Last updated: January 18, 2025
Alabama, located in the southeastern United States, is characterized by a Cfa Köppen-Geiger climate, typifying a humid subtropical environment. The state experiences a wide temperature range, with January lows plunging to a brisk -14°C (6°F) and scorching August highs soaring to a sweltering 40°C (104°F). The annual average temperature hovers around 19°C (66°F), creating a climate conducive to a diverse array of flora and fauna. This climate profile fosters rich agricultural productivity and shapes the region's vibrant ecosystems, contributing to Alabama's unique environmental identity.
Alabama's temperature patterns reveal a clear seasonal progression, characterized by significant variability from winter to summer. January and February experience the coldest temperatures, with minimums dipping to around -14°C (6°F) and -14°C (7°F), while average temperatures begin to rise slightly by March, reaching 15°C (59°F). As spring unfolds in April and May, temperatures climb, with averages peaking at 23°C (73°F) and maximums hitting up to 38°C (100°F), marking the onset of a hot, humid summer. The peak of summer is felt in July and August, where highs can soar to 40°C (104°F), reflecting the state's muggy conditions. The arrival of September continues the warm trend but starts a gradual cooling trend, with October witnessing a noticeable drop as autumn arrives. By November and December, temperatures return to chilly ranges, with minimums averaging around -8°C (17°F), underscoring the state's distinct seasonal changes and temperature fluctuations throughout the year.
In the picturesque region along Alabama's Gulf Coast, Gulf Shores, Fairhope, and Orange Beach exhibit distinct yet similar climate patterns. Monthly temperature in Gulf Shores reveals a range from a chilly -1°C (30°F) in January to a warm 32°C (90°F) in September. Meanwhile, monthly temperature in Fairhope varies slightly more, dipping to -3°C (28°F) in January and climbing to 33°C (92°F) in September. Similarly, the monthly temperature in Orange Beach spans from -2°C (29°F) in the depths of January to match Gulf Shores at a peak of 32°C (90°F) in September. These variations offer a clear picture of the coastal climate, providing travelers with valuable insights for planning their visits.
Alabama experiences a varied precipitation pattern that reflects its humid subtropical climate, with monthly averages peaking during the first half of the year. February stands out as one of the wettest months, receiving approximately 155 mm (6.1 in) of rainfall over an average of 13 days, closely followed by June with 145 mm (5.7 in) across 15 days. The spring months of March and April also contribute significantly, accumulating 137 mm (5.4 in) and 140 mm (5.5 in), respectively, which supports the flourishing growth of vegetation as the state transitions toward summer.
As the seasons shift towards summer and fall, precipitation levels begin to stabilize, with July and August receiving 115 mm (4.5 in) and 130 mm (5.1 in), respectively. Notably, November marks a drop in rainfall to 73 mm (2.9 in), indicating the onset of drier conditions, while September sees a quick decline to 104 mm (4.1 in). Despite this seasonal variation, Alabama maintains a generally high level of precipitation throughout the year, with the average number of rainy days reaching up to 17 in July, underscoring the region's humid conditions and its potential for thunderstorms, particularly during the summer months.
In Alabama, sunshine duration exhibits a seasonal trajectory, characterized by a steady increase from winter to summer. The year commences with January receiving 163 hours of sunshine, slowly climbing to 173 hours by February. As spring approaches, the hours of sunshine surge significantly; by March, the state enjoys 238 hours, ultimately reaching 311 hours in May. This upward trend culminates in the summer months, notably July, when Alabama basks in 328 hours of sunlight, marking it as the peak sunshine month. The abundance of sunlight not only enhances outdoor activities but also contributes positively to agriculture, particularly during the flourishing growing season.
As summer transitions into fall, sunshine hours begin to wane, though they remain relatively abundant compared to the winter months. August still boasts an impressive 309 hours, but by November, there is a marked decrease to 242 hours. The trend continues into December, which sees the lowest annual total of 189 hours of sunshine. This seasonal variation highlights the contrast between the vibrant, sun-drenched summer days and the more subdued, shorter daylight hours of winter, offering a reminder of Alabama's diverse climate and its impact on lifestyle throughout the year.
In Alabama, the UV Index (UVI) demonstrates a clear seasonal pattern, indicating varying levels of ultraviolet radiation exposure throughout the year. Beginning with January, the UVI sits at 5, indicating a moderate level of UV exposure. This value escalates steadily as spring approaches, with February reaching 8 and March peaking at 9. The arrival of warmer months sees an even more significant increase; April and May both register a UVI of 11, highlighting increased sun intensity as outdoor activities become more common. The UVI reaches its zenith during the summer, peaking at 12 in both July and August, underscoring the need for sun protection during these particularly sunny months.
As the seasons shift towards fall, the UVI begins to taper off but remains notable. September records a UVI of 10, reflecting lingering summer conditions, before declining to 8 in October. The cooler months of November and December bring further reductions, with UVI values dropping to 6 and 4, respectively. This seasonal decline reinforces the importance of UV awareness during the months with elevated indexes, especially when the risk of skin damage is heightened, while also reminding residents to adjust their sun protection strategies as the year progresses.
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In Alabama, daylight duration reveals a pronounced seasonal rhythm, reflecting the shifting length of days throughout the year. Both January and February offer approximately 10 hours of daylight, providing a stark contrast to the gradual increase that begins in March with 11 hours. As spring unfolds, the hours of daylight continue to extend, reaching 13 hours in both April and May, promoting a vibrant outdoor lifestyle. By the time summer arrives, June and July enjoy the longest days at 14 hours, encapsulating the essence of summer with extended daylight hours that encourage recreational activities and community events.
However, as summer transitions into fall, daylight begins to dwindle, with August still retaining 13 hours before tapering to 12 hours in September. This gradual decline continues through October, dropping to 11 hours, and further diminishes in the cooler months of November and December, where daylight lasts just 10 and 9 hours, respectively. This seasonal variation in daylight not only affects daily routines but also influences seasonal behaviors and agricultural practices, emphasizing the importance of adapting to these changes throughout the year.
Dauphin Island, United States, experiences a mild climate, characterized by warm summers and relatively cool winters. The island sees its highest temperatures in July and August, with averages around 28°C (83°F), and the coldest periods in January with averages of 13°C (56°F). Precipitation is notably high during the summer months, peaking in August with 243 mm (9.6 in) of rainfall, while November is the driest month with only 49 mm (1.9 in). Sunshine is generous throughout the year, with the longest days occurring in May, offering about 331 hours of sunshine. For more detailed information about Dauphin Island's climate, visit the Dauphin Island climate page.
Fairhope, located in the United States, experiences a mild subtropical climate with warm winters and hot summers, as detailed in the Fairhope climate. Winter temperatures average around 12°C (54°F) in January, gradually warming to around 27°C (80°F) in June and July, peaking at a high of 33°C (92°F) in the summer months. Rainfall is moderate throughout the year, with the wettest month being June at 239 mm (9.4 in) and drier conditions in November with just 57 mm (2.2 in) of precipitation. Fairhope also enjoys ample sunshine, especially from March to August, peaking in May with up to 331 hours of sun. This combination of warmth, rainfall, and abundant sunshine makes Fairhope an attractive location for those who appreciate a mild climate with seasonal shifts.
Gulf Shores experiences a mild climate with warm temperatures and considerable sunshine year-round, making it an attractive destination for visitors. Winters see average temperatures ranging from 14°C (57°F) in January to 18°C (64°F) by March, gradually warming to an average of 27-28°C (81-83°F) during the summer months of June to August. Precipitation is highest during the summer, peaking in August with 230 mm (9.0 in) of rain, and lowest in November with only 50 mm (2.0 in). Sunshine is abundant, with the most sunshine hours occurring in May at 332 hours, enhancing Gulf Shores' appeal for outdoor activities. Learn more about the Gulf Shores climate.
Mobile, United States experiences a humid subtropical climate characterized by hot summers and mild winters. In summer, temperatures often reach highs around 36°C (98°F) in July and August, while winter months like January see lows near -6°C (21°F). The city receives significant rainfall throughout the year, peaking at 225 mm (8.9 in) in June, contributing to a lush environment. Sunshine is abundant, particularly from March to August when daylight hours exceed 250 per month, supporting vibrant outdoor activities. For more detailed information, visit the Mobile climate page.
The climate in Montgomery, United States, features warm temperatures and abundant sunshine throughout the year. January temperatures range from a minimum of -9°C (16°F) to an average of 10°C (50°F) and a maximum of 27°C (82°F), trending warmer towards July and August, with averages hovering around 28°C (82°F) and reaching highs of 39°C (103°F). Annual precipitation is consistent, with December experiencing the most rainfall at 130 mm (5.1 in), while November is relatively drier at 72 mm (2.8 in). Sunshine is most abundant in July with 333 hours, tapering off to 168 hours in January. For more information, visit the Montgomery climate.
Orange Beach, United States enjoys a warm climate with mild winters and hot summers throughout the year. Winter temperatures range from 14°C (57°F) in January to 16°C (60°F) in December, with summer highs peaking at 32°C (90°F) in July and August. The area experiences significant precipitation, particularly during the summer months, with June and September receiving over 220 mm (around 9 inches) of rain. Sunshine is abundant, with peak sun hours occurring from March through August, reaching up to 332 hours in May. For more details, you can refer to the Orange Beach climate.
Perdido Beach, United States, experiences a mild climate, with temperatures ranging from a mild winter low of -2°C (29°F) in January to warm summer highs peaking at 32°C (90°F) in July and September. The region receives significant precipitation, especially in summer months, with June being the wettest at 231 mm (9.1 in), while November sees a drier spell with only 52 mm (2.0 in) of rain. Sunshine is abundant, particularly from March to August, with May witnessing the highest number at 332 hours, although December experiences fewer sunny days with 226 hours. Overall, Perdido Beach offers a pleasant climate conducive to enjoying various outdoor activities throughout the year. For more detailed information, you can visit the Perdido Beach climate.
Selma, located in the United States, experiences a diverse climate with notable seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, and sunshine hours. Winters in Selma are relatively mild, with average temperatures ranging from 9°C (49°F) in January to 11°C (52°F) in December. The summer months of July and August bring warmer conditions, with average temperatures peaking at 27°C (82°F) and 28°C (82°F) respectively, and highs reaching up to 40°C (104°F) in August. Rainfall is fairly distributed throughout the year, with April and December being the wettest months, each receiving around 140 mm (5.5 in) of precipitation. The city enjoys abundant sunshine, particularly from March to July, where sunshine hours exceed 240 hours monthly. For more details, visit the Selma climate.
Talladega, located in the United States, experiences a diverse climate with temperature variations throughout the year. Winters are mild, with average temperatures ranging from 8°C (47°F) in January to 14°C (58°F) in March. The warmest months, July and August, have average highs reaching 36°C (97°F) and 37°C (99°F), respectively. Rainfall is distributed quite evenly across the year, peaking at 151 mm (6.0 in) in February and September being the driest month with 84 mm (3.3 in). Sunshine hours are abundant, particularly from March to September, with the longest days in July, accumulating 336 hours of sunlight. Visit the Talladega climate page for more detailed information.
In summary, Alabama's climate presents a dynamic interplay of temperature, precipitation, sunshine, UV index, and daylight duration, each contributing to the state's unique environmental character. The transition from cold winters to hot summers is marked by significant fluctuations in sunshine hours and UV exposure, emphasizing the need for effective sun protection during peak months. Meanwhile, the steady variation in daylight duration throughout the year influences both lifestyle and agricultural practices, highlighting the rhythm of the seasons. Understanding these climatic elements is crucial for residents and visitors alike, as they navigate outdoor activities, health considerations, and the overall enjoyment of Alabama's diverse natural landscapes throughout the year.