Last updated: January 18, 2025
Rhode Island, located in the Northeastern United States, exhibits a diverse climate characterized primarily by Köppen-Geiger classifications of Cfb (Oceanic) and Cfa (Humid Subtropical). The region experiences significant seasonal temperature variations, with January lows plummeting to a frigid -21°C (-6°F), while summer months witness highs soaring to a sweltering 38°C (101°F) in July. With an annual average temperature of 11°C (53°F), Rhode Island's climate underscores the interplay between its coastal geography and seasonal shifts, offering a unique environment for both residents and ecosystems.
Rhode Island experiences pronounced seasonal temperature patterns, characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January and February see some of the coldest temperatures, with minimums plunging to -21°C (-6°F) and -19°C (-3°F), while average temperatures hover around the freezing point. As spring approaches in March and April, temperatures gradually rise, transitioning from sub-zero minimums to comfortable averages of 9°C (48°F), highlighting a period of thawing and renewal. The warmth reaches its peak in July, with maximums soaring to 38°C (101°F), marking the height of summer, while August maintains mild conditions before a gradual cool-down begins in September. Autumn months see a return to cooler averages, with October reflecting temperatures falling back to 14°C (57°F), and by December, the cycle closes with another dip, as minimums return to -19°C (-2°F), illustrating the region's dynamic climate that ebbs and flows with the seasons.
In the state of Rhode Island, temperature variations span from harsh winters to warm summers. In Bristol, temperatures can drop to a chilling -20°C (-4°F) in January, while peaking at 37°C (99°F) in July. For more detailed statistics, see the monthly temperature in Bristol. Similarly, Providence experiences comparable extremes, with a minimum of -21°C (-5°F) in January and reaching up to 38°C (101°F) in July. Detailed insights can be found at the monthly temperature in Providence. Meanwhile, the coastal town of Narragansett records temperatures ranging from -19°C (-1°F) in January to 33°C (93°F) in July, offering a moderate climate reflected in its monthly temperature in Narragansett.
Rhode Island's precipitation patterns reveal a distinct seasonal rhythm, with a notable increase in rainfall during the spring and fall months. January begins with relatively low precipitation at 76 mm (3.0 in) over 8 days, but as winter transitions into spring, March sees a significant rise to 102 mm (4.0 in) over 9 days. April typically brings the highest monthly rainfall of the year at 129 mm (5.1 in) across 12 days, setting the stage for lush growth and replenished water sources. The summer months also contribute substantial rainfall, particularly in July, which receives 126 mm (5.0 in) over 12 days, suggesting a pattern of intermittent storms.
As autumn arrives, precipitation remains abundant, peaking again in October with 141 mm (5.6 in) over 11 days, which is crucial for sustaining ecosystems before winter sets in. Throughout the year, precipitation averages around 100 mm per month, with a diverse array of weather events, from snow in winter to thunderstorms in summer. This variability not only underscores the region's rich ecological tapestry but also reflects the broader influence of the Atlantic Ocean on Rhode Island's climate, providing both bountiful rainfall and the occasional drought in other months.
In Rhode Island, sunshine duration exhibits a compelling seasonal trend marked by a gradual ascent from the winter months into summer. Beginning with 148 hours of sunshine in January, the days gradually lengthen as the year progresses. By March, the sunshine captures 258 hours, signaling the arrival of spring and a shift towards longer, brighter days. April and May continue this upward trajectory, with sunshine hours peaking at 288 hours in May, as spring unfolds into a vibrant and warm season. This steady increase highlights the rejuvenating nature of spring, culminating in the abundant sunshine of the summer months.
Summer truly showcases Rhode Island's sunny disposition, with July leading the way at 342 hours of glorious sunshine, creating ideal conditions for outdoor activities and beachgoers alike. Although August sees a slight decrease to 324 hours, it still maintains a robust supply of sunlight. As the season transitions to autumn, sunshine hours begin to wane, with September reporting 279 hours and October following with 223 hours. By November, the decline continues, dropping to 204 hours, and winter reintroduces lower sunshine levels, concluding the annual cycle. This ebb and flow of sunshine not only shapes the region's climate but also influences the lifestyle and activities of its residents throughout the year.
The UV Index (UVI) in Rhode Island demonstrates a clear seasonal pattern, reflecting variations in sun exposure as the year progresses. In the winter months, particularly January, the UVI begins at a moderate 3, indicating relatively low levels of ultraviolet radiation. As spring approaches, February sees an increase to a UVI of 5, and by March, it rises further to 6, signaling that residents should begin to take precautions as the sun becomes more potent. April marks a significant jump, with a UVI of 8, while May reaches a peak of 9, highlighting the increasing intensity of sunlight and the need for sun protection as the outdoor season kicks into full gear.
During the summer months, Rhode Island experiences its highest UV exposure, with June peaking at a UVI of 10, marking it as the month with the most intense sunlight. This high level remains into July and August, both showing a UVI of 9, suggesting that sun safety measures, such as sunscreen and protective clothing, should remain a priority. As autumn approaches, the UV Index starts to decline, hitting 8 in September and subsequently falling to 6 in October. The colder months see further reductions, with November recording a UVI of 4 and December dropping to a minimal 2, indicating much lower sun intensity. This seasonal variation in UV exposure serves as a reminder for residents to adapt their sun protection habits throughout the year.
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In Rhode Island, daylight duration reveals a striking seasonal rhythm, with hours of sunlight steadily increasing from the depths of winter through the spring and into summer. Starting the year, January offers just 9 hours of daylight, which gradually extends to 10 hours in February and rises further to 11 hours in March as the days grow longer. The trend continues through April and May, with daylight reaching 13 hours and peaking at 14 hours, indicating a vibrant buildup towards the long days of summer.
As summer fully sets in, June provides the maximum daylight duration at 15 hours, allowing residents ample time for outdoor activities and enjoyment of the natural environment. Following June, daylight begins to taper off, with July and August offering 14 hours and 13 hours, respectively. As autumn approaches, daylight diminishes to 12 hours in September and further declines to 11 hours in October. By the time winter returns, daylight duration drops back to 9 hours in both November and December, marking a full cyclical return to shorter days. This ebb and flow of daylight not only shapes the daily lives of Rhode Islanders but also influences the region’s seasonal activities and natural rhythms.
Bristol, United States, experiences a diverse climate with significant temperature variations throughout the year, ranging from cold winters with minimums of -20°C (-4°F) in January to warm summers peaking at 37°C (99°F) in July. Precipitation is fairly distributed across the year, with October being the wettest month, receiving 135 mm (5.3 in). Sunshine hours increase markedly from 150 hours in January to a peak of 347 hours in July, indicating a gradual transition from shorter winter days to longer summer ones. For more detailed information, visit the Bristol climate.
Narragansett, located in the United States, experiences a diverse climate with distinct seasonal variations. Winter temperatures can plunge to as low as -19°C (-1°F) in January, while summer highs reach up to 33°C (93°F) in July, providing a wide temperature range throughout the year. Precipitation peaks in October at 144 mm (5.7 in), and sunshine is most abundant in July with 346 hours, ensuring plenty of sunny days for outdoor activities. The transition months, like April and September, offer moderate conditions with pleasant temperatures and moderate rainfall. Overall, the town offers a mix of chilly winters and warm summers, detailed further in the Narragansett climate.
Narragansett Pier experiences a varied climate with cold winters and warm summers. In the winter months, temperatures can drop to -19°C (-1°F) in January, while average temperatures hover around 1°C (34°F), accompanied by moderate precipitation of up to 130 mm (5.1 in) in April. Summertime brings warmer conditions, with average temperatures reaching 23°C (73°F) in July and August, and highs peaking at 33°C (93°F). The area receives a decent amount of sunshine, with the sunniest months being June and July, accumulating over 320 hours of sunshine. For more detailed climate information, visit the Narragansett Pier climate.
New Shoreham, United States, experiences a varied climate with cold winters and warm summers. The coldest month, January, sees average temperatures around 2°C (36°F), whereas July, the warmest month, has an average of 22°C (72°F). Precipitation is fairly distributed throughout the year, with October receiving the most at 158 mm (6.2 in), and June the least, at 85 mm (3.3 in). Sunshine in this locale peaks in July with 351 hours and dips in January with 150 hours. For more detailed information, visit the New Shoreham climate.
Newport, United States, experiences a temperate climate characterized by cold winters and mild summers. In winter, temperatures can drop to -17°C (2°F) in January, with average highs reaching up to 14°C (57°F). Summer months are warm, with July witnessing average temperatures of 22°C (72°F) and highs of 29°C (84°F). Precipitation peaks in October at 169 mm (6.7 in), while August remains the driest with 89 mm (3.5 in). The city enjoys abundant sunshine in summer, peaking at 347 hours in July. For more details, visit Newport climate.
Providence experiences a diverse climate with temperatures fluctuating significantly throughout the year. Winters can be quite cold, with January and February averaging just above freezing, while summer months like July and August warm up with average temperatures around 23°C (74°F). Precipitation is relatively consistent year-round, with the heaviest rainfall observed in October at 133 mm (5.3 in) and lighter rainfall in January with 73 mm (2.9 in). The city enjoys generous sunshine in the summer, especially in July with 346 hours, contrasting with the shorter days and less sun in the winter, such as 149 hours in January. For more detailed information, see the Providence climate.
In conclusion, Rhode Island's climate is characterized by distinct seasonal changes in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours. From the biting cold of winter to the warmth of summer, each season paints a unique picture that influences both the environment and the lifestyle of its residents. The gradual increase in daylight hours coupled with rising temperatures and peak UV exposure in summer signifies a period of growth and outdoor engagement, while the shorter days and lower sunlight levels in winter prompt a retreat into indoor activities. Understanding these climatic patterns not only enriches our appreciation of the region's natural beauty but also highlights the importance of adapting to environmental changes in our daily lives.