Texas Climate

Last updated: January 18, 2025

Texas, with its diverse climate, showcases a blend of Köppen-Geiger climate classes including Cfa, BSh, BWh, BWk, and BSk. The state experiences a wide range of temperatures, highlighted by a minimum plunge to -29°C (-19°F) in February, an average temperature fluctuating around 20°C (69°F), and a maximum soaring to an intense 45°C (114°F) in July. This climatic variability not only defines the state's seasonal character but also significantly influences its ecosystems and human activities.

Texas temperature by month

Texas exhibits notable seasonal temperature patterns, transitioning from the chill of winter to the scorching summer months. In the early months of the year, January and February experience frigid lows, with record minimums reaching -29°C (-19°F), before a gradual warming trend takes hold in March and April, where average temperatures rise to around 17°C (63°F) and 20°C (68°F), respectively. By May, the state enters the peak of heat, with average highs climbing to 24°C (76°F), which escalates further into the summer months of June and July, where temperatures consistently reach 45°C (113°F) and beyond. The heat begins to ease in September, dropping to an average of 26°C (80°F), while October and November signal another cool down, with temperatures once again dipping into the negative as winter approaches. By December, conditions mirror those of the year’s start, illustrating Texas's dynamic climate marked by significant contrasts and seasonal shifts.

Monthly Temperatures in Texas, United States

The chart illustrates Texas'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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec505363687682848479705954
Data source: Texas 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.

San Antonio experiences a significant temperature range throughout the year, with February lows dipping to -12°C (10°F) and sizzling highs reaching 41°C (106°F) in July. Similarly, Austin faces extreme weather conditions, recording a frigid -15°C (5°F) in February and soaring to 42°C (108°F) in July. Houston's climate, while slightly milder, still sees temperatures fall to -12°C (11°F) in February and rise to 38°C (100°F) in August. For more information, explore the detailed monthly temperature in San Antonio, monthly temperature in Austin, and monthly temperature in Houston.

Precipitation Patterns in Texas

Texas experiences a varied precipitation pattern throughout the year, with distinct fluctuations in both amount and distribution. The early months of the year, particularly January and February, see relatively low rainfall, measuring 54 mm (2.1 in) and 69 mm (2.7 in), respectively. However, precipitation increases steadily leading into spring, reaching a peak in May with substantial rainfall of 133 mm (5.2 in). This month is not only the wettest of the year but also features over 11 rainy days, underscoring the state's transition into the warmer season where thunderstorms become more prevalent.

As the year progresses into summer, Texas continues to receive significant rainfall, particularly in September with a notable 105 mm (4.1 in). However, the late summer months, particularly July and August, witness rainfall amounts averaging around 72 mm (2.8 in) and 89 mm (3.5 in) respectively, indicating a slight drop after May's peak. Moving into fall, rainfall amounts gradually decrease leading to November, which records the lowest monthly total of 49 mm (1.9 in). Overall, Texas experiences a diverse precipitation pattern characterized by seasonal shifts that profoundly influence local ecosystems and agricultural practices.

Monthly Average Precipitation in Texas, United States

The average monthly precipitation in Texas, providing insights into seasonal rainfall patterns and the region's precipitation trends throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec54697487133947289105954963
Data source: Texas precipitation data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

Sunshine Duration in Texas

In Texas, sunshine duration exhibits a pronounced seasonal pattern characterized by a gradual increase from winter to summer. During the winter months, specifically January and February, the state averages around 177 to 182 hours of sunshine, providing a modest light for the cooler days. As spring progresses, sunshine hours escalate significantly, with March receiving 247 hours and April seeing an increase to 269 hours. This upward trajectory continues into May, culminating in a robust 301 hours. The arrival of summer marks the peak sunshine period, particularly in July, where Texans bask in an impressive 349 hours of sunlight, showcasing the sun-drenched nature of the Lone Star State.

As the summer transitions into fall, sunshine hours show a gradual decline, yet still remain substantial. August, while slightly lower than July, still boasts a significant 331 hours of sunshine, followed by September with 284 hours. By the time October arrives, conditions remain pleasant with 272 hours of sunlight, easing into the shorter days of November and December, which record 241 hours and 229 hours, respectively. The overall trend highlights not only the abundance of sunlight during the warmer months but also the sharp shifts as seasons change, reflecting the vital role sunshine plays in shaping Texas’s climate and lifestyle.

Monthly Sunshine in Texas, United States

Monthly sunshine duration represents the total hours of direct sunlight Texas receives each month, excluding periods when the sun is obscured by clouds or other obstructions.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec177h182h247h269h301h334h349h331h284h272h241h229h
Data source: Texas sunshine duration data aggregated from multiple regional locations, generated using Copernicus Climate Change Service information.

Texas UV Index Trends

The UV Index (UVI) in Texas demonstrates a clear seasonal pattern, with values rising sharply as the state transitions from winter to summer. In the colder months of January and December, the UVI remains relatively low at 6, reflecting decreased UV radiation. As winter gives way to spring, February sees a notable increase to 9, followed by March, which reaches a UVI of 10. The upward trend continues dramatically into April and May, where the UVI peaks at 13. This elevation in UV levels indicates heightened sun exposure risks, prompting residents to take precautions as they enjoy the sunnier days.

Throughout the summer months, the UVI remains consistently high at 13 in June, July, and August, marking the period of the most intense UV radiation. As summer wanes into fall, the UVI begins to decline slightly, settling at 12 in August and tapering further to 11 in September. By October, the index drops to 10, before easing down to 7 in November. This seasonal fluctuation emphasizes the importance of sun safety practices during the peak UVI months in Texas, particularly from April through August, when the risk of overexposure to harmful UV rays is greatest.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Texas, United States

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Texas. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec69101313131312111076
Data source: Texas 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 Texas

Daylight duration in Texas exhibits a well-defined seasonal cycle, marked by a gradual increase from winter through spring and then fluctuating during the summer months. In January, daylight lingers for about 10 hours, but by February, it stretches to 11 hours, signaling the approach of spring. March maintains this daylight length, while April registers a notable increase to 12 hours. As the days grow longer, May offers an average of 13 hours of daylight, culminating in June with the longest days of the year, providing 14 hours of sunlight for outdoor activities and enjoyment.

As summer progresses into early fall, daylight duration begins to recede. July and August both offer 13 hours of daylight, but the gradual decline becomes evident in September, where daylight reduces to 12 hours. Following this, October sees another drop to 11 hours, and both November and December close the year with 10 hours of daylight each. This annual pattern underscores the rhythmic nature of Texas's daylight hours, impacting various aspects of life, from agriculture to recreational activities, with the longest days bringing both opportunities and challenges during the peak summer period.

Average Monthly Daylight Hours in Texas, United States

This chart shows the total daylight hours Texas receives each month, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec622h664h719h776h823h846h833h791h737h681h633h608h
Data source: Texas daylight hours, calculated based on aggregated data for various regional locations, determined by the times between sunrise and sunset.

Climate Highlights of Texas's Popular Destinations

Austin exhibits a varied climate with temperatures ranging from January lows of -8°C (17°F) to July highs reaching 42°C (108°F). The city experiences considerable rainfall throughout the year, with May being the wettest month at 155 mm (6.1 in), while dryer periods occur in January and November. Sunshine is abundant, peaking in July with 350 hours, and the least occurring in February with 166 hours. This blend of warm temperatures, moderate precipitation, and ample sunshine makes Austin a dynamic place to experience various weather patterns. For more information on the Austin climate.

Barton Creek in the United States experiences a varied climate, with temperatures ranging from a chilly average of 11°C (52°F) in January to a hot average of 30°C (86°F) in August. The region witnesses its heaviest rainfall in May, with 155 mm (6.1 in), while the sunniest month is July, boasting 350 hours of sunshine. The summer months are markedly hot, with peak temperatures reaching up to 42°C (108°F) in July. In contrast, the winter months are milder and less humid, with December experiencing an average temperature of 13°C (55°F). For more detailed climate information, visit Barton Creek climate.

The Bolivar Peninsula in the United States experiences a warm climate with temperatures ranging from mild winters to hot summers. Winter months like January feature average temperatures around 13°C (56°F) with rainfall averaging 86 mm (3.4 in), while summer months, particularly August, see temperatures soar to an average of 29°C (84°F) and experience the highest rainfall at 239 mm (9.4 in). Spring and fall offer moderate conditions, with April and October having average temperatures of 21°C (70°F) and 24°C (75°F) respectively. Notable is the summer sunshine, with July peaking at 327 hours, providing ample sunlight. For more information, visit the Bolivar Peninsula climate.

Canyon Lake, United States experiences a diverse climate with distinct seasonal variations. Winters are mild, with temperatures ranging from -13°C (8°F) in February to highs around 30°C (85°F) in the same month and precipitation around 62 mm. Summers are hot, reaching peak temperatures of 41°C (105°F) in July and abundant sunshine of up to 350 hours. Precipitation peaks in May at 144 mm (5.7 in), while autumn remains relatively warm with average temperatures around 21°C (70°F) in October. For more details, visit the Canyon Lake climate.

Corpus Christi, United States experiences a subtropical climate with mild winters and hot, humid summers. Temperatures range from a minimum of -7°C (20°F) in February to a maximum of 38°C (100°F) during the summer months of June and July. Precipitation is heaviest from May to September, peaking in May with 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while the city enjoys ample sunshine throughout the year, particularly from May to August with over 300 hours each month. The combination of warm temperatures, seasonal rain, and abundant sunshine makes Corpus Christi a popular destination for those seeking warm weather activities year-round. For more detailed information about the Corpus Christi climate.

Dallas experiences a range of temperatures throughout the year, with winter months reaching lows of -19°C (-2°F) and summer highs peaking at 42°C (108°F). The city sees significant variation in rainfall, with wetter months like May receiving up to 178 mm (7.0 in) and drier months such as July receiving as little as 47 mm (1.8 in). Sunshine is abundant, particularly from May to August, with July enjoying the most with 361 hours. This diverse climate makes Dallas climate unique, balancing hot, sunlit summers with cooler, moderately wet winters.

Fort Davis, located in the high desert region of Texas, experiences significant temperature variations throughout the year, with average monthly temperatures ranging from 7°C (44°F) in January to 26°C (79°F) in June. The summers are warm but tempered by high elevation, while winters can be cold with temperatures occasionally dropping below -14°C (8°F). Precipitation is relatively sparse, peaking in the summer months, particularly in August and September when it averages around 42-43 mm (1.7 in). The region enjoys considerable sunshine year-round, with July offering the most, averaging 365 hours. Overall, Fort Davis features a semi-arid climate characterized by dry conditions and substantial seasonal sunshine, which can be explored further in the Fort Davis climate.

Fort Worth, Texas, experiences a varied climate with significant temperature shifts across the year. Winters can be chilly, with temperatures dropping to as low as -19°C (-2°F) in February, while summers are hot, often reaching up to 42°C (108°F) in July. The region receives most of its rainfall in May, with precipitation levels peaking at 149 mm (5.9 in), while July tends to be drier with only 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain. Sunshine is abundant throughout the year, particularly in the summer months, with July experiencing the most sunshine at 361 hours. For a detailed overview of Fort Worth's climate, visit the Fort Worth climate page.

Fredericksburg, United States, experiences a varied climate throughout the year, with mild winter temperatures ranging from -15°C (5°F) to 30°C (85°F) in February and hot summer months where temperatures soar up to 40°C (105°F) in July. Average yearly temperatures fluctuate, with pleasant springs and falls offering temperatures around 19°C (67°F) to 25°C (78°F). Rainfall is moderate, peaking in May with 141 mm (5.6 in) and dipping to 30 mm (1.2 in) in November, while sunshine hours peak in the summer months with July seeing 356 hours. For more detailed information about the climate, you can check Fredericksburg climate.

Galveston, located on the Gulf Coast of Texas, experiences a subtropical climate characterized by mild winters and hot, humid summers. Winter months from December to February see average temperatures ranging from 14°C (57°F) to 15°C (59°F), with January and February being relatively dry, receiving 90 mm (3.6 in) and 88 mm (3.4 in) of precipitation, respectively. The summer period from June to August is warm with average temperatures reaching up to 29°C (84°F) and precipitation peaking at 210 mm (8.3 in) in August. Sunshine is plentiful throughout the year, with the sunniest months being July and August, offering over 320 hours of sunshine each. For more detailed information, visit the Galveston climate page.

Located in Texas, Glen Rose experiences varied climatic conditions throughout the year. Winters are chilly with average temperatures in January and February hovering around 9°C (48°F) to 10°C (50°F), while the summer months of June to August see average highs reaching a sweltering 28°C (82°F) to 30°C (86°F). Precipitation peaks in May, recording 145 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while July receives the least with only 48 mm (1.9 in). The region enjoys generous sunshine, especially from May to August, with July basking in 361 hours of sunlight. For more detailed information, refer to the Glen Rose climate.

Granbury, United States experiences a varied climate with distinct seasonal changes. Winters are mild, with temperatures in January averaging 8°C (47°F), and precipitation is relatively low at 44 mm (1.7 in), increasing to 79 mm (3.1 in) in February. The region sees a warming trend from spring to summer, peaking in July with temperatures reaching an average high of 30°C (86°F) and minimal rainfall of 38 mm (1.5 in). Sunshine is abundant, with the most sunshine in July at 361 hours, decreasing slightly into the autumn. For more detailed weather patterns, visit the Granbury climate page.

Grapevine, United States, experiences a varied climate throughout the year, with winter temperatures dipping as low as -18°C (0°F) in February and summer highs reaching up to 42°C (108°F) in July. Grapevine climate Winters are relatively dry, with January and November seeing around 56 mm (2.2 in) of precipitation, while May is the wettest month, recording 160 mm (6.3 in) of rain. The abundance of sunshine varies significantly, peaking during July, which boasts 358 hours of sunlight, contrasting with January's 175 hours. This dynamic blend of temperature, rainfall, and sunlight patterns defines Grapevine's distinct climate profile.

Houston, Texas experiences a subtropical climate characterized by hot summers and mild winters. Average temperatures range from 13°C (55°F) in January to 29°C (84°F) in August, with extreme lows reaching as far as -12°C (11°F) in February and highs climbing to 38°C (100°F) in August. Precipitation peaks in September at 202 mm (8.0 in), while the driest month is November with 82 mm (3.2 in). The city enjoys abundant sunshine, especially from May to August, with average monthly sunshine hours reaching up to 328 in July. For more detailed information, visit the Houston climate page.

Kemah, United States, features a climate with distinct seasonal variations, characterized by mild winters and hot, humid summers. During winter months, temperatures range from -10°C (14°F) to 27°C (81°F), gradually warming to summer highs of 36°C (97°F) in August. The area experiences significant rainfall, with the peak in September at 216 mm (8.5 in), while precipitation remains considerable throughout the year. Kemah is generally sunny, especially from March through October, enjoying over 250 hours of sunshine monthly during this period. For more detailed information, please visit the Kemah climate page.

Marfa, located in Texas, experiences a semi-arid climate characterized by hot summers and mild winters. During summer months, temperatures often peak around 39°C (102°F) in June and July, while winter months see a decrease with minimum temperatures dropping to -14°C (7°F) in January and February. Annual precipitation remains relatively low with August and September receiving the highest rainfall at 40 mm (1.6 in) and 47 mm (1.9 in) respectively. Marfa enjoys abundant sunshine throughout the year, with July having the highest average of 365 hours, making outdoor activities quite favorable. For more details on Marfa’s climate, visit the Marfa climate page.

New Braunfels experiences a diverse climate throughout the year, characterized by mild to warm winter months and hot summer temperatures. In winter, temperatures can drop to as low as -14°C (7°F), but rise to an average of 11-13°C (53-56°F) in January and December. Summers are hot with averages reaching up to 30°C (86°F) in August, and maximum temperatures often exceed 38°C (100°F) in several months. The city receives the most rain from April to September, peaking in May with 136 mm (5.4 in) of precipitation. Sunshine varies seasonally, with July and August offering the most hours, reaching up to 343 per month. For more details, visit the New Braunfels climate page.

Port Aransas, Texas, experiences a warm and humid climate with mild winters and hot summers. The winter months, from December to February, have average temperatures ranging from 16°C to 18°C (61°F to 64°F), with occasional lows below freezing in February. Summers, especially in July and August, are hot with average temperatures of around 28°C to 29°C (82°F to 84°F) and maximums often nearing 31°C (88°F). The region receives significant rainfall, particularly from May to September, with September being the wettest month at 177 mm (7.0 in). This coastal city enjoys abundant sunshine, peaking at over 330 hours in the summer months, perfect for beachgoers. For more detailed information, visit the Port Aransas climate page.

Rockport, United States, experiences a varied climate throughout the year with temperatures ranging from chilly -6°C (22°F) in February to warm summer highs of up to 34°C (94°F). The precipitation pattern sees significant rainfall in May, September, and June, with 145 mm (5.7 in), 176 mm (6.9 in), and 148 mm (5.8 in) respectively, whereas drier months like February record only 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain. Sunshine hours increase from the moderate 178 hours in January to peak at 332 hours during June and July, before gradually decreasing by December. With mild winters and hot, humid summers, Rockport's climate is well-documented and explored further on the Rockport climate page.

San Antonio, located in Texas, experiences a diverse climate throughout the year, characterized by hot summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures can soar to a peak of 41°C (106°F) in July, whereas winter months like January experience lows down to -7°C (20°F), ensuring a varied temperature range. The city receives a moderate amount of precipitation, with May being the wettest month at 130 mm (5.1 in), and overall sunshine hours peak during summer months, particularly in July with 344 hours. Despite fluctuations throughout the year, San Antonio's generally warm and sunny conditions make it appealing to residents and visitors alike. For more detailed information about the climate, visit the San Antonio climate page.

San Marcos, Texas, experiences a varied climate throughout the year characterized by hot summers and relatively mild winters. The hottest months are July and August, with average temperatures reaching approximately 29°C (84°F) and maximums peaking around 40°C (104°F). In contrast, January and February are cooler, with average temperatures around 11-12°C (52-54°F) and minimums dropping to as low as -15°C (6°F). The area receives the most precipitation in May, with 149 mm (5.9 in), while sunshine is plentiful in the summer months, reaching a peak of 348 hours in July. For more detailed climate information, you can explore the San Marcos climate.

South Padre Island, located in Texas, United States, experiences a warm and tropical climate with temperatures ranging from an average low of 0°C (33°F) in February to a high average of 31°C (88°F) in June through September. Monthly precipitation varies significantly, with the driest period in April receiving 26 mm (1.0 in) and the wettest month of September accumulating 136 mm (5.3 in). Sunshine is abundant year-round, peaking in August with 339 hours of sunlight, while even the winter months like January see around 183 hours. This combination of warm temperatures, moderate rainfall, and ample sunshine makes it an appealing destination for beachgoers and those seeking mild weather. For more detailed climate information, visit the South Padre Island climate page.

Waco, Texas experiences a varied climate with seasonal temperature fluctuations and rainfall patterns. Winters are mild but can hit low extremes, with minimum temperatures dropping to -16°C (4°F) in February, while summers are notably hot, peaking at 44°C (111°F) in July. Rainfall is distributed unevenly throughout the year, with the heaviest precipitation in May, accumulating to 184 mm (7.2 in), making spring relatively wet. Sunshine is abundant in the summer, especially in July with 356 hours, contributing to its hot conditions. For more detailed information on the climate in Waco, visit Waco climate.

Wimberley, Texas experiences a diverse range of temperatures throughout the year, with winter months seeing lows down to -15°C (6°F) in February and summer peaks reaching up to 41°C (106°F) in July. Precipitation varies, having a wet season in late spring, particularly in May, which averages 149 mm (5.9 in) of rainfall, while the driest months appear to be January and November with 48 mm (1.9 in) and 49 mm (1.9 in) respectively. Sunshine hours illustrate bright, sunny days across all seasons, with the most sun in July reaching up to 348 hours, tapering to around 165 in February. Overall, Wimberley climate reflects a pattern of hot summers, cool winters, and significant seasonal variability in rainfall and sunshine.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Texas's climate is characterized by its diverse temperature ranges, varying precipitation patterns, and significant seasonal changes in sunlight and UV exposure. The state experiences sweltering summers with pronounced peaks in temperatures and sunshine, alongside notable periods of heightened UV radiation that necessitate sun safety practices. Conversely, winters bring cooler temperatures and reduced daylight, creating a dynamic environment that influences both local ecosystems and human activities. Understanding these climatic patterns is crucial for residents and visitors alike, as it empowers them to adapt to Texas's unique weather conditions and make informed choices throughout the year.

Discover the Climate of Texas's Places

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