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Contents
- The climate of Yellowstone National Park
- The best time to visit Yellowstone National Park
- The worst time to visit Yellowstone National Park
- Spring weather in Yellowstone National Park
- Summer weather in Yellowstone National Park
- Autumn weather in Yellowstone National Park
- Winter weather in Yellowstone 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
- Average sunshine
- Average UV index
The natural Grand Prismatic hot springs within Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, with yellow trails and trees and mountains in the background
The climate of Yellowstone National Park
Located in the heart of Wyoming, USA, Yellowstone National Park is nestled within the zone classified Dfc, according to the Köppen climate classification. This category represents a subarctic zone with severe winters, lack of a dry season, and moderately cool summers. The climate parameters throughout the year reveal a pattern shaped by its geographic position and an elevation of over 2,000 meters.
Yellowstone experiences a broad range of temperatures, with the average high peaking at 71.6°F (22°C) in July to a chilling low of 1.2°F (-17.1°C) in February. Interestingly, the average high temperature remains above freezing from April to October, while the mercury drops significantly from November to March. Daylight hours also vary greatly, from a minimum of 8.9 hours in December to a maximum of 15.5 hours in June, mirroring the changing lengths of day and night.
Regarding precipitation, Yellowstone exhibits a balanced pattern, albeit with some fluctuations. The number of rainfall days varies slightly across the year, from a low of 8.8 days in October to a high of 16.8 days in January. The total rainfall follows a similar distribution, from a low of 1.2" (30mm) in October to a high of 2.5" (64mm) in May. Snowfall is substantial between November and March, with no snow observed from June to September.
An interesting pattern lies in the UV index. A low of 1 is detected in the winter months, December and January, and climbs gradually to reach a high of 10 in July, reflecting the movement and intensity of the sun.
Yellowstone experiences a broad range of temperatures, with the average high peaking at 71.6°F (22°C) in July to a chilling low of 1.2°F (-17.1°C) in February. Interestingly, the average high temperature remains above freezing from April to October, while the mercury drops significantly from November to March. Daylight hours also vary greatly, from a minimum of 8.9 hours in December to a maximum of 15.5 hours in June, mirroring the changing lengths of day and night.
Regarding precipitation, Yellowstone exhibits a balanced pattern, albeit with some fluctuations. The number of rainfall days varies slightly across the year, from a low of 8.8 days in October to a high of 16.8 days in January. The total rainfall follows a similar distribution, from a low of 1.2" (30mm) in October to a high of 2.5" (64mm) in May. Snowfall is substantial between November and March, with no snow observed from June to September.
An interesting pattern lies in the UV index. A low of 1 is detected in the winter months, December and January, and climbs gradually to reach a high of 10 in July, reflecting the movement and intensity of the sun.
The best time to visit Yellowstone National Park
For travelers seeking milder weather, the months from June to August hold the perfect conditions. The high average temperatures are comfortable, ranging from 61.6°F (16.4°C) in June to 71.6°F (22°C) in July and slightly dropping to 71.4°F (21.9°C) in August. Daylight hours extend to 15.5 hours in June and persist over 14 hours even in August. Concurrently, the UV index is high, peaking at 10 in July. Thus, sunscreen becomes a necessity during these months. Despite a moderate frequency of rainfall days, the quantity of rain remains relatively low, with a maximum of 1.6" (41mm) in August.
The worst time to visit Yellowstone National Park
The months from November to March can be quite challenging for visitors because of the harsh conditions. The average high temperatures plummet below freezing, with the lowest recorded at 24.3°F (-4.3°C) in December. Snowfall is prevalent during these months, with a peak of 34.3" (871mm) in January and still considerable amounts moving into March with 25.6" (650mm). Daylight is also scarce, reducing to a minimum of 8.9 hours in December.
Spring weather in Yellowstone National Park
Spring in Yellowstone brings milder temperatures, with highs increasing from 36.2°F (2.3°C) in March to 51.9°F (11.1°C) in May. Rainfall becomes more common, culminating in a high of 2.5" (64mm) in May. The daylight hours gradually extend, reaching 14.8 hours by May. At the same time, the frequency of snowfall days reduces, signaling the end of winter's hold.
Summer weather in Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone's summer is marked by pleasant temperatures, with average highs from 61.6°F (16.4°C) in June climbing to 71.6°F (22°C) in July and a slight drop to 71.4°F (21.9°C) in August. Rainfall days and totals are moderate, and snowfall phases out completely. Enhanced sunshine hours, peaking at 15.5 hours in June, and high UV indices, make this the brightest period of the year.
Autumn weather in Yellowstone National Park
Autumn poses cooler temperatures, descending from 61.6°F (16.4°C) in September to 47.8°F (8.8°C) in October. Rainfall totals drop to a low of 1.2" (30mm) in October, although the rain days increase to 13.1 in November. Daylight hours recede consistently, and the UV index decreases, indicating diminishing sun intensity. Snowfall resumes in noticeable quantities from November.
Winter weather in Yellowstone National Park
In winter, Yellowstone transforms into a snowy landscape. The average high temperatures fall consistently, reaching a low of 24.3°F (-4.3°C) in December. As the cloud amount increases, daylight hours shrinks to 8.9 hours. Snowfall days and total amounts rise significantly, dominating the weather scene until March and challenging travelers' plans for outdoor activities.
Weather in January
A bone-chilling cold takes over Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming in January. The temperatures tumble to the lowest of the year, with the mercury dipping to a frigid 1.2°F (-17.1°C) and peaking at a chilly 24.4°F (-4.2°C). Weather in January »
Weather in February
February brings with it some relief from the frosty temperatures of January. However, it's still an intensely cold month in Yellowstone National Park. Although the snowfall lessens slightly compared to January, it still represents a significant 30.4" (772mm), maintaining the landscape's frosty veneer. Weather in February »
Weather in March
March signals a shift in weather patterns at Yellowstone National Park, with an average high temperature of 36.2°F (2.3°C) heralding the advent of spring. Conditions enable a thawing of the thick blanket of snow that graced the park from January to February. Weather in March »
Weather in April
April observes a significant warming trend with the park's fauna coming fully alive after the long and arduous winter. A substantially reduced snowfall of 21.4" (544mm) combined with longer daylight and sunshine hours makes for pleasant day trips. Weather in April »
Weather in May
May in Yellowstone National Park brings warmer weather and longer days. The maximum temperature approaches pleasant highs of 51.9°F (11.1°C), making outdoor exploration more enjoyable. Rainfall is at its peak, renewing the park's plentiful flora and enriching the vibrancy of the landscape. Weather in May »
Weather in June
June welcomes summer in Yellowstone National Park, bringing mild and comfortable temperatures. A stark contrast is observed from the previous month's rainfall, with a drop to 2.3" (58mm) in June. The month provides broad daylight extending over 15 hours, extra time to appreciate the park's natural beauty. Weather in June »
Weather in July
July is the warmest month in Yellowstone National Park, with temperatures soaring to a yearly high of 71.6°F (22°C). Despite being mid-summer, rainfall is meager, contributing to the dry, comfortable climate. This period attracts countless tourists given the splendid hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing conditions. Weather in July »
Weather in August
August displays temperatures similar to those of July, sustaining the summer's warmth in Yellowstone National Park. In spite of the heat and scanty 1.6" (41mm) of rain, August days remain relatively crisp. The park's diverse wildlife have adapted to cope with these conditions, offering exemplary viewing opportunities. Weather in August »
Weather in September
As the onset of autumn begins in Yellowstone National Park, September sees a noteworthy dip in temperature, though it climbs to a still mild 61.6°F (16.4°C). This cooler period facilitates the return of snowfall, albeit only a paltry 1.3" (33mm). Weather in September »
Weather in October
A cooler and more temperate climate dominates October in Yellowstone National Park. The earlier autumnal colour scheme fades, and the flora adapt to the upcoming winter season. Snowfall gradually intensifies compared to September, with the chilling grasp of winter making its presence known. Weather in October »
Weather in November
Winter settles over Yellowstone National Park in November, with temperatures plummeting down to an average low of 13.8°F (-10.1°C). Snowfall heightens considerably, approaching 30.9" (785mm) over the course of the month. This significant snowfall transforms the park into a winter paradise. Weather in November »
Weather in December
December invites the harshest cold of the year, after January, to Yellowstone National Park. An arctic climate prevails, drawing a curtain of frost across the landscape. A substantial snowfall of 30.5" (775mm) blankets the park, creating a crisp, white scenery. Weather in December »
Updated: Aug 26, 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 in Yellowstone National Park?
In Yellowstone National Park, during the entire year, the rain falls for 151 days and collects up to 20.91" (531mm) of precipitation.
When does it snow?
January through June, September through December are months with snowfall.
When does it snow the most?
The month with the most snowfall is January, when snow falls for 16.2 days and typically aggregates up to 34.29" (871mm) of snow.
How many days does it snow in Yellowstone National Park?
Throughout the year, there are 91.4 snowfall days, and 193.7" (4920mm) of snow is accumulated.
What is the month with the lowest UV index?
The months with the lowest UV index are January and December, with an average maximum UV index of 1.
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 MST to MDT. Daylight Saving Time ends Sunday, November 3. 2024, at 2:00 am, and the time zone reverts from MDT to MST.
What is the wettest month?
The month with the most rainfall is May, when the rain falls for 11.5 days and typically aggregates up to 2.48" (63mm) of precipitation.
When are the longest days?
The month with the longest days is June, with an average of 15h and 30min of daylight.
What are the warmest months?
July stands out as Yellowstone National Park's warmest month, with an average high-temperature of 71.6°F (22°C) and a low-temperature of 41.5°F (5.3°C).
When it does not snow?
In Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, snow does not fall in July and August.
What month has the most sunshine?
July has the most sunshine of the year, with an average of 11h of sunshine.
When is the highest UV index?
The month with the highest UV index in Yellowstone National Park is July, with an average maximum UV index of 10.
What is the driest month?
October is the month with the least rainfall. Rain falls for 8.8 days and accumulates 1.18" (30mm) of precipitation.
What part of the year is the coldest?
December, noted for its average high-temperature of 24.3°F (-4.3°C) and an average low-temperature of 5°F (-15°C), is considered the coldest month in Yellowstone National Park.
What is the month with the shortest days?
With an average of 8h and 54min of daylight, December has the shortest days of the year.
What is the month with the least sunshine?
December has the least sunshine of the year, with an average of 4h of sunshine.
Average temperature
Yellowstone National Park, WY
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (71.6°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is December (24.3°F).
The month with the highest average low temperature is July (41.6°F).
The coldest months (with the lowest average low temperature) are January and February (1.2°F).
Average rainfall
Yellowstone National Park, WY
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is May (2.5").
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is October (1.2").
Average rainfall days
Yellowstone National Park, WY
- Average rainfall days in January:
16.8 days - Average rainfall days in February:
14 days - Average rainfall days in March:
13.7 days - Average rainfall days in April:
11.6 days - Average rainfall days in May:
11.5 days - Average rainfall days in June:
14.4 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
11 days - Average rainfall days in August:
10.8 days - Average rainfall days in September:
9.7 days - Average rainfall days in October:
8.8 days - Average rainfall days in November:
13.1 days - Average rainfall days in December:
15.6 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is January (16.8 days).
The month with the least rainy days is October (8.8 days).
Average snowfall
Yellowstone National Park, WY
- Average snowfall in January:
34.3" - Average snowfall in February:
30.4" - Average snowfall in March:
25.6" - Average snowfall in April:
21.4" - Average snowfall in May:
8.1" - Average snowfall in June:
1.3"
The month with the highest snowfall is January (34.3").
The months with the least snowfall are July and August (0").
Average snowfall days
Yellowstone National Park, WY
- Average snowfall days in January:
16.2 days - Average snowfall days in February:
13.4 days - Average snowfall days in March:
12.6 days - Average snowfall days in April:
9.5 days - Average snowfall days in May:
4.4 days - Average snowfall days in June:
0.9 days
- Average snowfall days in July:
0 days - Average snowfall days in August:
0 days - Average snowfall days in September:
1.1 days - Average snowfall days in October:
5.8 days - Average snowfall days in November:
12.6 days - Average snowfall days in December:
14.9 days
The month with the highest number of snowfall days is January (16.2 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are July and August (0 days).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Yellowstone National Park, WY
- Average daylight in January:
9h and 2min - Average daylight in February:
10h and 3min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 0min - Average daylight in April:
13h and 3min - Average daylight in May:
14h and 5min - Average daylight in June:
15h and 3min
- Average daylight in July:
15h and 1min - Average daylight in August:
14h and 0min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 3min - Average daylight in October:
11h and 0min - Average daylight in November:
9h and 4min - Average daylight in December:
8h and 5min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 15h and 30min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 8h and 54min).
The month with the most sunshine is July (Average sunshine: 11h).
The month with the least sunshine is December (Average sunshine: 4h).
Average UV index
Yellowstone National Park, WY
The month with the highest UV index is July (UV index 10).
The months with the lowest UV index are January and December (UV index 1).
Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, USA
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