Average snowfall in March:
1.97" - Average snowfall in April:
0.43" - Average snowfall in May:
0.16" - Average snowfall in June:
0"
The month with the highest snowfall is February (2.01").
The months with the least snowfall are June, July, August, September and October (0").
Average snowfall days
Providence, RI
- Average snowfall days in January:
5.9 days - Average snowfall days in February:
5.4 days - Average snowfall days in March:
4.9 days - Average snowfall days in April:
0.8 days - Average snowfall days in May:
0.2 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:
0.9 days - Average snowfall days in December:
3.9 days
The month with the highest number of snowfall days is January (5.9 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are June, July, August, September and October (0 days).
Average sea temperature
Providence, RI
The best month for swimming (with the highest average sea temperature) is August (69.3°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average sea temperature) is February (38.1°F).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Providence, RI
- Average daylight in January:
9h and 4min - Average daylight in February:
10h and 4min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 0min - Average daylight in April:
13h and 2min - Average daylight in May:
14h and 4min - Average daylight in June:
15h and 1min
- Average daylight in July:
14h and 5min - Average daylight in August:
13h and 5min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 3min - Average daylight in October:
11h and 1min - Average daylight in November:
9h and 5min - Average daylight in December:
9h and 1min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 15h and 12min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 9h and 12min).
- Average sunshine in January:
5h and 1min - Average sunshine in February:
4h and 5min - Average sunshine in March:
6h and 0min - Average sunshine in April:
8h and 2min - Average sunshine in May:
8h and 3min - Average sunshine in June:
9h and 1min
- Average sunshine in July:
10h and 2min - Average sunshine in August:
10h and 3min - Average sunshine in September:
8h and 4min - Average sunshine in October:
6h and 1min - Average sunshine in November:
5h and 3min - Average sunshine in December:
4h and 5min
The month with the most sunshine is August (Average sunshine: 10h and 30min).
The month with the least sunshine is February (Average sunshine: 4h and 48min).
Average sunshine days
Providence, RI
- Average sunshine days in January:
17.5 days - Average sunshine days in February:
15.5 days - Average sunshine days in March:
14.6 days - Average sunshine days in April:
13.2 days - Average sunshine days in May:
14.8 days - Average sunshine days in June:
13.6 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
13.6 days - Average sunshine days in August:
15.5 days - Average sunshine days in September:
16.7 days - Average sunshine days in October:
16.1 days - Average sunshine days in November:
18.7 days - Average sunshine days in December:
16.8 days
The month with the most sunshine days is November (18.7 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is April (13.2 days).
Average UV index
Providence, RI
The months with the highest UV index are June, July and August (UV index 6).
The months with the lowest UV index are January, February, March, November and December (UV index 2).
Average cloud cover
Providence, RI
The month with the most cloud cover is March (Cloud cover 48).
The month with the least cloud cover is August (Cloud cover 31).
Average visibility
Providence, RI
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).
Providence, Rhode Island, USA
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