Clovis Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – United States

Summer

Clovis, California experiences hot, dry summers from June to September. Average temperatures during these months range from 67°F (19°C) at night to 94°F (34°C) during the day. However, temperatures can soar into the triple digits on particularly warm days. Humidity levels are generally low, making the heat more tolerable. Occasional thunderstorms can bring brief relief from the heat, but these are infrequent.

Winter

Winters in Clovis are mild and rainy, with average temperatures ranging from 32°F (0°C) at night to 55°F (13°C) during the day from November to February. The area receives an average of 12 inches of rainfall per year, with most of the precipitation occurring during the winter months. Snow is uncommon, but freezing temperatures can occur occasionally. Winter nights can be chilly, with temperatures dipping below freezing on some nights.

Average Temperature in Clovis, United States

Clovis, United States enjoys a comfortable, warm climate with distinct seasons. The average temperature in the city varies throughout the year, with summers being hot and dry, while winters are cold and somewhat wet. The average temperature in the summer months (June, July, and August) ranges from 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit (24 to 29 degrees Celsius). During these months, the humidity levels are relatively low, making the heat more bearable. The hottest month of the year is typically July, with average high temperatures reaching 90 degrees Fahrenheit (32 degrees Celsius).

In contrast, winters in Clovis are significantly cooler, with average temperatures ranging from 35 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit (2 to 10 degrees Celsius). The average low temperature in the winter months (December, January, and February) falls below freezing, reaching an average of 32 degrees Fahrenheit (0 degrees Celsius). Snowfall is not uncommon during the winter months, with an average of 10 inches (25 centimeters) falling per year. The coldest month of the year is typically January, with average low temperatures dipping down to 28 degrees Fahrenheit (-2 degrees Celsius).

Cloud Conditions in Clovis

Clovis, located in Eastern New Mexico, generally experiences a semi-arid climate with moderate rainfall and low humidity. The city’s cloud cover varies throughout the year, with the most significant cloud cover occurring during the summer months. During this season, the prevalence of moisture-carrying winds from the Gulf of Mexico contributes to the formation of cumulus clouds, often accompanied by occasional showers or thunderstorms. In contrast, the winter months are characterized by fewer clouds, as the region experiences a drier period with limited moisture in the atmosphere.

Seasonal Variations

The seasonal changes in cloud cover in Clovis are primarily influenced by the region’s unique geographical location. During the spring season, the city undergoes a transition from winter to summer, experiencing a gradual increase in cloud cover. As the temperature rises and winds from the gulf become more prevalent, the formation of cumulus clouds increases, leading to more overcast conditions. By the time summer arrives, the sky over Clovis is often characterized by a mixture of cumulus and cirrus clouds, with frequent thunderstorms occurring in the late afternoons or evenings. The fall season brings a gradual decrease in cloud cover as the moisture-carrying winds diminish. As winter approaches, the sky becomes clearer, with fewer clouds visible due to the drier atmospheric conditions.

Precipitation Patterns in Clovis, United States

Clovis, located in eastern New Mexico, experiences an arid climate with low annual precipitation. The city receives an average of 15.82 inches (402 mm) of rain and 3.9 inches (99 mm) of snow per year. The majority of precipitation falls during the summer months, particularly July and August. Winters are generally dry, with occasional snowfall occurring between December and February.

The precipitation in Clovis is highly variable, with significant fluctuation from year to year. The wettest year on record was 1941, with a total precipitation of 30.52 inches (775 mm), while the driest year was 1956, with a mere 7.89 inches (200 mm). These extreme variations can have severe impacts on the local ecosystem and water resources.

Climate Overview

Clovis, located in central California’s San Joaquin Valley, experiences a semi-arid climate with hot summers and mild winters. The city receives an average annual precipitation of just 10 inches (254 mm), most of which occurs during the winter months. Summers are typically dry, with hot temperatures that frequently exceed 100°F (38°C). Winters are mild, with average temperatures in the 40s and 50s (4-13°C) and occasional light rain or snow.

Seasonal Precipitation

Rainfall in Clovis is highly seasonal, with the majority occurring between October and April. December and January are typically the wettest months, with an average precipitation of over 2 inches (50 mm) each. The driest months are July and August, when precipitation averages less than 0.1 inch (2.5 mm) per month. During the summer months, Clovis often experiences prolonged periods of drought, with little or no rainfall. The city’s semi-arid climate is influenced by its location in the rain shadow of the Sierra Nevada mountains, which block much of the moisture from the Pacific Ocean from reaching the region.

Historical Snowfall Data

Clovis, located in the southern San Joaquin Valley of California, experiences minimal snowfall due to its warm climate and inland location. Historical records indicate that significant snowfall is a rare occurrence in the city. From 1948 to 2023, Clovis has only recorded measurable snowfall on 14 occasions. The most notable snowfall event occurred on January 21, 1999, when a storm dumped 2.8 inches of snow on the city, causing widespread power outages and traffic disruptions.

Factors Influencing Snowfall

The primary factors influencing snowfall in Clovis are its geographical location and prevailing weather patterns. The city’s proximity to the Sierra Nevada mountains, which act as a natural barrier, prevents moist air from the Pacific Ocean from reaching Clovis. Additionally, the warm temperatures throughout the year reduce the likelihood of snowfall, as snow typically requires temperatures below freezing to form. During the winter months, Clovis often experiences clear skies and mild temperatures, further decreasing the chances of significant snowfall.

Sunrise and Sunset Times

Clovis, United States, experiences variations in sunrise and sunset times throughout the year due to the Earth’s tilt and orbit around the sun. In general, the sun rises earlier and sets later during the summer months and the reverse during the winter months. For example, during the summer solstice in June, the sun rises around 6:00 AM and sets around 9:00 PM, resulting in longer daylight hours. Conversely, during the winter solstice in December, the sun rises around 8:00 AM and sets around 5:00 PM, leading to shorter daylight hours.

Sunlight Hours

Due to its location in the Northern Hemisphere, Clovis experiences longer days during the summer and shorter days during the winter. The number of daylight hours varies significantly throughout the year, with the maximum occurring in June and the minimum in December. During the summer solstice, the city receives approximately 15 hours of sunlight per day, while during the winter solstice, it only receives about 9 hours of sunlight per day. This variation in sunlight hours influences the amount of natural light available for outdoor activities, agriculture, and other solar-dependent processes.

Moonrise and Moonset in Clovis

In Clovis, California, the time of moonrise and moonset varies throughout the year. During the summer months, the moon rises later and sets earlier. For example, on June 21st, the moon rises at 8:51 PM and sets at 6:28 AM. In contrast, during the winter months, the moon rises earlier and sets later. On December 21st, the moon rises at 4:47 AM and sets at 5:00 PM.

Moon Phases in Clovis

The moon goes through a cycle of phases over a period of about 29.5 days. The new moon is the phase when the moon is not visible from Earth. The first quarter moon is the phase when the moon is half illuminated. The full moon is the phase when the entire moon is illuminated. The last quarter moon is the phase when the moon is half illuminated again. The cycle of moon phases repeats itself over and over again.

Seasonal Humidity Patterns

Clovis, located in the central valley of California, experiences distinct seasonal humidity patterns. During the warm summer months from June to September, humidity levels tend to be low, typically ranging between 20% and 40%. This aridity is attributed to the influence of dry Pacific air masses and the absence of significant precipitation.

In contrast, the winter months from December to March bring higher humidity levels to Clovis. As temperatures drop and the air becomes cooler, it can hold more moisture. Humidity levels typically rise to an average of 60%-70%, creating a more humid atmosphere. The increased humidity is often accompanied by fog and drizzle, especially during the early morning hours.

Diurnal Humidity Variations

Throughout the day, humidity levels in Clovis also undergo significant variations. During the nighttime, as temperatures cool, relative humidity tends to increase. This is because the air can no longer hold as much moisture, causing condensation and an increase in humidity levels.

As the sun rises and temperatures warm, the air’s capacity to hold moisture increases, leading to a decrease in relative humidity. By midday, humidity levels typically reach their lowest point of the day. This diurnal pattern persists throughout the year, with more pronounced variations in humidity during the summer months due to the high temperatures and low moisture content in the air.

Wind Patterns

Clovis experiences a moderate wind regime throughout the year. During the spring and summer months, prevailing winds blow from the southwesterly direction, bringing warm and dry air from the deserts of Arizona and New Mexico. These winds can be particularly strong during the afternoon and evening hours, often exceeding 20 miles per hour. In the fall and winter, the wind direction shifts to the northwesterly quadrant, bringing cooler and more humid air from the Sierra Nevada mountains. Wind speeds are typically lower during this period, averaging around 10 miles per hour.

Seasonal Variations

The wind in Clovis exhibits distinct seasonal variations. The windiest months are typically March through May, when the jet stream is positioned closest to the area. During this period, strong southwesterly winds are common, bringing gusty conditions and occasional dust storms. The least windy months are usually December through February, when the prevailing winds are weaker and more stable. However, even during these months, occasional strong winds can occur due to the passage of weather fronts or cold air outbreaks.

Spring (March to May)

Spring in Clovis offers pleasant temperatures with average highs ranging from the mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit and average lows in the low to mid-40s. The rainfall during this season is minimal, making it an ideal time to explore the city’s outdoor attractions, such as the Clovis Botanical Garden or Hillcrest Park. With fewer crowds than the peak summer months, visitors can enjoy a more relaxed and peaceful experience while enjoying the blooming flowers and lush greenery.

Fall (September to October)

Fall in Clovis brings a vibrant display of colors as the leaves of the trees change hue. The weather remains temperate, with average highs in the mid-70s and average lows hovering around 50 degrees Fahrenheit. The rainfall during this season is higher than in spring but still manageable, allowing visitors to enjoy outdoor activities while appreciating the scenic beauty of the changing landscape. The Clovis Rodeo and Harvest Festival, held in October, offers a unique glimpse into the city’s agricultural heritage with various events, including a rodeo, live music, and a farmers’ market.

Solar Energy Potential in Clovis

Clovis, located in the Central Valley of California, boasts excellent solar energy potential due to its high levels of sunshine and warm climate. The city receives an average of 299 sunny days per year, with an average solar irradiance of 5.5 kWh/m2/day. This resource makes Clovis an ideal location for solar energy development.

Solar Energy Initiatives in Clovis

The city of Clovis has actively pursued solar energy initiatives to capitalize on its abundant resource. The Clovis Solar Park, completed in 2015, is a 9-megawatt photovoltaic power plant that generates enough electricity to power over 2,500 homes. Additionally, the city offers incentives for residential and commercial solar installations, such as net metering and property tax exemptions. As a result of these efforts, Clovis has become a leader in solar energy adoption in the region.

Landforms

Clovis is located in the San Joaquin Valley, and the topography varies widely between two different landforms. The valley floor is a flat, alluvial plain that slopes gently toward the west. It is traversed by several streams and canals, and the soil is fertile and well-suited for agriculture. The second landform is the Sierra Nevada Mountains, that rise abruptly from the valley floor to the east. The mountains are steep and rugged, with many peaks over 10,000 feet in elevation. The highest peak in the range is Mount Whitney, which is 14,505 feet tall.

Water Resources

Clovis is located in a semi-arid region, and water is a precious resource for the city. The city’s primary water supply comes from the San Joaquin River, which flows through the valley floor. The river is dammed at several locations to create reservoirs, which store water for use during the dry season. In addition to the San Joaquin River, Clovis also has several groundwater basins, which provide a backup source of water. The city is working to conserve water and promote sustainable water use practices, such as recycled water and low-flow appliances.

Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT)

Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT) is the nearest airport to Clovis, California, located approximately 6 miles (10 kilometers) northwest of the city center. The airport offers convenient access to the Clovis area, with flights to various destinations within the United States, Canada, and Mexico. FAT features a single terminal with modern facilities, including restaurants, shops, and car rental services. It is well-connected to Clovis via public transportation, including buses and taxis.

Other Nearby Airports

While Fresno Yosemite International Airport is the closest airport to Clovis, there are other nearby options for air travel. Merced Regional Airport (MCE), located approximately 35 miles (56 kilometers) north of Clovis, offers limited commercial flights. The larger San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is situated about 170 miles (274 kilometers) northwest of Clovis and provides extensive flight options both domestically and internationally. However, San Francisco International Airport is a longer drive from Clovis, taking approximately 3 hours or more.

History of Clovis

Clovis, a city nestled in the fertile Central Valley of California, boasts a rich and storied history spanning centuries. Its origins can be traced back to the indigenous Yokuts tribe, who inhabited the region long before European settlers arrived. In the 1850s, the area played a significant role in the California Gold Rush, attracting thousands of prospectors and miners. The city of Clovis was officially founded in 1912, and its name is believed to derive from the French word “clovis,” meaning “flower.” Over the decades, Clovis grew steadily, transitioning from an agricultural hub to a thriving commercial and residential center.

Modern-Day Clovis

Today, Clovis is a vibrant and modern city with a population of over 100,000 residents. It is renowned for its exceptional quality of life, consistently ranking among the best places to live in California. The city boasts a thriving economy anchored by a diverse range of industries, including healthcare, technology, and agriculture. Clovis is also home to several notable attractions, including the Clovis Municipal Stadium, which hosts minor league baseball games, and the Clovis North Educational Center for the Arts, which offers a variety of arts and education programs. With its excellent schools, abundant recreational opportunities, and a strong sense of community, Clovis remains a highly desirable destination for families and individuals seeking a fulfilling and enriching living experience.