Burlington Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – United States

Climate

Burlington, located in the state of Vermont, experiences a humid continental climate characterized by warm, humid summers and cold, snowy winters. The city experiences significant temperature variations throughout the year, with average temperatures ranging from below freezing in January to the mid-70s in July. Burlington receives ample precipitation, both rain and snow, distributed throughout the year.

Average Weather Year Round

Spring (March-May):
During spring, temperatures gradually rise, ranging from the low 40s in March to the mid-60s in May. Rainfall becomes more frequent, averaging around 3.5 inches per month. As the season progresses, the city starts to experience warmer days and longer hours of daylight, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities.

Summer (June-August):
Summer in Burlington brings warm and humid weather, with average temperatures in the 70s. The city receives around 3 inches of rain per month, potentially accompanied by thunderstorms. While humidity can be high during this time, the area offers ample opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, including swimming, boating, and hiking.

Autumn (September-November):
As autumn approaches, temperatures begin to cool down, ranging from the mid-60s in September to the low 40s in November. The city experiences a transition from warm and sunny days to cooler and overcast conditions. Precipitation becomes more variable, with a mix of rain and occasional snow flurries.

Winter (December-February):
Winter in Burlington is cold, snowy, and relatively dry. Average temperatures hover around the freezing mark, with frequent snowfalls. The city receives around 20 inches of snow per month, making it a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts. Despite the cold conditions, Burlington offers cozy indoor activities, such as visiting museums, attending concerts, or simply enjoying the snow-covered scenery.

Average Temperature in Burlington, United States – Summer

Burlington, a city located in the state of Vermont, United States, experiences warm and pleasant summers. The average temperature during the summer months, from June to August, ranges from a comfortable 65°F (18°C) to a high of 80°F (27°C). The humidity levels are relatively low, making the warm weather less oppressive. The days are filled with plenty of sunshine, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities. Burlington is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike during the summer, who flock to the city to enjoy the scenic waterfront, outdoor concerts, and festivals.

Average Temperature in Burlington, United States – Winter

Burlington’s winters, on the other hand, are characterized by cold and snowy conditions. The average temperature during the winter months, from December to February, drops to a frigid 20°F (-7°C). Snowfall is common throughout the winter, with the city receiving an average of over 70 inches (178 cm) of snow annually. The wind chill factor can make the temperatures feel even colder, especially during storms. Despite the harsh conditions, Burlingtonians embrace the winter season and participate in a variety of outdoor activities, such as ice skating, snowshoeing, and sledding. The city’s streets are adorned with festive holiday decorations, creating a charming and cozy atmosphere.

Cloud Cover and Types

Burlington, United States, experiences a range of cloud cover throughout the year. The city’s climate is humid continental, with warm, humid summers and cold, snowy winters. During the summer months, clouds are common and can vary in type. Cumulus and stratocumulus clouds are most frequent, bringing partly cloudy to mostly cloudy skies. Cirrus clouds, characterized by their thin, wispy appearance, are also prevalent and indicate fair weather. As fall approaches, cloud cover gradually increases, with stratus and altostratus clouds dominating the skies. These clouds often bring overcast conditions and drizzle or light rain.

Seasonal Variations

Seasonal variations in cloud cover are evident in Burlington. During the winter months, the city experiences high levels of cloud cover, with stratus and nimbostratus clouds prevalent. These low, gray clouds often produce snow or sleet. In the spring, cloud cover diminishes as temperatures rise. Cumulus and stratocumulus clouds become more common, bringing partly cloudy conditions. As summer approaches, cloud cover increases again, with cumulus and stratocumulus clouds dominating the skies. Thunderstorms and showers are more frequent during the summer months, bringing heavy rain and lightning.

Total Precipitation

Burlington, located in the northwestern United States, experiences a moderate amount of precipitation throughout the year. The city receives an average of 33 inches (840 mm) of precipitation annually, with slight variations across different parts of the region. Most of the precipitation falls during the winter months, with December and January being the wettest. During these months, Burlington can experience persistent rain, snow, and sleet as Pacific storms move through the area. The summer months are generally drier, with July and August receiving the least amount of precipitation.

Seasonal Distribution of Precipitation

The precipitation in Burlington is not evenly distributed throughout the year. The wettest months are December, January, and February, when the city receives an average of 4-5 inches (100-130 mm) of precipitation each month. During this period, the weather systems from the Pacific Ocean bring frequent storms, resulting in heavy rainfall or snowfall. The driest months are July and August, when precipitation averages around 1-1.5 inches (25-40 mm) per month. The relatively dry summers are characterized by occasional showers or thunderstorms, as well as periods of drought.

Historical Rainfall Patterns

Burlington, located in the state of Vermont, United States, has experienced significant rainfall throughout its history. The average annual precipitation in Burlington is approximately 38 inches, with the wettest months being April, May, and June. During these months, rainfall averages between 3.5 to 4 inches per month. The driest months are January, February, and March, when precipitation typically ranges from 1.5 to 2.5 inches per month.

Variations in Rainfall

Rainfall in Burlington exhibits considerable variability, both within individual years and over decades. During the wettest year on record, 1998, Burlington received over 56 inches of precipitation. Conversely, the driest year on record, 1965, saw only 24 inches of rainfall. This variability in precipitation patterns can be attributed to a combination of factors, including changes in prevailing weather systems, atmospheric conditions, and global climate patterns.

Impact of Rainfall

Rainfall plays a crucial role in shaping the natural environment and human activities in Burlington. Adequate rainfall supports forests, wetlands, and agricultural lands, providing essential resources and ecosystem services. However, excessive rainfall can also lead to flooding, erosion, and infrastructure damage. Understanding and monitoring rainfall patterns is therefore critical for water resource management, flood preparedness, and mitigating the potential impacts of extreme weather events in Burlington.

Seasonal Snowfall

Burlington, United States, experiences seasonal snowfall during the winter months. The city’s location on the shores of Lake Champlain and its proximity to the Green Mountains contribute to its climate, which often produces heavy snowfalls. Snow typically begins accumulating in December and continues through March. During this time, the city may receive an average of 70 to 90 inches of snow, with some years seeing even higher totals.

Snowfall Impact

Snowfall can have a significant impact on life in Burlington. During heavy storms, roads may become impassable, schools and businesses may close, and power outages can occur. The city’s public works department works tirelessly to clear snow from major roadways and sidewalks, but it can take time to reach all areas. Residents are advised to prepare for winter weather by stocking up on essentials such as food, water, and warm clothing, and by having a plan for alternate transportation in case of road closures.

Sunrise and Sunset Times

In Burlington, United States, the time of sunrise and sunset varies throughout the year due to the Earth’s tilt and its orbit around the Sun. The earliest sunrise occurs around June 20th, when the days are longest and the Sun rises approximately 5:17 AM. Conversely, the latest sunrise happens around December 21st, the winter solstice, when the Sun rises at around 6:51 AM.

Similarly, sunset times vary seasonally. The earliest sunset in Burlington falls around June 20th, when the Sun sets at approximately 8:45 PM. On the other hand, the latest sunset occurs near December 21st, with the Sun setting at around 4:28 PM, marking the shortest day of the year. These variations in sunrise and sunset times impact daylight hours, which are longest during the summer months and shortest during the winter months.

Daylight Hours

The duration of daylight hours in Burlington also varies throughout the year. During the summer months, the days are longer, with an average of 15-16 hours of daylight per day. This allows for ample time for outdoor activities, recreation, and agricultural pursuits. However, as winter approaches, daylight hours dwindle, with an average of only 9-10 hours of sunlight per day around the December solstice. This reduction in daylight affects daily schedules and can lead to seasonal affective disorder (SAD) in some individuals due to decreased exposure to sunlight. Despite the shorter days, the winter months also offer unique opportunities for snow-related activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and sledding.

Moonrise and Moonset in Burlington

The moon’s position in the sky varies throughout the night, as it rises and sets at different times. In Burlington, United States, the exact time of moonrise and moonset depends on the date and season. However, there are general patterns that can be observed.

Typically, the moon rises in the east and sets in the west. The time of moonrise varies depending on the day of the month, with the moon rising earlier in the evening around the new moon and later in the evening around the full moon. The time of moonset also varies depending on the day of the month, with the moon setting earlier in the morning around the new moon and later in the morning around the full moon.

Moon Phases in Burlington

The moon goes through a cycle of phases as it orbits the Earth. These phases are determined by the relative positions of the sun, Earth, and moon. The most common moon phases are the new moon, waxing crescent, first quarter, waxing gibbous, full moon, waning gibbous, third quarter, and waning crescent.

In Burlington, United States, the moon phases can be observed by looking up at the sky at night. The new moon is the phase when the moon is not visible from Earth. The waxing crescent is the phase when the moon is growing in size and appears as a thin crescent in the sky. The first quarter is the phase when the moon is half-lit and appears as a half-circle in the sky. The waxing gibbous is the phase when the moon is more than half-lit and appears as a gibbous (hump-shaped) crescent in the sky. The full moon is the phase when the moon is fully lit and appears as a complete circle in the sky. The waning gibbous is the phase when the moon is more than half-lit and appears as a gibbous (hump-shaped) crescent in the sky. The third quarter is the phase when the moon is half-lit and appears as a half-circle in the sky. The waning crescent is the phase when the moon is growing smaller in size and appears as a thin crescent in the sky.

Annual Humidity Levels

Burlington, located in the state of Vermont, United States, experiences a humid continental climate characterized by distinct seasonal variations. The annual humidity levels fluctuate throughout the year, influenced by factors such as temperature, precipitation, and proximity to large water bodies. During the summer months, Burlington experiences higher humidity levels due to increased temperatures and frequent rainfall. The average relative humidity in July, the warmest month, is around 70-80%. In contrast, winter months bring lower humidity levels as temperatures drop and precipitation decreases. The average relative humidity in January, the coldest month, is typically around 60-70%.

Seasonality and Variability

The humidity levels in Burlington exhibit significant seasonality, with the highest humidity occurring during the warmer months and the lowest humidity during the colder months. However, short-term variations can also be observed due to weather patterns and synoptic-scale conditions. For instance, periods of heavy rainfall or fog can lead to temporary increases in humidity, while periods of dry, clear weather can result in lower humidity levels. These short-term fluctuations can be influenced by the passage of cold or warm fronts, changes in wind patterns, and the presence of moisture-laden air masses.

Average Wind Speed

Burlington, Massachusetts experiences moderate average wind speeds throughout the year. The windiest months are January, February and March, where the average wind speed reach around 12 to 13 mph. During the summer months, from June to August, the average wind speed drops slightly to around 10 to 11 mph. The calmest months are October and November, with average wind speeds around 9 to 10 mph.

Wind Direction

The prevailing wind direction in Burlington is from the west-southwest, which is consistent throughout the year. However, there are occasional shifts in wind direction, particularly during the winter months. During the colder seasons, winds from the northwest and northeast become more common, bringing cold and occasionally gusty conditions. During the summer, winds from the south and southeast become more frequent, bringing warmer and more humid air.

Spring (April-May):

Spring in Burlington offers a vibrant awakening of nature. The days start to warm, and the trees burst into a kaleidoscope of colors as they unfurl their leaves. The air fills with the sweet scent of blooming flowers, creating an enchanting atmosphere. Temperatures remain mild, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and picnicking. Moreover, the crowds are relatively smaller during this period, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the city.

Fall (September-October):

Fall in Burlington is a sensory delight, where the city transforms into a breathtaking canvas of autumn hues. The leaves of the trees turn into vibrant shades of gold, crimson, and amber, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. The crisp autumn air invites you to savor the charm of the city’s parks and gardens. The harvest season brings an abundance of fresh produce, making it a great time to enjoy local cuisine. Fall also marks the start of festival season, offering a glimpse into the city’s vibrant cultural scene.

Potential and Growth:

Burlington, located in Vermont, has a favorable solar energy potential due to its abundant sunshine and relatively high latitude. The city has set ambitious goals for solar development, aiming to cover 100% of its electricity needs with renewable sources by 2030. In recent years, there has been an exponential growth in solar installations, with numerous residential, commercial, and industrial projects contributing to Burlington’s transition to clean energy.

Challenges and Opportunities:

While Burlington has made significant progress in solar development, challenges remain. One challenge is the limited rooftop space in urban areas, which can hinder the installation of solar panels. Additionally, the city’s cold and snowy winters can impact solar panel efficiency. However, opportunities exist to overcome these challenges. Building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) systems, which incorporate solar panels into building designs, can maximize rooftop space utilization. Moreover, advancements in solar panel technology have enhanced their performance in low-light conditions, mitigating the impact of winter weather.

Elevation and Terrain of Burlington

Burlington is nestled between Lake Champlain and the Green Mountains, offering a diverse topography within the city limits. The heart of Burlington sits at an elevation of about 100 feet above sea level, along the shores of Lake Champlain. As the city spreads eastward, it gradually ascends, reaching an elevation of around 600 feet at the foot of the Green Mountains.

Hills and Peaks

Burlington’s topography is marked by several hills and peaks that shape its skyline. Mount Philo, located just east of the city, is the most prominent peak, rising to an elevation of 968 feet. Ethan Allen Park, a large urban park, encompasses a series of wooded hills, including Red Rocks and Little Red Rocks, offering scenic views of the city and Lake Champlain. In the northern part of Burlington, Leddy Park features a steep hilltop that commands a panoramic vista of the Winooski River Valley. These hills and peaks contribute to Burlington’s picturesque landscape and provide opportunities for hiking, biking, and outdoor recreation.

Burlington International Airport (BTV)

Burlington International Airport (BTV) is the primary airport serving Burlington, Vermont, and the surrounding region. Located just 5 miles (8 kilometers) from downtown Burlington, BTV is conveniently situated for both business and leisure travelers. The airport features a single terminal with 10 gates, offering a comfortable and efficient travel experience. BTV is served by several major airlines, including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines, providing direct flights to destinations across the United States. Additionally, BTV has seasonal service to Toronto, Canada.

Other Nearby Airports

While BTV is the closest airport to Burlington, there are several other airports within a reasonable driving distance that may offer additional flight options. Plattsburgh International Airport (PBG), located in Plattsburgh, New York, is approximately 30 miles (48 kilometers) south of Burlington and offers flights to several major cities in the Northeast. Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT), located in Manchester, New Hampshire, is approximately 75 miles (120 kilometers) east of Burlington and provides a wider range of domestic and international flight options. However, due to its further distance from Burlington, these airports may not be as convenient for travelers based in or near the city.

History and Culture:

Burlington, located in the heart of New Jersey, possesses a rich historical tapestry dating back to the 17th century. As one of the oldest cities in the United States, it played a pivotal role in the American Revolution, serving as the site of the first formal Declaration of Independence reading by the Continental Army. Today, Burlington proudly preserves its heritage through meticulously restored historic homes and landmark buildings, offering visitors a glimpse into the city’s vibrant past. The Burlington County Historical Society maintains the 1782 Olde Mill, a testament to the area’s colonial roots, while the Burlington County Prison Museum sheds light on the city’s criminal justice system during the 18th and 19th centuries.

Geography and Recreation:

Burlington is situated on the picturesque Delaware River, offering breathtaking views and ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. It borders the vast Rancocas Creek, providing a scenic backdrop for kayaking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The city’s parks and green spaces cater to active lifestyles, offering walking trails, playgrounds, and sports fields. The Burlington County Riverfront Park, spanning 850 acres, boasts a sandy beach, a lively harbor, and a vibrant boardwalk lined with restaurants and shops. Additionally, Burlington is a gateway to the expansive Pine Barrens, a unique ecological region known for its pristine woodlands, cranberry bogs, and diverse flora and fauna.