Hillsboro Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – United States

Temperature and Precipitation

Hillsboro experiences a temperate climate with mild winters and warm, dry summers. The average annual temperature is 52.7°F (11.5°C), with highs reaching into the mid-80s (°F) during the summer and lows dropping into the mid-30s (°F) during the winter. Annual precipitation averages 42.8 inches (1,087 mm), with most rainfall occurring during the winter months. While snow is infrequent, it does occasionally accumulate during the colder months.

Seasonal Variations

Spring in Hillsboro brings pleasant temperatures and moderate rainfall, with average highs in the mid-60s (°F) and lows in the mid-40s (°F). The summer months are characterized by warm, dry weather, with average highs reaching into the mid-80s (°F) and lows dropping to the mid-50s (°F). Autumn brings a gradual decrease in both temperature and precipitation, with average highs in the mid-60s (°F) and lows in the mid-40s (°F). Winter is generally cold and wet, with average highs in the low-50s (°F) and lows in the mid-30s (°F).

Summer Temperatures in Hillsboro

Hillsboro’s summer months, from June to August, offer warm and enjoyable weather. The average temperature during this period ranges from 70°F (21°C) to 85°F (29°C). The days are often sunny and clear, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities. However, occasional heat waves can bring temperatures into the 90s°F (32°C), making it essential to stay hydrated and seek shade during the hottest parts of the day.

Winter Temperatures in Hillsboro

In contrast to the warm summers, Hillsboro’s winters are characterized by cool and sometimes wet conditions. The average temperature from December to February ranges from 35°F (2°C) to 45°F (7°C). The days can be overcast or foggy, and precipitation is common in the form of rain or snow. While snowfall is generally moderate, occasional winter storms can bring heavier accumulations. During these periods, it is important to prepare for cold weather and slippery road conditions. However, on clear winter days, the temperatures can become mild enough for outdoor activities such as walking or exploring the scenic trails in and around Hillsboro.

Cloud Formations

Hillsboro, located in the Pacific Northwest, experiences a variety of cloud formations due to its coastal location and proximity to the Cascade Mountains. Common cloud types include stratus, stratocumulus, and nimbostratus clouds. Stratus clouds are flat, gray layers that cover the entire sky, often resulting in overcast conditions. Stratocumulus clouds are similar to stratus clouds, but they have a more textured appearance with larger, rounded clumps. Nimbostratus clouds are thick, gray clouds that produce drizzle or light rain.

Impact on Weather

The cloud formations in Hillsboro significantly impact the weather. Stratus and nimbostratus clouds can lead to overcast days with limited sunlight and cool temperatures. Stratocumulus clouds can also bring overcast conditions, but they may allow for occasional glimpses of sunlight. In addition, stratus and stratocumulus clouds can trap moisture near the ground, resulting in fog or drizzle. During the winter months, Hillsboro may experience snow clouds such as cirrus, cirrostratus, and cirrocumulus clouds. Cirrus clouds appear as thin, wispy streaks, while cirrostratus clouds form a thin, transparent veil that can create a halo around the sun or moon. Cirrocumulus clouds are small, white clouds that resemble popcorn. These clouds typically indicate fair weather, but they can sometimes precede a storm.

Distribution of Precipitation

Hillsboro, located in the Pacific Northwest of the United States, experiences a distinct seasonal pattern of precipitation. The wet season spans from October to May, with the most significant rainfall occurring during the winter months. During this time, Hillsboro receives an average of over 5 inches of precipitation per month. In contrast, the dry season extends from June to September, with an average monthly precipitation of less than 1 inch. This seasonal variation in precipitation is attributed to the region’s Mediterranean climate, characterized by wet winters and dry summers.

Impacts of Precipitation

The abundance of precipitation during the wet season has several notable impacts on Hillsboro and its surroundings. Firstly, it supports the region’s lush vegetation and agriculture. The Tualatin Valley, where Hillsboro is situated, is renowned for its fertile farmland and vineyards. Additionally, the heavy rainfall contributes to the recharge of groundwater aquifers, ensuring a reliable source of water for both human consumption and agricultural activities. However, the downside of excessive precipitation is the potential for flooding. During periods of intense rainfall, local waterways can overflow, causing damage to property and infrastructure.

Annual Rainfall and Distribution

Hillsboro, located in the Willamette Valley of Oregon, experiences a temperate climate characterized by well-distributed rainfall throughout the year. The annual average rainfall in Hillsboro is approximately 40 inches (102 centimeters), with most of the precipitation occurring during the fall and winter months. Due to the area’s proximity to the Pacific Ocean, Hillsboro enjoys a fairly mild and rainy climate, with summer months often receiving less rainfall than the cooler months.

Seasonal Rainfall Patterns

The wettest months in Hillsboro are typically November through January, during which the city receives an average of 5 to 7 inches (12.7 to 17.8 centimeters) of rainfall per month. In contrast, the driest months are July and August, with average rainfall amounts of less than 1 inch (2.5 centimeters) per month. This pattern is characteristic of the Pacific Northwest region, which experiences a distinct wet season during the winter months and a drier season during the summer months.

Snowfall Patterns and Variability

Hillsboro, United States experiences varying snowfall patterns throughout the year. The city generally receives moderate snowfall, with an average annual accumulation of around 8 inches. Snowfall typically occurs from November to April, with the heaviest accumulations occurring in January and February. However, year-to-year variability in snowfall is significant, influenced by factors such as temperature fluctuations, precipitation patterns, and the frequency of winter storms.

Impacts of Snowfall

Snowfall in Hillsboro can have various impacts on the city and its residents. Heavy snow can lead to road closures, power outages, and disruptions to daily routines. It can also pose challenges for transportation, particularly during morning and evening commutes. Additionally, snowfall can have economic implications, affecting businesses and tourism. However, moderate snowfall can also have some positive impacts, such as providing opportunities for winter recreation activities like sledding, skiing, and snowshoeing.

Sunrise and Sunset Times

Hillsboro, United States experiences varying sunrise and sunset times throughout the year due to the Earth’s tilt and orbit around the Sun. During the winter months, sunrise occurs later and sunset occurs earlier, resulting in shorter days. In contrast, during the summer months, sunrise occurs earlier and sunset occurs later, leading to longer days. The duration of daylight in Hillsboro ranges from approximately 9 hours in December to over 15 hours in June.

Historical Weather Data

Weather data for Hillsboro over the past few years indicate that the average temperature ranges from 44 degrees Fahrenheit in January to 77 degrees Fahrenheit in July. The city experiences an average of 45 inches of rain per year, distributed fairly evenly throughout the year. Snowfall is occasional, with an average of 10 inches annually. The historical weather data provides insights into the general climate patterns and seasonal variations in Hillsboro, United States.

Visibility and Times

The Moon is visible in Hillsboro, United States, throughout the month, but its appearance and visibility vary depending on the phase. During the full moon phase, the Moon is completely illuminated and appears as a bright, round disk in the sky. As the month progresses, the Moon gradually wanes, becoming a crescent or half-moon. The Moon’s position in the sky also changes, rising in the east and setting in the west. Its exact time of rising and setting varies slightly each day.

Moon Phases and Significance

The Moon goes through several phases over the course of a month, each with its own unique characteristics. The new moon phase occurs when the Moon is positioned between the Earth and the Sun, and it is not visible from Earth. As the Moon moves around the Earth, it gradually becomes visible, first as a thin crescent. The first quarter phase occurs when the Moon is halfway illuminated, appearing as a half-circle. The full moon phase, as mentioned earlier, is when the Moon is fully illuminated and appears as a bright disk. The waning phases follow in reverse order, with the third quarter phase occurring when the Moon is again half-illuminated but this time waning, and finally, the waning crescent phase before the cycle begins anew. The different phases of the Moon have cultural and astrological significance in many societies, influencing beliefs and practices related to agriculture, religion, and well-being.

Annual Humidity Patterns

Hillsboro, located in the Pacific Northwest, experiences a typically humid climate throughout the year. The average relative humidity ranges from 75-85% throughout most of the year. During the summer months (June-September), humidity levels tend to be slightly lower, averaging around 70-75%. In the winter (November-March), humidity levels rise, reaching an average of 80-85%. This high level of humidity is due to the region’s proximity to the Pacific Ocean, which provides a constant source of moisture in the air.

Fog and Precipitation

The high humidity in Hillsboro contributes to frequent fog formation, especially in the morning hours during the summer months. Dense fog can reduce visibility to near zero, creating hazardous driving conditions. Additionally, Hillsboro receives a significant amount of precipitation throughout the year, mostly in the form of rain. The average annual precipitation is around 50 inches, with most of it falling during the winter months. The combination of high humidity and abundant precipitation creates a climate that is conducive to lush vegetation and a thriving agricultural industry in the region.

Wind Speed and Direction in Hillsboro

Hillsboro, located in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States, experiences a temperate climate characterized by mild temperatures and abundant rainfall. The prevailing wind direction in Hillsboro is from the west and northwest, bringing in moist air from the Pacific Ocean. These winds tend to be strongest during the winter months, when storms from the Pacific Ocean move through the region.

During the summer months, the winds in Hillsboro shift to a more easterly direction, bringing in warmer and drier air from the interior of the continent. The average wind speed in Hillsboro ranges from 7 to 10 miles per hour (11 to 16 kilometers per hour), with higher speeds occurring during the winter months. The strongest winds are typically experienced in December and January, with average speeds reaching up to 15 miles per hour (24 kilometers per hour).

Spring (April-May):

Spring is an ideal time to visit Hillsboro, as the weather is pleasant and mild. The vibrant foliage and blooming flowers create a picturesque landscape, perfect for outdoor activities like hiking or biking along the Tualatin River, visiting nature parks, or exploring the historic downtown. Mild temperatures and ample sunshine make it a comfortable time to soak up the natural beauty of the area.

Summer (June-August):

Summer in Hillsboro offers warm and sunny weather, making it a popular time for outdoor recreation. The city hosts numerous festivals and events during this season, including the award-winning Saturday Market, showcasing local artisans, farmers, and entertainment. Hillsboro’s proximity to the Oregon Coast also allows visitors to enjoy beaches, surfing, and seaside activities. However, it’s worth noting that summer tends to be the busiest time in Hillsboro, with higher temperatures and crowds.

Current Status of Solar Energy in Hillsboro

Hillsboro is experiencing a surge in solar energy adoption, with numerous residential and commercial properties embracing this clean and renewable source of power. The city has implemented favorable policies, such as net metering and property tax exemptions, to encourage solar development. As a result, Hillsboro boasts a significant number of solar installations, providing clean energy to homes, businesses, and the community.

Benefits and Challenges

The benefits of solar energy in Hillsboro are multifaceted. Solar panels significantly reduce electricity costs, contributing to long-term savings for property owners. Additionally, they enhance property value and reduce carbon footprint, promoting environmental sustainability. However, challenges remain, including intermittent sunshine, which can affect solar output. To address this, Hillsboro is exploring energy storage solutions, such as batteries, to ensure a reliable supply of solar power.

Topographic Regions

Hillsboro is situated in the Pacific Northwest ecoregion, characterized by a mosaic of coniferous forests, wetlands, and rolling hills. The city is bordered by the Tualatin River and its tributaries to the west, and the Chehalem Mountains to the east. The Tualatin River Valley is a broad, flat alluvial plain that slopes gently westward toward the Willamette River. To the east, the Chehalem Mountains rise abruptly, creating a rugged, forested backdrop for the city. The mountains are composed of a series of parallel ridges and valleys, with elevations ranging from 500 to 1,500 feet.

Water Features

Hillsboro’s topography is significantly influenced by its water features. The Tualatin River, which flows through the heart of the city, is a major tributary of the Willamette River. The river has carved a deep, meandering channel through the landscape, creating steep banks and floodplains. The river’s tributaries, such as Jackson Creek and McKay Creek, also contribute to the city’s topography by creating valleys and ravines. In addition to the rivers and creeks, Hillsboro is home to several lakes, including Lake Oswego, which is the largest lake in the Portland metropolitan area. These water features provide important habitat for wildlife and recreational opportunities for residents.

Portland International Airport (PDX)

Portland International Airport (PDX) is the nearest major airport to Hillsboro, located approximately 15 miles (24 kilometers) southwest of the city center. As the primary commercial airport serving the Portland metropolitan area, PDX offers a wide range of domestic and international flights, including direct connections to major hubs such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, Denver, Chicago, and New York City. The airport features state-of-the-art facilities, including a modern terminal, numerous dining and retail options, and convenient ground transportation services to and from Hillsboro.

Hillsboro Airport (HIO)

Alternatively, Hillsboro Airport (HIO) is a smaller, general aviation airport located within the city limits of Hillsboro. Although it primarily serves private pilots and aircraft, HIO occasionally hosts commercial charter flights. However, scheduled airline service is not currently available at HIO, and most travelers will need to use PDX for their air travel needs, with a ground transportation connection to Hillsboro. Despite its limited commercial activity, HIO remains an important aviation facility for the local community, supporting flight training, business aviation, and emergency response operations.

History and Culture

Hillsboro, located in Washington County, Oregon, has a rich history dating back to the 1840s, when it was founded as a small settlement along the Tualatin River. In the late 19th century, the town experienced significant growth due to the establishment of the Oregon & California Railroad. Throughout the 20th century, Hillsboro continued to develop and diversify, becoming a major center for agriculture, manufacturing, and technology. Today, it is home to a vibrant and diverse community, with a strong sense of civic pride and a commitment to preserving its heritage while embracing progress.

Economy and Infrastructure

Hillsboro’s economy is driven by a thriving technology sector, with Intel Corporation’s Ronler Acres campus serving as a major employer. Other industries that contribute to the city’s economic success include healthcare, manufacturing, and agriculture. The city boasts a well-developed transportation network, including the Portland International Airport, which is a major hub for travel and commerce in the Pacific Northwest. Hillsboro is also home to several institutions of higher education, including Oregon Health & Science University, Portland Community College, and Pacific University, which provide a skilled workforce and contribute to the city’s intellectual and cultural vitality.