Pittsburgh Weather by Month: A Comprehensive Overview
Greetings, Readers
Welcome to Pittsburgh, a city known for its four distinct seasons and ever-changing weather conditions. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take a detailed look at Pittsburgh’s weather by month, providing you with essential information to plan your visits and prepare for the year ahead.
Understanding Pittsburgh’s Climate
Pittsburgh’s climate is classified as humid continental, with warm, humid summers and cold, snowy winters. The city lies in a transitional zone between humid continental and humid subtropical climates, resulting in a diverse range of weather patterns throughout the year.
January
Pittsburgh’s coldest month is January, with average temperatures ranging from a low of 22°F to a high of 37°F. Snowfall is common, with an average of 4.5 inches falling during the month. The days are typically short, with an average of 9 hours of daylight.
February
February is slightly warmer than January, with average temperatures rising to a low of 26°F and a high of 41°F. Snowfall remains common, with an average of 3.5 inches falling. The days start to get longer, with an average of 10 hours of daylight.
March
As spring approaches, March brings milder temperatures, with an average low of 35°F and a high of 50°F. Precipitation becomes more variable, with rain and snow both possible. The days continue to get longer, with an average of 12 hours of daylight.
April
April is a transitional month, with temperatures warming up significantly. The average low rises to 45°F, while the average high climbs to 63°F. Rain becomes more frequent, with an average of 3.5 inches falling. The days are noticeably longer, with an average of 14 hours of daylight.
May
May is a beautiful month in Pittsburgh, with a profusion of blooming flowers and average temperatures ranging from a low of 55°F to a high of 73°F. Thunderstorms are possible, with an average of 3 inches of rain falling. The days are at their longest, with an average of 15 hours of daylight.
June
June is the warmest month in Pittsburgh, with average temperatures peaking at a low of 65°F and a high of 83°F. Humidity levels also rise, making it feel even warmer. Thunderstorms become more common, with an average of 4 inches of rain falling. The days remain long, with an average of 14.5 hours of daylight.
July
July is another warm and humid month, with average temperatures ranging from a low of 68°F to a high of 85°F. Heat waves are possible, with temperatures occasionally reaching into the 90s. Thunderstorms remain common, with an average of 4 inches of rain falling. The days are slightly shorter, with an average of 14 hours of daylight.
August
August is very similar to July, with warm and humid conditions prevailing. Average temperatures range from a low of 67°F to a high of 84°F. Thunderstorms become less frequent, with an average of 3.5 inches of rain falling. The days start to get shorter, with an average of 13.5 hours of daylight.
September
September brings a welcome respite from the summer heat, with average temperatures dropping to a low of 58°F and a high of 75°F. The days become shorter, with an average of 12 hours of daylight. Precipitation becomes more variable, with rain and thunderstorms possible.
October
October is a transitional month, with temperatures cooling down significantly. The average low drops to 48°F, while the average high falls to 65°F. The days get shorter, with an average of 11 hours of daylight. Precipitation becomes more common, with an average of 3 inches of rain falling.
November
November is a cold and wet month, with average temperatures ranging from a low of 38°F to a high of 52°F. Snowfall is possible, with an average of 2 inches falling. The days are short, with an average of 9.5 hours of daylight.
December
December is the second coldest month of the year in Pittsburgh, with average temperatures dropping to a low of 27°F and a high of 42°F. Snowfall is common, with an average of 4 inches falling. The days are at their shortest, with an average of 9 hours of daylight.
Average Temperature and Precipitation Table
| Month | Average Low (°F) | Average High (°F) | Average Precipitation (inches) |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 22 | 37 | 4.5 |
| February | 26 | 41 | 3.5 |
| March | 35 | 50 | 3.5 |
| April | 45 | 63 | 3 |
| May | 55 | 73 | 3 |
| June | 65 | 83 | 4 |
| July | 68 | 85 | 4 |
| August | 67 | 84 | 3.5 |
| September | 58 | 75 | 3 |
| October | 48 | 65 | 3 |
| November | 38 | 52 | 3 |
| December | 27 | 42 | 4 |
Conclusion
Pittsburgh’s weather by month offers a diverse range of conditions, from the frigid temperatures of winter to the warm and humid days of summer. Understanding the city’s climate patterns can help you plan your visits and activities throughout the year. Be sure to check out our other articles for more in-depth information on Pittsburgh’s weather and attractions.
FAQ about Pittsburgh Weather by Month
1. What is the weather like in Pittsburgh in January?
- Cold and snowy, with average temperatures around 30°F.
2. How much snow does Pittsburgh get in February?
- About 10 inches on average, making it the snowiest month of the year.
3. What is the average temperature in Pittsburgh in March?
- Gradually warming, with average temperatures in the mid-40s.
4. When is the best time to visit Pittsburgh for nice weather?
- May through October offer the most pleasant temperatures, with average highs in the 70s and 80s.
5. How hot does it get in Pittsburgh in July?
- Average high temperatures reach the mid-80s, with occasional heat waves.
6. Is August a rainy month in Pittsburgh?
- Yes, with an average of 4 inches of precipitation, it is one of the wettest months.
7. What is the typical weather in Pittsburgh in September?
- Warm and sunny, with average temperatures in the 70s.
8. When does Pittsburgh start to get cold?
- Temperatures begin to dip in October, with average highs in the mid-50s.
9. How does the weather in Pittsburgh compare to other cities in Pennsylvania?
- It is slightly colder and snowier than Philadelphia but milder than Erie.
10. What are the best months to experience Pittsburgh’s changing seasons?
- April for spring, October for fall, and January for winter.
