Last updated: February 24, 2025
In February, Yosemite Valley experiences a vigorous winter climate, characterized by a maximum temperature of 13°C (56°F) and a chilling minimum of -21°C (-5°F), underscoring the region's stark temperature fluctuations. The average temperature hovers around -3°C (27°F), providing a chilly backdrop to this breathtaking landscape. With 226 mm (8.9 in) of precipitation over 11 days, the valley witnesses significant snowfall and rain, creating a mesmerizing winter wonderland. Pairing this with a high humidity level of 85%, visitors can expect a mystical atmosphere, marked by fog and fresh snowfall, ideal for snow activities and photography amidst dramatic scenery.
In February, Yosemite Valley experiences a chilly grip as temperatures dip even lower than in January, with minimums reaching -21°C (-5°F). Despite this, the average temperature remains consistent at -3°C (27°F), while daytime highs can offer a somewhat mild 13°C (56°F). This trend of sharply contrasted temperatures signifies a lingering winter, with the valley still clothed in snow, yet hints of warmth occasionally break through. As the month progresses, the gradual rise in maximum temperatures foreshadows the onset of spring, suggesting that while February remains firmly in the grip of winter, the promise of milder days is just around the corner.
February in Yosemite Valley sees a striking continuation of the winter's wet embrace, with precipitation amounting to 226 mm (8.9 in), closely mirroring January's totals. This month recorded 11 days of rainfall, marking a slight increase in precipitation days from January. With temperatures still on the cooler side, the consistency of February's rainfall adds to the enchanting winter landscape, while also hinting at the transitioning seasons ahead. As snowpacks build in the mountains, the valley's vibrant, lush scenery begins to take shape, showcasing nature's resilience as it gears up for the approach of spring. The trend of high precipitation continues into March but starts to taper off significantly in the months that follow, illustrating a seasonal shift in Yosemite Valley's weather patterns.
In February, Yosemite Valley experiences a notable increase in humidity, reaching 85%, a slight rise from January's 82%. This trend signals the transition into the wetter months of the year, as winter’s grip begins to loosen. Following February, humidity gradually decreases, plummeting to 72% in April and continuing its decline through the summer months, ultimately dipping to a low of 30% in August. This pattern highlights Yosemite’s seasonal shifts, where the lushness of winter is followed by a drier, warmer climate as the year progresses. By the fall, humidity begins its ascent again, reflecting the valley's dynamic weather changes and its striking natural beauty throughout the seasons.
In February, the UV Index in Yosemite Valley rises to 6, signaling a shift to the high exposure category with a recommended burn time of just 25 minutes. This marks a noticeable increase from January's moderate levels, indicating that as winter gives way to early spring, sun safety becomes increasingly important. The trend suggests that as the months progress toward summer, UV intensity significantly escalates, peaking in May and June at an extreme level of 12. It’s essential for visitors to stay vigilant and protect their skin during this transition, especially as March will see an even sharper spike to 9. For further insights and trends, check the Yosemite Valley UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
In February, Yosemite Valley basks in a delightful 224 hours of sunshine, marking a noticeable increase from January's 170 hours. As the winter chill begins to recede, the days gradually lengthen, hinting at the vibrant spring ahead. This upward trend continues into the following months, with sunshine hours steadily rising, culminating in a peak of 392 hours in July. This seasonal evolution illustrates not only the increasing warmth but also the stunning transformation of Yosemite's breathtaking landscapes. The progression from winter's shorter days to the summer's abundant sunlight invites visitors to experience the park’s natural beauty in varied and captivating ways.
In Yosemite Valley, February marks a noteworthy shift in weather patterns, with sunny days becoming increasingly likely as the month progresses. The chance of sunshine in February rises to 58%, a significant improvement from the colder, cloudier January, which stands at only 44%. This upward trend continues into the spring months, with March holding a close 55% chance of sun, as the region transitions toward April's more robust 69% sunshine probability. As winter yields to spring, visitors can expect a fresher landscape intertwined with clearer skies, making February a promising precursor to the sunnier, more vibrant days ahead.
As February unfolds in Yosemite Valley, the daylight hours gradually increase to 10 hours, marking a noticeable shift from the 9 hours seen in January. This trend of extending daylight continues into the upcoming months, with March boasting 11 hours and daylight expanding steadily as spring approaches. The progression of daylight not only enhances the valley's stunning vistas but also invigorates outdoor activities, inviting visitors to embrace the beauty of nature as it awakens from winter’s slumber. With each passing month, the longer days promise a vibrant tapestry of colors and experiences, making Yosemite a captivating destination in the lead-up to summer's peak luminosity.
In Yosemite Valley, February showcases a consistent wind pattern, with an average speed of 2.1 m/s (5 mph)—the same gentle breeze felt in January and March. This stability in wind conditions hints at a tranquil atmosphere, ideal for those seeking solace in nature's beauty. As the seasons transition into spring, the winds slightly diminish in April and May, dipping to 2.0 m/s (4 mph), creating a serene backdrop for budding wildflowers and awakening wildlife. The subsequent summer months bring a slight decrease, yet the valley enjoys a generally consistent wind environment, fostering perfect conditions for hiking and exploration throughout the year. Thus, February serves as a harmonious link in Yosemite's annual climate rhythm, balancing cool temperatures with calm breezes.
The weather in Yosemite Valley changes throughout the year, offering a unique experience in each season. Below is a month-by-month comparison of February's weather with other months, highlighting differences in temperature, precipitation, and other key factors. Click on each section to discover seasonal trends in Yosemite Valley and find detailed weather information for every month.
February weather shows slight nuances compared to January, particularly in temperature and precipitation. Both months experience an average temperature of -3°C (27°F), but February's minimum temperature dips slightly lower at -21°C (-5°F), while January's minimum is -18°C (0°F). In terms of maximum temperatures, February reaches up to 13°C (56°F) compared to January’s 11°C (51°F). Precipitation levels between the two months are quite similar, with February receiving 226 mm (8.9 in) over 11 days and January slightly higher at 227 mm (9.0 in) over 9 days, indicating a more prolonged wet period in February. Humidity levels are also marginally higher in February at 85%, compared to January's 82%. For a deeper look at the weather, you can check out the Yosemite Valley weather in January.
February and March exhibit similar temperature ranges, with both months experiencing a maximum of 13°C (56°F). However, February is colder on average, with a minimum temperature of -21°C (-5°F) compared to March's minimum of -17°C (1°F). In terms of precipitation, February sees slightly more, measuring 226 mm (8.9 in) over 11 days, while March has 209 mm (8.2 in) with precipitation occurring over 13 days. Additionally, humidity is marginally higher in February at 85%, compared to March's 80%. For more detailed information on the weather patterns in March, you can check Yosemite Valley weather in March.
February and April exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. February tends to be colder, with temperatures ranging from a frigid -21°C (-5°F) to a maximum of 13°C (56°F), while April sees slightly milder conditions, with temperatures fluctuating between -18°C (0°F) and 16°C (60°F). Interestingly, February experiences significantly more precipitation, totaling 226 mm (8.9 in) over 11 days, compared to April's 102 mm (4.0 in) across 8 days. Additionally, humidity levels are higher in February at 85%, whereas April's humidity decreases to 72%. For more information on the specific weather conditions in April, you can check Yosemite Valley weather in April.
February and May present stark contrasts in weather conditions. February boasts frigid temperatures, with a minimum of -21°C (-5°F) and an average of -3°C (27°F), while May offers a milder climate, featuring a minimum of -13°C (9°F) and an average of 6°C (43°F). The maximum temperature in May can reach a comfortable 24°C (75°F), significantly warmer than February's peak of 13°C (56°F). Additionally, February experiences substantially more precipitation, with 226 mm (8.9 in) over 11 days and a high humidity level of 85%, compared to May's much lighter rainfall of 68 mm (2.7 in) with a humidity of just 58%. For more detailed information on the weather conditions during May, you can check Yosemite Valley weather in May.
February and June present stark contrasts in weather conditions. February is characterized by much colder temperatures, with a minimum of -21°C (-5°F) and an average around -3°C (27°F), while June features milder temperatures that range from a minimum of -5°C (24°F) to an average of 13°C (55°F). February also sees considerable precipitation, with 226 mm (8.9 in) falling over 11 days, resulting in a humid environment with 85% humidity. In contrast, June offers much drier weather, only receiving 20 mm (0.8 in) of precipitation over just 5 days and a significantly lower humidity of 49%. For more details on June weather in this region, check out Yosemite Valley weather in June.
In February, the weather is characterized by harsh cold, with temperatures ranging from a bone-chilling minimum of -21°C (-5°F) to a maximum of 13°C (56°F), along with significant precipitation of 226 mm (8.9 in) over 11 days and high humidity at 85%. In contrast, July offers a much milder climate, with temperatures shifting from a minimum of 3°C (37°F) to a pleasant average of 17°C (63°F) and a peak of 29°C (85°F). Rainfall is much lighter in July, averaging only 24 mm (0.9 in) across six days, coupled with a refreshing low humidity of 36%. For those curious about the specifics of summer weather, check out Yosemite Valley weather in July.
February and August present stark contrasts in weather conditions. February brings much colder temperatures, with average lows dipping to -21°C (-5°F) and only reaching a maximum of 13°C (56°F), while August enjoys much milder warmth, with lows of 4°C (39°F) and highs soaring to 29°C (84°F). Precipitation is significantly higher in February, averaging 226 mm (8.9 in) over 11 days, compared to August's relatively dry conditions with just 17 mm (0.7 in) over 5 days. Additionally, February's humidity is particularly high at 85%, creating a stark difference from August's more comfortable 30% humidity level, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. For a closer look at August conditions, check out Yosemite Valley weather in August.
February and September present dramatically different weather conditions. In February, temperatures can plunge to a minimum of -21°C (-5°F), with an average of -3°C (27°F) and a maximum of 13°C (56°F). This winter month experiences significant precipitation, amounting to 226 mm (8.9 in) over approximately 11 days, coupled with high humidity at 85%. In stark contrast, September offers milder temperatures, with a minimum of -8°C (18°F) and an average of 13°C (55°F), peaking at 28°C (83°F). The month sees much less precipitation, totaling just 17 mm (0.7 in) over 4 days, and the humidity drops to a comfortable 42%. For a closer look at September weather details, you can view Yosemite Valley weather in September.
February and October present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In February, temperatures can plunge as low as -21°C (-5°F) with an average around -3°C (27°F), while October enjoys milder climates, with lows of -10°C (15°F) and highs reaching up to 24°C (75°F). Additionally, February is notably wetter, with 226 mm (8.9 in) of precipitation over 11 days, compared to October's relatively dry 43 mm (1.7 in) over just 3 days. The humidity in February is significantly higher at 85%, compared to a more comfortable 59% in October. For those interested in the climate specifics of Yosemite Valley, you can find more details here: Yosemite Valley weather in October.
February and November present distinct weather patterns, highlighting the transition of seasons. In February, temperatures can plunge to a minimum of -21°C (-5°F) and average around -3°C (27°F), with a maximum of 13°C (56°F). This month is characterized by high humidity at 85% and significant precipitation, totaling 226 mm (8.9 in) over about 11 days. In contrast, November shows slightly milder conditions, with minimum temperatures of -20°C (-4°F) and an average of 2°C (36°F), while reaching a maximum of 18°C (65°F). The precipitation in November is lower, at 98 mm (3.9 in) over 6 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 78%. For more details on weather conditions specific to this month, you can refer to Yosemite Valley weather in November.
February and December showcase quite similar temperature ranges, with average temperatures hovering around -3°C (27°F) in both months. However, February tends to be slightly colder at its minimum, reaching -21°C (-5°F), compared to December's minimum of -17°C (1°F). Additionally, February sees significantly more precipitation, totaling 226 mm (8.9 in) over 11 days, while December offers less rain at 160 mm (6.3 in) across 10 days. Humidity is higher in February at 85%, compared to December's 79%. For a more detailed look at snow and weather patterns, you can visit Yosemite Valley weather in December.
February in Yosemite Valley is a month of transition, as winter's chill begins to give way to early signs of spring. While temperatures remain cool, with averages dipping below freezing, the month often brings a significant amount of precipitation, making it one of the wetter times of the year. The high humidity levels enhance the crisp feel of the air, while the potential for snowfall adds a picturesque layer to the landscape. This combination of factors differentiates February from the drier and warmer months that follow, providing visitors with a unique experience of Yosemite's serene beauty during winter. For a deeper understanding of the overall weather patterns across the year, explore the Yosemite Valley Climate.