Durham Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – United States

Spring and Summer

Durham’s spring season, typically spanning from March to May, offers a gradual transition from winter’s chill to summer’s warmth. Temperatures range from an average low of 43°F (6°C) in March to a pleasant 67°F (19°C) in May. The season is characterized by intermittent periods of rain and sunshine, with occasional thunderstorms towards the end of spring.

As summer arrives in June, Durham experiences warm and humid conditions. Average high temperatures climb into the low 80s°F (27°C), while overnight lows remain in the mid-60s°F (18°C). Rainfall increases slightly during the summer months, with frequent showers and thunderstorms, providing relief from the heat and humidity.

Fall and Winter

Autumn in Durham, from September to November, features a gradual decline in temperatures and a decrease in humidity. The foliage transforms into vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, offering picturesque views. Average temperatures range from a mild 70°F (21°C) in September to a crisp 50°F (10°C) in November. The season witnesses sporadic rainfall, but is generally drier than spring and summer.

Winter in Durham, spanning from December to February, is characterized by chilly temperatures and occasional snowfall. Average high temperatures hover around 45°F (7°C), while overnight lows can dip into the 20s°F (-6°C). Precipitation primarily falls in the form of snow or sleet, with the region experiencing an average of 4 inches (10 cm) of snowfall per winter.

Summer Temperatures in Durham, United States

Durham, located in the southeastern United States, experiences warm and humid summers. The average temperature during the summer months, from June to August, is a comfortable 78°F (26°C). However, the city is known for its occasional heat waves, with temperatures soaring into the 90s (°F) and even the 100s (°F) during the hottest periods. These spells of extreme heat can be challenging, especially for those who are not accustomed to such high temperatures.

Winter Temperatures in Durham, United States

Winters in Durham are generally mild, with an average temperature of 45°F (7°C) from December to February. The city experiences occasional cold spells, particularly during January and February, when temperatures can dip into the 20s (°F) or even teens (°F). However, snow is relatively rare in Durham, with the occasional snowfall usually melting quickly. The winter months are often characterized by clear skies and sunny days, making it a pleasant time to visit the city and explore its many attractions.

Cloud Cover Characteristics:

Durham, located in the southeastern United States, experiences a humid subtropical climate characterized by warm, muggy summers and mild, short winters. The city’s cloud cover varies throughout the year, with seasonal patterns and diurnal variations. During the summer months, clouds are often more prevalent due to the increased convective activity and moisture in the atmosphere. Cumulus clouds, known for their puffy cotton-ball appearance, dominate the sky, sometimes developing into larger cumulonimbus clouds that can produce thunderstorms. In the winter, cloud cover tends to be less frequent and more stable, with clear skies or high cirrus clouds being common. Mid-level clouds, such as altocumulus and altostratus, are also observed during this time.

Influence on Weather Patterns:

Cloud cover plays a significant role in shaping Durham’s weather patterns. Thick clouds can block solar radiation, leading to cooler temperatures during the day and warmer nights due to reduced radiative cooling. Low clouds, such as stratus and fog, can trap moisture near the ground, creating a humid and overcast atmosphere. High clouds, while not directly affecting temperature, can indicate approaching weather systems. Cirrocumulus clouds, for instance, often precede the arrival of a cold front. Cloud cover can also influence precipitation patterns, with thicker clouds typically associated with higher chances of rain or snow. By observing cloud cover and its changes, residents of Durham can gain a glimpse into the upcoming weather conditions.

Annual Precipitation:

Durham, North Carolina, experiences a humid subtropical climate with abundant precipitation throughout the year. The average annual precipitation falls between 45 and 48 inches (1,143 to 1,219 millimeters). The city receives an even distribution of rainfall over the months, with the wettest period typically occurring during the summer months. July and August stand out as the rainiest months, each contributing around 4.5 inches (114 mm) of rainfall. The driest months are usually November and December, with an average of 3-3.5 inches (76-89 mm) of precipitation each.

Seasonal Precipitation:

Durham’s precipitation patterns vary across the seasons. Spring and fall witness moderate rainfall, with April and October receiving an average of 4 inches (102 mm) each. Winter brings the least amount of precipitation, with January often receiving only 3 inches (76 mm) of rainfall. The city experiences occasional snowfall during the winter months, but accumulations are generally light and infrequent. Summer, on the other hand, is the period when Durham receives its highest rainfall. The warm and humid air during this season contributes to frequent thunderstorms and heavy downpours, resulting in an average precipitation of 5 inches (127 mm) or more per month. However, rainfall during summer can be unpredictable, with some months experiencing significantly higher precipitation than others.

Annual Rainfall and Distribution

Durham, located in the southeastern United States, experiences a humid subtropical climate with abundant rainfall year-round. The city receives an average of 45 inches (114 centimeters) of annual precipitation, distributed relatively evenly throughout the year. However, rainfall tends to be more frequent and intense during the spring and summer months, particularly between May and September. These months account for approximately 60% of the total annual rainfall, with thunderstorms and tropical cyclones often bringing heavy downpours.

Seasonal Variability

The amount of rainfall in Durham varies significantly between seasons. The wettest months are July and August, each averaging over 5 inches (13 centimeters) of precipitation. The driest months are October and November, with average rainfall totals of around 2 inches (5 centimeters). During the winter, precipitation often falls as a mix of rain and snow, with snowfall being rare but not uncommon. The variability in rainfall patterns can be attributed to changes in atmospheric circulation, the position of the jet stream, and the influence of nearby water bodies, such as the Atlantic Ocean, which can contribute to moisture in the atmosphere.

Historical Snowfall Data

Durham, North Carolina, experiences relatively mild winters compared to many other parts of the United States. However, the city has still seen its share of snowfall throughout history. According to the National Weather Service, Durham’s record snowfall occurred on February 12, 1960, when 11.5 inches of snow fell. Other notable snowfall events include 8.5 inches on January 22, 1988, and 7.5 inches on January 1, 2000.

Seasonal Variability and Climate Patterns

Snowfall in Durham is highly variable from year to year. Some winters may see no measurable snowfall, while others may receive several inches. The city’s climate is influenced by its location in the Piedmont region, which experiences a humid subtropical climate with hot, humid summers and mild, short winters. However, cold air masses from the north can occasionally bring snow to the area during the winter months.

Impacts of Snowfall and Local Preparedness

While snowfall is not as common in Durham as in other parts of the country, it can still have a significant impact on the city. Snowfall can disrupt transportation, close schools and businesses, and lead to power outages. To prepare for the potential impacts of snowfall, the city typically sends out snow plows and salt trucks to clear the roads and keep them safe for travel. Residents are also encouraged to have an emergency plan in place in case of a significant snowfall event.

Sunrise and Sunset Times in Durham

The sun’s rising and setting times vary throughout the year in Durham, United States, due to the Earth’s tilt and its orbit around the Sun. During the summer months, the days are longer, with sunrise occurring around 6:00 AM and sunset around 8:30 PM. In the winter, the days are shorter, with sunrise around 7:30 AM and sunset around 5:30 PM.

Daylight Hours and Solar Exposure

The number of daylight hours in Durham also changes throughout the year, with the longest days occurring in June and the shortest days in December. The average amount of sunlight in Durham is approximately 2,300 hours per year, which is higher than the national average. This abundance of sunlight provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities and solar energy utilization. However, it is important to note that while Durham enjoys a sunny climate, it also experiences seasonal variations and unpredictable weather patterns.

Moonrise and Moonset in Durham

In Durham, United States, the moon’s visibility and position in the sky vary throughout the month. The exact timing of moonrise and moonset depends on the time of year, as the Earth’s tilt on its axis affects the angle at which sunlight strikes the moon. Generally, the moon rises in the east and sets in the west, and its altitude above the horizon varies depending on the day and time.

The moon’s phases, from new moon to full moon, also affect its visibility and position. During a new moon, the moon is not visible from Earth, as the side facing Earth is not illuminated by the sun. As the moon progresses through its phases, it becomes increasingly visible, reaching its peak visibility during a full moon. The full moon appears as a bright, round disc in the sky, and it is typically visible throughout the night.

Monthly Humidity Variations

Durham experiences a humid climate throughout the year, with average relative humidity levels ranging from the low 70s to the mid-80s. The most humid months are typically July and August, when humidity levels can reach up to 90%. During these summer months, the air can feel heavy and uncomfortable, especially during the warm afternoons and evenings. The least humid months are typically January and February, when humidity levels can drop below 50%.

Seasonal Humidity Patterns

Humidity levels in Durham vary significantly with the seasons. During the winter months (December-February), cold and dry air from the north dominates, resulting in lower humidity levels. As spring approaches (March-May), temperatures gradually increase and humidity levels start to rise, reaching their peak during the hot and humid summer months (June-August). In autumn (September-November), as temperatures cool, humidity levels drop once again, creating a more comfortable and less humid atmosphere.

Wind Patterns and Frequency

Durham, United States, experiences diverse wind patterns influenced by its geographical location and proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. The prevailing wind direction throughout the year is from the southwest, bringing warm, moist air from the Gulf of Mexico. During winter months, the winds tend to be stronger, with frequent gusts reaching speeds of up to 20 miles per hour. Conversely, during summer months, winds are generally calmer, with average speeds hovering around 10 miles per hour. The coastal influence of the Atlantic Ocean also contributes to occasional offshore winds, particularly during summer afternoons. These winds come from the ocean and bring relatively cool, humid air to Durham.

Seasonal Variability

The wind patterns in Durham exhibit seasonal variability. During spring, winds are typically moderate and variable in direction, as weather systems transition from winter to summer. As the summer progresses, southerly winds become more dominant, bringing warm and humid air from the Gulf of Mexico. Fall brings a return to more variable wind directions, as cooler air masses start to move in from the north and west. Winter brings the strongest winds, with prevailing westerly and northwesterly directions, occasionally accompanied by strong gusts and cold air fronts.

Spring: Blossoming Beauty

Spring in Durham, from March to May, paints the city in a vibrant tapestry of colors. As the weather warms, the Durham Botanical Gardens explode with a kaleidoscope of blooming flowers, from vibrant camellias to fragrant magnolias. Take a stroll through Sarah P. Duke Gardens, where you’ll marvel at the blooming cherry trees, creating a breathtaking pink canopy. The Durham Farmers’ Market buzzes with activity, offering an array of fresh produce and local delicacies. It’s an ideal time to enjoy outdoor activities like biking or hiking on the Eno River Trail.

Fall: Crisp and Colorful

Fall in Durham, from September to November, transforms the city into a golden haven. The leaves of the trees put on a spectacular show, painting the landscape in shades of amber, orange, and scarlet. Visit Duke Forest and experience the vibrant foliage amidst towering pines and majestic oaks. Don’t miss the Hayti Heritage Center’s Fall Festival, where you can celebrate the rich cultural tapestry of Durham. With its crisp air and warm colors, fall is an excellent time for exploring the city’s many parks and taking in the stunning scenery.

Durham’s Solar Energy Potential

Durham, North Carolina, boasts an abundance of solar energy potential due to its favorable geographic location and sunny climate. The city receives an average of 220 clear days per year and an annual solar radiation of approximately 5.5 kilowatt-hours per square meter. This high level of solar insolation makes Durham an ideal candidate for solar energy development. Additionally, the city’s relatively flat terrain and ample available land provide excellent opportunities for large-scale solar farms.

Solar Energy Initiatives in Durham

Durham has demonstrated a strong commitment to promoting solar energy. The city has adopted ambitious renewable energy goals, including a target of generating 100% of its electricity from clean energy sources by 2050. To support these goals, Durham has implemented a range of initiatives to encourage solar energy adoption. These include financial incentives, such as tax rebates and property tax exemptions, as well as educational programs and outreach campaigns to raise awareness about the benefits of solar energy. As a result of these efforts, Durham has seen a significant increase in both residential and commercial solar installations in recent years.

Topography of Durham

Durham, North Carolina, is situated in a diverse topographical region characterized by both rolling hills and flat plains. The city lies within the Piedmont Plateau, which extends from the Appalachian Mountains to the Atlantic Coastal Plain. The western portion of Durham features rolling hills and a mix of hardwood and pine forests, gradually transitioning to gentler slopes and open fields towards the eastern edge. Notable hills within the city limits include Occoneechee Mountain and Cornwallis Road Hill.

Hydrology and Floodplains

Durham’s topography plays a significant role in its hydrology. The city is drained by the Eno River and Flat Creek, which flow from the northwest to the southeast. The landscape is dotted with numerous tributaries, creeks, and wetlands. The topography also influences floodplains, particularly in the low-lying areas along the river valleys. During periods of heavy rainfall, these areas are prone to flooding, highlighting the importance of flood risk management strategies.

Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU)

Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) is the primary airport serving Durham, United States. It is located approximately 11 miles (18 kilometers) northwest of downtown Durham in Morrisville, North Carolina. RDU is a major hub for American Airlines and serves over 50 destinations worldwide. The airport offers a variety of amenities, including a variety of dining and shopping options, free Wi-Fi, and a business center. RDU is easily accessible from Durham and surrounding areas by car or public transportation. The airport is served by several bus and shuttle services, including the Triangle Transit Authority’s R-Line, which provides express service between Durham and RDU.

Piedmont Triad International Airport (GSO)

While RDU is the nearest airport to Durham, Piedmont Triad International Airport (GSO) is another option for those flying into the area. GSO is located approximately 50 miles (80 kilometers) northwest of Durham in Greensboro, North Carolina. GSO serves over 20 destinations and is a focus city for Spirit Airlines. Although it is further away than RDU, GSO may offer more affordable flights to certain destinations. The airport is easily accessible from Durham by car and is also served by a variety of bus and shuttle services.

Culture and Entertainment

Durham, United States, boasts a vibrant and diverse cultural scene that caters to a wide range of interests. The city is home to renowned museums, such as the Nasher Museum of Art and the Durham Museum of Life and Science, which feature an eclectic collection of exhibits that appeal to both adults and children. For live performances, the Carolina Theatre of Durham offers an array of shows, from Broadway productions to local theater companies. The city also has a thriving music scene, with venues like the Durham Performing Arts Center, Motorco Music Hall, and the Blue Note Grill hosting concerts by renowned artists and up-and-coming performers.

Sports and Outdoor Recreation

Durham is a sports enthusiast’s paradise. The city is home to the Duke Blue Devils, one of the most successful college basketball programs in the United States. Cameron Indoor Stadium, the team’s home court, offers an electrifying atmosphere during games. Football fans can cheer on the Carolina Hurricanes, the local NHL team, at PNC Arena. Beyond professional sports, Durham provides ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. The American Tobacco Trail, a 22-mile paved trail, is popular for walking, biking, and running. The Eno River State Park, just west of the city, offers hiking trails amidst scenic riverbanks and waterfalls.