The climate of Burlington
Nestled within the confines of New England,
Burlington,
Vermont, USA, chiefly possesses a predictable seasonal pattern under the Köppen climate classification of Dfb. This classification denotes a humid continental climate, featuring a warm summer without a dry season. One integral aspect inextricably tied to Burlington's climate is its rather capricious weather that undergoes substantial changes throughout the year.
Assorted climatological parameters undergo fluctuations as the months roll on. A marked feature of the yearly spectrum is the notable difference in temperature levels. High temperatures range from a chilly 24.6°F (-4.1°C) in
January to a warm 78.1°F (25.6°C) in
July, while low temperatures also reveal a similar pattern fluctuating from a frigid 12.4°F (-10.9°C) in January to a mild 57.6°F (14.2°C) in July. Rainfall distribution also undergoes yearly variation, with total monthly rainfall amounts ranging from 0.87" (22mm) in
February to a peak of 2.09" (53mm) in
June. Snowfall is not an uncommon feature, with January and February seeing a substantial accumulation of 5.16" (131mm) and 4.06" (103mm) respectively. From June through
September, there is virtually no snowfall.
Another climatological facet worth attention is the progressive change in daylight hours, peaking in June with 15.5 hours and diminishing to a minimum in
December with 8.9 hours. Correspondingly, sunshine hours also progress in a similar periodical pattern ranging between 3 hours in January to 10.2 hours in July. Humidity levels maintain a relative consistency throughout the year, dancing between 75-87%.
The best time to visit Burlington
Navigating the fluctuations in
Burlington's weather conditions, the optimal period to explore the city stretches from late
May to
September. During this span, the average high temperature stays comfortably between 64.9°F (18.3°C) and 78.1°F (25.6°C), complemented by low temperatures ranging from 45°F (7.2°C) to 57.6°F (14.2°C). Rainfall remains within the 1.65" (42mm) to 2.09" (53mm) monthly average limit, reducing the likelihood of surprise downpours. Furthermore, the city basks in ample sunlight averaging from 8.5 hours to 10.2 hours daily, perfect for sightseeing endeavors.
The worst time to visit Burlington
Planning any outdoor exploration of
Burlington from
November to
April could prove challenging due to significant cold temperatures and presence of snow. High temperatures do not surpass the 49.8°F (9.9°C) mark, and lows can plummet to an icy 12.4°F (-10.9°C). Tackling the cold becomes increasingly difficult with continuous snowfall during this period, with
January seeing the maximum average accumulation of 5.16" (131mm). These prevailing conditions restrict outdoor activity, limiting visitor experiences.
Spring weather in Burlington
Spring in
Burlington gradually nudges the remnants of a harsh winter away. The transition period from
March to
May sees temperatures ascend from a high of 36.1°F (2.3°C) to 64.9°F (18.3°C) and a low of 21.9°F (-5.6°C) to 45°F (7.2°C). The weather can still play spoilsport with rainfall peaking at 1.85" (47mm) in May. The higher levels of daylight (reaching up to 14.8 hours) and increasing sunshine hours, however, paint a beautiful canvas for all to witness.
Summer weather in Burlington
Summers in
Burlington, spanning the months from
June to
August, offer bright, warm days and cool nights. High temperatures emerge comfortable, ranging between 71.6°F (22°C) and 78.1°F (25.6°C), while lows linger in the region of 51.4°F (10.8°C) to 57.6°F (14.2°C). Rainfall during this season hits 2.09" (53mm) in June but improves to 1.89" (48mm) by August. With maximum daylight hours reaching up to 15.5 in June and sufficient sunshine hours, Burlington presents a gratifying summer experience.
Autumn weather in Burlington
Autumn transcends
Burlington into a flurry of color and crisp air. Temperature highs drop steadily from 69.1°F (20.6°C) in
September to a cooler 41.7°F (5.4°C) by
November. Correspondingly, nighttime temperatures also plunge from September’s mild 49.3°F (9.6°C) to November’s chillier 29.7°F (-1.3°C). Variable rainfall occurring from 1.18" (30mm) in September to 1.3" (33mm) in November does not impose significant hindrances on this scenic time in the city.
Winter weather in Burlington
A presentable challenge arrives during
Burlington’s winter months. From
December to
February, marked by high temperatures diving from 30.4°F (-0.9°C) to 24.6°F (-4.1°C), Burlington morphs into a snowy wonderland. The thermometers at night register frigid figures as low as 12.4°F (-10.9°C) to 20.3°F (-6.5°C). Snow-laden landscapes become the norm with
January hitting the zenith of average snowfall at 5.16" (131mm). Maintaining suitable insulation becomes quintessential as the winter chill sets in deep.
Weather in January
In
Burlington,
Vermont,
January is a frigid and snowy month with temperatures barely reaching 24.6°F (-4.1°C) on the warmest days and plummeting to as low as 12.4°F (-10.9°C). As days yield a mere nine hours of daylight, the city is covered in a white blanket, reflecting the short sunshine hours.
Weather in January »Weather in February
February brings a slight alleviation from the winter chill with temperatures slightly higher than
January. While it does not differ much, an extra hour of daylight can be noticed. The city remains enveloped in snow, indicating that winter in
Burlington is far from over, and residents continue their winter routines.
Weather in February » Weather in March
Spring begins to make its presence felt in
Burlington during
March. Daylight hours increase to 12, which leads to slightly warmer days up to 36.1°F (2.3°C) and less snowy conditions than the previous winter months. The changes that March introduces are subtle yet significant, reflecting the slow transition of the city from winter to spring.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April marks a profound shift, as the city transitions steadily out of the frigid winter days. Temperatures fluctuating from 49.8°F (9.9°C) to 33.4°F (0.8°C) present the characteristic unpredictability of April weather in
Burlington.
Weather in April » Weather in May
May brings warm spring weather to
Burlington. Willowy breezes and temperatures up to 64.9°F (18.3°C) replace the winter chill, presenting ideal conditions for outdoor activities. With daylight hours nearing 15 and a moderate UV index, spending time outdoors becomes common for residents.
Weather in May » Weather in June
June kicks off a delightful summer in
Burlington with temps peaking at 71.6°F (22°C). Burlington thrives in the longer daylight hours and considerable sunshine, providing the perfect atmosphere for summer adventures. Summer is characterized by moderate humidity, making outdoor activities enjoyable rather than oppressive.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July is typically the warmest month in
Burlington, with temperatures soaring to 78.1°F (25.6°C) on the hottest days. This weather leads to an exuberant festival season, with many residents embracing the outdoor cheers. Longer daylight hours and high sun exposure are common in July, defining Burlington's weather as typically warm and welcoming.
Weather in July » Weather in August
August sees a mild dip in temperatures, though it remains a warm and pleasant time in
Burlington. Residents engage in various outdoor activities, from hiking and biking to picnicking in parks, thriving in the ideal summer temperatures.
Weather in August » Weather in September
September brings the onset of fall to
Burlington, with temperatures starting to cool down to a high of 69.1°F (20.6°C). The transition from summer to fall is a sight to behold, with nature decking up in vibrant colors. With daylight hours shrinking, the advent of autumn becomes evident.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October sees a significant drop in temperatures, marking the onset of the colder season. Daylight hours decrease further, and the cool winds start to prepare
Burlington for the upcoming winter season. This time of year is popular for leaf-peeping and autumn tourism as residents and tourists alike enjoy the spectacular display of fall foliage in Burlington.
Weather in October » Weather in November
November in
Burlington is predominantly cold with temperatures dropping to a low of 29.7°F (-1.3°C). The chill in the air gains momentum, and the city begins to brace for the long winter ahead. Snow makes a reappearance towards the end of the month, signifying the beginning of the winter season.
Weather in November » Weather in December
Burlington,
Vermont, witnesses a harsh winter in
December. The shortest daylight hours of the year and falling temperatures reaching as low as 20.3°F (-6.5°C) present the stark reality of winter. Snow-covered streets and landscapes become routine views.
Weather in December »