Burlington Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – United States

Burlington in Spring (March-May)

Burlington’s spring is characterized by a refreshing awakening of nature as winter’s grip loosens. Temperatures begin to rise steadily, reaching an average high of 66°F by the end of the season. The average low hovers around 37°F, providing cool nights perfect for a cozy fireside or a stroll along the waterfront. Rain becomes more frequent, providing nourishment to the vibrant greenery that blankets the city. However, the occasional showers are usually brief, leaving ample opportunities to enjoy the longer days and budding flowers.

Burlington in Summer (June-August)

Summer in Burlington is a season of warm, sunny days and pleasant nights. Temperatures soar to an average high of 80°F, while the evenings cool down to a refreshing 60°F. The city comes alive with outdoor activities as the waterfront and bike paths teem with people enjoying the warm weather. With an average of 10 hours of sunshine each day, there’s no shortage of opportunities to soak up the summer ambiance. Occasional thunderstorms may bring brief bouts of rain, but they often leave behind clear skies for continued outdoor adventures.

Historical Average Temperatures

The historical average temperature in Burlington, United States, has been steadily rising over the past several decades. Data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) shows that the average annual temperature in Burlington has increased by approximately 2 degrees Celsius (3.6 degrees Fahrenheit) since the late 1800s. This warming trend is consistent with the broader pattern of climate change observed globally.

The average temperature in Burlington varies throughout the year, with the coldest months being January and February, when temperatures typically average around -7 degrees Celsius (19 degrees Fahrenheit). The warmest months are July and August, when temperatures typically average around 22 degrees Celsius (72 degrees Fahrenheit). The city experiences a significant amount of precipitation throughout the year, with an average annual rainfall of approximately 900 millimeters (35 inches).

Impacts of Climate Change on Average Temperatures

Climate change is expected to have a significant impact on average temperatures in Burlington in the coming decades. NOAA projects that the average annual temperature in Burlington could increase by as much as 4 degrees Celsius (7.2 degrees Fahrenheit) by the end of the century. This warming trend could lead to a number of negative impacts, including more frequent and severe heat waves, increased flooding, and changes in the distribution of plant and animal species.

To mitigate the impacts of climate change, it is important to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Greenhouse gases are released into the atmosphere when fossil fuels are burned, and they contribute to the trapping of heat in the Earth’s atmosphere. By reducing greenhouse gas emissions, we can help to slow the rate of climate change and minimize its impacts on Burlington and other cities around the world.

Climate of Burlington, United States

Burlington, located in northwestern Vermont, experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. The city’s climate is characterized by warm, humid summers and cold, snowy winters. Burlington receives an average of 41 inches of precipitation per year, with an average snowfall of 65 inches. The city’s climate is influenced by its location in the Champlain Valley, which is surrounded by mountains that help to keep the air cool and humid.

Cloud Cover in Burlington, United States

Burlington’s cloud cover varies throughout the year, with more overcast days during the winter and spring months. In January, the cloudiest month, Burlington averages 19 days with overcast skies. In July, the least cloudy month, Burlington averages only 5 days with overcast skies. Overall, Burlington has an average of 141 clear days per year. The city’s cloud cover is influenced by its proximity to Lake Champlain, which helps to keep the air moist and cool.

Annual Precipitation

Burlington in the United States experiences significant precipitation throughout the year. The average annual rainfall is around 860 millimeters (34 inches), with the wettest months being May and June with average rainfall of 96 and 86 millimeters, respectively. In contrast, the driest months are January and February, with average precipitation of 57 and 56 millimeters.

Overall, Burlington experiences a humid subtropical climate, with warm summers and mild winters. Precipitation distribution is relatively uniform throughout the year, with no distinct wet or dry seasons.

Annual Rainfall Patterns

Burlington, United States, experiences a temperate climate with moderate year-round rainfall. Annual precipitation averages around 45 inches (114 centimeters), with the wettest months being December to March. During these months, cold fronts bringing moisture from the Atlantic Ocean frequently encounter the Appalachian Mountains, resulting in increased precipitation. In contrast, the driest months are June to October, with rainfall typically ranging between 3 and 4 inches (7.6 and 10.2 centimeters) per month.

Seasonal Variations and Extremes

Seasonal variations in rainfall are evident in Burlington. Spring and early summer (April to June) tend to be wetter than late summer and fall (July to September), due to frequent thunderstorms and frontal systems. Winter (November to March) is generally a wet period with frequent snowfall, contributing significantly to the annual precipitation total. The city has experienced notable rainfall extremes, including periods of drought and heavy rainfall events. In recent years, the frequency and intensity of extreme rainfall events have increased, likely due to climate change. These events can lead to flooding, erosion, and other infrastructure problems in the area.

Average Snowfall in Burlington

Burlington, located in the state of Vermont, experiences significant snowfall during the winter months. On average, the city receives around 68 inches of snow annually, with the majority of it falling between November and April. The heaviest snowfalls typically occur in January and February, when temperatures are at their coldest. During these months, it is not uncommon for the city to receive several feet of snow in a single storm.

Impact of Snowfall on Burlington

The heavy snowfall in Burlington has a significant impact on the city’s infrastructure and daily life. During snowstorms, roads can become impassable, leading to disruptions in transportation and business. Schools and other public services may also close or operate on limited schedules. The city’s public works department is responsible for clearing the roads and sidewalks, and they work tirelessly during snowstorms to keep the city functioning as best as possible. Residents and businesses also play a role in snow removal by shoveling their driveways and walkways.

Summer Solstice and Sunlight Duration

Burlington, located in the northern United States, experiences significant variations in sunlight duration throughout the year due to its proximity to the Earth’s northern axis. During the winter months, from late December to late January, the city receives only about 8 hours of daylight per day. However, as the Earth progresses into the Northern Hemisphere’s summer, the days gradually lengthen. The summer solstice, which occurs around June 21st, marks the longest day of the year in Burlington. During this time, the city can enjoy up to 16 hours of sunlight.

Sunrise and Sunset Times

The timing of sunrise and sunset in Burlington varies throughout the year, following the Earth’s orbit around the Sun. During the summer Monate, the sun rises around 5:30 AM and sets around 8:30 PM. In the winter Monate, however, the days are much shorter, with sunrise occurring around 7:30 AM and sunset around 4:30 PM. These variations in sunrise and sunset times are due to the Earth’s tilted axis, which causes different parts of the planet to experience varying degrees of sunlight at different times of the year.

Moonrise and Moonset Times

The moon’s position in the sky varies throughout the month due to its orbit around Earth. In Burlington, United States, the moonrise and moonset times change daily. You can check the specific times for a particular date using an online moon calendar or a mobile app.

Moon Phases

The moon goes through different phases as it orbits Earth. The main phases are new moon, waxing crescent, first quarter, waxing gibbous, full moon, waning gibbous, third quarter, and waning crescent. The phase of the moon can impact its visibility and the amount of light it reflects. During a new moon, the moon is not visible from Earth, while during a full moon, it is fully illuminated.

Average Yearly Humidity in Burlington, United States

Burlington, located in the heart of Vermont, experiences a humid continental climate with distinct seasons. Throughout the year, the average relative humidity in Burlington varies significantly. The highest humidity levels occur during the summer months, typically from late May to early September. During this time, the humidity often exceeds 70%, with average values hovering around 80%. Warm, moist air from the Atlantic Ocean is drawn into the region by prevailing winds, contributing to the high humidity.

In contrast, winter months in Burlington are characterized by significantly lower humidity levels. From late December to mid-February, the average relative humidity drops to around 65%. During this period, cold, dry air from the interior of the continent dominates, resulting in drier conditions. However, it’s important to note that occasional snowfall and cold fronts can bring fluctuations in humidity throughout the winter season.

Wind Patterns and Speed

Burlington, United States, experiences a predominantly westerly wind pattern, influenced by the prevailing westerlies in the mid-latitudes. During the summer months, the wind direction shifts slightly to the southwest, bringing in warmer air masses from the Gulf of Mexico. In contrast, during winter, the winds become more northerly, bringing colder air from the Arctic region. The average wind speed in Burlington ranges from 9 to 12 miles per hour (14-19 kilometers per hour) throughout the year, with slightly higher speeds in the winter months.

Seasonal Variations

The wind speed and direction in Burlington exhibit seasonal variations. During the spring and fall, the winds tend to be more variable, with frequent shifts in direction and speed. In the summer, the winds become more consistent, blowing predominantly from the southwest. This warm, moist air from the Gulf of Mexico contributes to the city’s warm and humid summertime weather. In winter, the winds often originate from the northwest, bringing in cold air and snow. The strongest winds are typically observed during the autumn and winter months, when the pressure gradient between the cold Arctic air and the warmer air over the ocean intensifies.

Spring (April-May):
Burlington awakens from its winter slumber during spring, showcasing its vibrant greenery and blooming flowers. Temperatures range from mild to warm, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and kayaking. The city’s parks and waterfront come alive with locals and visitors enjoying picnics, festivals, and live music. Burlington’s annual Memorial Day weekend celebration, featuring a parade and fireworks, kicks off the season in grand style.

Summer (June-August):
Summer in Burlington is a melting pot of sunshine, warmth, and lively activities. Temperatures soar into the 70s and 80s, inviting locals and tourists alike to partake in waterfront activities on Lake Champlain. The city’s beaches, such as Leddy Park Beach and North Beach, teem with swimmers, sunbathers, and boaters. The Church Street Marketplace bustles with shoppers, diners, and street performers, while Waterfront Park hosts a myriad of concerts, festivals, and farmers’ markets. Burlington’s summer weekends are often filled with community events, including the Vermont Comedy Festival, the Burlington Jazz Festival, and the Discover Jazz Festival.

Economics of Solar Energy in Burlington

The economics of solar energy in Burlington, United States, are generally favorable. The city receives an average of 4.5 peak sunlight hours per day, which is higher than the national average. This makes solar panels a viable option for many homeowners and businesses. Additionally, Burlington has a number of state and local incentives that can help to reduce the cost of installing solar panels. These incentives include tax credits, rebates, and net metering. As a result, the payback period for solar panels in Burlington is typically shorter than in other parts of the country.

One of the most important factors to consider when evaluating the economics of solar energy is the cost of electricity. In Burlington, the average cost of electricity is $0.16 per kilowatt-hour (kWh). This is slightly higher than the national average, but still below the average cost of electricity in many other states. The cost of solar panels has also decreased significantly in recent years, making them more affordable for many people. As a result, the payback period for solar panels in Burlington is typically around 5 to 10 years. This means that homeowners and businesses can expect to see a return on their investment within a relatively short period of time.

Topography of Downtown Burlington

Downtown Burlington is positioned on a relatively flat terrain, with an average elevation of around 200 feet above sea level. However, it has a slight slope towards the waterfront area, which borders Lake Champlain. This slope provides gradual access to the waterfront and enhances the city’s scenic views. The downtown area also features several gentle hills, such as Battery Park and College Street, that offer panoramic vistas of the city and the surrounding mountains.

Topography of Greater Burlington

Beyond downtown, Burlington’s topography becomes more diverse. The eastern part of the city, known as the New North End, is situated on a series of rolling hills that provide picturesque views of the city and the lake. The western portion of the city, including the University of Vermont and the Old North End, is characterized by a more rugged terrain with steeper slopes and wooded areas. The elevation in these areas can range from around 200 feet at the waterfront to over 800 feet on some of the higher hills. The varied topography of Greater Burlington contributes to its unique character and offers ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, such as hiking, biking, and skiing.

Closest Airport to Burlington, United States

The nearest airport to Burlington, located in Des Moines County, Iowa, is the Southeast Iowa Regional Airport (BRL). It is situated approximately 7 miles (11 kilometers) northwest of the city center. BRL offers limited commercial flights, primarily connecting to larger airports in the region. Passengers seeking a wider range of flight options may consider flying into Des Moines International Airport (DSM), which is located approximately 100 miles (160 kilometers) west of Burlington. DSM offers a more comprehensive schedule with domestic and international connections.

Alternative Airport Options

While BRL and DSM are the closest airports to Burlington, other options may be available depending on the destination and travel preferences. The Quad City International Airport (MLI) in Moline, Illinois, is located approximately 70 miles (110 kilometers) northeast of Burlington. It offers a range of domestic flights, including connections to major hubs in Chicago and Minneapolis. Additionally, the Omaha Eppley Airfield (OMA) in Omaha, Nebraska, is situated approximately 130 miles (210 kilometers) west of Burlington and offers a broader selection of flights, including international destinations.

History of Burlington in the United States

Burlington, Vermont, has a rich history dating back to the 18th century. The first European settlers arrived in the area in 1763, and the town was officially incorporated in 1785. Burlington played a significant role in the American Revolution, with its citizens helping to capture Fort Ticonderoga in 1775. During the War of 1812, the town was attacked by the British, but the citizens were able to successfully defend it.

Burlington continued to grow and prosper in the 19th century, becoming a major transportation hub and industrial center. The city’s population swelled with the arrival of immigrants from Ireland, Germany, and Canada. By the early 20th century, Burlington was a thriving city with a diverse population and a strong economy.

Modern Burlington

Today, Burlington is a vibrant and progressive city with a population of over 40,000 people. The city is home to the University of Vermont, which is one of the top public research universities in the country. Burlington is also a major center for the arts, with a thriving music, theater, and dance scene. The city is also known for its beautiful natural surroundings, which include Lake Champlain and the Green Mountains.

Burlington is a popular destination for tourists, who come to enjoy the city’s historic architecture, cultural attractions, and outdoor activities. The city is also a hub for the tech industry, with a number of startups and established companies calling Burlington home.