Evansville Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – United States
Temperature and Precipitation
Evansville, Indiana enjoys a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot, humid summers and mild winters. Temperatures typically range from a daily average of 35°F in January to 79°F in July. Precipitation is spread fairly evenly throughout the year, with an average of 46 inches annually. However, summer months tend to experience more thunderstorms and heavier rainfall.
Humidity and Wind
Humidity remains relatively high year-round in Evansville, reaching peak levels during the summer months. This can lead to a muggy, oppressive feeling. Wind speeds are typically moderate, with occasional strong gusts during thunderstorms. The prevailing wind direction is from the west or southwest.
Average Temperature by Season
Evansville, Indiana experiences distinct seasonal variations in temperature. Winters are cold, with average temperatures ranging from 26°F (-3°C) in January to 38°F (3°C) in February. Spring is generally mild, with temperatures rising to an average of 54°F (12°C) in April and 66°F (19°C) in May. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures peaking at an average of 82°F (28°C) in July and 81°F (27°C) in August. Autumn brings cooler temperatures, with averages dropping to 61°F (16°C) in September and 47°F (8°C) in November.
Annual and Record Temperatures
The annual average temperature in Evansville is 55°F (13°C). The city’s warmest year on record was 1988, with an average temperature of 59°F (15°C). Conversely, the coldest year on record was 1918, with an average temperature of 48°F (9°C). The highest temperature ever recorded in Evansville was 106°F (41°C) on July 14, 1936, and the lowest temperature ever recorded was -25°F (-32°C) on January 24, 1905.
Cloud Cover and Types
Evansville, located in the southwestern part of Indiana, experiences a variety of cloud cover and types throughout the year. The most common cloud cover in Evansville is high clouds, which are typically thin and wispy and do not produce any precipitation. Middle clouds, which are located between high and low clouds, are also common in Evansville and can appear as either flat or puffy layers. Low clouds, which are the closest to the ground, are less common in Evansville and usually produce precipitation, such as light rain or drizzle.
Cloud Formation and Seasonality
Clouds form in Evansville due to the condensation of water vapor in the atmosphere. When warm, moist air rises, it cools and condenses, forming clouds. The type of cloud that forms depends on the temperature and humidity of the air, as well as the presence of other factors such as wind speed and direction. In Evansville, cloud formation is influenced by the region’s humid continental climate, which features hot, humid summers and cold, snowy winters. During the summer months, convective clouds, such as cumulus and cumulonimbus clouds, are more common, while during the winter months, stratiform clouds, such as stratus and nimbostratus clouds, are more prevalent.
Annual Precipitation Trends
Evansville, United States, experiences moderate precipitation throughout the year, with an annual average of 46 inches. The wettest months are typically April through June, receiving around 5-6 inches of rainfall per month. The driest months are generally from October through February, with an average of 2-3 inches of precipitation per month.
Seasonal Variation
Spring and summer months in Evansville witness frequent thunderstorms and occasional downpours. During these seasons, rainfall events can be intense but short-lived, resulting in variable precipitation patterns. In contrast, autumn and winter months tend to bring steadier, long-duration rainfall associated with frontal systems or large-scale atmospheric disturbances. Notably, snowfall is infrequent in Evansville, with most precipitation occurring as rain or drizzle.
Historical Rainfall Patterns
Evansville, Indiana, USA, experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Historically, the city has received an average of 43.1 inches of precipitation annually. The heaviest rainfall typically occurs during the spring and summer months, with April, May, and June being the wettest. During these months, the city often experiences thunderstorms and heavy downpours, contributing to the higher precipitation totals. In contrast, the winter months are generally drier, with December and January being the driest months on average.
Recent Trends and Climate Variability
In recent years, Evansville has observed a slight increase in annual precipitation. Over the past decade, the city has received an average of 45.2 inches of precipitation per year. This increase is likely due to changing climate patterns, which have brought more frequent and intense rainfall events. Additionally, the city has experienced periods of drought and flooding, which can significantly impact local water resources and infrastructure. These extreme weather events may become more common in the future, necessitating better climate adaptation and water management practices.
Snowfall Trends in Evansville
Evansville, Indiana, experiences moderate snowfall during the winter months. On average, the city receives approximately 5 inches of snow per year. However, snowfall can vary significantly from year to year. In recent years, Evansville has experienced both above-average and below-average snowfall totals. For instance, during the 2022-2023 winter season, the city received over 10 inches of snow, while in the 2021-2022 season, it received less than 2 inches.
Annual Variability and Snow Accumulation
The annual snowfall in Evansville is influenced by several factors, including atmospheric circulation patterns and weather systems. During the winter months, the city is typically under the influence of the polar jet stream, which brings cold air from the north. When this jet stream dips southward, it can lead to increased snowfall in Evansville. Additionally, the city’s proximity to Lake Michigan plays a role in snow accumulation. Lake-effect snow occurs when cold air from the land mass moves across the warmer waters of the lake, picking up moisture and forming clouds. These clouds can then produce significant snowfall when they reach the shoreline.
Sunrise and Sunset Times
The time of sunrise and sunset in Evansville, United States varies throughout the year due to the Earth’s tilt and its orbit around the sun. During the summer months, the days are longer and the sun rises earlier and sets later. Conversely, during the winter months, the days are shorter and the sun rises later and sets earlier.
To provide specific sunrise and sunset times, it is important to note that these can change by a few minutes from day to day. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a reliable source for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Daylight Hours
The number of daylight hours in Evansville, United States also fluctuates throughout the year due to the changing position of the sun relative to the Earth. During the summer months, the city experiences longer periods of daylight, often exceeding 14 hours per day. In contrast, during the winter months, daylight hours are significantly shorter, typically ranging from 9 to 10 hours per day.
These variations in daylight hours have implications for daily life in Evansville. During the summer, residents have more time to enjoy outdoor activities, while during the winter, they may need to adjust their schedules to accommodate the shorter days.
Lunar Visibility in Evansville, Indiana
The Moon’s visibility in Evansville, Indiana, varies throughout the lunar cycle. The best time to observe the Moon is generally during the full moon phase, when the entire lunar disk is illuminated by sunlight and appears brightest. During full moon, the Moon rises in the east around sunset and sets in the west around sunrise, providing ample viewing opportunities throughout the night.
As the lunar cycle progresses, the illuminated portion of the Moon gradually decreases, resulting in the crescent and half moon phases. During these phases, the Moon rises later in the evening and sets earlier in the morning, resulting in shorter viewing periods. The new moon phase, when the Moon is not visible from Earth, occurs approximately every 29.5 days. In Evansville, the average number of clear nights per month for Moon observation is around 6-9, depending on the time of year.
Relative Humidity Variation
Evansville experiences significant variation in relative humidity throughout the year. The city exhibits a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot, humid summers and mild, humid winters. During the summer months (June-August), relative humidity levels peak, often exceeding 70%. The combination of high temperatures and moisture can create an uncomfortable, oppressive atmosphere. Conversely, winter months (December-February) witness lower humidity levels, typically ranging between 50-60%. The reduced moisture content in the air during winter results in a drier, more comfortable climate.
Seasonal Fluctuations
The relative humidity in Evansville is closely tied to seasonal temperature fluctuations. Warm air holds more moisture than cold air, so as temperatures rise during spring and summer, the humidity levels also increase. In contrast, during autumn and winter, as temperatures decline, the air becomes drier and the relative humidity decreases. This seasonal pattern is evident throughout the year, with the highest humidity levels occurring in the warmest months and the lowest levels observed in the coldest months. Additionally, Evansville’s proximity to the Ohio River and the Gulf of Mexico contribute to its humid climate, as prevailing winds often bring moisture from these bodies of water.
Wind Patterns and Speed
Evansville, Indiana, experiences a continental climate with distinct seasonal variations. The city lies in the mid-latitudes, where the prevailing wind patterns are influenced by the movement of large-scale pressure systems. During the winter months, strong northwest winds dominate the region, bringing cold and dry air. These winds are associated with the eastward passage of polar air masses from Canada. In contrast, during the summer months, the prevailing winds shift to the southwest, bringing warm and humid air from the Gulf of Mexico. These winds are part of the large-scale circulation pattern known as the trade winds. The average annual wind speed in Evansville is 10.2 miles per hour (16.4 kilometers per hour), with the fastest winds occurring during the spring and autumn months.
Impacts of Wind
The wind in Evansville has a significant impact on the city’s environment and daily life. Strong winds can cause damage to buildings and infrastructure, especially during severe storms. The city has a history of experiencing tornadoes and severe thunderstorms, which can bring damaging winds. Additionally, the wind can affect the dispersion of air pollution and can contribute to health issues for residents, particularly those with respiratory conditions. On the positive side, the wind can also provide benefits, such as reducing the amount of air pollution and creating opportunities for outdoor recreation, such as windsurfing and kite flying.
Spring (April – May)
Spring is generally a pleasant time to visit Evansville. The weather is mild, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to the mid-70s. The humidity is also relatively low, making it comfortable to spend time outdoors. Spring is also a great time to enjoy the city’s parks and gardens, as the flowers are in full bloom.
Fall (September – October)
Fall is another ideal time to visit Evansville. The weather is similar to spring, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to the mid-70s. The humidity is also low, making it comfortable to spend time outdoors. Fall is also a great time to visit the city’s many festivals and events, such as the Evansville Fall Foliage Festival and the Evansville Oktoberfest.
Solar Energy Potential in Evansville
Evansville, Indiana, situated in the Midwest of the United States, has moderate solar energy potential. According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), the city receives an annual average of 4.7 peak sunlight hours per day, which is slightly below the national average of 5.6 hours. Despite this, Evansville has the potential for solar energy systems due to its relatively clear skies and abundance of open land. Local utility providers offer net metering programs, enabling residents to offset their electricity bills by selling surplus solar energy back to the grid.
Solar Energy Initiatives in Evansville
In recent years, Evansville has made efforts to promote the adoption of solar energy. The city has launched several initiatives, including offering financial incentives for residential and commercial solar installations. The Evansville Regional Airport has invested in a large-scale solar array, providing renewable energy to its operations. Additionally, the University of Evansville has implemented solar energy projects on campus, demonstrating the university’s commitment to sustainability. These initiatives have helped raise awareness about the benefits of solar energy and encourage its use in the community.
Regional Topography
Evansville is situated in the southwestern corner of Indiana, within the physiographic province known as the Interior Low Plateaus. This region is characterized by gently rolling hills, broad valleys, and karst topography, which is shaped by the dissolution of soluble bedrock like limestone. The area surrounding Evansville is part of the Crawford Upland, a sub-region of the Interior Low Plateaus with a distinctive dendritic drainage pattern and elevations ranging from 400 to 600 feet above sea level.
Local Topography
Within Evansville, the topography is relatively flat, with slightly higher elevations in the north and west and a gradual slope towards the Ohio River in the south. The highest point in the city is Mount Pleasant, located in the northwest corner, with an elevation of approximately 550 feet. As one moves towards the riverfront, the elevation gradually decreases, creating a more level topography in the southern and eastern parts of the city. The low-lying areas along the Ohio River are subject to seasonal flooding, which has historically influenced the development patterns in Evansville.
Evansville Regional Airport (EVV)
Evansville Regional Airport (EVV) is the primary airport serving Evansville, Indiana, located just 6 miles northwest of the city center. The airport features a single terminal with 10 gates and offers nonstop flights to several major cities in the Midwestern and Eastern United States. Airlines operating out of EVV include American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and Allegiant Air, providing connections to Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, Atlanta, and Orlando, among others. The airport also has a car rental center, a food court, and free Wi-Fi.
Other Nearby Airports
While Evansville Regional Airport is the closest airport to Evansville, there are a few other airports within reasonable driving distance.
- Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF), located approximately 110 miles northeast of Evansville, offers a wider range of flight options and is a major hub for Southwest Airlines.
- Nashville International Airport (BNA), located about 120 miles southeast of Evansville, provides connections to a variety of domestic and international destinations.
- Indianapolis International Airport (IND), situated around 180 miles north of Evansville, is a large airport with numerous flight options, including direct flights to many international destinations.
About Evansville, United States
Evansville, Indiana, is a city situated on the banks of the Ohio River in the southwestern part of the state. Known as the “Crescent City” due to its location on a bend of the river, Evansville has a vibrant history and a diverse cultural landscape. With a population of approximately 117,000, it is the third-largest city in Indiana and serves as the cultural, economic, and transportation hub for the surrounding region.
Evansville’s economy is primarily driven by manufacturing, healthcare, and energy. The city is home to several large manufacturing plants, including Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indiana and Mead Johnson Nutrition. Additionally, it is a major healthcare center, with institutions such as the Deaconess Healthcare System and Ascension St. Vincent Evansville serving the community. Moreover, Evansville’s location on the Ohio River makes it a strategic transportation hub, with major highways and rail lines connecting it to other parts of the country.