Huntington Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – United States

Seasonal Conditions and Temperature

Huntington, located in the eastern United States, experiences four distinct seasons throughout the year. Summers are typically hot and humid, with average temperatures ranging from 75°F to 85°F (24°C to 29°C). Winters, on the other hand, are cold and snowy, with average temperatures dipping below freezing for much of the season. Spring and fall offer a pleasant transition between these extremes, with milder temperatures and less humidity.

Precipitation and Sunshine

Huntington receives a moderate amount of precipitation throughout the year, with an average of 40 inches (102 centimeters). Winter months tend to see the most snowfall, while thunderstorms are common during the summer. Despite the rainfall, Huntington also enjoys an impressive amount of sunshine throughout the year, averaging around 2,500 hours annually. This means that even on overcast days, you can often count on catching some glimpse of the sun.

Seasonal Variation

Huntington experiences significant seasonal variation in temperature. The city’s hot, humid summers feature average high temperatures in the mid-80s (°F). The warm season spans from May to September, with highs typically ranging from 80°F to 87°F. In contrast, winters in Huntington are cold and snowy, with average lows in the mid-20s (°F). The cold season lasts from November to March, and lows often dip below freezing, sometimes reaching below 10°F.

Annual Averages

On average, Huntington’s annual temperature is 53.7°F, reflecting the city’s distinct seasonal shifts. The warmest months are July and August, with an average temperature of 75°F. The coldest months are January and February, with an average temperature of 30°F. While Huntington’s winters can be harsh, the city also receives ample sunshine throughout the year. The city averages around 210 sunny days per year, providing opportunities for outdoor activities even during the colder months.

Cloud Types and Characteristics

Huntington experiences a diverse range of cloud formations throughout the year. The most prevalent cloud type is cirrus, which are thin and wispy, often appearing as white streaks in the sky. These clouds are composed of ice crystals and typically indicate fair weather conditions. Cumulus clouds, on the other hand, are puffy and rounded, resembling cotton balls. They often indicate the presence of moisture in the atmosphere and can develop into larger clouds such as cumulonimbus. Stratus clouds are uniform, gray layers that cover the entire sky, often obscuring the sun and leading to overcast conditions.

Cloud Cover and Precipitation

The amount of cloud cover in Huntington varies significantly. On average, the city experiences a cloud cover of around 50% throughout the year. However, this percentage can increase to over 70% during the winter months, which are characterized by frequent precipitation. The cloud cover plays a crucial role in regulating the city’s temperature, providing insulation during cold weather and shading during warm weather. Additionally, the presence of clouds can affect the amount and intensity of precipitation, as clouds act as collectors of moisture that can later condense and fall as rain or snow.

Seasonal Patterns

Huntington experiences distinct seasonal patterns of precipitation. Summer is the wettest season, with frequent thunderstorms and occasional tropical cyclones bringing heavy downpours. The months of May to September typically receive over 4 inches of rain each. In contrast, winter is relatively dry, with the lowest precipitation occurring in January and February. During these months, snowfall can supplement rainfall, but significant snowfall accumulations are rare.

Average Precipitation and Variability

Over the past 30 years, Huntington has received an average of 44 inches of precipitation annually. However, year-to-year variability can be substantial. The wettest year on record was 1998, with over 60 inches of rainfall. On the other hand, the driest year was 2012, with only 30 inches of precipitation. The distribution of rainfall can also be uneven throughout the year, with some months experiencing extended dry periods followed by periods of intense rainfall.

Annual Rainfall and Seasonality

Huntington, located in the state of West Virginia, experiences a humid subtropical climate with abundant rainfall throughout the year. The average annual precipitation is approximately 45 inches, distributed fairly evenly across the seasons. Summer months (June to August) tend to be the wettest, with frequent thunderstorms and occasional heavy downpours. Conversely, winter months (December to February) are typically drier, with less frequent precipitation. However, even during the driest months, rainfall can occur due to the region’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico, which bring moisture-rich air masses.

Variability and Extreme Events

The annual rainfall in Huntington exhibits some variability from year to year, influenced by factors such as weather patterns, climate change, and local topography. In particularly wet years, the city may receive over 50 inches of precipitation, while in drier years, it may fall below 40 inches. Additionally, extreme rainfall events, such as tropical storms or hurricanes, can occasionally bring torrential rains, leading to flooding and other hazards. These events can significantly impact local infrastructure and agriculture, highlighting the importance of preparedness and response measures.

Historical Snowfall Trends

Huntington, located in West Virginia, United States, experiences moderate snowfall during the winter months, with an average annual snowfall of approximately 28 inches. The city’s snowfall patterns are influenced by its location in the Appalachian Mountains, which can trap moisture-carrying clouds and lead to heavy snow accumulation. The heaviest snowfall typically occurs in January and February, with some years experiencing snowfall events of up to 10 inches or more.

Recent Snowfall Events

In recent years, Huntington has experienced several significant snowfall events. During the winter of 2022-2023, the city was hit by a series of major snowstorms that brought heavy snow and strong winds. One particular storm in February 2023 dumped over 10 inches of snow on Huntington, causing widespread power outages and transportation disruptions. The city has also experienced extreme snowfall events in the past, including a record-breaking snowfall of over 21 inches in 1998.

Sunrise and Sunset Times

Huntington, United States experiences variations in sunrise and sunset times throughout the year due to its location and the Earth’s tilt. During the summer months, the days are longer, with sunrise occurring earlier and sunset happening later. Typically, the earliest sunrise in Huntington occurs in late June, around 5:30 AM, while the latest sunset is seen in mid-June, around 8:30 PM. In the winter months, daylight hours are shorter, with sunrise occurring later and sunset earlier. The latest sunrise is typically in late December, around 7:15 AM, while the earliest sunset falls in mid-December, around 4:30 PM.

Daylight Hours and Twilight Duration

The number of daylight hours in Huntington varies dramatically throughout the year, corresponding to the changes in sunrise and sunset times. During the summer months, Huntington experiences longer days with up to 15 hours of daylight in June, providing ample time for outdoor activities and sunlight exposure. However, during the winter months, days are significantly shorter, with as little as 9 hours of daylight in December. The duration of twilight also varies, with longer periods of civil twilight (when the sun is below the horizon but still provides some illumination) during the summer and shorter periods in the winter. This gradual transition from day to night allows for softer lighting conditions and extended outdoor activities during certain times of the year.

Moon Visibility and Phases

The Moon’s visibility in Huntington, United States varies throughout the month due to its changing phases. During a new moon, the Moon is not visible in the night sky as it aligns between the Earth and the Sun. As the Moon waxes, it gradually appears as a thin crescent and grows in size until it reaches a full moon. At this point, the entire face of the Moon is illuminated by the Sun and is visible all night long. As the Moon wanes, it gradually decreases in size and illumination until it reaches a new moon again.

Moonrise and Moonset Times

The moonrise and moonset times in Huntington, United States vary depending on the time of year. During the summer months, the Moon rises and sets later in the evening, while during the winter months, it rises and sets earlier. The exact times can be found using an ephemeris or online astronomy calculators.

Seasonal Patterns and Extreme Humidity Levels

Huntington, located in the eastern United States, experiences varying humidity levels throughout the year. During the summer months, humidity is typically high due to the warm, moist air masses that dominate the region. The average relative humidity during July and August is approximately 70-80%, making the air feel sticky and uncomfortable. In contrast, winter months are characterized by lower humidity levels, typically ranging between 30-50%, resulting in a drier and less oppressive atmosphere. However, occasional warm fronts during winter can also bring periods of high humidity.

Impacts on Health and Comfort

Extreme humidity levels can have a significant impact on human health and comfort. High humidity levels can lead to heat exhaustion, heat cramps, and heatstroke, particularly during strenuous activities or prolonged exposure to the sun. Moreover, it can exacerbate respiratory conditions such as asthma and allergies. Conversely, low humidity levels can cause skin dryness, irritation, and respiratory problems for individuals with sensitive airways. Therefore, it is essential to monitor humidity levels and take appropriate measures to ensure comfort and health.

Historical Wind Patterns

Huntington, West Virginia has a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot, humid summers and mild winters. The city experiences prevailing westerly winds throughout the year, with occasional shifts to the east or southeast. Average wind speeds range from 6 to 10 mph (9.7 to 16.1 km/h), with higher gusts possible during storms and cold fronts.

Seasonal Variations

Wind patterns in Huntington exhibit seasonal variations. During the summer months, the prevailing westerly winds are often augmented by sea breezes from the Chesapeake Bay. These breezes help to moderate the high temperatures, providing some relief from the oppressive humidity. In the winter, the westerly winds are typically stronger, accompanied by occasional cold fronts that can bring gusty conditions. During the spring and fall, wind directions become more variable, with frequent shifts between the west, east, and southeast.

Spring (April-May)

Spring brings mild temperatures and vibrant blooms to Huntington, making it an ideal time to explore its many outdoor spaces. The lush greenery of Ritter Park transforms into a kaleidoscope of colors as azaleas, rhododendrons, and dogwoods burst into bloom. Take a leisurely walk along the picturesque Huntington Riverwalk or embark on a serene hike in the nearby Barboursville Park. Additionally, the annual Heritage Farm Festival in May celebrates the region’s rich agricultural heritage with live music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities.

Fall (September-October)

As the summer heat subsides, fall envelops Huntington in a warm embrace. The changing leaves create a stunning backdrop for strolls through the idyllic downtown district. Visit the Huntington Museum of Art to admire a diverse collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. For a touch of history, explore the Huntington Heritage Village, which showcases replicas of 19th-century buildings and exhibits on the area’s past. October welcomes the annual Pumpkin House Arts & Music Festival, a vibrant celebration featuring pumpkin carving contests, live performances, and art displays.

Availability and Potential

Huntington, United States, enjoys abundant sunlight throughout the year, making it a suitable location for solar energy generation. The city receives an average of 2050 sunshine hours annually, with clear skies for approximately 200 days. This favorable climate provides a significant opportunity for harnessing solar energy to meet the growing energy needs of the city.

Current Status and Initiatives

Huntington has taken steps to promote the adoption of solar energy. The city offers incentives, including tax credits, rebates, and net metering programs, to encourage residents and businesses to install solar panels. Several commercial and residential buildings throughout the city have already embraced solar technology, demonstrating its growing popularity. Moreover, the local utility company is actively integrating solar energy into its grid, supporting the transition to renewable energy sources.

Terrain and Elevation
Huntington, located in West Virginia, sits at an elevation of approximately 560 feet (171 meters) above sea level. The topography of Huntington is characterized by rolling hills and valleys formed by the meandering Ohio River and its tributaries. The land gradually slopes downward from the higher elevations in the southeast towards the riverfront in the northwest. This sloping terrain creates a unique and scenic landscape that offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Impact on Development and Infrastructure
The topography of Huntington has significantly influenced the development of the city and its infrastructure. The higher elevations in the southeast provide prime real estate for residential and commercial development due to their scenic views and less flood-prone nature. The sloping terrain has also necessitated the construction of bridges, tunnels, and retaining walls to facilitate transportation and connect different parts of the city. Additionally, the Ohio River serves as a vital waterway for commerce and transportation, with facilities such as the Port of Huntington providing access to regional and national markets.

Tri-State Airport (HTS)

Tri-State Airport (HTS) is the nearest airport to Huntington, West Virginia, located approximately 10 miles east of the city center. It is a small regional airport that offers daily flights to major hubs such as Charlotte, Cincinnati, Philadelphia, and Atlanta. HTS provides convenient access to Huntington for both leisure and business travelers. The airport features a single passenger terminal with a variety of amenities, including baggage claim, car rental counters, and a food court.

Other Nearby Airports

While Tri-State Airport is the most convenient option, there are a few other airports within driving distance of Huntington. Yeager Airport (CRW) in Charleston, West Virginia, is approximately 80 miles southeast of Huntington. It is a larger airport that offers a wider range of flight options, including connections to major cities across the country. Logan International Airport (CVG) in Cincinnati, Ohio, is also within driving distance, located about 140 miles northwest of Huntington. CVG offers a comprehensive network of domestic and international flights, making it a convenient choice for travelers seeking more flight options.

Geography and History

Huntington, situated in the heart of West Virginia, is a bustling city nestled along the Ohio River. Founded in 1792, it played a pivotal role as a transportation hub during the industrial revolution, connecting the Ohio Valley to the East Coast. Today, Huntington showcases a rich architectural heritage with historic buildings adorning its downtown area. The city is a vibrant tapestry of Victorian homes, Art Deco skyscrapers, and modern structures, reflecting its diverse past and present.

Culture and Recreation

Huntington boasts a vibrant arts and culture scene, with a host of museums, galleries, and theaters. The Huntington Museum of Art houses an impressive collection of renowned works from various periods and cultures. The Paramount Arts Center, a majestic neoclassical theater, hosts a captivating array of live performances, from Broadway shows to symphony concerts. Huntington is also an avid supporter of outdoor recreation, offering numerous parks and trails along the riverfront. The Heritage Farm Museum and Village provides visitors with a glimpse into the area’s agricultural heritage, while the Camden Park amusement park offers thrills and entertainment for all ages.