The climate of Amarillo
The geographic location of
Amarillo,
Texas, within the United States allows it to experience a variety of weather conditions throughout the year. The established Köppen climate classification for this region is a "BSk", indicating a Mid-Latitude Steppe climate, characterized by dramatically fluctuating temperatures and low levels of precipitation.
Reviewing the climatological data, the highest average temperature throughout the year is reached in
July, a heat-intensive 92.8°F (33.8°C), while the coldest month is
January, with the thermometer slipping down to a brisk 31.1°F (-0.5°C). This fluctuation underlines the character of the mid-latitude steppe climate.
The precipitation pattern reinforces this picture, with a distinctive rise from
May to
September, reaching a peak of 1.26" (32mm) in July, and falling sharply to merely 0.28" (7mm) in
November. Throughout the year, the number of rainfall days increases from 2.5 days in January to a high of 11.6 days in July before dropping off to 2.8 days in
December.
One noteworthy anomaly appears in snowfall: In December, January and
February, Amarillo experiences snowfall, with the heaviest levels in December at 0.75" (19mm). Although minor, the snow days tally up to 6.6 in December, presenting a unique weather pattern for this location.
The best time to visit Amarillo
As
Amarillo exhibits varying weather throughout the year, the optimal visit time largely depends on visitor preferences. For those seeking to enjoy the warmer temperatures and longer days, the best months to visit might be between
June and
August. During this time, Amarillo experiences its maximum temperatures ranging from 80.8°F (27.1°C) to 92.8°F (33.8°C). The weather, furthermore, enjoys a peak in sunshine hours from 11.1 hours in
May to 11.8 hours in June.
For individuals more tolerant of colder temperatures and taking interest in unique snowfall events,
December to
February would be an ideal period to visit. Although snow doesn't pile up to considerable depths - the highest being 0.75" (19mm) in December - it's an infrequent experience that could add some variety to the visit.
The worst time to visit Amarillo
From the viewpoint of a visitor less tolerant of extreme temperatures, the winter months from
December through
February, when temperatures hover from 31.1°F (-0.5°C) and 42.1°F (5.6°C), may not be the best time to visit
Amarillo. The possibility of snowfall during these months could further deter those hoping for more pleasant conditions.
On the other spectrum, individuals sensitive to high heat might find the soaring temperatures from
June to
August, peaking at 92.8°F (33.8°C) in
July, unbearable. Coupled with maximum rainfall in these months, the humidity might render these months less conducive for travel.
Spring weather in Amarillo
Spring in
Amarillo presents a fascinating blend of temperatures and precipitation. Starting in
March, average temperatures rise steadily from 65.3°F (18.5°C) to 72.5°F (22.5°C) by the end of the season. This period also witnesses increasing daylight hours, with a leap from 12 hours in March to 14 hours in
May.
Spring is a period of transition for Amarillo, as the city begins experiencing increased rainfall. Rainfall starts at 0.67" (17mm) in March and escalates to 1.22" (31mm) in May, marking the onset of the wettest time of the year.
Summer weather in Amarillo
Summer transforms
Amarillo into a city of long, sunny days and considerable heat.
June to
August is marked with the highest average temperatures, reaching a peak of 92.8°F (33.8°C) in
July. Accompanied by 14.5 hours of daylight in June, Amarillo enjoys a lot of sunshine during this season.
However, summer also marks the apex of rainfall in the city, as July sees an average of 1.26" (32mm). Despite this high, it should be noted that the frequency of rainfall days is never extreme, ensuring an abundance of dry, bright days.
Autumn weather in Amarillo
In autumn, the temperatures gradually cool down, bringing a pleasant change from the summer heat. The average temperature ranges from 83.3°F (28.5°C) in
September to 49.8°F (9.9°C) in
November. Concurrently, daylight hours reduce to 9.8 hours by the end of November.
Rainfall recedes significantly in autumn, falling sharply to 0.28" (7mm) in November. This season offers a delightful mix of mild temperatures and significantly lower precipitation, making it a peaceful time for potential visitors.
Winter weather in Amarillo
Winter in
Amarillo is characterized by Chilly temperatures and snowfall events. From
December to
February, the temperature can dip down to a chilly 31.1°F (-0.5°C) in
January. Interestingly, this period also sees the occurrence of snowfall in Amarillo, with the maximum in December at 0.75" (19mm).
However, despite the cooler temperatures and snowfall events, winter days in Amarillo retain an average of 6 sunshine hours, ensuring daily bouts of warmth amidst the colder climate. This allows the city to showcase a unique winter landscape that can be intriguing, particularly for those not accustomed to such weather conditions.
Weather in January
The year in
Amarillo,
Texas, commences with relatively moderate winter weather. Sunshine remains consistent throughout the month, although flurries may occasionally grace the city. Temperatures exhibit a winter display, hitting a low of 31.1°F (-0.5°C) and climbing to a high of 50.5°F (10.3°C).
Weather in January »Weather in February
The transition from
January to
February presents subtle yet perceptible changes in
Amarillo's weather patterns. As the winter season persists, there is an experience of crisp and moderately chilly temperatures. Snowfall measures decrease to 0.87" (22mm).
Weather in February »Weather in March
Weather in
March ushers in the early signs of spring with noticeable shifts in several climatological parameters. Statistics reflect the return of warmer temperatures and the diminishing presence of snowfall. In contrast to
February, March sees an increase in rainfall with a monthly average of 0.67" (17mm).
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April carries on from
March's weather patterns and enhances them in true spring fashion. Rainfall continues its upward trajectory, from March's moderate showers to the April's higher quantities. April peaks at a temperature of 72.5°F (22.5°C) further ushering a warmer spell.
Weather in April » Weather in May
May in
Amarillo,
Texas, is known for its significant transition into summer. The increase in temperature is prominent, with May springing to a high of 80.8°F (27.1°C). The month brings a remarkable blend of humidity and wind speed, leading to a distinct feel of summer.
Weather in May » Weather in June
The
Texas sun hits full stride in
June, laying the groundwork for the long, hot months ahead. June showcases the highest average UV index of the year, evidencing the increasing strength of the sun. The temperatures soar, with June recording a high of 91.8°F (33.2°C).
Weather in June »
Weather in July
The peak of
Amarillo's summer transpires in
July. The baking
Texas sun scorches the town with July featuring a high of 92.8°F (33.8°C). This period also marks the maximum rainfall of the year, tallying to 1.26" (32mm) for the month.
Weather in July »Weather in August
August retains the momentum of the summer's intense heat but also signifies the beginning of its gradual decline. While temperatures are nearly identical to those of
July, a slight decrease in rainfall is recorded. This time also boasts the maximum wind speed of the year hitting a high gust of 16.3mph (26.2km/h).
Weather in August » Weather in September
September in
Amarillo marks the gradual farewell to the dominant summer heat and welcomes the onset of the fall season. The adjustment from summer to fall is gentle with a slight drop in temperatures. This month experiences 1.18" (30mm) of rainfall, seemingly creating a softer transition between the seasons.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October in
Amarillo ushers in clear and crisp weather, a standard characteristic of a Texan autumn. The cooling trend from
September continues, with temperatures hitting a favorable range. However, there's a rise in rainfall with October receiving 1.26" (32mm), up from the previous month.
Weather in October » Weather in November
Autumn transitions into early winter in
November, bringing about a notable change in
Amarillo's weather. The city begins to cool down considerably with an average temperature drop from the previous month. A resurgence of snowfall occurs, amassing 0.67" (17mm) for the month.
Weather in November »Weather in December
December concludes the weather cycle in
Amarillo,
Texas by encapsulating the heart of the winter season. In comparison to the comparatively milder
November, December's temperatures descend, ushering in a truly cold period. Snowfall amounts to 0.75" (19mm) making it the city's snowiest month.
Weather in December »