Last updated: January 18, 2025
Virginia, located in the United States, exhibits a temperate climate characterized by its Köppen-Geiger climate classifications of Cfa (humid subtropical) and Cfb (oceanic). The region experiences a significant temperature range, with January witnessing frigid minimums plummeting to -26°C (-15°F), contrasting sharply with the sweltering peaks of 39°C (103°F) in July. Overall, the average annual temperature rests at a moderate 15°C (59°F), contributing to Virginia's diverse climate and rich ecosystems.
Virginia's temperature patterns reveal distinct seasonal variations, with winter months showcasing frigid conditions. January and February often experience minimum temperatures as low as -26°C (-15°F) and -23°C (-9°F), gradually warming to average highs of 25°C (77°F) and 28°C (83°F), respectively. As spring approaches, temperatures steadily rise; March averages 9°C (48°F) and April reaches 14°C (57°F), signaling the transition to warmer weather. May heralds the onset of summer with averages climbing to 19°C (66°F), leading up to sweltering July, where temperatures peak at an impressive 39°C (103°F). The heat persists into August, before a gradual cooling trend emerges in September and October, with average temperatures dipping back to 16°C (62°F). November and December bring colder weather once again, rounding out the year with temperatures dipping back to winter lows, illustrating Virginia's dynamic climate and distinct seasonal rhythms.
The monthly temperature in Williamsburg, Virginia, varies significantly throughout the year, with a minimum of -14°C (6°F) in January and reaching up to 37°C (99°F) in July. In contrast, Alexandria experiences slightly more extreme conditions, with temperatures dropping to -14°C (7°F) in January and soaring to 38°C (102°F) in July. Meanwhile, Virginia Beach offers a milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -10°C (14°F) in January to a maximum of 35°C (95°F) in July. For detailed monthly temperature information, visit monthly temperature in Williamsburg, monthly temperature in Alexandria, or monthly temperature in Virginia Beach.
Virginia experiences a varied precipitation pattern throughout the year, with the late spring and summer months generally receiving the highest rainfall. May leads the way with 119 mm (4.7 in) of precipitation, closely followed by August at 128 mm (5.1 in), reflecting the region's lush foliage and vibrant ecosystem during this period. The peak precipitation occurs over an average of 12 days in May and 13 days in August, indicating frequent rainfall that supports the growing season. Additionally, April and June also contribute substantial moisture, with each registering more than 100 mm (4 in), creating favorable conditions for plant growth.
As the year progresses into the fall and winter months, precipitation levels begin to decline. January marks the start of the year with 71 mm (2.8 in), while November experiences a further reduction to 78 mm (3.1 in). The number of rainy days also decreases, with January averaging 8 days and November even lower with 7 days. Although February records the highest monthly precipitation at 106 mm (4.2 in), the overall trend indicates that Virginia's winter months are characterized by less frequent rainfall, helping to maintain a balanced hydrological cycle across the seasons.
Virginia enjoys a dynamic shift in sunshine duration throughout the year, with a noticeable increase as it transitions from winter to summer. January and February experience relatively limited sunlight, with only 154 and 181 hours, respectively. However, from March onward, the days start to lengthen, peaking significantly in June and July, which bask in an impressive 323 and 355 hours of sunshine. May, too, contributes to this upward trend, with 293 hours of sunshine, making it a delightful prelude to the summer months and ideal for outdoor activities.
As summer begins to wane, sunshine hours gradually decrease, with August still holding strong at 319 hours, but giving way to autumn's shorter days. By September, the duration dips to 279 hours, and it continues to decline through the fall, culminating in November's 226 hours and December's 191 hours. This seasonal ebb and flow highlights Virginia's rich climate, where abundant sunshine in the summer fosters vibrant landscapes, while the shorter days of winter bring a tranquil stillness to the region. The contrast between peak sunshine months and those with less sunlight underscores Virginia's diverse atmospheric conditions and offers ample opportunities for seasonal outdoor experiences.
The Ultraviolet (UV) Index in Virginia reflects significant seasonal variations, highlighting the importance of sun protection during certain months. Starting the year, January sees a moderate UVI of 4, which rises to 6 in February as daylight increases. As spring approaches, the levels escalate sharply, peaking in April with a high UVI of 11 that persists into the summer months of May, June, July, and August. This consistent high index underscores the necessity for sun safety measures, particularly during outdoor activities when the sun's rays are the strongest.
As summer transitions into fall, the UV Index begins to decline, dropping to 10 in both September and October before further decreasing in November to 5. By December, the UVI sinks to 3, reflecting the lower sun angle and shorter days typical of winter. This seasonal ebb and flow of the UV Index not only emphasizes the heightened risk of sun exposure during warmer months but also serves as a reminder for residents to adjust their sun protection practices according to seasonal changes, ensuring safety throughout the year.
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Virginia experiences notable fluctuations in daylight duration throughout the year, with significant increases from the depths of winter to the heights of summer. In January, daylight lasts for just 9 hours, gradually increasing to 10 hours in February. As spring approaches, the days lengthen more rapidly, reaching 11 hours in March and extending further to 13 hours in April. May continues this trend with 14 hours, a duration that remains consistent into June and July, creating long, sunlit days perfect for outdoor activities.
As summer transitions to fall, daylight duration begins to taper off, starting with 13 hours in August and decreasing to 12 hours in September. The downward trend persists into October, where daylight drops to 11 hours, and again to 10 hours in November. Finally, December returns to 9 hours, akin to the beginning of the year. This cyclical pattern of increasing and decreasing daylight underscores the seasonal rhythms of Virginia, influencing everything from agriculture to recreation and shaping the daily lives of its residents.
Alexandria, United States, experiences a diverse climate throughout the year with notable seasonal variations. Winters can be chilly, as January temperatures range from a minimum of -14°C (7°F) to an average of 3°C (38°F), while summers are hot and humid, with July seeing averages around 27°C (81°F) and reaching up to 38°C (102°F). Rainfall peaks in the summer months, with August experiencing the highest precipitation at 146 mm (5.7 inches), while sunshine hours are abundant in the summer, particularly in July with 357 hours. Overall, the city enjoys a relatively moderate climate with evident seasonal distinctions, making it a location of diverse weather patterns. For more details, you can refer to the Alexandria climate.
Appomattox, United States experiences a diverse climate with distinct seasonal variations. Winters are cold, with January temperatures ranging from a minimum of -15°C (5°F) to a maximum of 23°C (73°F), while summers are warm, particularly in July with averages of 27°C (81°F) and highs reaching 38°C (100°F). The region receives significant precipitation throughout the year, with April and May exhibiting the highest rainfall at 114 mm (4.5 in). Sunshine hours peak during summer, with July enjoying 355 hours of sunshine, reflecting a bright and warm season. More details about the climate can be found on the Appomattox climate page.
The climate in Arlington, United States, is characterized by distinct seasonal variations, with cold winters and warm, humid summers. January and February experience the coldest temperatures, with lows reaching -16°C (4°F), while July and August can have highs soaring up to 38°C (101°F). Precipitation is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, peaking in July with 157 mm (6.2 in) of rainfall. Sunshine hours increase significantly in the summer months, reaching a maximum of 356 hours in July, before gradually decreasing towards winter. For further details, check the Arlington climate.
The climate in Bull Run, United States, experiences significant seasonal variation characterized by cold winters and hot summers. Winter temperatures in January, for instance, range from a minimum of -15°C (5°F) to a maximum of 21°C (70°F), with an average of 3°C (37°F), and experience 60 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation and 150 sunshine hours. In contrast, the summer month of July sees temperatures rising from a minimum of 14°C (58°F) to a scorching 39°C (103°F), averaging 27°C (81°F), with 109 mm (4.3 in) of rainfall and 350 hours of sunshine. Rainfall peaks in August at 146 mm (5.7 in) while sunshine is most plentiful from June to August, reaching its zenith in July. For more detailed information, you can visit the Bull Run climate.
Charlottesville, located in the United States, experiences a diverse climate with significant seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, and sunshine. Winters can be quite chilly, with January temperatures ranging from as low as -18°C (0°F) to a high of 21°C (70°F), while July showcases the summer heat with average highs reaching 38°C (101°F). Rainfall is fairly distributed throughout the year, peaking in April and August with 118 mm (4.7 in and 4.6 in respectively), ensuring the region stays lush and green. The city enjoys abundant sunshine, especially in the summer months, with July basking in 357 hours of sunlight. For more information, visit the Charlottesville climate.
Chincoteague, located in Virginia, United States, experiences a temperate climate with noticeable seasonal variations. Winters are mild, with temperatures ranging from -15°C to 19°C (6°F to 67°F) in January, while summers are warm, reaching up to 35°C (96°F) in July. The area receives a moderate amount of precipitation throughout the year, averaging about 100 mm (4 inches) monthly, with July and October being the wettest months. Sunshine is abundant, particularly in summer, with July experiencing the most daylight, offering 368 hours of sunshine. For detailed climate data, visit the Chincoteague climate page.
Fredericksburg, United States, experiences a diverse range of temperatures throughout the year, with cold winters and hot summers. Winter lows can drop to -15°C (6°F) in January, while summer highs peak at 39°C (102°F) in July, offering a dynamic climate variation. Precipitation is fairly consistent, with August being the wettest month at 148 mm (5.8 in), contributing to an annual rhythm of wet and dry spells. Sunshine peaks in July with 354 hours, providing ample daylight during summer months, while winter sees shorter days with sunlight averaging around 156 hours in January. For more detailed climate information, visit the Fredericksburg climate.
Hot Springs, United States, experiences a diverse climate with marked seasonal variations. Winters can be quite cold, especially in January with minimum temperatures dropping to -22°C (-7°F), while summers are warm, with July and August seeing peak temperatures of up to 34°C (94°F). Precipitation is moderately distributed throughout the year, with May typically being the wettest month receiving 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain. Sunshine is plentiful in the summer, particularly in July when the city basks in 360 hours of sunlight. For more details, visit the Hot Springs climate page.
Luray, United States, experiences a varied climate throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from as low as -24°C (-11°F) in January to highs of 36°C (97°F) in July and August. The region receives moderate precipitation, peaking in May and August with 121 mm (4.8 in) and 123 mm (4.8 in) respectively, while the driest month is January with 58 mm (2.3 in) of rainfall. Sunshine hours fluctuate from 150 in January to 354 in July, providing ample sunlight in the summer months. For more detailed information, visit the Luray climate page.
The climate in Massanutten, United States, exhibits significant seasonal variation with cold winters and warm summers. Winter months, from December to February, see average temperatures around 3°C (39°F) with lows reaching as cold as -25°C (-13°F) and receive moderate precipitation ranging from 57 to 87 mm. As spring unfolds, temperatures rise steadily from March to May, peaking in summer with July experiencing average highs of 36°C (97°F). Summers are sunny, particularly July, with up to 354 hours of sunshine, and moderate rainfall, averaging around 65-105 mm. Autumn months maintain mild temperatures, a gradual cooling, and consistent rainfall, making Massanutten's climate diverse throughout the year. For more details, visit Massanutten climate.
Mount Vernon experiences a varied climate throughout the year with distinct seasonal changes. Winter months from December to February see temperatures ranging from -14°C (7°F) to 27°C (81°F) and moderate precipitation, particularly in February with 96 mm (3.8 in) of rain. The spring period, March to May, enjoys milder temperatures, reaching up to 35°C (95°F) by May, accompanied by increased sunshine and rainfall, with May seeing 286 sunshine hours and 121 mm (4.8 in) of precipitation. Summer, spanning June to August, is characterized by warm weather with average highs around 37°C (99°F) and substantial rainfall, particularly in August with 146 mm (5.7 in), while offering extensive sunshine, peaking in July with 357 hours. As autumn arrives, temperatures gradually decline, reaching a range of 2°C (36°F) to 36°C (97°F) by October, coupled with diminishing rainfall and daylight hours. For more details, visit the Mount Vernon climate.
Norfolk, United States, experiences a diverse climate with significant seasonal variations. Winters are relatively mild, with January and February temperatures averaging around 6°C (43°F) and 8°C (47°F) respectively, while summer months, particularly July and August, see averages peaking at 27°C (81°F) and 26°C (79°F). Precipitation is fairly consistent throughout the year, with the wettest months being July and August, receiving 142 mm (5.6 in) and 169 mm (6.6 in) of rain respectively. Sunshine hours peak in July, reaching up to 347 hours, contributing to the warm summer feel. For more details on Norfolk's climate, you can refer to the Norfolk climate.
Shenandoah experiences a diverse climate with notable seasonal temperature variations. Winters are cold, with January lows plummeting to -23°C (-9°F), while summer brings warmth, especially in July when temperatures peak at 36°C (98°F). Precipitation is fairly distributed throughout the year, with the heaviest falls in August at 131 mm (5.2 in). The region sees varying sunshine hours, increasing from 157 hours in January to a peak of 356 hours in July. For more detailed information on Shenandoah's climate, visit the Shenandoah climate page.
Virginia Beach experiences a varied climate, featuring cold temperatures in winter with January average lows around -10°C (14°F) and highs peaking at 21°C (70°F). Summers are warm, particularly July, with temperatures ranging from 20°C (69°F) to 35°C (95°F), and abundant sunshine of roughly 352 hours. Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, peaking in August with 152 mm (6.0 in) and showing drier periods in March with 80 mm (3.1 in). Typically, spring and fall offer moderate temperatures, with significant sunshine and precipitation, making them pleasant transitional seasons. For more information on the local climate, visit the Virginia Beach climate page.
Williamsburg, United States, experiences a varied climate with distinct seasonal changes. Winters are relatively mild, with January temperatures ranging from -14°C (6°F) to 22°C (71°F), while summer peaks in July with temperatures stretching from 18°C (65°F) to 37°C (99°F). The area receives consistent rainfall throughout the year, with August being the wettest month at 160 mm (6.3 in) and November the driest at 76 mm (3.0 in). Sunshine hours peak in summer, reaching 353 hours in July, providing ample daylight for outdoor activities. For more detailed information, visit the Williamsburg climate.
Winchester, United States, experiences a diverse climate with distinct seasonal changes. Winters are cold with average temperatures ranging from January's 1°C (34°F) to December's 3°C (38°F), while summers are warm, peaking in July with an average of 26°C (78°F). Precipitation is relatively consistent throughout the year, with May receiving the most at 142 mm (5.6 in) and January the least at 61 mm (2.4 in). Sunshine hours increase from winter's low in January with 146 hours to a summer high in July with 356 hours, offering a vibrant shift in weather patterns. For more detailed information, you can explore the Winchester climate.
Wolf Trap experiences a variable climate with cold winters and hot summers. January temperatures can plunge to a frigid -15°C (6°F), while summer peaks in July can soar to 38°C (101°F). The area records its highest precipitation in August with 150 mm (5.9 in), contrasting with drier months like January with 60 mm (2.4 in). Sunshine is ample in summer, reaching up to 356 hours in July, while winter months see significantly fewer hours of sunlight. Detailed climate data is accessible through the Wolf Trap climate page.
Yorktown, United States experiences a diverse climate with distinct seasonal variations. Winters are cool with January temperatures ranging from -12°C (12°F) to 19°C (67°F), while July is the hottest month, reaching up to 35°C (96°F) with an average of 27°C (81°F). Precipitation is fairly distributed throughout the year, peaking in August at 150 mm (5.9 in) and being lowest in November at 86 mm (3.4 in). Sunshine hours increase from winter to summer, from 166 hours in January to 353 hours in July, offering ample daylight for outdoor activities. For more detailed climate information, visit the Yorktown climate page.
In conclusion, Virginia's climate showcases a rich tapestry of seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours. These patterns not only define the region's environmental identity but also significantly impact daily life, agricultural practices, and outdoor recreational opportunities. The marked differences between summer's extended sunlight and winter's shorter days highlight the importance of adapting lifestyles to these rhythms. Understanding these climatic trends equips residents and visitors alike with the knowledge to embrace the natural beauty of Virginia year-round, while also promoting awareness of health and safety measures in response to changing atmospheric conditions.