The climate of Texas
Texas has diverse climate types that range from arid and semi-arid in the west to humid and subtropical in the east. The huge expanse of the state creates various weather patterns based on location such as the north and northern panhandle, west, east, south, and the coastal regions. Texas shares borders with New Mexico in the west, Oklahoma in the north, Louisiana in the east, the Gulf of Mexico in the southeast, and the Mexican states of Tamaulipas, Chihuahua, Coahuila, and Nuevo Leon in the southwest.
The state's extensive expanse results in an array of climate types, from arid conditions in the west to humid and subtropical atmospheres in the east. The northern plains of Texas, particularly the panhandle, experience cold winters and hot summers, coupled with the most snowfall in the state, measuring from 25" (635mm) to 30" (762mm) annually. Moving to the west and west-central parts, Big Bend Country, characterized by deserts and mountain ranges, observes the least annual precipitation, around 15" (381mm), with its mountains getting considerable snow. Central Texas features a combination of hot, humid summers and mild winters, with an annual precipitation ranging from 21" (533mm) in its western areas to 35" (889mm) in other parts. East Texas, on the other hand, lies in the humid subtropical zone, recording a whopping 60" (1524mm) of rain annually, making it the wettest part of the state. The southern tip, South Texas, presents a blend of climates, from coastal moderate conditions to dry summers inland.
The best time to visit Texas
The best time to visit
Texas is in the shoulder seasons from
March to
May and
September to
November.
Summer has many activities but tends to be hot, dry, and humid in most regions of the state. The spring and autumn are mild and have comfortable temperatures, although there is a bit of rain in spring. Fall is even more attractive due to the dispersal of the summer crowds, relatively lesser rain and day temperatures in the pleasant zone of 70°F (21.1°C) to 80°F (26.7°C). Winter is cold in some parts and prone to snowfall, especially in the northern part of Texas.
The worst time to visit Texas
Texas has mild to cold winters and hot and humid summers. While there is no period of terrible weather during the year, the worst time to visit Texas is mostly during the summer as the temperatures are hot, particularly in the semi-arid and arid regions of the state. The subtropical regions of the state are humid and rainy during the summer. Additionally, thunderstorms add to summer woes, and there are better days during the spring and autumn when the tourist population is lesser than the swelling numbers from
June to
August.
Spring weather in Texas
Spring in
Texas is a season of rejuvenation and occasional showers.
March to
May witnesses temperatures that range from mild to warm, providing a pleasant atmosphere for sightseeing. Although it's one of the rainier seasons, especially in East Texas, where the region gets drenched by the majority of its 60" (1524mm) annual precipitation, the rain doesn't deter the spirit of the season. Floral blooms across the state add to the charm, making it a visually appealing time.
Summer weather in Texas
Summers in
Texas, spanning from
June to
August, can be demanding. Temperatures soar, especially in the semi-arid regions, with some areas recording temperatures as high as 120°F (48.9°C). Eastern Texas, closer to the Gulf of Mexico, offers some respite due to its coastal influence, but the humidity levels remain high. Besides, severe thunderstorms, occasional tornadoes, and even hurricanes make their presence felt, primarily around the coastal regions.
Autumn weather in Texas
Autumn in
Texas, from
September to
November, is arguably the most agreeable time of the year. With the summer crowds dispersed, the state sees fewer tourists, and temperatures descend to a comfortable range. While the early autumn might experience some lingering warmth from the summer, by
October, the state enjoys a consistent cool, ranging between 70°F (21.1°C) and 80°F (26.7°C). Rainfall is considerably lower, and the landscapes transform with hues of orange and brown.
Winter weather in Texas
Winter in
Texas, from
December to
February, presents a diverse range of conditions. While the northern panhandle endures the coldest temperatures, sometimes dropping to as low as -23°F (-30.6°C), and receives the state's maximum snowfall, areas closer to the Gulf of Mexico experience milder conditions. Central and South Texas have mild winters with rare snowfall. Although it's the cooler part of the year, the winter sun often shines bright, making daytime excursions enjoyable.
Weather in January
January stands as one of the colder months in
Texas. Covering the expanse of the state, the northern panhandle, notably the city of Seminole, often witnesses the lowest temperatures, sometimes plummeting to extreme lows near -23°F (-30.6°C).
Weather in January » Weather in February
February in
Texas marks the tail end of winter, with the state slowly transitioning towards warmer temperatures. However, this month can still hold its cold moments, especially in the northern reaches. Seminole, a notable city in the northern panhandle, can still experience chilling temperatures, though not as severe as
January's extremes.
Weather in February » Weather in March
March in
Texas is a harbinger of spring, welcoming a blend of mild temperatures and blooming landscapes. As the winter's grasp loosens, the state's temperature diversity becomes even more pronounced. In the northern regions, including areas around Seminole, March can still offer some cooler mornings, with lows settling around 35°F (1.7°C), but daytime highs often reach a pleasant 65°F (18.3°C). Central Texas welcomes a pronounced shift toward spring with temperatures fluctuating between 55°F (12.8°C) on cooler mornings and highs touching 75°F (23.9°C) during the warmest parts of the day.
Weather in March » Weather in April
April in
Texas embodies the full spirit of spring, with temperatures steadily rising and nature bursting into vibrant hues. In the northern territories near Seminole, the last vestiges of winter have faded away, allowing for milder mornings with temperatures around 45°F (7.2°C) and afternoons that can reach a balmy 75°F (23.9°C). Central Texas, bathed in the warmth of the season, sees temperatures ranging from 60°F (15.6°C) in the mornings to a potential high of 85°F (29.4°C) on the sunniest of days.
Weather in April » Weather in May
May in
Texas is a month characterized by warmth and the zenith of spring's exuberance. The northern areas, including the vicinity of Seminole, fully embrace spring's warmth. Morning temperatures generally start around 55°F (12.8°C), while daytime highs often approach or even exceed 85°F (29.4°C). The heart of Texas, the central region, experiences a noticeable increase in warmth with lows hovering around 65°F (18.3°C) and daytime temperatures often reaching up to 90°F (32.2°C).
Weather in May » Weather in June
June marks the beginning of summer in
Texas, bringing with it rising temperatures and longer days. In the northern territories, encompassing areas like Seminole, the touch of summer becomes evident. Morning temperatures rest around 65°F (18.3°C) with afternoon highs frequently venturing into the 90°F (32.2°C) bracket. Central Texas, with its expansive landscapes, feels the full onset of summer heat.
Weather in June » Weather in July
July in
Texas epitomizes the height of summer, with relentless sun and pervasive warmth across the state. In the northern reaches, such as the areas around Seminole, the summer's intensity is palpable. Early morning temperatures tend to hover around 70°F (21.1°C), and by midday, the mercury often climbs to values nearing 95°F (35°C). Central Texas, renowned for its open expanses, feels the brunt of the summer season.
Weather in July » Weather in August
August in
Texas maintains the fervor of summer, exuding the kind of warmth that has become emblematic of the state's season. In its northern expanses, including locations like Seminole, there's hardly a respite from the summer heat.
Weather in August » Weather in September
September marks the gradual transition from the intense summer to the more temperate fall in
Texas. In the northern areas, such as Seminole, the influence of the upcoming fall becomes gradually noticeable. Mornings commence with a cooler 65°F (18.3°C), and while afternoons can still be warm, temperatures usually peak around 90°F (32.2°C). Central Texas, with its vast terrains, starts to witness a reprieve from the relentless heat of the preceding months.
Weather in September » Weather in October
October in
Texas heralds the undeniable embrace of fall, as summer's remnants dissipate and cooler temperatures prevail. The northern regions, such as Seminole, truly start to witness the seasonal shift. Mornings usher in with a crispness, showcasing temperatures around 58°F (14.4°C), and by afternoon, a moderate warmth envelops the region, with highs averaging 80°F (26.7°C). Central Texas, a region known for its vast landscapes, begins to resonate with autumnal vibes.
Weather in October » Weather in November
November in
Texas is a testament to the deepening embrace of fall. The state's diverse landscapes, from the northern realms like Seminole to the Gulf-influenced southeastern stretches, all experience a discernible change.
Weather in November » Weather in December
December marks the gateway to winter in
Texas, intertwining the lingering charm of fall with the approaching chill of the season. In the northern stretches, areas like Seminole commence their days with a distinct coolness, with temperatures often around 39°F (3.9°C).
Weather in December »