Climate and monthly weather forecast
Tennessee, USA

Tennessee has a chiefly humid subtropical type of climate (Köppen climate classification Cfa) in the majority of the state and oceanic (Köppen Cfb) in a minor part of the east. Hot summers and cold winters are typical, with a gradual rise in warmth in the southern regions. Tennessee lies in the southeastern region of the United States. North Carolina in the east, Georgia, Alabama, and Mississippi in the south, Arkansas in the west, Missouri in the northwest, Kentucky in the north, and Virginia in the northeast share borders with the state. The proximity to the Gulf of Mexico is the chief factor that dominates the climate.

Tennessee, The Volunteer State, has an average elevation of 270 meters above sea level, with the highest point at Clingmans Dome at 2,025 meters. The eastern portion consists of rugged terrain and the high Blue Ridge Mountains with an average elevation of 1500 meters. The western section consists of an elevated plain, the Highland Rim, with fertile farmlands and abundant wildlife. The Gulf Coastal Plain lies to the west of the Highland Rim and Nashville Basin. Middle Tennessee consists of flat plains along with hills, ridges, caves, and waterfalls.

The best time to visit Tennessee is during the pristine fall season from mid-September to mid-November. The end of the summer sees a drop in temperatures and humidity. The day highs, which touch 80°F (26.7°C) in September, tend to be between 65°F (18.3°C) and 73°F (22.8°C) in October, while the nights are pleasant. The landscape attains beautiful colors by the fourth week of October and retains them for much of November. Budget travelers may see better accommodation deals in winter and spring than the fall season. The conditions are on the colder side by late November, but outdoor activities are possible.

The worst time to visit Tennessee is during the winter from December to February when the conditions are cold. The temperatures drop below freezing in most areas but rarely go below 0°F (-17.8°C) for extended periods, even in the high lands. Snowstorms are rare in the plains, but the high mountains in the west accumulate a substantial amount of snow. Winter is the period of heavy rainfall and frequent passage of storms. Flights and accommodations are cheaper in the winter compared to the other seasons. The cold season in Tennessee is milder than the other states in the American north and a welcome destination for snowbirds.

Spring is characterized by warm, wet conditions and is notably stormy. While temperatures are generally comfortable, the weather can be unpredictable due to the clash of polar and tropical air masses. This results in a frequent passage of storms, particularly in the months of March and April. Rainfall is substantial during these months, contributing to an average annual precipitation of over 50" (1270mm). Despite the unpredictable weather, spring is favored for its lush landscapes and blooming flora.

Summer in Tennessee is hot and humid, with daily high temperatures commonly exceeding 90°F (32.2°C). Even during the night, temperatures remain elevated, often above 70°F (21.1°C). Rainfall during mid-summer is plentiful, particularly in the mountainous regions, adding to the humidity. Despite the heat, summer attracts a high number of tourists, especially those interested in outdoor activities like hiking and fishing. Proper hydration and sun protection are strongly recommended for those venturing outdoors.

Autumn presents an inviting climate for tourists, with dry and pleasantly cool conditions. The landscape transforms, offering an array of vibrant colors, primarily from late October through November. Rainfall is relatively sparse during this season, contributing to the overall appeal for outdoor excursions. Temperatures are agreeable, generally ranging between 65°F (18.3°C) and 73°F (22.8°C) in October. Daylight hours are sufficient for exploring, while the nights offer a crisp but comfortable atmosphere.

Winters are variable but generally lean towards the colder side, with average lows oscillating between 22°F (-5.6°C) and 33°F (0.6°C). Snowfall varies significantly depending on the region; while it can exceed 80" (2032mm) in the mountainous east, it is usually less than 5" (127mm) in the western plains. Despite the cold, Tennessee winters are milder compared to northern states, attracting tourists seeking a gentler winter experience. Even so, heavy rainfall and the potential for storms make it imperative to be prepared for sudden shifts in weather.

January stands out as one of the colder months in Tennessee, with the lowest average temperatures occurring during this period. Low temperatures fluctuate between 22°F (-5.6°C) and 33°F (0.6°C) across the state, setting the stage for frosty mornings and chilly nights. Weather in January »

February in Tennessee remains part of the cold season but often marks a subtle transition towards milder conditions compared to January. Average low temperatures during this month hover between 24°F (-4.4°C) and 35°F (1.7°C). Weather in February »

March signals the beginning of spring in Tennessee, featuring a noticeable warming trend compared to the colder months of January and February. Average low temperatures rise to between 30°F (-1.1°C) and 41°F (5°C), while the average high temperatures climb between 53°F (11.7°C) and 66°F (18.9°C). Weather in March »

April ushers in consistent spring weather throughout Tennessee, displaying a stark contrast to the lingering chill of March. Average high temperatures range from 63°F (17.2°C) to 75°F (23.9°C), while the lows are generally between 40°F (4.4°C) and 51°F (10.6°C). Weather in April »

May in Tennessee is distinctly characterized by a stable arrival of warm weather, establishing it as a gateway to the summer season. Average high temperatures settle between 71°F (21.7°C) and 83°F (28.3°C), while the low temperatures fluctuate between 50°F (10°C) and 61°F (16.1°C). Weather in May »

June in Tennessee is the official commencement of summer, featuring the season's defining characteristics of heat and humidity. Average high temperatures oscillate between 79°F (26.1°C) and 91°F (32.8°C), while lows range from 59°F (15°C) to 70°F (21.1°C). Weather in June »

July stands as the zenith of summer in Tennessee, presenting the year's hottest and most humid conditions. Average high temperatures hover between 83°F (28.3°C) and 95°F (35°C), while the lows are consistently between 63°F (17.2°C) and 74°F (23.3°C). Weather in July »

August in Tennessee serves as the closing act of summer, maintaining high temperatures and humidity but with a subtle hint of the approaching autumn. Average high temperatures range between 81°F (27.2°C) and 93°F (33.9°C), while lows are generally from 61°F (16.1°C) to 72°F (22.2°C). Weather in August »

September in Tennessee heralds the advent of fall, introducing a reprieve from the hot, humid summer months. Average high temperatures generally lie between 75°F (23.9°C) and 87°F (30.6°C), while lows oscillate from 55°F (12.8°C) to 65°F (18.3°C). Weather in September »

October fully embraces autumn in Tennessee, displaying a marked contrast to the hot and humid conditions of the preceding months. Average high temperatures typically fall between 65°F (18.3°C) and 79°F (26.1°C), while lows span from 44°F (6.7°C) to 54°F (12.2°C). Weather in October »

November in Tennessee signals the impending arrival of winter, as temperatures continue their downward trajectory. Average high temperatures for this month range between 55°F (12.8°C) and 68°F (20°C), while lows are generally from 35°F (1.7°C) to 45°F (7.2°C). Weather in November »

December in Tennessee marks the onset of winter, ushering in a cold, yet relatively mild season compared to northern states. Average high temperatures range from 48°F (8.9°C) to 61°F (16.1°C), while lows hover between 28°F (-2.2°C) and 38°F (3.3°C). Weather in December »