Last updated: February 24, 2025
March in Chapel Hill, United States welcomes the transition of seasons with a mix of mild temperatures and occasional rainfall. The month experiences a maximum temperature of 31°C (88°F), balanced by a refreshing average of 11°C (53°F) and a chilly minimum of -5°C (24°F). Precipitation totals around 84 mm (3.3 in) across 10 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 81% that enhances the atmosphere of early spring. This dynamic weather pattern offers both warmth and unpredictability, inviting residents and visitors alike to embrace the beauty of March in this vibrant southern locale.
As March arrives in Chapel Hill, temperatures begin to show a notable shift towards warmth, with minimums hovering around -5°C (24°F) and an average of 11°C (53°F). This steady rise in temperature reflects the transition from winter's chill to the early hints of spring, culminating in a maximum of 31°C (88°F) on particularly sunny days. Compared to the colder months of January and February, where min temperatures dropped significantly lower, March brings a refreshing change, encouraging outdoor activities and the blooming of local flora. The gradual increase in warmth not only enhances the beauty of the area but also sets the stage for the warmer months ahead.
March in Chapel Hill sees a decline in precipitation, accumulating 84 mm (3.3 in) over about 10 days of rain, a notable dip from February's 117 mm (4.6 in). This pattern suggests a gradual transition into spring, as rainfall tapers off before the wetter months ahead. With slightly less rainfall compared to both January and February, March sets the stage for the upcoming spring blooms while still maintaining a moderate frequency of rain. As the year progresses, precipitation tends to increase again, peaking in the summer months. Overall, March serves as a bridge, balancing the lingering winter moisture with the promise of warmer, sunnier days to come.
In March, Chapel Hill experiences a humidity level of 81%, marking a slight decrease from February's 82%. This gentle decline reflects the transition from winter's moisture-laden air to the budding warmth of spring. As spring approaches, humidity levels tend to stabilize, with April showing a marginal drop to 80%. Interestingly, the humidity remains relatively consistent throughout the warmer months, fluctuating between 80% and 81%. This trend highlights Chapel Hill's humid subtropical climate, where residents can expect a touch of moisture in the air as they enjoy the blooming landscapes of the season.
As winter fades, March brings a notable increase in the UV Index in Chapel Hill, soaring to 8, categorized as very high. This shift signals a significant rise in ultraviolet radiation, reducing the time it takes for skin to burn to just 15 minutes. Compared to January's moderate UV Index of 4 and February's high index of 6, March's escalation highlights the importance of sun protection as outdoor activities become more appealing. The trend continues into April, maintaining the very high category, which means residents should remain vigilant as they enjoy the burgeoning spring sunshine. For more detailed information on UV levels throughout the year, check out the Chapel Hill UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
As March unfolds in Chapel Hill, the city experiences a delightful surge in sunshine, basking in 256 hours of vibrant daylight—an inviting increase from the 183 hours of February. This significant jump heralds the arrival of spring, setting the stage for a stunning monthly climb that continues into April and May. The trend reveals that sunlight hours peak dramatically as the year progresses, reaching a dazzling 306 hours in May and culminating in an impressive 352 hours by July. This seasonal transformation not only brightens the landscape but also invigorates the community, encouraging outdoor activities and an appreciation for nature’s awakening. The gradual decline of sunlight hours begins in August, yet the lingering warmth of summer still lingers, making March a pivotal moment in Chapel Hill's annual cycle of light.
In March, Chapel Hill experiences a 43% chance of sunny weather, which is a slight improvement from February's 36%. As spring begins to take hold, the likelihood of sunshine gradually increases, setting the stage for the more radiant month of April, where the chance of sun jumps to 60%. Notably, March offers a transitional period, nestled between the dreariness of winter and the brightness of spring, hinting at better days ahead. While the sunshine in March may not be as abundant as in the later months, it still paves the way for the milder and sunnier days to follow, encouraging residents to embrace the promise of springtime renewal.
As March unfolds in Chapel Hill, daylight begins to stretch its welcoming arms, increasing to 11 hours after a winter of consistent ten-hour days in January and February. This gradual extension heralds the arrival of spring, setting the stage for even longer days ahead. By April, daylight surges to 13 hours, and May follows suit with an impressive 14 hours, showcasing a sharp increase that continues into the summer months. This trend of longer daylight hours not only brightens the landscape but also invites residents to embrace outdoor activities and the invigorating spirit of the season. As summer fades into fall, daylight begins to retreat once more, but for March, it's a clear signal that brighter days are on the horizon.
In Chapel Hill, March ushers in a refreshing breeze, with average wind speeds holding steady at 3.2 m/s (7 mph), matching the conditions of February. This marks a transition from the slightly calmer winds of January, which clocked in at 2.7 m/s (6 mph). As spring approaches, the wind begins to pick up just a notch, hinting at the livelier atmosphere to come in April, when winds are expected to increase marginally to 3.3 m/s (7 mph). Interestingly, the trend for the coming months shows a slight decline in wind speeds, peaking in March and April before tapering off in the summer. However, the consistent speeds through the late winter and early spring months create a delightful backdrop for outdoor activities, making March a compelling time to enjoy the vibrant energy of Chapel Hill.
The weather in Chapel Hill changes throughout the year, offering a unique experience in each season. Below is a month-by-month comparison of March's weather with other months, highlighting differences in temperature, precipitation, and other key factors. Click on each section to discover seasonal trends in Chapel Hill and find detailed weather information for every month.
When comparing the weather in March and January, a notable shift in temperature is evident. March experiences a broader temperature range with a minimum of -5°C (24°F), an average of 11°C (53°F), and a maximum of 31°C (88°F), indicating a significant warming trend as the month progresses. In contrast, January features cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -15°C (6°F), an average of 6°C (43°F), and a maximum of 25°C (77°F).
Precipitation levels are relatively similar, with March receiving 84 mm (3.3 in) over 10 days and January slightly higher at 89 mm (3.5 in) across 9 days. Humidity remains high for both months, with January at 85% and March at 81%. For more detailed insights into January weather, you can check Chapel Hill weather in January.
In comparing the weather of March and February, we see a slight increase in temperatures, with March experiencing a minimum of -5°C (24°F) and an average of 11°C (53°F), compared to February's minimum of -6°C (21°F) and average of 9°C (48°F). March also boasts a higher maximum temperature of 31°C (88°F) versus February's 27°C (81°F). However, February had more precipitation, with 117 mm (4.6 in) over 11 days, while March received 84 mm (3.3 in) over 10 days. Humidity levels remained similar, with March at 81% and February at 82%. For more detailed insights, you can visit Chapel Hill weather in February.
March and April display notable changes in weather patterns, reflecting the transition from winter to spring. In March, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -5°C (24°F) to a warm maximum of 31°C (88°F), with an average of 11°C (53°F) and 84 mm (3.3 in) of precipitation over 10 days. The humidity is quite high at 81%, suggesting a damp atmosphere. In contrast, April experiences a milder minimum temperature of -1°C (31°F) and a significantly higher average of 16°C (62°F), while still reaching a maximum of 31°C (88°F). Precipitation also increases to 116 mm (4.6 in) over the same number of rainy days, with humidity slightly lower at 80%. For more detailed insights, check out Chapel Hill weather in April.
In March, temperatures can vary significantly, with a minimum of -5°C (24°F) and a maximum of 31°C (88°F), resulting in an average of 11°C (53°F). The month experiences around 84 mm (3.3 in) of precipitation over about 10 days, while humidity remains high at 81%. In contrast, May offers a warmer climate, with minimum temperatures at 4°C (39°F) and maximums reaching up to 36°C (97°F), averaging 21°C (70°F). Although May sees slightly more rainfall at 118 mm (4.6 in) over 11 days, the humidity remains consistent at 81%. For more details on the weather during May, you can visit Chapel Hill weather in May.
In March, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -5°C (24°F) to a maximum of 31°C (88°F), with an average of 11°C (53°F). The month experiences around 84 mm (3.3 in) of precipitation over approximately 10 days, with humidity levels at 81%. In contrast, June brings much warmer conditions with temperatures starting at a minimum of 12°C (55°F) and peaking at 36°C (97°F), averaging 24°C (76°F). The month sees increased rainfall, totaling 121 mm (4.8 in) spread over 13 days, while maintaining the same humidity level of 81%. For more details on what to expect, check out Chapel Hill weather in June.
March and July present quite a contrast in weather conditions. In March, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -5°C (24°F) to a pleasant average of 11°C (53°F), with daytime highs soaring up to 31°C (88°F). Humidity levels are consistent at 81%, and the month sees about 84 mm (3.3 in) of precipitation over approximately 10 days. In comparison, July boasts significantly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 16°C (61°F) and an average high of 27°C (80°F), peaking at a sweltering 37°C (99°F). Additionally, July experiences more precipitation, totaling 114 mm (4.5 in) across roughly 14 days, while maintaining the same humidity level of 81%. For a closer look at weather conditions specific to this month, check out Chapel Hill weather in July.
March and August exhibit contrasting weather patterns. In March, temperatures can dip as low as -5°C (24°F) but typically reach an average of 11°C (53°F), peaking at 31°C (88°F). This month experiences an average of 84 mm (3.3 in) of precipitation over about 10 days, with humidity levels at 81%. In contrast, August boasts much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 15°C (59°F), an average of 26°C (78°F), and maximums soaring to 36°C (97°F). Additionally, August is generally wetter, with 128 mm (5.1 in) of rain over 15 days and slightly lower humidity at 80%. For more detailed insights, check out the Chapel Hill weather in August.
March and September exhibit noticeable differences in their weather patterns. In March, temperatures can dip as low as -5°C (24°F), with an average of 11°C (53°F) and highs reaching up to 31°C (88°F). This month experiences about 84 mm (3.3 in) of precipitation over roughly 10 days, along with a high humidity of 81%. In contrast, September offers milder conditions, with minimum temperatures around 9°C (48°F) and an average high of 35°C (96°F). Precipitation increases to 128 mm (5.1 in), occurring over 9 days, and the humidity is slightly lower at 79%. For more detailed insights, check out Chapel Hill weather in September.
March and October present notable differences in weather patterns. In March, temperatures can dip as low as -5°C (24°F), but the average hovers around a mild 11°C (53°F), with highs reaching up to 31°C (88°F). The month sees approximately 84 mm (3.3 in) of precipitation over 10 days and maintains high humidity levels at 81%. In contrast, October features a minimum temperature of 2°C (36°F) and an average of 18°C (65°F), with maximums peaking at 36°C (98°F). The month experiences slightly higher precipitation at 97 mm (3.8 in) over 9 days, while humidity remains relatively stable at 80%. For further details, check out the Chapel Hill weather in October.
When comparing the weather in March and November, both months exhibit mild temperatures with average highs around 10-11°C (51-53°F). March experiences a broader temperature range, with minimums dipping to -5°C (24°F) and maximums reaching up to 31°C (88°F), while November's temperatures are slightly more stable, with minimums of -4°C (25°F) and a maximum of 29°C (84°F). Precipitation is quite similar, with March receiving 84 mm (3.3 in) over 10 days and November slightly less at 81 mm (3.2 in) over 7 days. Furthermore, humidity levels are relatively high in both months, with November showing a marginally higher average at 85% compared to March's 81%. For those interested in exploring more about this month's conditions, check out Chapel Hill weather in November.
March generally experiences milder temperatures compared to December, with minimum temperatures around -5°C (24°F) and maximums reaching up to 31°C (88°F). In contrast, December sees slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -7°C (19°F) and a maximum of 23°C (73°F). Precipitation is also a notable difference, as March has 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain over about 10 days, while December receives more, totaling 107 mm (4.2 in) over 9 days. Humidity levels are relatively similar, with March at 81% and December slightly higher at 86%. For more details on December's weather, you can check Chapel Hill weather in December.
As March unfolds in Chapel Hill, the transition to spring brings a delightful mix of milder temperatures and increased humidity, setting it apart from the colder winter months. With highs reaching into the warm 30s°C, residents experience a refreshing shift, while the average temperature gently hovers around a comfortable 11°C. Although precipitation can be expected on about 10 days, the cumulative amount remains modest, allowing for plenty of sunny afternoons. This month marks a significant departure from winter's chill, making it an ideal time to enjoy the vibrant blooming landscape. For a more in-depth look at the area's weather patterns, visit Chapel Hill Climate.