McAllen Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – United States
Spring and Fall
Spring and fall in McAllen are characterized by warm and sunny days with occasional rainfall. Temperatures typically range from the mid-60s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit during the day, with the evenings cooling down into the 50s and 60s. Rainfall is more frequent in spring and fall, but it is usually light and sporadic. The average humidity levels are moderate, making for comfortable outdoor activities.
Summer
Summers in McAllen are hot and humid. Temperatures routinely exceed 90 Fahrenheit during the day, and humidity levels can rise above 70%. The highest temperatures are typically recorded in July and August, with an average high of 97 Fahrenheit. The heat is often accompanied by strong winds and occasional thunderstorms. Severe weather, such as hail and tornadoes, is rare but not unheard of during the summer months.
Average Temperature
McAllen, located in the southernmost part of Texas, experiences a humid subtropical climate characterized by hot summers and mild winters. The average annual temperature in McAllen is around 74°F (23°C), with the warmest months being June and July when temperatures can reach a high of 95°F (35°C). The coldest months are January and December, with average temperatures hovering around 52°F (11°C). However, extreme temperatures have been recorded, with the highest reaching 106°F (41°C) and the lowest dropping to 19°F (-7°C).
Seasonal Variations
The temperature in McAllen varies significantly throughout the year. In the spring, temperatures gradually increase from March to May, with the average temperature ranging from 65°F (18°C) to 76°F (24°C). During the summer, from June to August, temperatures soar, with the average reaching 90°F (32°C) or higher, making this the hottest time of year. In the fall, temperatures decline from September to November, with the average dropping from 85°F (29°C) to 65°F (18°C). During the winter, December to February, temperatures remain relatively mild, although cold fronts can occasionally bring temperatures below freezing, especially at night.
Cloud Types and Their Impact on Weather
McAllen, located in southern Texas, experiences a variety of cloud types throughout the year. These clouds can range from low-level cumulus clouds that produce fair weather to towering cumulonimbus clouds that bring thunderstorms. The most common cloud type in McAllen is cirrocumulus clouds, which are thin, white clouds that form at high altitudes. These clouds often indicate fair weather but can sometimes produce light rain or drizzle. Cumulus clouds, which are puffy clouds with flat bases, are also common in McAllen. These clouds typically produce fair weather but can sometimes grow into larger, more developed clouds that produce rain or thunderstorms.
Stratus and Nimbostratus Clouds – Indicators of Precipitation
Stratus clouds are low-level clouds that form a uniform, gray layer across the sky. These clouds often produce drizzle or light rain and can lead to overcast conditions. Nimbostratus clouds are similar to stratus clouds but are thicker and darker, indicating heavier precipitation. These clouds can produce steady rain or snow and can lead to extended periods of cloudy weather. McAllen experiences these clouds during the winter months, bringing rainfall and cooler temperatures. In summary, McAllen’s cloud cover can provide valuable insights into the prevailing weather conditions.
Precipitation Patterns
McAllen, located in southern Texas, experiences a subtropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. Annual precipitation averages around 29 inches (74 cm), with the majority falling during the summer months (June to September). Tropical storms and hurricanes occasionally bring heavy rainfall to the region, contributing to the seasonal precipitation totals.
Seasonal Variability
The wet season in McAllen begins in May, with precipitation gradually increasing towards August, when the city receives an average of over 5 inches (13 cm) of rainfall. September remains wet, with precipitation gradually decreasing in October. The dry season extends from November to April, with minimal rainfall. During this time, temperatures are cooler, and humidity levels are lower.
Seasonal Distribution of Rainfall in McAllen
McAllen experiences a subtropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season typically spans from May to September, bringing abundant rainfall to the region. During this time, McAllen receives an average of over 25 inches of precipitation, with the peak rainfall occurring in June and July. The dry season extends from October to April and is characterized by significantly reduced rainfall, with monthly precipitation averaging around 1-2 inches.
Interannual Variability of Rainfall in McAllen
The amount of rainfall in McAllen can vary substantially from year to year. This variability is primarily influenced by large-scale weather patterns, such as El Niño and La Niña, which can alter the frequency and intensity of rainfall events. El Niño years tend to lead to drier conditions in McAllen, while La Niña years often bring increased rainfall. The 2011 drought, for example, was one of the driest on record for McAllen, with annual rainfall falling below 15 inches. In contrast, the 2017 rainy season saw above-average precipitation, with over 35 inches of rainfall recorded in McAllen.
History of Snowfall in McAllen
Snowfall is a rare occurrence in McAllen, Texas. Since records began in the late 1800s, there have only been a handful of documented snowfall events in the city. The most significant snowfall occurred on January 18, 1930, when McAllen received 2 inches (5 cm) of snow. Other notable snowfall events include 1 inch (2.5 cm) on December 25, 1983, and 0.5 inches (1.3 cm) on January 6, 1985.
Causes of Snowfall in McAllen
Snowfall in McAllen is typically caused by cold fronts that originate in the Arctic and sweep across the central and southern United States. These cold fronts bring with them cold, moist air that can produce precipitation in the form of rain or snow. For snow to form, the temperature must be cold enough for the water droplets in the air to freeze into ice crystals. In McAllen, the average temperature in January is 53°F (12°C), which is typically not cold enough for snowfall. However, when a strong cold front passes through the area, temperatures can drop below freezing and create conditions conducive to snowfall.
2023 Monthly Weather Forecast
McAllen, Texas, experiences warm and temperate weather year-round, with minimal rainfall throughout the year. The hottest month is July, with average high temperatures around 98°F (37°C). The coldest month is January, with average low temperatures around 42°F (6°C). The average annual rainfall is approximately 25 inches (64 cm), which is evenly distributed throughout the year.
Seasonal Variability
During the summer months, from June to September, the weather in McAllen is hot and humid, with average temperatures in the high 90s to low 100s Fahrenheit (37-38°C). High humidity levels can make the heat feel even more oppressive. In the winter months, from December to February, the weather is mild, with average temperatures in the low 60s to mid-70s Fahrenheit (17-24°C). Nighttime temperatures can drop to the 40s and 50s Fahrenheit (4-10°C), so light jackets or sweaters may be necessary.
Moonrise and Moonset Times
Moonrise and moonset times in McAllen, United States, vary throughout the year due to the Earth’s tilt and orbit around the Sun. Generally, the moon rises in the east and sets in the west, with the exact timing influenced by the moon’s phase and the observer’s location. You can find specific moonrise and moonset times for McAllen on astronomy websites or mobile applications that provide astronomical data.
Moon Phases
As the Moon orbits the Earth, it presents different illuminated portions, known as moon phases. The main phases include the new moon, crescent moon, first quarter, waxing gibbous, full moon, waning gibbous, third quarter, and waning crescent. In McAllen, as elsewhere, the moon goes through these phases in a cyclical pattern, repeating every 29.5 days. The different moon phases affect tides, animal behavior, and cultural practices. For example, a full moon can enhance the visibility of celestial objects, while a new moon offers a darker sky for observing stars.
Monthly Humidity Variations
McAllen, Texas, experiences significant variations in humidity throughout the year. January and February are the driest months, with average relative humidity levels around 50-60%. As spring approaches, humidity gradually increases, reaching its peak in June and July when it can exceed 80%. These high humidity levels can make the summer months feel extremely uncomfortable, especially given the region’s high temperatures.
During the fall, humidity levels gradually decline as temperatures drop. By November, they typically fall back to around 60%, providing some relief from the oppressive summer humidity. December is generally the most humid month of the year, with humidity levels typically ranging from 65-75%. Overall, McAllen experiences a humid subtropical climate, with high humidity levels throughout most of the year.
Average Wind Speed and Direction
The average wind speed in McAllen, United States, is 13.6 mph. The wind direction is predominantly from the south-southeast, with an average wind speed of 14.7 mph. During the summer months, the wind direction shifts more to the southeast, with an average wind speed of 15.2 mph. In the winter months, the wind direction shifts more to the northwest, with an average wind speed of 12.3 mph.
Wind Speed Variability
The wind speed in McAllen is highly variable, with frequent gusts and lulls. The highest recorded wind speed in McAllen was 72 mph, which occurred on June 8, 2017. The lowest recorded wind speed was 0 mph, which has occurred on several occasions. The average monthly wind speed ranges from 12.3 mph in December to 15.2 mph in July. The windiest months are typically March, April, and May, while the calmest months are typically December, January, and February.
Spring (March-May):
Spring is an ideal time to visit McAllen, Texas. The weather is generally pleasant, with warm days and cool nights. The average high temperature in March is 75°F (24°C), and the average low temperature is 54°F (12°C). April and May offer slightly warmer temperatures, with average highs in the low 80s (27°C) and average lows in the mid-60s (18°C).
During spring, McAllen is a vibrant city with numerous outdoor activities. The Quinta Mazatlan, a historical mansion and botanical garden, offers stunning views of the Rio Grande River. The McAllen Nature Center is a great place for birdwatching and hiking, while the International Museum of Art & Science features a diverse collection of art and history exhibits. McAllen’s numerous parks and recreation areas, such as Fireman’s Park and the McAllen Sports Center, host events and festivals throughout the season.
Fall (September-November):
Fall is another excellent time to visit McAllen, as the weather remains comfortable with average high temperatures in the 80s (27°C) and average low temperatures in the 60s (18°C). The humidity levels also tend to be lower during this time.
In fall, McAllen hosts several annual events. The McAllen International Kite Festival in September draws kite enthusiasts from around the world. The Dia de los Muertos Celebration in October features traditional altars, live music, and food vendors. The McAllen Chamber Music Festival in November showcases performances by local and international musicians. Additionally, the city’s parks and recreation areas offer fall activities like pumpkin carving, hayrides, and nature walks.
Solar Resource in McAllen
McAllen, Texas, enjoys abundant sunlight throughout the year, making it an ideal location for solar energy production. The city receives an average of 250 sunny days annually, with an average solar insolation of 5.5-6.0 kWh/m²/day. This favorable solar resource makes McAllen one of the most promising regions in the United States for solar photovoltaic (PV) development.
Solar Energy Development in McAllen
The city of McAllen has recognized the potential of solar energy and has taken steps to encourage its development. The city offers various incentives to promote the adoption of solar PV systems, including rebates, tax exemptions, and expedited permitting processes. As a result, McAllen has emerged as a leader in solar energy adoption in the United States. Several large-scale solar farms have been constructed in the McAllen area, contributing significant amounts of renewable energy to the local grid. Additionally, many homeowners and businesses have installed rooftop solar systems, further increasing the city’s solar energy footprint.
Climate in McAllen, United States
McAllen, located in the southernmost part of Texas, experiences a subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. The city’s proximity to the Gulf of Mexico ensures a steady breeze throughout the year, helping to alleviate the intense summer heat.
During the summer months, temperatures in McAllen typically range from 85 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit (29 to 35 degrees Celsius), with high humidity levels that can make it feel even hotter. The sun is also quite strong, so it is important to take precautions to avoid sunburn and heatstroke.
In the winter months, temperatures in McAllen are much milder, with average highs in the 60s Fahrenheit (16 to 18 degrees Celsius) and lows in the 40s Fahrenheit (4 to 9 degrees Celsius). The humidity levels are also lower, making it a more comfortable time to be outdoors. However, there can be occasional cold spells, especially during the months of December and January, when temperatures can drop into the 30s Fahrenheit (0 to 4 degrees Celsius).
Demography in McAllen, United States
McAllen is a predominantly Hispanic city, with over 80% of the population identifying as such. The city is also home to a significant population of white residents, making up approximately 17% of the population. African Americans and Asian Americans each make up less than 2% of the population.
McAllen has a relatively young population, with a median age of 32. The city is also growing rapidly, with a population of over 140,000 people as of 2020. This growth is due in part to the city’s strong economy, which is driven by the tourism, healthcare, and agricultural industries.
McAllen is a culturally diverse city, with a rich blend of Mexican and American influences. The city is home to a number of festivals and events that celebrate its unique culture, including the McAllen International Festival and the Borderfest.
McAllen-Miller International Airport (MFE)
McAllen-Miller International Airport (MFE) is the primary airport serving McAllen, Texas, USA. It is located about 3 miles (5 kilometers) northwest of downtown McAllen. MFE is a regional airport with a single terminal that handles both domestic and international flights. The airport is served by several major airlines, including American Airlines, United Airlines, and Southwest Airlines. It offers direct flights to major cities in the United States, including Dallas, Houston, and Austin, as well as to Mexico and the Caribbean. The airport also has a strong cargo operation, with several major companies operating out of MFE.
Other nearby airports
In addition to McAllen-Miller International Airport, there are several other airports within a reasonable driving distance of McAllen. These include:
- Hidalgo International Airport (HRL) is located about 15 miles (24 kilometers) east of McAllen. It is a small airport with a single terminal that handles domestic flights only. HRL is served by a few smaller airlines, including Allegiant Air and Spirit Airlines.
- Brownsville/South Padre Island International Airport (BRO) is located about 30 miles (48 kilometers) southeast of McAllen. It is a larger airport with a single terminal that handles domestic and international flights. BRO is served by several major airlines, including American Airlines, United Airlines, and Southwest Airlines. It offers direct flights to major cities in the United States, including Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio, as well as to Mexico and the Caribbean.
Culture and Attractions
McAllen is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage, influenced by its proximity to Mexico. The city’s lively arts scene boasts numerous museums, art galleries, and theaters. The International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS) showcases a diverse collection of artifacts and artworks from around the world. The McAllen Performing Arts Center hosts a variety of stage performances, including concerts, plays, and dance recitals. The Quinta Mazatlán, a historic mansion, offers tours and exhibits highlighting McAllen’s unique history and lifestyle.
Parks and Recreation
McAllen is home to an extensive network of parks, recreation areas, and hiking trails. The McAllen Nature Park, a sprawling 20-acre sanctuary, offers scenic trails, a butterfly garden, and an observation tower. The Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park, located a short drive from the city, features a picturesque lake, hiking trails, and opportunities for bird watching and kayaking. The Valley International Country Club offers golf, tennis, and swimming amenities, while the McAllen Sports Park provides baseball, soccer, and other sports facilities. The city’s parks and open spaces offer ample opportunities for outdoor activities, relaxation, and connecting with nature.