Long Beach Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – United States

Summer and Fall

Long Beach experiences warm and sunny weather during the summer months, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to the low 80s. The humidity levels are relatively low, making for a comfortable stay. Fall brings slightly cooler temperatures, with highs typically in the upper 60s to low 70s. This season is ideal for outdoor activities, as the weather is pleasant and there is less rainfall than in other times of the year.

Winter and Spring

Winter in Long Beach is mild, with average temperatures in the mid-50s to low 60s. Rain is more frequent during this season, but it does not usually last for long periods. Spring is a transitional season, with temperatures gradually warming up as the days get longer. By late April, temperatures are typically in the upper 60s to low 70s.

Temperature Trends

Long Beach experiences a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. The city’s average temperature varies throughout the year, but it generally remains comfortable year-round. The warmest months are July and August, with average temperatures in the high 70s to low 80s Fahrenheit (25-28 degrees Celsius). The coldest months are December and January, with average temperatures in the mid-50s to low 60s Fahrenheit (13-17 degrees Celsius).

Seasonal Variations

Spring in Long Beach is characterized by gradual temperature increases as the days get longer. April and May experience average temperatures in the mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit (18-22 degrees Celsius). The city enjoys pleasant weather during this time, with occasional rainfall. In contrast, fall brings a decline in temperatures as the days get shorter. September and October typically have average temperatures in the mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit (18-22 degrees Celsius), providing ideal conditions for outdoor activities.

Cloud Types in Long Beach

The skies above Long Beach, California, are adorned with a diverse array of cloud formations. Cirrus clouds, often referred to as “mare’s tails,” are thin and wispy, composed of ice crystals and commonly found at high altitudes. Cumulus clouds, characterized by their fluffy, cotton-ball appearance, form at lower altitudes and are associated with fair weather. Stratus clouds, on the other hand, are flat and gray, covering the sky like a blanket and often bringing precipitation.

Cloud Cover and Climate

Cloud cover plays a significant role in Long Beach’s climate. During the summer months, the city experiences a marine layer, a persistent fog bank that forms over the cold Pacific Ocean and drifts inland, cooling the coastal regions. This marine layer can reduce visibility and affect air quality but can also provide a respite from the summer heat. In the winter, cloud cover is less frequent, allowing for more sunshine and warmer temperatures. However, occasional storms can bring clouds and precipitation to the area, contributing to Long Beach’s average annual rainfall of 12 inches.

Average Precipitation and Patterns

Long Beach, California, experiences a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. The city’s average annual precipitation is approximately 12 inches (305 mm), with most rain falling from November through April. During these months, the city receives an average of 5-7 inches (125-175 mm) of rain per month. Summer months, on the other hand, are extremely dry, with minimal rainfall.

Causes of Precipitation

Long Beach’s precipitation patterns are primarily influenced by two factors: the Pacific Ocean and the prevailing wind patterns. The warm Pacific Ocean acts as a moisture source, while the cold California Current creates a stable atmosphere that inhibits precipitation. During the winter months, the Pacific storm track shifts southward, bringing occasional storms that produce rainfall. In the summer, however, the storm track moves northward, leaving Long Beach under a high-pressure system that prevents rainfall.

Annual Rainfall Patterns

Long Beach experiences a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The city’s annual precipitation averages around 12 inches, which is significantly lower than the national average for the United States. The majority of the rainfall occurs during the winter months, typically from November to March. During this period, Long Beach can experience heavy rains and occasional thunderstorms. In contrast, the summer months are typically very dry, with little to no rainfall.

Factors Influencing Rainfall

The rainfall patterns in Long Beach are primarily influenced by its geographic location. The city is situated on the coast of the Pacific Ocean, and as warm, moist air from the ocean moves inland, it condenses and releases precipitation. The presence of the San Gabriel Mountains to the north also contributes to the city’s rainfall. The mountains act as a barrier, forcing the moist air to rise and condense, leading to increased precipitation on the coastal side. Additionally, the city’s proximity to the subtropical jet stream and the North Pacific Current helps to maintain a supply of moisture throughout the year.

Snowfall History in Long Beach

Long Beach, California, located in the southern part of the state, is a coastal city known for its mild climate and palm trees. However, the city has occasionally experienced snowfall, albeit rare. The most notable snowfall in Long Beach’s history occurred on January 12, 1932, when approximately half an inch of snow fell. This snowfall was recorded at the Long Beach Airport and marked the heaviest снегопад city has ever seen. Other notable snow events in Long Beach include a dusting in March 1978 and traces of snow during a storm in February 1963.

Factors Affecting Snowfall in Long Beach

The occurrence of snowfall in Long Beach is influenced by several factors, including proximity to the Pacific Ocean, elevation, and cold air masses. The Pacific Ocean’s warm waters create a temperature-stabilizing effect, making snowfall in coastal areas like Long Beach less common. Additionally, the city’s low elevation of only a few feet above sea level further contributes to the rarity of snowfall. However, when cold air masses from the north or east push into the region and coincide with moisture from the Pacific, snowfall can occur, as was the case in 1932. These conditions are extremely rare in Long Beach, making snowfall a truly exceptional event.

Current Conditions:

The sun is currently shining in Long Beach, United States. The time is approximately 10:00 AM PST, and the temperature is around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. There is a light breeze from the west, and the humidity is about 60%. Visibility is good, with clear skies and no clouds overhead. The UV index is currently at 7, which is considered high.

Forecast:

The sun is expected to remain out for the rest of the day, with temperatures rising to a high of 75 degrees Fahrenheit in the afternoon. The wind is forecast to remain light, and the humidity will stay around 60%. There is a 0% chance of precipitation, so it is a perfect day to enjoy the outdoors. The UV index will remain high throughout the day, so it is important to wear sunscreen if you are planning on spending extended periods of time outdoors.

Visibility and Appearance

The moon’s visibility and appearance in Long Beach, United States, vary depending on the time of day, month, and year. During the full moon phase, the moon is typically visible throughout the night, rising in the east around sunset and setting in the west around sunrise. As the moon approaches the new moon phase, it becomes less visible, rising later in the night and setting earlier in the morning. The moon’s appearance also changes throughout its cycle, from a thin crescent to a full circle.

Impact on Tides

The moon’s gravitational pull has a significant impact on tides in Long Beach. The moon’s gravitational force combined with the Earth’s rotation causes two high tides and two low tides each day. High tides occur when the moon is directly overhead or on the opposite side of the Earth, while low tides occur when the moon is at a right angle to the Earth. The time and height of tides can vary slightly depending on the moon’s phase and the specific location within Long Beach.

Humidity in Long Beach, United States: An Overview

Long Beach, located in southern California, experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Humidity levels in Long Beach vary throughout the year, with the most humid months typically occurring during the summer months. During this period, humidity levels can reach an average of around 70%, creating feelings of mugginess and discomfort. Conversely, during the winter months, humidity levels drop significantly, with an average of around 50%, leading to drier conditions.

Humidity Patterns and Implications

Humidity patterns in Long Beach are influenced by several factors, including proximity to the ocean, air circulation, and temperature. The city’s coastal location plays a significant role in moderating humidity levels, as the cool ocean breeze helps to reduce humidity. Additionally, Long Beach’s open and spacious terrain allows for good air circulation, which further contributes to lower humidity. However, during the summer months, when temperatures rise and wind speeds slow down, humidity levels tend to increase. This can lead to a more uncomfortable and oppressive feeling for the city’s residents.

Historical Wind Patterns

Long Beach, California, has historically experienced a consistent wind regime characterized by prevailing westerly winds. These winds, known as the “Sundowner Winds,” are a result of the region’s topography and coastal dynamics. During the daytime, strong onshore sea breezes develop due to differential heating between the cooler ocean and warmer land. As the sun sets, the land cools more rapidly than the water, causing the onshore flow to weaken and a weaker offshore flow to develop. These winds typically range from 10 to 15 knots and are influenced by factors such as daily temperature fluctuations, seasonality, and the presence of large-scale weather systems.

Wind Power Potential

The consistent wind conditions in Long Beach have made it a promising location for harnessing wind energy. The city has invested heavily in wind turbine projects, both onshore and offshore. The Long Beach Waterfront Development includes numerous onshore wind turbines that generate renewable energy for the city. Additionally, the city is pursuing the development of an offshore wind farm in federal waters off the coast of Long Beach. The project, known as “Windfloat,” involves installing over 100 floating wind turbines with a combined generating capacity of up to 1.5 gigawatts. If successful, this project will significantly contribute to California’s ambitious renewable energy goals and demonstrate the potential for offshore wind energy development in the United States.

Spring and Fall

Spring (March-May) in Long Beach is characterized by mild temperatures, ranging from 50-70°F (10-21°C). The weather is pleasant with occasional rain, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. Spring is also when the city comes alive with vibrant colors as flowers begin to bloom. Fall (September-November) offers similar weather conditions, with slightly cooler temperatures and less humidity. This season provides a beautiful backdrop for exploring Long Beach’s coastline and parks.

Summer

Summer (June-August) in Long Beach brings warm temperatures, averaging around 70-80°F (21-27°C). The days are often sunny and clear, with little precipitation. The ocean water warms up significantly during this time, making it perfect for swimming, surfing, and other water sports. However, it’s important to note that summer in Long Beach can also be crowded, especially during weekends and holidays.

Solar Energy Potential in Long Beach

Long Beach, California boasts exceptional solar energy potential due to its ample sunshine year-round. With an average of over 300 days of sunshine annually, the city receives an abundance of solar radiation that can be harnessed to generate clean, renewable energy. The availability of large, unused rooftops and open spaces, such as vacant lots and parking areas, makes Long Beach an ideal location for solar photovoltaic (PV) system installations. Furthermore, the city’s goal of achieving 100% renewable energy by 2030 has created a favorable environment for solar energy development.

Solar Energy Initiatives and Policies

The City of Long Beach has implemented various policies and incentives to promote solar energy growth. The Solar Long Beach program, launched in 2007, provides rebates and other incentives for homeowners and businesses that install solar PV systems. The city also offers a solar permit streamlining process, which reduces the time and cost associated with obtaining installation permits. Additionally, Long Beach has partnered with Southern California Edison to offer the California Solar Initiative (CSI), a rebate program that provides financial assistance for the purchase and installation of solar energy systems. These initiatives and policies have contributed significantly to the growth of solar energy in Long Beach and have made it one of the leading cities in solar adoption in the United States.

Beach Topography

Long Beach, nestled along the Pacific coast, boasts a vast and unique beach topography. The area is renowned for its gently sloping shoreline, creating a wide, sandy expanse that stretches for miles. This gradual incline provides a perfect setting for strolling, sunbathing, and various recreational activities. The beach consists of fine, golden sand, characterized by its soft and compact nature, making it ideal for walking and building sandcastles. Furthermore, the presence of dunes and berms adds to the dynamic landscape, forming natural barriers that protect the coastline from erosion and storm surges.

Urban Topography

Beyond the beach, Long Beach exhibits a diverse urban topography that reflects its rich history and modern development. The city’s central area is characterized by low-rise buildings and Victorian architecture, remnants of its founding as a seaside resort town. Moving inland, the landscape transitions to a mix of residential neighborhoods, commercial districts, and industrial areas. The downtown area, known as the City Place, features high-rise buildings, including the iconic pyramid-shaped Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center. The Belmont Shore neighborhood, located to the west, showcases charming canals lined with picturesque homes and lush greenery. The southern part of the city is dominated by the Long Beach Airport, which occupies a vast area and serves as a major transportation hub for the region.

Long Beach Airport (LGB)

Long Beach Airport (LGB) is the closest airport to Long Beach, California. It is located just 3 miles (5 kilometers) from downtown Long Beach and offers convenient access to the city. LGB serves a variety of domestic destinations, including major hubs like San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Seattle. The airport has one terminal with 12 gates and handles over 3 million passengers annually.

John Wayne Airport (SNA)

Another nearby airport to Long Beach is John Wayne Airport (SNA) in Santa Ana, California. While SNA is located approximately 20 miles (32 kilometers) from Long Beach, it is still a popular option for travelers due to its larger size and wider range of flight options. SNA serves both domestic and international destinations, including flights to Mexico, Canada, and Europe. The airport has two terminals and handles over 10 million passengers annually.

History and Culture

Long Beach is a vibrant coastal city located in Southern California with a rich history and diverse culture. Founded in 1888, Long Beach quickly developed into a significant port and resort destination. Its iconic downtown area, affectionately known as “The Pike,” is reminiscent of the city’s amusement park era and features a lively waterfront promenade lined with restaurants, shops, and attractions. Long Beach has a thriving arts scene, with a renowned symphony orchestra, ballet company, and numerous galleries. The city’s innovative Pier Art Center offers a unique platform for contemporary art exhibitions and cultural events.

Beaches and Recreation

Long Beach is renowned for its pristine beaches, stretching for miles along the Pacific Ocean. The city’s iconic Seal Beach and Belmont Shore neighborhoods offer a relaxed beach lifestyle, while downtown’s Aquarium of the Pacific showcases a diverse array of marine life. Long Beach is also a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts, with surfing, sailing, and kayaking widely enjoyed. Shoreline Village, located on the waterfront, provides a charming place to enjoy fresh seafood, browse local shops, and soak up the coastal ambiance. The city’s lush El Dorado Park and Nature Center offer hiking trails amidst scenic woodlands, providing a tranquil escape from the urban landscape.