Erie Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – United States

Climate and Average Weather Year Round

Erie’s climate is characterized by four distinct seasons, with cold, snowy winters and warm, humid summers. The average annual temperature is approximately 47°F (8.3°C), ranging from an average low of 21°F (-6.1°C) in January to an average high of 79°F (26.1°C) in July. Erie experiences abundant precipitation year-round, averaging about 37 inches (940 mm) annually.

During the winter months, Erie receives an average of 33 inches (838 mm) of snow, with January being the snowiest month. The city is prone to lake-effect snow, which can result in heavy snowfall events. Erie’s summers are typically warm and humid, with July and August being the hottest months. The average temperature during these months ranges from 70°F to 80°F (21.1°C to 26.7°C). Precipitation is more frequent during the summer months, with thunderstorms occurring occasionally.

Annual Temperature Range

Erie, located in northwestern Pennsylvania, experiences a wide annual temperature range. The average temperature for the year is 52.6°F (11.4°C), with July being the warmest month and January being the coldest. Average summer temperatures typically reach into the mid-80s Fahrenheit (28-30°C), while winter temperatures often fall below freezing, averaging in the mid-30s Fahrenheit (1-2°C).

Seasonality

Erie’s climate is characterized by four distinct seasons. Summers in Erie are warm and humid, with frequent precipitation. The average July temperature is 72.8°F (22.7°C), and the city receives about 3.3 inches (8.4 cm) of rainfall during this month. Winters are cold and snowy, with average January temperatures dropping to 28.6°F (-1.9°C) and an average of 20.1 inches (51.1 cm) of snowfall. Spring and fall in Erie offer transitional weather, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-40s to the mid-60s Fahrenheit (7-18°C).

Formation and Types

Clouds in Erie, United States, are influenced by Lake Erie’s proximity and the prevailing winds. The lake’s vast surface creates moisture, which rises and forms clouds when it encounters the colder air above. Erie typically experiences a variety of cloud types, including cumulus, stratus, and cirrus. Cumulus clouds are puffy and appear at low altitudes, while stratus clouds form a uniform gray layer. Cirrus clouds, on the other hand, are wispy and high-altitude.

Seasonality and Precipitation

The cloud cover in Erie varies throughout the year. During summer, convective clouds are common due to unstable atmospheric conditions caused by the lake’s warm waters. These clouds can produce showers or thunderstorms. In winter, the colder temperatures and stable atmosphere lead to more frequent low-level stratus clouds that bring overcast skies and occasional drizzle or snow. In the transitional seasons, Erie experiences a mix of cloud types as the weather changes from warm to cool.

Monthly Precipitation Patterns

Erie, United States experiences significant precipitation throughout the year, with an average annual rainfall of 96 centimeters (37.8 inches). The wettest months are September and October, during which an average of 9 centimeters (3.5 inches) of rain falls each month. In contrast, the driest months are January and February, with an average precipitation of only 5 centimeters (2 inches) per month.

Seasonal Variations

Seasonal variations in precipitation are also evident in Erie. Spring and summer months (April to September) tend to be wetter than the fall and winter months (October to March). During the spring and summer, convective thunderstorms and frontal systems contribute to increased rainfall. Conversely, during the fall and winter, cold air and a lack of moisture result in less precipitation. Snowfall is common in Erie during the winter months, with an average of 183 centimeters (72 inches) accumulating each year.

Monthly Rainfall Distribution

Erie, located in Pennsylvania, United States, experiences a relatively even distribution of rainfall throughout the year. The city receives an average of 34.6 inches of precipitation annually, with the wettest months being May, June, and July, which average over 4 inches of rainfall each. The driest months are January and February, which average less than 2 inches of rainfall. This pattern is consistent with the region’s humid continental climate, characterized by warm, humid summers and cold, snowy winters.

Impact on Vegetation and Water Resources

The ample rainfall in Erie contributes to the lush vegetation and vibrant ecosystem of the area. The city supports a variety of deciduous forests, wetlands, and grasslands. The abundance of water also sustains the city’s water supply. Erie draws its water from Lake Erie, which provides a clean and reliable source of drinking water for the city and surrounding region. Additionally, the rainfall supports the cultivation of various crops, such as corn, soybeans, and grapes, which contribute to the local economy.

Snowfall Patterns in Erie

Erie, Pennsylvania is renowned for its substantial snowfall, consistently ranking among the snowiest cities in the United States. The city’s peculiar location along the southeastern shore of Lake Erie creates a lake effect phenomenon that enhances snowfall during cold-weather events. As cold air from Canada crosses the relatively warm waters of Lake Erie, it picks up moisture, forming clouds that release snow as they reach the colder landmasses. This process intensifies snowfall during westerly and northwesterly winds, leading to frequent winter storms that drop heavy snowfalls.

Climate Impact and Economic Implications

The heavy snowfall in Erie significantly impacts the city’s climate and economy. Winters can be lengthy and harsh, with snowfall totals often exceeding 100 inches per season. The vast amount of snow can disrupt daily life, requiring snow removal and salt application on roads, sidewalks, and public spaces. Businesses and industries may experience delays or closures due to inclement weather conditions. On the other hand, the snowfall also attracts winter sports enthusiasts, supporting the local tourism industry, particularly for skiing, snowboarding, and ice fishing. The city’s reputation for snow-related activities has made it a desirable destination for snowbirds seeking winter recreation.

Sunrise and Sunset Times in Erie

Erie, Pennsylvania, is blessed with diverse weather patterns, including varying sunrise and sunset times. The duration of daylight varies significantly throughout the year, with longer days during the summer months and shorter days during the winter months. The time of sunrise typically ranges from 6:45 AM to 7:30 AM, while the time of sunset generally falls between 5:30 PM and 6:30 PM. These times may slightly shift depending on the specific day and the season.

Seasonal Variations in Sunlight

In the summer months, Erie experiences its longest days of the year. During the summer solstice, which occurs around June 21st, the sun rises around 5:45 AM and sets around 8:30 PM, providing approximately 15 hours of daylight. In contrast, the winter solstice, which occurs around December 21st, marks the shortest day of the year, with the sun rising around 7:45 AM and setting around 4:45 PM, leaving only about 9 hours of daylight. The remainder of the year falls somewhere between these extremes, with gradually changing sunrise and sunset times as the seasons transition.

Moon in Erie, Pennsylvania

The city of Erie, Pennsylvania experiences various moon phases throughout the year, just like any other location on Earth. The moon’s monthly cycle goes through new moon, waxing crescent, first quarter, waxing gibbous, full moon, waning gibbous, third quarter, and waning crescent phases. The time of each moon phase can vary slightly depending on the year. For instance, in 2023, the full moon will occur on August 31st.

The moon’s appearance changes as it orbits Earth, reflecting sunlight. During a new moon, the side of the moon facing Earth is not illuminated, making it invisible to observers. As the moon moves around Earth, more of its illuminated side becomes visible, leading to the waxing phases. The full moon occurs when the entire side of the moon facing Earth is illuminated. After the full moon, the moon’s illuminated side gradually decreases, resulting in the waning phases. These phases repeat every 29.5 days, completing the moon’s monthly cycle.

Humidity Levels in Erie

Erie, located in northwestern Pennsylvania, experiences moderate humidity levels throughout the year. The average annual relative humidity is around 69%, ranging from highs of around 80% in the summer to lows of about 55% in the winter. During the summer months, from June to August, humidity levels are typically higher due to the warm, moist air from the Great Lakes and the Atlantic Ocean. Conversely, during the winter months, from December to February, humidity levels are generally lower due to the colder, drier air from Canada.

Seasonal Variations in Humidity

Seasonal variations in humidity have a significant impact on the overall climate in Erie. The high humidity levels in the summer can make the air feel muggy and uncomfortable, while the low humidity levels in the winter can lead to dry skin and throat irritation. Additionally, during the spring and fall months, humidity levels can fluctuate rapidly, resulting in unpredictable weather conditions. For example, a cold front passing through the area can quickly drop humidity levels, while a warm front can bring in moist air and increase humidity. These variations in humidity can affect outdoor activities, such as hiking or biking, as well as indoor activities, such as sleeping or working in a comfortable environment.

Erie’s Temperate Climate

Erie, Pennsylvania experiences a temperate climate, characterized by warm summers and cold winters. The average annual temperature hovers around 50°F (10°C), with July being the warmest month, averaging 72°F (22°C), and January the coldest, averaging 26°F (-3°C).

Influence of Lake Erie

Lake Erie significantly influences Erie’s climate. The water body absorbs heat during the summer, releasing it slowly throughout the fall and winter, moderating temperatures and minimizing extreme fluctuations. Additionally, the lake’s evaporation creates moisture in the air, leading to frequent precipitation, including snow during the winter months.

Summer (June-August)

Summer in Erie is characterized by warm temperatures, with average highs ranging from 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. The humidity is moderate, and the days are long and sunny. Erie’s beaches are bustling with activity during this time of year, and there are plenty of opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and boating. The city also hosts a number of outdoor festivals and events during the summer months, such as the Roar on the Shore motorcycle rally and the Erie County Fair.

Fall (September-November)

Fall in Erie brings crisp temperatures and vibrant foliage. The average high temperature in September is 70 degrees Fahrenheit, and it gradually decreases to 50 degrees Fahrenheit by November. The humidity is low, and the days are typically sunny and mild. Fall is a great time to visit Erie for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and apple picking. The city also hosts a number of fall festivals, such as the Oktobeerfest and the Erie Scarefest.

Solar Insolation in Erie

Erie, Pennsylvania, located on the southern shore of Lake Erie, receives a significant amount of solar insolation. The city experiences an average of 3.5 to 4.5 peak sunlight hours per day throughout the year, with higher insolation levels during the summer months and lower levels during the winter. The city’s close proximity to the Great Lakes also plays a role in moderating temperature fluctuations and providing more prolonged periods of sunshine, making it an ideal location for solar energy utilization.

Solar Energy Potential

Due to its ample solar resources, Erie has a high potential for solar energy development. The city has a wide variety of suitable rooftops and open spaces that can be used for the installation of solar panels. In addition, the local government and utility companies offer various incentives and programs to encourage residents and businesses to adopt solar technology. As a result, Erie has witnessed significant growth in its solar energy capacity in recent years, with both residential and commercial projects contributing to the increase in solar generation.

Geography and Topography

Erie, Pennsylvania is situated along the southern shore of Lake Erie, which lies within the glaciated Appalachian Plateau. The city’s topography is characterized by a gentle slope towards the lake and the presence of several creeks and ravines that flow through the city. The highest point in Erie is Mount Pleasant, which stands at an elevation of 900 feet above sea level. The lowest point in the city is the shoreline of Lake Erie, which lies at an elevation of 570 feet above sea level.

Natural Features

The most prominent natural feature in Erie is Presque Isle State Park, a narrow, sandy peninsula that juts into Lake Erie. The park is a popular destination for swimming, boating, and fishing, and its beaches are known for their fine sand and clear waters. The park also features several hiking trails, a wildlife sanctuary, and a lighthouse. Other notable natural features in Erie include the Erie Harbor, which is a protected harbor that serves as a port for commercial and recreational vessels, and the Erie Canal, which was built in the 19th century to connect Erie to the Ohio River.

Erie International Airport (ERI)

Erie International Airport (ERI) is the nearest airport serving the city of Erie, Pennsylvania, United States. It is located approximately 6 miles (9.7 kilometers) southeast of the city center and offers both domestic and international flights. The airport has a single passenger terminal with five gates and serves several major airlines, including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines. ERI offers direct flights to various destinations within the United States, including Atlanta, Charlotte, Cincinnati, Philadelphia, and Pittsburgh. It also provides seasonal international flights to Toronto, Canada. The airport is a convenient transportation hub for travelers in the Erie area, providing easy access to regional and national destinations.

Other Nearby Airports

In addition to Erie International Airport, there are several other airports within a reasonable driving distance of Erie. The closest airport to Erie is the Meadville-Franklin Regional Airport (MEJ), located approximately 30 miles (48 kilometers) south of the city. MEJ is a smaller airport with limited commercial service, primarily serving regional destinations. Another nearby option is the Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE) in Ohio, approximately 90 miles (145 kilometers) west of Erie. CLE is a major airport with a wide range of domestic and international flights, offering a more extensive selection of destinations for travelers. However, the travel time to CLE is longer compared to ERI or MEJ.

History and Culture

Erie, Pennsylvania, boasts a rich history dating back to the late 18th century. It played a pivotal role in the War of 1812 and later became a major industrial center, particularly known for its iron foundries and shipyards. Erie’s maritime heritage is evident in its waterfront district, including Presque Isle State Park, a peninsula known for its natural beauty and recreational opportunities. The city also houses the Erie Maritime Museum, showcasing the maritime history of the region. Erie’s vibrant cultural scene features numerous art galleries, live music venues, and historical sites.

Economy and Education

Erie’s economy has undergone significant diversification in recent decades, with key sectors including healthcare, manufacturing, and tourism. The Erie Innovation District, established in 2017, aims to foster innovation and economic growth in the region. Erie is home to Gannon University, a private Catholic university offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Mercyhurst University, another private university, is located just south of Erie and is known for its strong academic reputation and athletic programs. Additionally, Erie County Technical School serves as a secondary vocational school for students seeking technical and skilled trades training.