The climate of Houston
Known as the fourth most populous city in the United States,
Houston,
Texas resides in the Köppen Climate zone, characterized as Humid subtropical, with no dry season. The relative humidity stays at a consistent average around mid-70%. Temperatures tend to fluctuate significantly over the year, with the lowest average low temperature being 46°F (7.8°C) in
January and the highest average high temperature reaching 94.3°F (34.6°C) in
August. The average wind speed remains steady, varying between 5.9mph (9.5km/h) to 8.6mph (13.8km/h), and maximum wind speed rarely exceeding 9.2mph (14.8km/h).
Rainfall presents a notable change in its distribution during the year. An increase is observed from
May, with the heaviest rainfall in
September, measuring at 4.49" (114mm). The city experiences more rainfall days from
June to September, peaking at 19.5 days. Despite this, months such as
February and
November also record substantial rainfall.
Houston's snowfall is sparse, with recorded occurrences only in January and
December, and the measurements remain negligible. Coupled with longer daylight hours, increasing from 10.3 hours in December to 14 hours in June, the generally mild weather patterns reach a turning point in summer with a rise in ultraviolet index to 7.
The best time to visit Houston
When considering a visit to
Houston, the timing would significantly depend on weather preferences of the traveller. For those seeking a cooler and more temperate climate, the ideal time to visit would be between
March and
May. The average high temperatures within these months fall between 72.1°F (22.3°C) to 85.8°F (29.9°C), providing an agreeable weather for outdoor exploring. The city sees a relative decrease in rainfall, making outings less cumbersome and more enjoyable.
The worst time to visit Houston
The humid subtropical climate of
Houston experiences hotter and wetter conditions from
June to
September. During these months, the average high temperatures rise above 88.3°F (31.3°C) and it is accompanied by the highest rainfall volumes, reaching up to 4.49" (114mm). These increasing levels of both temperature and rainfall may make daily visits and outings somewhat uncomfortable, especially for individuals not accustomed to higher humidity levels.
Spring weather in Houston
Houston witnesses the onset of spring from
March, with temperature highs ranging from 72.1°F (22.3°C) to 85.8°F (29.9°C) and lows between 56.7°F (13.7°C) to 70°F (21.1°C). The rainfall amount in spring registers between 2.09" (53mm) to 4.45" (113mm), with rainfall days incrementing from 13.8 to 14.8 days. Spring in Houston is marked by a moderate increase in daylight hours from 12 hours to 13.7 hours, coupled with an escalation in the sunshine hours.
Summer weather in Houston
In
Houston, summer extends from
June to
August. During this time, the city experiences its highest temperatures, with a high of 94.3°F (34.6°C) and an average low of 77.5°F (25.3°C). The average rainfall in these months ranges from 3.27" (83mm) to 3.9" (99mm) and the rainfall days remain above 17 days. Despite higher daylight hours, peaking at 14 hours in June, the city experiences notably elevated humidity levels.
Autumn weather in Houston
Starting from
September, autumn in
Houston records a steady decline in temperatures, from an average high of 88.3°F (31.3°C) to 70.3°F (21.3°C) by
November. The lowest temperature during these months drops from 72.7°F (22.6°C) to 55°F (12.8°C). In terms of rainfall, September witnesses the highest average rainfall of 4.49" (114mm) while November sees a significant drop to 2.17" (55mm). Alongside, the city observes a decrease in both daylight and sunshine hours, falling from 12.3 hours to 10.7 hours and from 8.6 hours to 5.6 hours respectively.
Winter weather in Houston
Houston greets the winter season in
December, which lasts up until
February. Witnessing a further dip in temperatures with an average high ranging from 61.3°F (16.3°C) to 63°F (17.2°C) while the average lows fluctuate between 46°F (7.8°C) to 50.5°F (10.3°C). The rainfall averages between 2.13" (54mm) to 1.77" (45mm) in these months, and the number of rainfall days vary from 11.8 to 13.1. Although, Houston experiences its shortest daylight hours, from 10.3 hours to 11.2 hours, the city also records its longest sunshine duration in winter, reaching a maximum of 5.8 hours in February.
Weather in January
January heralds the start of a new year in
Houston,
Texas, a time when the city is winding down from the holiday season and starting to experience the full brunt of winter. The month presents a stark contrast to the vibrant summer months, as the city is cloaked in an atmosphere of cool temperatures and foggy mornings.
Weather in January » Weather in February
As the calendar flips to
February, the weather in
Houston begins to slowly transition from winter chills to mild warmth. The city is less crowded, offering a more relaxed and peaceful ambience. The weather changes are subtle, yet noticeable, with the onset of longer daylight and declining snow chances.
Weather in February »Weather in March
March marks the start of spring in
Houston. The transformation that the city undergoes from a cold, quiet place in winter to a vibrant, colourful city in spring is quite remarkable. The air becomes warmer, flowers start to bloom, and the overall mood of the city improves.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April weather in
Houston continues the upward trend in temperature, with warm conditions becoming more frequent. As the city transitions firmly into spring, the atmosphere turns cheerful and lively. April brings a burst of colour to the city with various flowers in full bloom.
Weather in April » Weather in May
May brings in the official start of summer in
Houston. The city shimmers under the hot sun and becomes bustling with a range of summer activities. May is a festive time in Houston, with several outdoor festivals and concerts that take advantage of the fine weather.
Weather in May » Weather in June
June in
Houston,
Texas is a synonym for pure summer joy. The extensive daylight hours and warmer climate signal the perfect time for outdoor activities. As the schools break for summer, the city witnesses an influx of local and outstation vacationers.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July is typically the hottest month in
Houston with the mercury peaking at 93.4°F (34.1°C). It's a time when the city thrives under the summer sun and embraces the hustle and bustle of the season. The summer heat does not diminish the vibrancy of Houston, but rather adds to the festival-like atmosphere that envelops the city during this time.
Weather in July » Weather in August
Following the peak of summer in
July,
August sees a continued prevalence of the sweltering heat in
Houston. Nonetheless, Houston's citizens and visitors continue to enjoy the outdoors, albeit in a slightly shorter and more relaxed fashion.
Weather in August »Weather in September
The arrival of
September sees the start of a much-awaited break from the intense summer heat in
Houston. As autumn encroaches, the city begins the transition into a calmer, more relaxed atmosphere. September brings respite to Houston in the form of a decrease in temperatures and relative humidity, enhancing the appeal of outdoor activities.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October in
Houston brings with it a breath of fresh air as the city basks in the glory of Autumn. The decline in temperature continues through the month, setting the stage for pleasantly cool weather. Fall foliage begins to appear giving the city a beautiful rustic look.
Weather in October » Weather in November
The arrival of
November symbolizes the impending winter season in
Houston. The autumn leaves give way to shorter days and chilly winds, marking a significant transition in the city's weather. As the temperature continues to drop, residents begin to prepare for the holiday season.
Weather in November »Weather in December
December illuminates
Houston with festive lights and celebrations. The bee-hive of activity, coupled with the vibrant decorations, adds a magical touch to the city's wintry landscape. As the final month of the year, December invites residents and visitors alike to savor the joyful atmosphere that envelops the city.
Weather in December »