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Contents
- The climate of Mount Rainier National Park
- The best time to visit Mount Rainier National Park
- The worst time to visit Mount Rainier National Park
- Spring weather in Mount Rainier National Park
- Summer weather in Mount Rainier National Park
- Autumn weather in Mount Rainier National Park
- Winter weather in Mount Rainier National Park
- Weather in January
- Weather in February
- Weather in March
- Weather in April
- Weather in May
- Weather in June
- Weather in July
- Weather in August
- Weather in September
- Weather in October
- Weather in November
- Weather in December
- Frequently asked questions
- Average temperature
- Average rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average snowfall
- Average snowfall days
- Average daylight
A beautiful reflection in the clear waterfront of the trees and snowy mountain in Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
The climate of Mount Rainier National Park
Located in Washington, USA, Mount Rainier National Park is characterized by a Csb climate according to the Koppen climate classification. This climate represents a Mediterranean region with warm summers. The geographical position of the park largely influences its climatic conditions.
Annual weather at Mount Rainier National Park exhibits significant variations in each weather parameter. The temperature highs oscillate from 33.8°F (1°C) in December to 64.5°F (18.1°C) in August, depicting a considerable temperature range. The temperature lows hover from as chilly as 21.1°F (-6.1°C) in December to a moderate 43.9°F (6.6°C) in August. To put these figures into perspective, that's a potential fluctuation of over 20°F (-6.7°C) in any given month.
Rainfall, quite the ubiquitous feature of this region, also varies noticeably throughout the year. With a maximum of 18.2in in January and a minimum of 2in in July and August, the area receives considerable rainfall, peaking in the winter months. Examining snowfall sheds light on the distinct weather patterns of the region. With the exception of the summer months, snowfall is a common occurrence with a staggering high of 99.9in in December and 99.9in in January.
Annual weather at Mount Rainier National Park exhibits significant variations in each weather parameter. The temperature highs oscillate from 33.8°F (1°C) in December to 64.5°F (18.1°C) in August, depicting a considerable temperature range. The temperature lows hover from as chilly as 21.1°F (-6.1°C) in December to a moderate 43.9°F (6.6°C) in August. To put these figures into perspective, that's a potential fluctuation of over 20°F (-6.7°C) in any given month.
Rainfall, quite the ubiquitous feature of this region, also varies noticeably throughout the year. With a maximum of 18.2in in January and a minimum of 2in in July and August, the area receives considerable rainfall, peaking in the winter months. Examining snowfall sheds light on the distinct weather patterns of the region. With the exception of the summer months, snowfall is a common occurrence with a staggering high of 99.9in in December and 99.9in in January.
The best time to visit Mount Rainier National Park
Taking all weather parameters into account, the prime window to visit Mount Rainier National Park falls in the summer from July to August. The park thrives under the warm summer temperatures, with high temperatures peaking at around 64.5°F (18.1°C) in August. Rainfall is relatively low, measuring only 2in for both July and August. With only about a sliver of a chance for snowfall in these months, visitors can embrace the warm weather and outdoor activities.
The worst time to visit Mount Rainier National Park
Travelers should aim to avoid visiting the park in the winter, particularly in December and January. The months are marked by a plummet in temperatures, with the low temperature dropping to a freezing 21.1°F (-6.1°C) in December. While the high of 99.9in in snowfall in December and the same figure in January paint a picturesque winter landscape, these conditions can present travel hazards and limit visibility.
Spring weather in Mount Rainier National Park
Spring ushers in a gradual increase in temperature at Mount Rainier National Park. In March, high temperatures can soar to 37.9°F (3.3°C) while the lows remain cooler at 23.7°F (-4.6°C). By May, these highs reach 49.3°F (9.6°C), offering a more comfortable climate. While the area receives a substantial amount of rainfall in the spring, starting at about 12.6in in March and dwindling down to 5.9in in May, snowfall drastically declines from 90.6in in March to just 26.1in in May.
Summer weather in Mount Rainier National Park
The summer months enjoy the most favorable climate at Mount Rainier National Park. Highs jump to a comfortable bracket from 54.7°F (12.6°C) in June to 64.5°F (18.1°C) in August. Corresponding lows range from 36.2°F (2.3°C) in June to 43.9°F (6.6°C) in August. Rainfall remains low at just 4.1in in June and 2in in July and August. Notably, snowfall is nearly non-existent, registering at 5.6in in June and dropping to the negligible 0.1in in August.
Autumn weather in Mount Rainier National Park
Autumn signals moderate weather patterns in Mount Rainier National Park. The temperature highs from September to November range between 58.1°F (14.5°C) and 37.3°F (2.9°C). Temperature lows tilt towards the chilly side, descending to 39.7°F (4.3°C) in September and plummeting to a nippy 24.7°F (-4.1°C) in November. Rainfall starts to increase, growing from 4.7in in September to a high of 20.3in in November. Snowfall also begins to pick up, with a noticeable jump from 1.4in in September to a significant 99.9in in November.
Winter weather in Mount Rainier National Park
Winter ushers in frigid temperatures and a spike in snowfall at Mount Rainier National Park. December sees high temperatures dropping to 33.8°F (1°C) and lows reaching a freezing 21.1°F (-6.1°C). January is equally chilly with high temperatures at 34.9°F (1.6°C) and lows of 22.5°F (-5.3°C). Snowfall levels hit their peak with 99.9in in both December and January. Rainfall levels, on the other hand, are quite high, peaking at 18.2in in January. Despite the picture-perfect snow-clad landscapes, these harsh weather conditions can make outdoor activities challenging.
Weather in January
January opens the year with a chilly bite, with the mercury often hovering between 22.5°F (-5.3°C) and 34.9°F (1.6°C). Bundle up for the extensive snowfall and get ready to enjoy winter activities. Extreme weather conditions are associated with this month, as January sees the greatest snow accumulation at 99.9" (2537mm). Weather in January »
Weather in February
Following January's weather pattern, February in Mount Rainier National Park continues to be dominated by snowfall. The temperature variation isn't significant, allowing the weather to stay relatively consistent. Despite a slight drop in snowfall to 91.6" (2327mm) from the previous month, winter jackets and snow boots are still essential items. Weather in February »
Weather in March
The transition from cold February to slightly warmer March is felt in Mount Rainier National Park. While the snowfall remains considerable, the rise in temperatures offer a glimmer of the spring to come. However, the most notable difference in March is the reduction in snowfall to 90.6" (2301mm). Weather in March »
Weather in April
April is a significant month in Mount Rainier National Park as winter is finally loosening its hold. Temperatures start to rise slowly, and life begins to bloom throughout the park. The most noticeable change in April, however, is the reduction of snowfall to 67.5" (1715mm), illustrating the exiting cold. Weather in April »
Weather in May
Mount Rainier National Park transitions into spring with warmer days straight through May. Temperatures lift, and the canopy of green returns as the snow finally recedes from the landscape. May marks a considerable decrease in snowfall, reaching just 26.1" (663mm). Weather in May »
Weather in June
June rings in summer in Mount Rainier National Park with sunny and warmer days. With the arrival of this month, there is a significant drop in snowfall and the park starts to dry out. Witness the least snowfall in June, with levels dropping to 5.6" (142mm). Weather in June »
Weather in July
July is in the heart of summer, boasting the park's warmest temperatures and longest daylight hours. The weather is largely dry and pleasant, with mild temperatures persisting through the day and night. Noteworthy is the almost complete absence of snow in July, with snow levels bottoming out at 0.3" (8mm). Weather in July »
Weather in August
August maintains the warm and welcoming ambiance of the previous month in Mount Rainier National Park. The weather remains largely stable, characterizing this month as the peak of the summer season. A remarkable highlight in August is the nearly total drought of snowfall, only 0.1" (3mm) registered. Weather in August »
Weather in September
The arrival of September invites a gradual shift towards the forthcoming fall season in Mount Rainier National Park. As temperatures gently dip, September retains the summer's warmth, offering pleasant days and cool, comfortable nights. Weather in September »
Weather in October
October at Mount Rainier National Park introduces the fall season with a passionate display of vibrant colors. The moderate temperatures and the crisp autumn air make it an optimal time to navigate the park's trails. Interestingly, the sudden leap in snowfall to 24.1" (612mm) signifies the imminent arrival of winter. Weather in October »
Weather in November
November witnesses a marked change in Mount Rainier National Park's weather dynamics. The temperatures continue to plummet, marking the initial inklings of winter. A substantial increase in snowfall back to 99.9" (2537mm) turns the park into a winter wonderland once more. Weather in November »
Weather in December
As the year comes to an end, December brings the full force of winter to Mount Rainier National Park. The plummeting temperatures and heavy snowfall provide a proper winter paradise for snow enthusiasts. Snowfall remains at its highest at 99.9" (2537mm), the same as the beginning of the year. Weather in December »
Updated: Aug 28, 2024
Published by: Weather U.S. | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Published by: Weather U.S. | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Frequently asked questions
How much does it rain?
Throughout the year, there are 188.7 rainfall days, and 118.31" (3005mm) of precipitation is accumulated.
When does it snow?
January through December are months with snowfall.
How much does it snow?
Throughout the year, there are 121.5 snowfall days, and 670.91" (17041mm) of snow is accumulated.
When is Daylight Saving Time (DST)?
On Sunday, March 10. 2024, at 2:00 am, Daylight Saving Time starts, and the time zone changes from PST to PDT. Daylight Saving Time ends Sunday, November 3. 2024, at 2:00 am, and the time zone reverts from PDT to PST.
When are the longest days?
The month with the longest days is June, with an average of 15h and 48min of daylight.
What is the driest month?
The month with the least rainfall is July, when the rain falls for 7.3 days and typically collects 1.97" (50mm) of precipitation.
What time of the year is the hottest?
August is the warmest month, with an average high-temperature of 64.6°F (18.1°C) and an average low-temperature of 43.9°F (6.6°C).
When it does not snow in Mount Rainier National Park?
The month with the least snowfall is August, when snow falls for 0.1 days and typically aggregates up to 0.12" (3mm) of snow.
What is the rainiest month?
The month with the most rainfall is November, when the rain falls for 21.7 days and typically aggregates up to 20.28" (515mm) of precipitation.
What month is the coldest?
December, characterized by an average high temperature of 33.8°F (1°C) and a low temperature of 21°F (-6.1°C), is generally the coldest month.
What is the snowiest month?
December is the month with the most snowfall. Snow falls for 19 days and accumulates 124.02" (3150mm) of snow.
What is the month with the shortest days?
December has the shortest days of the year, with an average of 8h and 36min of daylight.
Average temperature
Mount Rainier National Park, WA
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is August (64.5°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is December (33.8°F).
The month with the highest average low temperature is August (43.9°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is December (21.1°F).
Average rainfall
Mount Rainier National Park, WA
- Average rainfall in January:
18.2" - Average rainfall in February:
12.7" - Average rainfall in March:
12.6" - Average rainfall in April:
8.3" - Average rainfall in May:
5.9" - Average rainfall in June:
4.1"
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is November (20.3").
The driest months (with the least rainfall) are July and August (2").
Average rainfall days
Mount Rainier National Park, WA
- Average rainfall days in January:
21.1 days - Average rainfall days in February:
17.8 days - Average rainfall days in March:
21.5 days - Average rainfall days in April:
18.8 days - Average rainfall days in May:
15.4 days - Average rainfall days in June:
12.8 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
7.3 days - Average rainfall days in August:
6.6 days - Average rainfall days in September:
9.6 days - Average rainfall days in October:
15 days - Average rainfall days in November:
21.7 days - Average rainfall days in December:
21.1 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is November (21.7 days).
The month with the least rainy days is August (6.6 days).
Average snowfall
Mount Rainier National Park, WA
- Average snowfall in January:
99.9" - Average snowfall in February:
91.6" - Average snowfall in March:
90.6" - Average snowfall in April:
67.5" - Average snowfall in May:
26.1" - Average snowfall in June:
5.6"
The months with the highest snowfall are January, November and December (99.9").
The month with the least snowfall is August (0.1").
Average snowfall days
Mount Rainier National Park, WA
- Average snowfall days in January:
18.5 days - Average snowfall days in February:
15.9 days - Average snowfall days in March:
19.5 days - Average snowfall days in April:
14.4 days - Average snowfall days in May:
7.9 days - Average snowfall days in June:
2.5 days
- Average snowfall days in July:
0.2 days - Average snowfall days in August:
0.1 days - Average snowfall days in September:
0.7 days - Average snowfall days in October:
6.2 days - Average snowfall days in November:
16.6 days - Average snowfall days in December:
19 days
The month with the highest number of snowfall days is March (19.5 days).
The month with the least snowfall days is August (0.1 days).
Average daylight
Mount Rainier National Park, WA
- Average daylight in January:
9h and 0min - Average daylight in February:
10h and 2min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 0min - Average daylight in April:
13h and 4min - Average daylight in May:
15h and 1min - Average daylight in June:
15h and 5min
- Average daylight in July:
15h and 2min - Average daylight in August:
14h and 1min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 3min - Average daylight in October:
10h and 5min - Average daylight in November:
9h and 2min - Average daylight in December:
8h and 4min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 15h and 48min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 8h and 36min).
Mount Rainier National Park, Washington, USA
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