The climate of Richland
Richland,
Washington, falls into the BSk zone of the Köppen climate classification, matching the mid-latitude steppe predominant climate. This arid, flat region, typified by hot, dry summers and cold winters, does not see much rainfall throughout the year.
Throughout the calendar year, the city's weather fluctuates with distinctive transitions between seasons. The average high temperature ranges between a chilly 38.1°F (3.4°C) in
December to a hot 90.1°F (32.3°C) in
July, while the low temperature swings from 27.5°F (-2.5°C) to 64.2°F (17.9°C) in the same months. A gradually increasing trend can be noticed from the first half to the middle of the year, with a subsequent decrease towards the year-end.
Richland's humidity varies quite noticeably too, starting from a high 81% in
January, dropping to 35% in July, and then rising again towards December. Rainfall is sporadic, reaching its peak in January and December registering 0.91" (23mm) and 0.94" (24mm) respectively. Intriguingly, snowfall only occurs from January to
March and in
November and December, with
February registering maximum snow at 2.2" (56mm).
The best time to visit Richland
Understanding the city's geographical location, climate particulars, and one's personal comfort with hot or cold temperature thresholds is crucial when planning to visit
Richland. Considering all climatic parameters, the period from
May to
September seems to be the most favorable. This timeframe experiences warm temperatures ranging from 63.3°F (17.4°C) to 90.1°F (32.3°C), less rainfall (ranging from 0.47" (12mm) to 0.67" (17mm)), longer daylight hours, registering between 13.6 to 15.7 hours, and increased sunshine hours, reaching a high of 12.1 hours in
July.
The worst time to visit Richland
The months of
January and
December are likely to be the least conducive for travelers seeking to explore
Richland. This period witnesses low temperatures, reaching 28.8°F (-1.8°C) in January and 27.5°F (-2.5°C) in December, combined with high rainfall, 0.91" (23mm) and 0.94" (24mm) respectively, and considerably fewer sunshine hours, amounting to 5.4 hours in January and 5.6 hours in December.
Spring weather in Richland
The onset of spring in
Richland, during the months from
March to
May, brings noticeable warmth after the cold winter months. High temperatures range from 54.7°F (12.6°C) to 73°F (22.8°C), while low temperatures improve from 37.9°F (3.3°C) to 50.7°F (10.4°C). Rainfall continues to steadily decrease from 0.87" (22mm) in March to 0.67" (17mm) in May. Relative humidity also drops from 64% in March to 48% in May, ensuring a less heavy atmosphere.
Summer weather in Richland
Summers in
Richland, from
June to
August, are characteristically hot and dry, with high temperatures reaching up to 90.1°F (32.3°C) in
July. Nonetheless, the city maintains reasonably cool nights with temperatures as low as 56.7°F (13.7°C) in June to 64.2°F (17.9°C) in August. Rainfall diminishes substantially during this season, registering merely 0.2" (5mm) in July.
Autumn weather in Richland
Autumn, spanning
September to
November, experiences gradually declining temperatures, with November seeing a high of 48.7°F (9.3°C) and a low of 36.3°F (2.4°C). Rainfall starts to increase again in
October while light snow begins to appear towards the end of November.
Winter weather in Richland
Winters, from
December to
February, are chilly in
Richland. The high temperature plummets to 38.1°F (3.4°C) in December and temperatures at night drop as low as 27.5°F (-2.5°C) in the same month. This season also witnesses the highest rainfall across the year, escalating to 0.94" (24mm) in December. Also, snow lovers will appreciate the sight of the city under a light blanket of snow, with February receiving the highest snowfall at 2.2" (56mm).
Weather in January
January exhibits a drop in temperature from 38.8°F (3.8°C) to 28.8°F (-1.8°C), signifying the start of crisp winter days in
Richland,
Washington. Heavy cloud cover and high humidity are prevalent, creating a bluish-gray sky.
Weather in January » Weather in February
February in
Richland is a transition period, with temperatures rising slightly, hinting at the approaching spring season. There's an anticipation of warmer days mixed with the residual chill of winter. Despite the increased cloud cover from the preceding month, it is a relatively dry month, with rainfall limited to 0.79" (20mm).
Weather in February » Weather in March
March denotes the beginning of spring in
Richland, with longer daylight hours. The weather becomes more pleasant, encouraging outdoor activities. Venturing out to enjoy the melting snow under the increasingly sunny sky becomes the town's motif.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April sees a significant shift in
Richland weather, with temperatures soaring, touching nearly 63.3°F (17.4°C) and lower humidity. The changing season is evident with the calendar flipping to April. Vibrant blossoms break the monotony of the dreary weather, painting the town in shades of pastels.
Weather in April » Weather in May
May brings along mildly warm temperatures, creating the perfect conditions for spending time outdoors.
Richland is bathed in nearly 15 hours of daylight every day during this month. The skies clear up substantially, allowing the sun to shine brightly upon the city.
Weather in May » Weather in June
In
June,
Richland witnesses the onset of the warm summer season. The relatively cloud-free skies offer unobstructed sunlight during most days of the month. The high average temperature and reduced precipitation make it one of the driest months of the year.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July stands out as the hottest month in
Richland with temperatures soaring to a peak at 90.1°F (32.3°C). It marks the height of the summer season. Extended daylight hours, bright sunshine, and the lowest humidity level, create a sultry atmosphere.
Weather in July » Weather in August
August continues the summer trend in
Richland, with temperatures slightly falling from
July but remaining relatively high. Inhabitants brace themselves for many sunny, hot days ahead. The weather conditions are characterized by minimal rainfall and clear skies.
Weather in August » Weather in September
September brings a significant change in the climate of
Richland as the autumn season kicks in. The temperatures begin to drop noticeably and the greenery starts turning rustic, indicating summer's end. The typically clear September skies are now interspersed with clouds.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October stands as the herald of the fall season in
Richland. It is characterized by shorter days, cooler temperatures, and the city turning into a picturesque canvas of oranges, browns, and yellows. The rainfall amount increases, reaching 0.63" (16mm), leaving a refreshing aroma in the air post showers.
Weather in October » Weather in November
November is marked by a considerable drop in temperature in
Richland, a precursor to the upcoming winter. The atmosphere takes on a characteristic winter chill with increased humidity and rainfall. Affected by cold winds touching 6.5mph (10.5km/h), the city prepares to usher in the snow season.
Weather in November » Weather in December
December in
Richland signifies the full swing of winter. Temperatures drop significantly, making the city truly experience cold winter weather. The increased rainfall, measuring up to 0.94" (24mm), and the reemerging snowfall add to the white wintry view.
Weather in December »