Houston, a vibrant city in Texas, is known for its diverse culture, bustling economy, and pleasant weather. If you're planning a trip to Houston or considering relocating, understanding the city's average monthly temperatures can help you pack appropriately and prepare for the weather conditions you'll encounter.
Houston experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot, humid summers and mild winters. The city's proximity to the Gulf of Mexico and its location on the coastal plain contribute to its moderate climate. As you explore Houston's many attractions, from the Space Center Houston to the Museum of Fine Arts, it's helpful to have an idea of the typical temperatures throughout the year.
To provide a detailed overview of Houston's average monthly temperatures, we've compiled a comprehensive guide that covers each month of the year. This guide will help you plan your activities, choose appropriate clothing, and make informed decisions about your visit or move to Houston.
Houston Average Monthly Temperatures
Houston's climate is characterized by hot, humid summers and mild winters.
- January: Cool, mild days
- February: Warm days, cool nights
- March: Spring begins, temperatures rise
- April: Pleasant days, warm nights
- May: Summer arrives, humidity increases
- June: Hot and humid, occasional thunderstorms
- July: Peak heat and humidity
- August: Similar to July, slightly cooler
- September: Still hot and humid, rain common
- October: Fall arrives, temperatures decrease
- November: Mild days, cool nights
- December: Winter begins, temperatures drop
Houston's average annual temperature is 70.1°F (21.2°C).
January: Cool, Mild Days
January in Houston brings a welcome respite from the summer heat and humidity. The weather is typically cool and mild, with average temperatures ranging from 46°F (7.8°C) to 62°F (16.7°C).
- Chilly Mornings:
January mornings can be chilly, with temperatures often dipping into the 40s. Be sure to pack a jacket or sweater if you're planning on being outdoors early in the day.
- Comfortable Afternoons:
As the day progresses, temperatures rise, and afternoons are usually quite comfortable. You may even find yourself shedding layers as the sun shines and warms the air.
- Occasional Cold Fronts:
Houston can experience cold fronts during January, which can bring periods of cooler temperatures and strong winds. These cold fronts usually don't last long, and temperatures typically return to normal within a few days.
- Average Rainfall:
January is typically a dry month in Houston, with an average rainfall of around 2.5 inches (6.4 cm). However, the city is prone to occasional showers, so it's a good idea to carry an umbrella or raincoat just in case.
Overall, January in Houston offers a pleasant break from the summer heat, with cool mornings, comfortable afternoons, and occasional cold fronts. It's a great time to explore the city's many attractions, such as the Houston Zoo, the Museum of Natural Science, and the Space Center Houston.
February: Warm Days, Cool Nights
February in Houston brings a continuation of mild and pleasant weather, with a gradual transition towards warmer temperatures. The average temperature range for the month is 49°F (9.4°C) to 67°F (19.4°C).
Warm Days:
February days are typically warm and inviting, with temperatures often reaching the low 70s. The bright sunshine and clear skies make it an ideal time to enjoy outdoor activities such as walking, biking, or visiting the city's many parks and gardens.
Cool Nights:
As the sun sets, temperatures start to drop, and nights in February can be cool, especially in the early hours of the morning. A light jacket or sweater is recommended for those venturing out in the evening or spending time outdoors late at night.
Occasional Cold Fronts:
Similar to January, Houston can experience cold fronts in February, bringing periods of cooler temperatures and strong winds. These cold fronts usually don't last long, and temperatures typically rebound within a few days.
Average Rainfall:
February is typically a dry month in Houston, with an average rainfall of around 2.3 inches (5.8 cm). However, as with January, occasional showers are possible, so it's a good idea to keep an umbrella or raincoat handy.
Overall, February in Houston offers a delightful blend of warm days and cool nights, making it a great time to explore the city's attractions, enjoy outdoor activities, and soak up the pleasant weather.
March: Spring Begins, Temperatures Rise
As March arrives, Houston welcomes the official start of spring, and the city comes alive with blooming flowers and warmer temperatures. The average temperature range for the month is 57°F (13.9°C) to 74°F (23.3°C).
Warmer Days:
March days are noticeably warmer than in previous months, with temperatures often reaching the mid-70s. The increasing sunshine and pleasant weather make it an ideal time to enjoy outdoor activities such as picnics, hiking, or simply relaxing in the park.
Cool Nights:
While daytime temperatures are warm, nights in March can still be cool, especially early in the month. A light jacket or sweater is recommended for those spending time outdoors in the evening or late at night.
Increasing Humidity:
As the month progresses, humidity levels start to rise, signaling the transition towards Houston's humid summer months. This can make the weather feel more oppressive, especially during the day.
Occasional Rain:
March is typically a drier month in Houston compared to the summer months, but occasional showers are still possible. The average rainfall for March is around 3.1 inches (7.9 cm).
Overall, March in Houston offers a delightful blend of warm days, cool nights, and increasing humidity, making it a great time to embrace the outdoors and enjoy the city's many attractions and activities.
April: Pleasant Days, Warm Nights
As April arrives, Houston's weather continues to warm, offering a delightful mix of pleasant days and warm nights. The average temperature range for the month is 64°F (17.8°C) to 81°F (27.2°C).
Warm and Sunny Days:
April days are typically warm and sunny, with temperatures often reaching the low 80s. The bright sunshine and clear skies make it an ideal time to enjoy outdoor activities such as swimming, biking, or simply relaxing on a patio.
Comfortable Nights:
Nights in April are generally warm and comfortable, with temperatures rarely dropping below the mid-60s. This makes it an excellent time to enjoy evening strolls, outdoor dining, or attending outdoor events.
Increasing Humidity:
April sees a further increase in humidity levels, although it's typically not as oppressive as during the summer months. The combination of warm temperatures and humidity can make the weather feel muggy at times.
Occasional Rain:
April is a relatively dry month in Houston, with an average rainfall of around 3.2 inches (8.1 cm). However, occasional showers and thunderstorms are possible, especially towards the end of the month.
Overall, April in Houston offers a delightful blend of warm days, comfortable nights, and occasional showers, making it a great time to explore the city's many parks, attractions, and outdoor activities.
May: Summer Arrives, Humidity Increases
May marks the official arrival of summer in Houston, bringing with it warmer temperatures and increased humidity.
- Hotter Days:
May days are typically hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching the mid-80s. The combination of heat and humidity can make the weather feel oppressive, especially during the afternoon hours.
- Warm Nights:
Nights in May are generally warm and muggy, with temperatures rarely dropping below the mid-70s. The high humidity levels make it difficult to cool down, even at night.
- High Humidity:
May is one of the most humid months in Houston, with average humidity levels reaching around 70%. The high humidity levels can make even moderate temperatures feel uncomfortable.
- Occasional Thunderstorms:
May is also the start of Houston's thunderstorm season. While these storms can bring much-needed rain, they can also be accompanied by strong winds, lightning, and heavy downpours.
Overall, May in Houston offers a hot and humid climate, with occasional thunderstorms. It's important to stay hydrated and take precautions against the heat and humidity during this time.
June: Hot and Humid, Occasional Thunderstorms
June in Houston brings the peak of summer, characterized by hot and humid conditions and frequent thunderstorms.
- Hot and Humid Days:
June days are typically hot and humid, with average temperatures ranging from 80°F (26.7°C) to 93°F (33.9°C). The high humidity levels make it feel even hotter, with heat index values often exceeding 100°F (37.8°C).
- Warm and Muggy Nights:
Nights in June are generally warm and muggy, with temperatures rarely dropping below 75°F (23.9°C). The high humidity levels make it difficult to cool down, even at night.
- Frequent Thunderstorms:
June is the wettest month in Houston, with an average rainfall of 5.3 inches (13.5 cm). Frequent thunderstorms occur during this time, often bringing heavy downpours, lightning, and strong winds. These storms can provide temporary relief from the heat and humidity.
- High UV Index:
June has a high UV index, meaning the sun's rays are strongest during this time. It's important to take precautions against sunburn, such as wearing sunscreen, sunglasses, and protective clothing.
Overall, June in Houston offers hot and humid weather, with occasional thunderstorms. It's important to stay hydrated, wear loose and light-colored clothing, and take precautions against the heat and sun during this time.
July: Peak Heat and Humidity
July marks the peak of summer in Houston, bringing with it the hottest and most humid weather of the year. The average temperature range for the month is 83°F (28.3°C) to 95°F (35°C).
Scorching Days:
July days are typically scorching hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 90°F (32.2°C) and heat index values reaching over 100°F (37.8°C). The combination of heat and humidity can be oppressive and uncomfortable, especially during the afternoon hours.
Warm and Sticky Nights:
Nights in July are generally warm and sticky, with temperatures rarely dropping below 78°F (25.6°C). The high humidity levels make it difficult to cool down, even at night.
Heat Advisories and Warnings:
During July, the National Weather Service often issues heat advisories or warnings for Houston and surrounding areas. It's important to take precautions against heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke, by staying hydrated, wearing loose and light-colored clothing, and avoiding strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest hours of the day.
Occasional Thunderstorms:
While July is typically a dry month in Houston, occasional thunderstorms can occur, bringing temporary relief from the heat and humidity. These storms can also produce heavy rainfall, lightning, and strong winds.
Overall, July in Houston offers hot and humid weather, with occasional thunderstorms. It's important to take precautions against the heat, stay hydrated, and avoid strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest hours of the day.
August: Similar to July, Slightly Cooler
August in Houston continues to offer hot and humid weather, similar to July, but with slightly cooler temperatures. The average temperature range for the month is 82°F (27.8°C) to 94°F (34.4°C).
Hot and Humid Days:
August days are typically hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching the low 90s. The combination of heat and humidity can still be oppressive and uncomfortable, especially during the afternoon hours.
Slightly Cooler Nights:
Nights in August are generally slightly cooler than in July, with temperatures dropping to around 77°F (25°C). However, the high humidity levels can still make it feel warm and muggy at night.
Occasional Thunderstorms:
Similar to July, August can experience occasional thunderstorms, which can bring temporary relief from the heat and humidity. These storms can also produce heavy rainfall, lightning, and strong winds.
Hurricane Season:
August is also the peak of hurricane season in Houston. While hurricanes are not common, it's important to be prepared for the possibility of tropical storms or hurricanes during this time.
Overall, August in Houston offers hot and humid weather, with slightly cooler temperatures compared to July. It's important to take precautions against the heat, stay hydrated, and be prepared for the possibility of tropical storms or hurricanes.
September: Still Hot and Humid, Rain Common
September in Houston brings a continuation of hot and humid weather, with an average temperature range of 79°F (26.1°C) to 91°F (32.8°C). However, this month also marks the transition towards fall, and the weather can be more variable.
Hot and Humid Days:
September days are typically still hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching the low 90s. The combination of heat and humidity can be oppressive and uncomfortable, especially during the afternoon hours.
Slightly Cooler Nights:
Nights in September start to cool down slightly, with temperatures dropping to around 75°F (23.9°C). However, the high humidity levels can still make it feel warm and muggy at night.
Increased Rain Chances:
September is one of the wettest months in Houston, with an average rainfall of 4.6 inches (11.7 cm). Tropical storms and hurricanes are also more common during this time, bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds.
Transition to Fall:
Towards the end of September, the weather starts to transition towards fall, with cooler temperatures and lower humidity levels. However, it's important to note that Houston's fall season is generally mild and short, and hot and humid weather can still occur during this time.
Overall, September in Houston offers hot and humid weather, with increased chances of rain and the transition towards fall. It's important to be prepared for both hot and rainy conditions during this month.
October: Fall Arrives, Temperatures Decrease
October in Houston marks the official arrival of fall, bringing with it cooler temperatures and lower humidity.
- Decreasing Temperatures:
October days are generally warm and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 69°F (20.6°C) to 83°F (28.3°C). The nights start to cool down, with temperatures dropping to around 60°F (15.6°C).
- Lower Humidity:
Humidity levels start to decrease in October, making the weather feel more comfortable. This makes it an ideal time to enjoy outdoor activities without the oppressive heat and humidity of the summer months.
- Colorful Foliage:
While Houston doesn't experience the same vibrant fall foliage as other parts of the country, you can still see some beautiful colors in the leaves of certain trees, such as oak and maple.
- Occasional Rain:
October is a relatively dry month in Houston, with an average rainfall of 3.4 inches (8.6 cm). However, occasional showers are still possible, so it's a good idea to carry an umbrella or raincoat.
Overall, October in Houston offers pleasant fall weather, with cooler temperatures, lower humidity, and occasional rain. It's a great time to explore the city's parks, attend outdoor events, and enjoy the changing colors of the leaves.
November: Mild Days, Cool Nights
November in Houston brings a continuation of mild and pleasant weather, with average temperatures ranging from 55°F (12.8°C) to 72°F (22.2°C).
Mild Days:
November days are typically mild and comfortable, with temperatures often reaching the low 70s. The bright sunshine and clear skies make it an ideal time to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, or simply relaxing in one of Houston's many parks.
Cool Nights:
Nights in November can be cool, especially towards the end of the month. Temperatures often drop to the mid-50s, so a light jacket or sweater is recommended for those spending time outdoors in the evening or late at night.
Decreasing Humidity:
Humidity levels continue to decrease in November, making the weather feel even more comfortable. This is a great time to enjoy outdoor activities without the oppressive heat and humidity of the summer months.
Occasional Rain:
November is a relatively dry month in Houston, with an average rainfall of 2.9 inches (7.4 cm). However, occasional showers are still possible, so it's a good idea to carry an umbrella or raincoat.
Overall, November in Houston offers mild and pleasant weather, with cool nights and occasional rain. It's a great time to explore the city's attractions, enjoy outdoor activities, and take advantage of the comfortable temperatures.
December: Winter Begins, Temperatures Drop
December marks the official start of winter in Houston, although the weather is generally mild compared to other parts of the country. The average temperature range for the month is 48°F (8.9°C) to 63°F (17.2°C).
Mild Days:
December days are typically mild and pleasant, with temperatures often reaching the low 60s. The bright sunshine and clear skies make it an ideal time to enjoy outdoor activities such as walking, jogging, or visiting the city's many attractions.
Cool Nights:
Nights in December can be cool, with temperatures dropping to the mid-40s. A light jacket or sweater is recommended for those spending time outdoors in the evening or late at night.
Occasional Cold Fronts:
Houston can experience cold fronts during December, bringing periods of cooler temperatures and strong winds. These cold fronts usually don't last long, and temperatures typically rebound within a few days.
Low Humidity:
Humidity levels are typically low in December, making the weather feel comfortable and dry. This is a great time to enjoy outdoor activities without the oppressive heat and humidity of the summer months.
Overall, December in Houston offers mild and pleasant weather, with cool nights and occasional cold fronts. It's a great time to explore the city's attractions, enjoy outdoor activities, and take advantage of the comfortable temperatures.
FAQ
Have more questions about Houston's monthly temperatures? Here are some frequently asked questions and answers:
Question 1: What is the hottest month in Houston?
Answer: July is the hottest month in Houston, with average temperatures ranging from 83°F (28.3°C) to 95°F (35°C).
Question 2: What is the coldest month in Houston?
Answer: January is the coldest month in Houston, with average temperatures ranging from 46°F (7.8°C) to 62°F (16.7°C).
Question 3: When is the rainy season in Houston?
Answer: Houston's rainy season typically lasts from May to October, with June being the wettest month.
Question 4: When is the best time to visit Houston?
Answer: The best time to visit Houston is during the spring (March-May) or fall (October-November) when the weather is mild and pleasant.
Question 5: What kind of clothes should I pack for a trip to Houston?
Answer: Pack light and airy clothing for the hot and humid summer months, and include a light jacket or sweater for the cooler months.
Question 6: Are there any special events or festivals in Houston during the year?
Answer: Houston hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo in February and March, the Houston Art Car Parade in April, and the Houston International Festival in June.
We hope this FAQ section has answered some of your questions about Houston's monthly temperatures. If you have any further questions, feel free to ask!
Now that you have a better understanding of Houston's monthly temperatures, here are some tips to help you plan your visit or move to the city:
Tips
Here are some practical tips to help you make the most of Houston's weather and climate:
Tip 1: Stay Hydrated:
Houston's hot and humid climate can lead to dehydration, especially during the summer months. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and avoid heat-related illnesses.
Tip 2: Wear Appropriate Clothing:
Dress in light and airy clothing during the hot and humid months, and layer up with a light jacket or sweater during the cooler months. Choose breathable fabrics that will help keep you cool and comfortable.
Tip 3: Take Advantage of Indoor Activities:
During the hot summer months, take advantage of Houston's many indoor attractions, such as museums, art galleries, and shopping malls. This is a great way to escape the heat and humidity and still enjoy the city.
Tip 4: Be Prepared for Rain:
Houston is prone to occasional showers and thunderstorms throughout the year. Keep an umbrella or raincoat handy, especially during the rainy season (May to October).
By following these tips, you can enjoy Houston's weather and climate comfortably and safely.
Whether you're visiting Houston for a short trip or planning to relocate, understanding the city's monthly temperatures and following these tips will help you make the most of your time here.
Conclusion
Houston's diverse climate offers something for everyone, from the hot and humid summers to the mild and pleasant winters. Whether you're a native Houstonian or planning a visit, understanding the city's monthly temperatures and weather patterns can help you make the most of your time here.
Remember to stay hydrated, dress appropriately for the weather, take advantage of indoor activities during the hot summer months, and be prepared for occasional rain. By following these tips, you can enjoy Houston's weather and climate comfortably and safely.
Houston's vibrant culture, diverse attractions, and friendly people make it a great place to live, work, and visit. With its unique blend of Southern charm and cosmopolitan flair, Houston offers something for everyone, no matter the time of year.