Last updated: January 18, 2025
Oklahoma, located in the central United States, features a diverse climate characterized by its Koppen-Geiger classifications of Cfa (humid subtropical) and BSk (semi-arid steppe). The state experiences a broad range of temperatures, with a striking minimum of -28°C (-19°F) recorded in February, highlighting the potential for extreme winter conditions. On average, the state's yearly temperature hovers around 16°C (62°F), while the summer months can soar to a maximum of 44°C (111°F) in July, demonstrating the significant thermal variability that shapes Oklahoma's climate. This dynamic environment influences not only local weather patterns but also the region's agricultural practices and ecological diversity.
Oklahoma's temperature patterns reflect a striking seasonal variation, with frigid winters and sweltering summers. The year begins with January temperatures plummeting to a minimum of -21°C (-6°F), gradually warming in February to a low of -28°C (-19°F), before transitioning into spring, where March brings mild averages of 12°C (54°F) and peaks of 35°C (96°F). As the season progresses, April and May see average temperatures rise to 15°C (60°F) and 21°C (70°F), respectively, with May often crossing into the 40s in terms of maximum highs. The sweltering summer months of June through August feature consistent highs in the 40s, with July reaching its peak at 44°C (111°F). As autumn approaches, temperatures begin to drop; September averages 24°C (76°F), followed by a cooler October and a return to chillier conditions by winter, with December registering a maximum of 31°C (87°F). This cyclical temperature variation underscores Oklahoma's dynamic climate, significantly influencing its weather patterns and agricultural schedule.
In Broken Bow, temperatures vary significantly throughout the year, with the coldest month being February, where minimum temperatures can plummet to -18°C (0°F). Conversely, July is characterized by its peak warmth, reaching a maximum of 40°C (105°F). For more detailed insights into the monthly temperature in Broken Bow, follow the provided link.
Oklahoma experiences a variable precipitation pattern throughout the year, with the spring months typically receiving the highest amounts. January and February see modest levels of rainfall, recording 60 mm (2.4 in) and 64 mm (2.5 in) respectively, while March marks a significant increase, reaching 99 mm (3.9 in). April continues this upward trend with 124 mm (4.9 in), and May peaks at 161 mm (6.4 in), showcasing the state’s transition into its wetter season. Throughout these months, residents can expect approximately 9 to 12 days of precipitation, contributing to a flourishing natural landscape.
As spring gives way to summer, precipitation levels begin to decline, with June witnessing 87 mm (3.4 in) and July slightly less at 68 mm (2.7 in). August experiences a modest rise to 86 mm (3.4 in), while September maintains an average of 83 mm (3.3 in). The autumn months see a resurgence, with October recording 117 mm (4.6 in) before November drops to 42 mm (1.7 in). December concludes the year with 49 mm (1.9 in) of precipitation, typically distributed over 4 to 7 days, emphasizing the cyclical nature of Oklahoma's rainfall, deeply impacting its ecosystems and agriculture.
Oklahoma's sunshine duration showcases a clear seasonal trend, with hours of sunlight steadily increasing from the depths of winter into the peak of summer. January starts off with 175 hours of sunshine, gradually rising as February brings in 192 hours. The arrival of March signals a notable uptick, reaching 242 hours, and by April, the state enjoys 260 hours. This upward trajectory continues through May, where sunshine hours peak at 294, signaling the transition into the bright days of summer.
The most striking sunshine occurs during the summer months, with July claiming the title of the sunniest month at 362 hours. Even August maintains impressive levels at 327 hours, but a gradual decline begins in September, settling at 287 hours. As autumn approaches, October and November maintain moderate sunlight with 258 hours and 233 hours respectively before December trails off to 231 hours. This seasonal fluctuation not only highlights Oklahoma’s sunny disposition but also underscores the long, bright summers that support diverse outdoor activities and agricultural productivity in the region.
The UV Index (UVI) in Oklahoma shows a pronounced seasonal pattern, with values peaking during the summer months. Starting the year with a moderate UVI of 4 in January, the index climbs steadily, reaching 6 in February. Spring brings further increases, with UVI values spiking to 8 in March and jumping to 10 in April, indicating a growing intensity of sunlight. May marks a significant threshold, culminating in a UVI of 11, as residents begin to feel the heightened health risks associated with increased UV exposure.
The summer months of June and July see the highest recorded UV Index values, both at a striking 12, demanding increased caution for sun safety as individuals engage in outdoor activities. Even August remains intense, with a UVI of 11, before gradually tapering off in September to 10. As autumn transitions into winter, the UVI decreases, with October registering an 8, November a 6, and December returning to 4. This seasonal fluctuation emphasizes the importance of sun protection strategies, particularly during the peak summer months when the risk of skin damage is significantly elevated.
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Daylight duration in Oklahoma reveals a clear seasonal rhythm, beginning with the shorter days of winter. In January and February, the state averages around 10 hours of daylight, providing limited sunlight as residents experience colder temperatures. As spring approaches, daylight hours start to extend, with March gaining an additional hour to 11 hours. This trend accelerates in April, where daylight reaches 13 hours, and May brings even more brightness with 14 hours, reflecting the transition to longer, sunnier days as the weather warms.
The summer months of June, July, and August maintain the peak daylight duration at 14 hours, offering ample opportunity for outdoor activities and events. However, as September rolls in, daylight begins to wane, decreasing to 12 hours, followed by a gradual decline through October at 11 hours. By November, daylight decreases to 10 hours, and December sees the shortest duration at 9 hours. This cyclical pattern of daylight underscores the changing seasons in Oklahoma, significantly influencing daily life and seasonal activities throughout the year.
Broken Bow experiences a diverse climate with significant temperature variations throughout the year. Winters can be quite cold, with January seeing temperatures as low as -14°C (7°F), while summers are hot, with July reaching up to 40°C (105°F). Precipitation is highest in spring, with April receiving the most at 214 mm (8.4 in), whereas summer months are relatively drier, particularly July and September. Sunshine hours peak in summer, providing Broken Bow with ample light, especially in July with 344 hours of sunshine. For more detailed information on Broken Bow's climate, visit Broken Bow climate.
In conclusion, Oklahoma's climate and environmental characteristics reflect a dynamic interplay of temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours throughout the year. The state experiences distinct seasonal variations, from the bone-chilling winters to the scorching summers, with significant impacts on lifestyle and agriculture. The rich sunlight and increasing UV Index during summer months emphasize the need for sun safety, while the fluctuation in daylight duration offers both challenges and opportunities for outdoor activities. Understanding these climatic patterns equips residents and visitors alike with the knowledge to make informed decisions about their health, outdoor pursuits, and engagement with the natural world throughout the seasons.