Michigan Climate

Last updated: January 18, 2025

Michigan, located in the United States, exhibits a diverse climate primarily classified under the Köppen-Geiger system as Dfb (Warm Summer Continental) and Dfa (Hot Summer Continental). The state's temperature spectrum showcases a minimum extreme of -34°C (-28°F) recorded in January, to a sweltering maximum of 39°C (102°F) experienced in July. On average, Michigan enjoys a temperate climate with an annual mean temperature of approximately 9°C (49°F), creating a distinct seasonal variation that influences both weather patterns and ecological diversity throughout the year.

Michigan temperature by month

Michigan's temperature patterns reveal a marked seasonal variability, highlighting the stark contrasts between winter's chill and summer's warmth. In the depths of winter, January and February showcase frigid conditions, with minimum temperatures plummeting as low as -34°C (-28°F) and -31°C (-24°F), while average temperatures hover around -4°C (25°F) and -3°C (26°F), respectively. As spring approaches, March and April signal a gradual thaw, bringing slightly milder temperatures, with averages climbing to 2°C (35°F) and 7°C (45°F). The transition into summer is characterized by a steady rise in warmth, peaking in July when maximum temperatures can reach 39°C (102°F), supported by comfortable averages around 23°C (73°F). August maintains these elevated temperatures, while September marks the onset of autumn and a return to cooler conditions, as averages drop to 18°C (65°F). November and December reintroduce the harsh winter chill, rounding out the year with low averages and extreme minimums that remind residents of the region’s climatic extremes.

Monthly Temperatures in Michigan, United States

The chart illustrates Michigan's temperature patterns throughout the year, with values aggregated from various locations across the region. It highlights seasonal variations and temperature changes across the months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec252635455768737164523831
Data source: Michigan temperature data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.
Choose your preferred temperature unit
The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

The monthly temperature in Saugatuck experiences a significant range from a chilly -21°C (-5°F) in January to a warm 27°C (81°F) in July, illustrating the variances in this Michigan locale's climate. Similarly, Holland endures a minimum of -22°C (-7°F) in January, while reaching up to 32°C (90°F) in September, offering a slightly different seasonal peak in temperature. Traverse City, known for its more pronounced temperature shifts, records lows of -24°C (-10°F) in January and highs reaching 35°C (95°F) in July. These variations across the three locations emphasize the diverse climate patterns within Michigan. For more detailed insights, explore the monthly temperature in Saugatuck, monthly temperature in Holland, and monthly temperature in Traverse City.

Precipitation Patterns in Michigan

Michigan experiences a distinct precipitation pattern throughout the year, reflecting the diverse seasonal transitions of the region. Winter months, particularly January and February, receive moderate amounts of rainfall, with precipitation recorded at 63 mm (2.5 in) and 67 mm (2.6 in), respectively. As spring unfolds, precipitation increases, peaking in April with 93 mm (3.7 in), and further rising to 118 mm (4.6 in) in May, often coinciding with the onset of thunderstorms. This pattern highlights a clear correlation between the transition from winter to spring and the increase in both the volume and frequency of precipitation.

In summer, Michigan's rainfall begins to stabilize, with June recording 105 mm (4.2 in) and July and August delivering slightly lower totals of 87 mm (3.4 in) and 83 mm (3.3 in), respectively. The fall season then introduces another spike, particularly in October with 120 mm (4.7 in), as rain becomes more frequent in preparation for the cold months ahead. Overall, Michigan typically experiences around 10 to 14 days of precipitation each month, with October being the wettest month of the year, while periods of snowfall often dominate the winter landscape, maintaining the state’s rich climatic diversity.

Monthly Average Precipitation in Michigan, United States

The average monthly precipitation in Michigan, providing insights into seasonal rainfall patterns and the region's precipitation trends throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec636769931181058783851207163
Data source: Michigan precipitation data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

Sunshine Duration in Michigan

In Michigan, the sunshine duration exhibits a clear seasonal trend, with a significant increase from the winter months to the summer peak. January, with a mere 99 hours of sunshine, reflects the stark and dreary conditions typical of winter. However, as February approaches, there is a noticeable lift, totaling 159 hours, which sets the stage for a steady climb through early spring. March and April witness further increases, with sunshine hours reaching 236 and 242, respectively, indicating the gradual emergence of longer days and brighter skies. This upward trajectory culminates in May, when residents can enjoy an impressive 291 hours of sunshine, heralding the approach of summer.

The summer months in Michigan truly shine, with July boasting the highest sunshine duration at 357 hours. This abundance of daylight contributes to a vibrant outdoor culture in the state. Interestingly, while August still offers ample sunshine at 334 hours, a subtle decline begins to set in with the onset of fall. September provides 280 hours, reflecting the transition towards shorter days and cooler weather. The trend continues into autumn, with October yielding 208 hours, and a further drop to just 156 hours in November, as the state's landscape prepares for winter once again. Collectively, these fluctuations not only enhance the beauty of each season but also influence the lifestyle and activities of Michigan’s residents throughout the year.

Monthly Sunshine in Michigan, United States

Monthly sunshine duration represents the total hours of direct sunlight Michigan receives each month, excluding periods when the sun is obscured by clouds or other obstructions.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec99h159h236h242h291h333h357h334h280h208h156h125h
Data source: Michigan sunshine duration data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.

Michigan UV Index Trends

The UV Index (UVI) in Michigan exhibits significant variability throughout the year, aligning closely with seasonal changes. During the winter months, the UVI remains relatively low, with January and December both at a level of 3, indicating moderate sun exposure. February experiences a slight increase to 5, as the days begin to lengthen and sunlight becomes more prevalent. As spring arrives, March sees a jump to a UVI of 6, followed by a notable surge in April, reaching 9, as the sun's intensity increases and outdoor activities become more common.

Summer months present the highest UV exposure, with the UVI peaking at 10 from May through July, underscoring the importance of sun protection during this period. Even August maintains a high level of 9, reminding residents to stay vigilant against UV rays as the season transitions to fall. September's index decreases to 8, continuing to reflect the waning summer sun, while October and November see further reductions to 6 and 4 respectively. As winter approaches, the UVI drops to its lowest levels in January and December, emphasizing the seasonal shift and the necessity of adapting sun safety practices throughout the year.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Michigan, United States

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Michigan. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec356910101098643
Data source: Michigan UV Index data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Daylight Hours in Michigan

In Michigan, daylight duration experiences significant variations across the seasons, reflecting the changes in sunlight hours that accompany the shift in weather. The year begins with January offering just 9 hours of daylight, which gradually increases to 10 hours in February and 11 hours in March. Spring heralds a more notable increase, as daylight hours expand to 13 hours in April and reach 14 hours in May. This progression culminates in June, where residents enjoy the longest days of the year with 15 hours of daylight, perfect for outdoor activities and enjoying the warm weather.

As summer transitions to fall, daylight begins to decrease, starting with July, which maintains 14 hours before a slight reduction to 13 hours in August. September brings a further drop to 12 hours, and by October, daylight duration narrows down to 10 hours as the days shorten significantly. The trend continues into the winter months of November and December, both marked by only 9 hours of daylight. This cyclical pattern not only influences Michigan's natural landscapes but also impacts the daily lives and activities of its residents throughout the year.

Average Monthly Daylight Hours in Michigan, United States

This chart shows the total daylight hours Michigan receives each month, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec562h630h717h806h881h918h898h831h745h657h580h540h
Data source: Michigan daylight hours, calculated based on aggregated data for various regional locations, determined by the times between sunrise and sunset.

Climate Highlights of Michigan's Popular Destinations

Bay Harbor, United States, experiences a diverse climate with distinct seasonal variations. Winters are cold, with January temperatures ranging from -20°C (-4°F) to 8°C (47°F), and December sees comparable lows. As spring arrives, temperatures rise, reaching a maximum of 29°C (84°F) in May. Summer is warm, with July and August averages of 20°C (68°F), while fall cools down, particularly in November, when temperatures drop to lows of -13°C (10°F). Precipitation peaks in October with 159 mm (6.3 in), whereas sunshine is at its maximum in July with 363 hours. For more detailed information, visit the Bay Harbor climate page.

Charlevoix, United States, experiences a varied climate with cold winters and warm summers. January is the coldest month, with average temperatures around -4°C (26°F), while July is the warmest, averaging 19°C (67°F). Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, with peak precipitation in October at 166 mm (6.5 in), and sunshine hours are longest in July at 363 hours. The transition months of March to May see rising temperatures and increased sunshine, while autumn months bring cooler weather and significant rainfall. For more detailed climate information, visit Charlevoix climate.

Frankenmuth, located in Michigan, experiences a diverse climate with cold winters and warm summers. Winter months like January and February are particularly chilly, with temperatures dropping to -25°C (-13°F) and modest averages around -4°C (25°F), while snowfall contributes to an average precipitation around 60-63 mm (2.4-2.5 in) and lower sunshine hours. As spring approaches, temperatures gradually rise, reaching up to 29°C (84°F) in April, accompanied by increased precipitation and sunshine. Summers in Frankenmuth are notably warm, hitting maximum temperatures of up to 36°C (97°F) in June and July, and featuring abundant sunshine with nearly 334-357 hours. For further details, visit Frankenmuth climate.

Grand Haven, located in Michigan, experiences a diverse climate throughout the year, with cold winters and warm summers. In January, temperatures can plunge to -21°C (-6°F), whereas July sees warmer conditions with temperatures soaring up to 29°C (85°F). Precipitation varies, with the driest month being July at 59 mm (2.3 in) and October receiving the most rainfall at 147 mm (5.8 in). Sunshine hours increase significantly from the winter to summer months, with January averaging 89 hours of sunshine compared to 366 hours in July. To explore more details about the climate of Grand Haven, visit the Grand Haven climate.

Harbor Springs, located in the United States, experiences a varied climate with cold winters and warm summers. During the winter months, temperatures can dip as low as -19°C (-2°F) in January, accompanied by moderate precipitation of 62-74 mm (2.5-2.9 in), while the region receives about 80 to 133 hours of sunshine. As spring progresses, temperatures gradually rise, reaching up to 16°C (61°F) by April with increased rainfall of about 99 mm (3.9 in), and extended daylight bringing 239 sunshine hours. Summers in Harbor Springs are pleasant, with July experiencing average temperatures around 20°C (67°F), peak temperatures hitting 28°C (82°F), and abundant sunshine exceeding 360 hours, being slightly wetter with rainfall near 89-99 mm (3.5-3.9 in). Autumn sees a decline in temperature with October remaining relatively wet, accumulating 161 mm (6.4 in) of rain, moving towards cooler and shorter days in November with decreasing sunshine hours. For more detailed climate information, visit the Harbor Springs climate.

The climate in Holland, United States, exhibits distinct seasonal variations, with cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures range from a chilly -22°C (-7°F) to 13°C (56°F), while July enjoys milder conditions from 14°C (57°F) to 31°C (88°F). Precipitation is most abundant in May and October, with 140 mm (5.5 in) and 142 mm (5.6 in), respectively, while sunshine peaks in July at 357 hours. March to August sees an increase in sunlit hours, providing ample outdoor opportunities. For more details, visit Holland climate.

Interlochen, United States, experiences a diverse climate marked by distinct seasonal variations. Winters can be intense, with January temperatures dipping as low as -24°C (-10°F), while July peaks around 34°C (94°F), illustrating notable shifts throughout the year. Precipitation is fairly distributed, with the heaviest rainfall in October at 127 mm (5.0 in), contrasting with drier winter months like January, which receives only 55 mm (2.2 in). Sunshine increases dramatically from winter to summer, with December seeing 98 hours while July benefits from 362 hours of daylight. For more detailed climate information, please visit the Interlochen climate page.

Lake Michigan Beach, United States, experiences a diverse climate with distinct seasonal variations. Winters are cold, with January and February averaging around -2°C (28°F) to -2°C (29°F) and December reaching lows of -17°C (1°F). Summers are warm, with temperatures peaking in July and August, averaging 24°C (75°F) and 23°C (73°F) respectively. Precipitation peaks in May at 151 mm (5.9 in), while sunshine hours are highest in July at 363 hours. For more details on the climate, visit the Lake Michigan Beach climate page.

Ludington, in the United States, experiences a diverse climate with significant seasonal variations. Winters are cold, with temperatures in January reaching lows of -20°C (-4°F) and average highs of 9°C (48°F), coupled with 67 mm (2.7 in) of precipitation and limited sunshine of just 91 hours. In contrast, summers are comfortably warm; July sees average temperatures of 20°C (69°F), increasing to 26°C (79°F) at the peak, and receiving 76 mm (3.0 in) of rainfall along with abundant sunshine of 363 hours. The transitional months of spring and fall receive moderate rainfall, with October being the wettest month at 133 mm (5.2 in), transitioning from the cooler spring months with average temperatures increasing from 1°C (34°F) in March to 17°C (62°F) in April. Detailed climate information can be found here.

Mackinaw City, located in the United States, experiences a varied climate with cold, snowy winters and warm summers. January is the coldest month with average temperatures around -5°C (22°F), while July and August are the warmest, averaging 20°C (68-69°F). The city receives a moderate amount of precipitation throughout the year, with the wettest months being October and September, accumulating 138 mm (5.4 in) and 96 mm (3.8 in) respectively. Sunshine varies significantly, peaking in July with 360 hours and dropping to 87 hours in January. For more details, check out the Mackinaw City climate.

Marquette, United States, experiences a diverse climate with significant seasonal variations, characterized by cold winters and warm, humid summers. In January, temperatures range from frigid lows of -27°C (-16°F) to highs of 6°C (42°F), while July is the warmest month with averages around 20°C (68°F) and highs of 33°C (92°F). Annual precipitation peaks in October with 120 mm (4.7 in), and the region receives considerable sunshine, especially from April to September, with peaks in July at 363 hours. This dynamic weather pattern makes Marquette a place of striking contrasts throughout the year. For more details, visit the Marquette climate page.

Munising, located in the United States, experiences a diverse climate with distinct seasonal variations. Winter months bring chilly temperatures, with January seeing lows of -19°C (-3°F), while summer peaks in July with highs of 27°C (81°F). The area receives a fair amount of precipitation throughout the year, with October being the wettest at 151 mm (5.9 in). Sunshine hours increase significantly from winter to summer, reaching a peak in July with 361 hours of sunshine. To explore more about Munising's climate, visit this Munising climate.

New Buffalo, located in the United States, experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year, with January typically seeing lows of -27°C (-16°F) and July reaching highs of 33°C (91°F). Precipitation varies with the heaviest rainfall in May at 161 mm (6.3 in) and lighter rainfall in December at 63 mm (2.5 in). The region receives abundant sunshine in the summer months, peaking in July with 361 hours of sun. Winters are colder with January and February experiencing limited sunshine and similar precipitation levels. For more detailed information, visit the New Buffalo climate.

Petoskey, located in the United States, experiences a diverse climate recognized for its cold winters and temperate summers. Winter temperatures can plummet to -20°C (-4°F) in January, with the month also receiving around 65 mm (2.6 in) of precipitation. Spring brings gradual warmth, with May temperatures averaging 10°C (49°F) and receiving about 108 mm (4.3 in) of rainfall. Summers are relatively mild, with July highs reaching 29°C (84°F) and an average of 20°C (68°F), paired with generous sunshine of 363 hours. Autumns are marked by cooler temperatures and increased rainfall, particularly in October, which records approximately 159 mm (6.3 in) of precipitation. For more information, please visit the Petoskey climate.

Saint Ignace, located in Michigan, experiences a cold climate with significant seasonal temperature variations. Winters are harsh, with January and February average temperatures around -5°C (22°F) and January lows plunging to -23°C (-9°F). Summers are mild to warm, peaking in July with average highs around 31°C (88°F). The area receives moderate precipitation throughout the year, with the wettest months being June to October; October sees the highest at 138 mm (5.4 in). Sunshine hours increase from January's 87 hours to a peak of 360 hours in July, indicating longer days during the summer. For more details on Saint Ignace's climate, visit the Saint Ignace climate page.

The climate in Saint Joseph, United States, exhibits distinct seasonal variations with cold winters and warm summers. During the winter months, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -25°C (-13°F) in January, while summer highs can reach up to 32°C (90°F) in July. Precipitation varies throughout the year, with May receiving the highest average rainfall at 168 mm (6.6 in) and December the least at 69 mm (2.7 in). Sunshine hours peak in July at 358 hours, providing ample daylight during the summer, while January is the gloomiest month with only 94 hours of sunshine. For more details on the climate, visit the Saint Joseph climate page.

Saugatuck, located in the United States, experiences a varied climate throughout the year, characterized by cold winters, mild springs, warm summers, and cool autumns. Winter months like January and February have average temperatures around -2°C (29°F) with precipitation ranging from 84 mm to 85 mm, while sunshine is limited to about 90 to 160 hours. The summer months of June through August feature average temperatures between 17°C (63°F) and 22°C (71°F), lower precipitation of 58 mm to 122 mm, and plentiful sunshine peaking at 366 hours in July. As the seasons transition, autumn brings cooler temperatures with October averaging 13°C (55°F) and recording the highest monthly precipitation of 165 mm. For further detailed climate data, refer to the Saugatuck climate.

Sault Ste. Marie, located in the United States, experiences a diverse climate with cold winters and warm summers. Winter temperatures can drop as low as -34°C (-28°F) in January, with averages around -9°C (17°F), and precipitation tends to be higher during this period, reaching up to 63 mm (2.5 in) in February. In contrast, summer months like July see temperatures averaging 19°C (67°F) with maximums of 30°C (87°F), accompanied by significant sunshine, peaking at 347 hours. The city also receives ample rainfall, with October being the wettest month at 134 mm (5.3 in) of precipitation. For more detailed information, you can visit the Sault Ste. Marie climate.

South Haven, located in the United States, experiences a varied climate throughout the year, marked by cold winters and warm, sunny summers. The winter months, from December to February, see temperatures ranging from a chilly -22°C (-7°F) to milder days at 11°C (52°F), with precipitation averaging around 85 mm (3.3 in) and limited sunshine. As spring approaches, temperatures gradually warm, with April experiencing average highs around 20°C (68°F) and increased rain at 107 mm (4.2 in). The summer months are relatively warm and dry, peaking in July with maximum temperatures of 28°C (83°F), lower precipitation at 80 mm (3.2 in), and abundant sunshine reaching up to 363 hours. The transition into autumn maintains mild temperatures with a notable spike in rainfall, especially in October, recording 165 mm (6.5 in) of precipitation. For more detailed information, you can visit the South Haven climate.

Traverse City experiences a varied climate with cold winters and mild to hot summers. Temperatures range from lows of -24°C (-10°F) in January to highs of 35°C (95°F) in July. Average monthly precipitation peaks in October at 135 mm (5.3 in) and is lowest in February and March with 60 mm (2.4 in). Sunshine hours increase significantly from winter to summer, reaching their maximum in July with 362 hours before declining into the fall. For more detailed information, visit the Traverse City climate.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Michigan's climate, characterized by its distinct seasonal variations, significantly influences key atmospheric elements such as temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours. The state experiences a wide temperature range, from bitterly cold winters to hot summers, accompanied by corresponding fluctuations in precipitation patterns that support its vibrant ecosystems. As residents transition through the seasons, they experience varying lengths of daylight and sunshine, impacting outdoor activities and lifestyle choices. The notable peaks in UV Index during summer months highlight the importance of sun safety, while the cyclical changes in daylight duration serve as a reminder of nature’s rhythm. Collectively, these climatic features shape the unique environmental tapestry of Michigan, making it a fascinating study of the interplay between weather and human experience.

Discover the Climate of Michigan's Places

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