Last updated: January 18, 2025
Missouri's climate is characterized by a humid subtropical (Cfa) and humid continental (Dfa) classification, resulting in a diverse range of seasonal weather patterns. Winter temperatures can plunge to a frigid -32°C (-24°F) in February, while summers can reach scorching highs of 40°C (104°F) in June. The state's average annual temperature stands at a moderate 14°C (57°F), showcasing a dynamic climate that influences both the natural environment and human activities throughout the year.
Missouri experiences a pronounced seasonal temperature variation, with cold winters and hot summers that shape its climate. In the depth of winter, January sees minimum temperatures dipping to -31°C (-24°F), while average temperatures struggle to reach the freezing point. February remains similarly frigid, often recording minimums of -32°C (-24°F), before gradually warming in March as the region transitions into spring. By May, temperatures escalate significantly, with averages around 19°C (67°F) and maximums soaring to 38°C (101°F). The peak of summer arrives in June and July, characterized by high averages of 25°C (76°F) and 26°C (80°F), along with maximum temperatures frequently hitting the upper 30s Celsius (over 100°F). As autumn sets in, temperatures start to decline, with October averaging 15°C (59°F) and November bringing chilly nights, as minimums often fall to -16°C (3°F). December ushers in winter once again, closing the year with average temperatures around 4°C (40°F), marking a complete cycle of climatic extremes in Missouri.
In Missouri, temperatures can vary significantly across different cities. In St. Louis, temperatures range from a frigid minimum of -22°C (-7°F) in January to a sweltering maximum of 38°C (101°F) in July. More details can be found on the monthly temperature in St. Louis. Meanwhile, Branson witnesses temperatures from a chilly -25°C (-13°F) in February to a peak of 37°C (98°F) in July. For more information, check the monthly temperature in Branson. Similarly, Kansas City experiences extremes with temperatures dropping to -26°C (-15°F) in February and reaching up to 37°C (99°F) in June. Additional details can be accessed on the monthly temperature in Kansas City.
Missouri's precipitation patterns exhibit notable seasonal fluctuations, with the heaviest rainfall concentrated in the spring and early summer months. January and February see relatively moderate precipitation, with 73 mm (2.9 in) and 76 mm (3.0 in) respectively, accompanied by fewer rain days, typically around 7 to 9 days. As spring arrives, rainfall increases significantly, peaking in May with 169 mm (6.7 in) over 14 rainy days, and March and April also contributing substantial amounts at 128 mm (5.0 in) and 127 mm (5.0 in) respectively. This seasonal uptick plays a crucial role in supporting the region's lush foliage and agricultural productivity.
During the summer months, precipitation remains robust but shows a slight decrease, with June and July receiving 100 mm (3.9 in) and 98 mm (3.9 in), respectively. August sees a rise again to 116 mm (4.6 in), while September's rainfall drops to 68 mm (2.7 in). As fall settles in, October experiences a moderate return to moisture with 117 mm (4.6 in), while rainfall diminishes in November and December, ending the year with just 65 mm (2.6 in) and 54 mm (2.1 in). This overall pattern illustrates Missouri's dynamic precipitation regime, significantly influencing its ecosystems and agriculture throughout the year.
In Missouri, the sunshine duration reflects a clear seasonal pattern, with an impressive increase from winter to summer. Starting the year with 137 hours in January, residents can expect only limited sunshine, which gradually climbs as winter gives way to spring. February witnesses a notable rise to 181 hours, and by March that number swells to 210 hours. With the arrival of April, sunshine hours hit 247, laying the groundwork for a vibrant spring. The peak of this sunny trend occurs in the summer months, with June shining brightly at 331 hours and July boasting the highest total at 352 hours. This abundance of sunshine supports outdoor activities and gives rise to the region's lush landscapes.
As summer transitions into fall, the amount of sunshine begins to taper off, yet remains substantial through September with 288 hours. October experiences a decrease to 242 hours, and by November, sunshine hours dwindle further to 215 hours, signaling the approach of winter. December sees another drop to 205 hours. This seasonal ebb and flow highlight not just the joy of prolonged summer days in Missouri but also the stark contrast with the shorter, cloudier days of winter, shaping the state's climatic experience throughout the year.
In Missouri, the UV Index exhibits a distinct seasonal pattern, peaking during the summer months when solar radiation is strongest. The year begins with a relatively low UV Index of 4 in January, gradually rising to 6 in February as days lengthen. By March, the index climbs to 8, signaling an increase in sun exposure leading into spring. April continues this trend with a UVI of 10, but it is May that marks the beginning of peak UV levels, reaching 11. This pattern continues through June, July, and August, each maintaining a steady UVI of 11, indicating a significant risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure during these months.
As summer wanes into fall, the UV Index begins to decrease, dropping to 10 in August and falling further to 9 in September. October sees a UVI of 7, while November and December mark the return to lower UV levels, at 5 and 3 respectively. This gradual decline reflects shorter daylight hours and lower sun angles, making it crucial for residents to adjust their sun protection strategies throughout the year, particularly in the summer when the UV Index is at its highest.
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Missouri experiences a clear fluctuation in daylight duration throughout the year, mirroring the changing seasons. In winter, January offers a mere 9 hours of daylight, slowly increasing to 10 hours by February. As spring arrives, daylight extends more noticeably, rising to 11 hours in March and jumping to 13 hours in April. May reaches an enjoyable 14 hours of daylight, allowing ample time for outdoor activities as the days continue to lengthen. June maintains this peak daylight duration, showcasing the longest days of the year.
As summer transitions into fall, daylight gradually decreases, starting at 14 hours in June and tapering off to 13 hours in August. September sees a further reduction to 12 hours, followed by a return to 11 hours in October. November continues the decline with 10 hours of daylight, and winter settles in once again, bringing the duration back down to 9 hours in December. This cyclical pattern of daylight highlights the importance of seasonal changes in Missouri, affecting everything from agricultural practices to daily life.
Branson, located in the United States, experiences varied climate conditions throughout the year, with considerable temperature fluctuations from winter to summer. During the coldest months, January and February, temperatures can dip as low as -25°C (-13°F), while the summer heat in July and August can push temperatures up to 37°C (98°F). The region sees its heaviest rainfall in April and May, with precipitation levels reaching 166 mm (6.6 in) and 171 mm (6.7 in), respectively. Sunshine is abundant, peaking in July with 350 hours of sun. Learn more about the Branson climate.
Hannibal, located in Missouri, experiences a diverse climate with distinct seasonal changes. Winters can be harsh, with January and February temperatures occasionally plummeting to -26°C (-15°F), while summers bring warmth with July seeing averages rise to 26°C (79°F) and highs reaching 36°C (97°F). Precipitation peaks in May at 160 mm (6.3 in), contributing to the lush landscapes, while January and February are relatively drier months. The region enjoys ample sunshine in summer, particularly in July with 350 hours, contrasting with the shorter days of winter where December receives just 204 hours of sun. For more detailed information, visit Hannibal climate.
Kansas City experiences a varied climate, with cold winters and hot summers. In January, temperatures range from -23°C (-9°F) to 18°C (64°F), while July peaks can reach 37°C (99°F). The city receives most of its rainfall in May, averaging 215 mm (8.5 in), and it enjoys substantial sunshine in summer months, with a high of 363 hours in July. Despite colder months like December with an average of 3°C (38°F) and only 33 mm (1.3 in) of precipitation, there’s a balance of sunshine across the year. For more detailed information, check the Kansas City climate.
Lake Ozark, United States, experiences a varied climate with distinct seasonal changes. Winters are cold, with average temperatures in January as low as 1°C (34°F) and precipitation averaging 70 mm (2.7 in), while summer months like July see average temperatures rise to 26°C (80°F) with 114 mm (4.5 in) of rainfall. Spring and fall offer moderate temperatures, with April and October averaging at 13°C (55°F) and 15°C (59°F) respectively, accompanied by similar rainfall around 114 mm (4.5 in). The region enjoys ample sunshine, particularly in the summer, with July receiving 349 hours of sunlight. For more details, you can visit the Lake Ozark climate page.
Osage Beach experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasonal variations, characterized by hot summers and cold winters. Winter temperatures can drop as low as -25°C (-13°F) in February, while in July, summer temperatures can rise to 38°C (100°F). The area receives most of its precipitation during late spring, with up to 162 mm (6.4 in) in May, and balances this with significant sunshine, particularly in July with 349 hours. Sunshine gradually decreases by December, down to 204 hours, reflecting shorter daylight hours typical of winter months. For more detailed information, visit the Osage Beach climate.
St. Louis experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year, with winter lows plunging to -22°C (-7°F) in January and summer highs reaching up to 38°C (101°F) in July. The city receives substantial rainfall, particularly during the spring months, with May seeing the highest average precipitation at 145 mm (5.7 in). Sunshine varies significantly, peaking in July with 348 hours, providing ample warm and sunny days to explore the region. This mixture of temperatures, precipitation, and sunshine defines St. Louis' diverse climate, offering distinct seasons each with their own character. For more detailed climate information, please refer to St. Louis climate.
In conclusion, Missouri's climate, marked by its diverse temperature ranges, seasonal precipitation patterns, varying sunshine duration, and fluctuating UV Index, presents unique challenges and opportunities throughout the year. The pronounced shifts from cold winters to hot, sunny summers shape the local environment, influencing agriculture, recreation, and daily life. Awareness of these climatic characteristics is essential for residents and visitors alike, ensuring they are well-prepared to adapt to the changing seasons. By understanding the intricate relationship between these climatic elements, individuals can make informed decisions regarding sun safety, outdoor activities, and agricultural practices, ultimately enhancing their overall experience in this vibrant state.