Oklahoma City Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – United States

Spring and Fall in Oklahoma City

Oklahoma City experiences a transition from winter to spring typically around the end of February or early March. Spring brings with it occasional rain and thunderstorms, along with gradually warming temperatures. By April, the average high reaches 65°F (18°C), making outdoor activities more enjoyable. As spring progresses, wildflowers bloom in abundance, adding vibrant colors to the landscape.

Fall in Oklahoma City begins in September and lasts until November. This season is characterized by a comfortable shift in temperatures and lower humidity levels. The average high in September still hovers around 80°F (27°C), making it ideal for spending time outdoors. As the season progresses, the leaves change from green to vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. Fall is also a popular time for harvest festivals and pumpkin picking in the surrounding areas.

Summer and Winter in Oklahoma City

Summer in Oklahoma City is hot and humid, with average high temperatures ranging from 85°F (29°C) in May to 95°F (35°C) in July and August. The combination of heat and humidity can make outdoor activities uncomfortable during the afternoon hours. However, the evenings tend to cool down somewhat, providing relief from the heat. Thunderstorms are common during the summer months, often bringing heavy rainfall and lightning.

Winters in Oklahoma City can be cold and unpredictable. Average high temperatures in January hover around 45°F (7°C), while lows can drop below freezing. Snowfall occurs occasionally, but usually does not accumulate to significant levels. However, icy conditions can create hazardous driving conditions during winter storms. The cold weather often lingers into March, making it important to plan for warm clothing during the transition to spring.

Summer Season

Oklahoma City, situated in the south-central United States, experiences a humid subtropical climate with distinct seasonal variations. During the summer months (June to August), the average temperature in Oklahoma City ranges from a comfortable 75°F (24°C) to a sweltering 95°F (35°C). The humidity levels are typically high during this period, often making the heat feel even more oppressive. Occasional thunderstorms and heavy rainfall provide temporary relief from the intense heat.

Winter Season

In contrast to the hot and humid summers, winter in Oklahoma City can be considerably colder and drier. The average temperature from December to February hovers around 40°F (4°C), with occasional dips below freezing. Snowfall is relatively uncommon, but the city may experience ice storms and sleet. The wind chill factor can make the actual temperature feel much colder, especially during early mornings and evenings. Although the winters are generally mild compared to other parts of the United States, it’s not uncommon for cold fronts to bring frigid temperatures and strong winds.

Cloud Types

Oklahoma City is located in the south-central region of the United States, a region known for its diverse weather patterns. The city experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot, humid summers and mild, dry winters. These conditions contribute to the formation of a variety of cloud types over Oklahoma City.

Cumulus clouds are common during the summer months and are often associated with fair weather. These clouds have a puffy, cotton-like appearance and can range in size from small, isolated clouds to larger, anvil-shaped clouds. In contrast, cirrus clouds are thin, wispy clouds that are made of ice crystals. These clouds are found at high altitudes and often indicate fair weather.

Cloud Cover and Precipitation

The amount of cloud cover over Oklahoma City varies throughout the year. During the summer months, cloud cover is typically greater, as warm, moist air rises and condenses to form clouds. In the winter months, cloud cover tends to be less, as the air is colder and drier.

Cloud cover can also influence precipitation in Oklahoma City. Thick, dense clouds can block out sunlight and lead to cooler temperatures. These clouds can also produce rain, snow, or hail. In contrast, thin, scattered clouds allow sunlight to reach the Earth’s surface, resulting in warmer temperatures. These clouds may also produce light showers or drizzle.

Annual Precipitation in Oklahoma City

Oklahoma City experiences an average annual precipitation of approximately 36 inches (914 millimeters). The precipitation is distributed relatively evenly throughout the year, with slightly wetter months from May to September. The heaviest precipitation typically occurs during spring and early summer, when thunderstorms are most frequent.

Seasonal Precipitation Patterns

Spring (March-May) is the wettest season in Oklahoma City, with an average precipitation of around 13 inches (330 millimeters). Thunderstorms are common during these months, often bringing heavy rainfall. Summer (June-August) is also a wet season, with average precipitation of around 10 inches (254 millimeters). While thunderstorms remain frequent, they tend to be less severe than those in spring. Autumn (September-November) is a transitional season, with precipitation gradually decreasing. Average rainfall during this period is around 7 inches (178 millimeters). Winter (December-February) is the driest season in Oklahoma City, with average precipitation of just over 5 inches (127 millimeters). Snowfall is infrequent, but it can occur during cold snaps.

Annual Rainfall Patterns

Oklahoma City experiences significant rainfall throughout the year, with an average annual precipitation of approximately 36 inches (914 mm). The wettest months generally occur from May to October, with July being the peak period, averaging over 4 inches (102 mm) of rain. During these months, thunderstorms are common, often accompanied by heavy downpours and occasional flooding. Conversely, the drier months are typically from November to April, with February being the driest, receiving less than 2 inches (51 mm) of rain on average.

Seasonal Variability

The seasonal distribution of rainfall in Oklahoma City exhibits distinct patterns. Spring (March-May) typically sees a gradual increase in precipitation, as temperatures rise and moisture from the Gulf of Mexico intensifies. Summer (June-August) is characterized by frequent and intense thunderstorms, contributing significantly to the annual rainfall totals. Fall (September-November) witnesses a gradual decrease in precipitation, with occasional heavy rainfall events associated with cold fronts. Winter (December-February) is generally the driest season, with relatively consistent precipitation amounts.

Snowfall Patterns and Trends

Oklahoma City, located in central Oklahoma, experiences a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Snowfall is a common occurrence during the winter months, with an average annual snowfall of around 12 inches. However, snowfall amounts can vary significantly from year to year. The city has witnessed periods of heavy snowfall, with some years receiving over 20 inches, while others may see less than 5 inches.

In general, snowfall tends to be heaviest in the northern and western parts of the city. This is due to the prevailing wind patterns, which bring moisture from the Gulf of Mexico. However, snowfall can occur anywhere in Oklahoma City, and it is not uncommon for the entire city to be blanketed in snow. The heaviest snowfalls typically occur between December and March, with January being the snowiest month on average.

Temperature and Climate

Oklahoma City experiences four distinct seasons, with the summer months being hot and humid. The city’s average temperature in July, the warmest month, is around 86 degrees Fahrenheit (30 degrees Celsius). Winters are relatively mild, with average temperatures in January, the coldest month, hovering around 39 degrees Fahrenheit (4 degrees Celsius). The city receives an average of 36 inches (91 centimeters) of rainfall per year, distributed fairly evenly throughout the year.

Sunshine and Cloud Cover

Oklahoma City enjoys abundant sunshine throughout the year, with an average of 270 sunny days per year. The city sees the most sunshine during the summer months, with an average of over 10 hours of sunlight per day. Cloud cover is generally light to moderate throughout the year, with the highest levels of cloudiness occurring during the winter months. Overall, Oklahoma City’s climate is characterized by warm temperatures, ample sunshine, and occasional rainfall. The city’s moderate climate makes it a pleasant place to live and work year-round.

Observation and Visibility

The moon is visible in Oklahoma City, United States, as it is in most parts of the world. Its appearance changes throughout the month as it orbits Earth, going through phases from new to full. The best time to observe the moon is typically during the night when there is less light pollution. During a full moon, the entire face of the moon is illuminated by the sun, making it the brightest and most visible.

Phases and Cycles

Like all celestial bodies, the moon’s position and visibility are influenced by its orbit around Earth. As it moves, the moon’s illuminated side faces Earth to varying degrees, resulting in the different phases observed from our perspective. The moon’s cycle begins with the new moon, when it is not visible from Earth. As it orbits, the illuminated portion gradually increases, leading to the crescent, first quarter, gibbous, and finally the full moon. After the full moon, the illuminated portion decreases, resulting in the waning gibbous, third quarter, waning crescent, and back to the new moon, completing the cycle.

Seasonal Variations

Oklahoma City experiences distinct seasonal variations in humidity. During the spring and fall months, humidity levels are generally moderate, with relative humidity hovering around 50-60%. Summer brings a significant increase in moisture, with humidity soaring to 70-80% as warm, moist air from the Gulf of Mexico flows northward. In contrast, winter brings cold, dry air from the north, causing humidity levels to drop to around 30-40%.

Impact on Health and Comfort

High humidity levels can significantly impact human comfort and health. When the air becomes saturated with moisture, it becomes difficult for the body to cool down through evaporation. Extended periods of high humidity can lead to heat stress, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke, especially during physically strenuous activities. Additionally, high humidity can aggravate respiratory conditions, such as asthma and allergies, as it can make it more difficult to breathe. On the other hand, low humidity levels can cause dry skin, itchy eyes, and nasal congestion, particularly during the winter months.

Wind Patterns and Variability

Oklahoma City experiences a variety of wind patterns throughout the year. The prevailing winds blow from the south and southwest, bringing warm and humid air from the Gulf of Mexico. During the summer months, these winds often carry moisture that contributes to the city’s humid subtropical climate. In the winter, northwesterly winds bring cold air from the Arctic, leading to cold and windy conditions. Seasonal shifts in wind direction are influenced by the migration of the jet stream, a narrow band of fast-moving air in the atmosphere.

Extreme Wind Events

Oklahoma City is also prone to severe weather events, including tornadoes and high winds. The city is located within Tornado Alley, a region of the central United States that experiences a high frequency of tornadoes. While tornadoes can occur at any time of year, they are most common during the spring and early summer. Straight-line winds associated with thunderstorms can also cause significant damage, with gusts exceeding 70 miles per hour being common during severe thunderstorms. In 2013, an EF5 tornado struck Moore, Oklahoma, just south of Oklahoma City, causing widespread devastation and loss of life.

Spring (March – May):

Oklahoma City comes alive in the spring, with beautiful blooming flowers and pleasant temperatures. The average temperature ranges from 50s to 70s°F (10-21°C), making it ideal for outdoor activities. Spring is also a popular time for festivals, such as the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon and the Festival of the Arts.

Fall (September – November):

Fall offers a vibrant change of colors and milder temperatures. The average temperature ranges from 40s to 60s°F (4-16°C). Fall foliage transforms the landscape into a kaleidoscope of hues, with goldenrod, crimson oak leaves, and amber cottonwoods creating a stunning spectacle. Visitors can enjoy scenic drives along the Turner Turnpike or Lake Thunderbird, or attend fall-themed festivals like Pumpkinfest at Myriad Botanical Gardens.

Current State of Solar Energy in Oklahoma City:

Oklahoma City has witnessed a surge in solar energy adoption in recent years. Despite the initial challenge of lower sunlight hours compared to other regions, advancements in solar technology have made solar installations increasingly cost-efficient. The city’s robust power grid and supportive policies have further accelerated the growth of solar projects. Numerous residential, commercial, and municipal buildings have embraced solar panels to supplement their energy needs, reducing their carbon footprint and saving on electricity costs.

Future Prospects and Challenges:

The future of solar energy in Oklahoma City holds promising prospects. The city’s ongoing efforts to promote renewable energy and reduce emissions align well with the growing demand for clean energy solutions. However, certain challenges remain. Firstly, the city’s high daytime temperatures can affect the performance of solar panels. Secondly, the availability of suitable land for large-scale solar farms is limited in the urban landscape. Overcoming these hurdles will require innovative technological solutions, policy incentives, and collaborative efforts between the city, industry leaders, and the community. With continued progress, Oklahoma City aims to become a leader in solar energy adoption, contributing significantly to the nation’s clean energy transition.

Rolling Hills and River Valleys

Oklahoma City is situated in a geographic region known as the Great Plains. The city’s topography is characterized by rolling hills that gradually rise to the west and south. The landscape is further defined by the presence of the North Canadian River that meanders through the north and east of Oklahoma City. The river valley creates a significant topographic feature, with steep slopes and wide floodplains.

Elevation and Slope

The elevation of Oklahoma City ranges from approximately 1,150 feet above sea level in the northeastern part of the city to over 1,300 feet in the southwest. The topography slopes gently to the southeast, with an average elevation decrease of about 10 feet per mile. The city generally presents shallow slopes, with some steeper areas found in the river valley and along the hills. These topographic variations provide scenic views and contribute to the city’s overall character.

Will Rogers World Airport (OKC)

Will Rogers World Airport (IATA: OKC, ICAO: KOKC) is the largest airport in Oklahoma and the primary airport serving Oklahoma City. It is located approximately 6 miles southwest of downtown Oklahoma City, making it easily accessible from the city center. OKC features non-stop flights to over 20 destinations across the United States, including major hubs such as Dallas, Denver, and Atlanta. The airport has four concourses with 16 gates, providing ample capacity for both domestic and international flights. OKC offers various amenities, including retail stores, restaurants, and a duty-free shop, ensuring a comfortable travel experience.

Other Nearby Airports

While Will Rogers World Airport is the nearest airport to Oklahoma City, there are other airports in the region that provide service to the city. These include:

• Tinker Air Force Base (TIK): Located approximately 11 miles southeast of Oklahoma City, TIK primarily serves military operations but also has limited commercial flights.
• Jim Thorpe Regional Airport (PWA): Situated about 60 miles northeast of Oklahoma City in Shawnee, PWA offers flights to Dallas, Houston, and Denver.
• Lawton-Fort Sill Regional Airport (LAW): Located approximately 80 miles southwest of Oklahoma City in Lawton, LAW provides service to Dallas and Houston.

Architecture and Landmarks

Oklahoma City boasts a diverse architectural landscape, ranging from Beaux-Arts to modern skyscrapers. The iconic Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum commemorates the victims of the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing, while the vibrant Bricktown Entertainment District features cobblestone streets, restaurants, and live music venues. The Myriad Botanical Gardens offer a stunning oasis in the heart of downtown. The American Banjo Museum and the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum celebrate the city’s musical and cultural heritage.

Culture and Entertainment

Oklahoma City is a thriving hub for arts and culture. The Oklahoma City Museum of Art houses an extensive collection of American and European art, while the Oklahoma City Philharmonic Orchestra and the Oklahoma City Ballet perform regularly at the Oklahoma City Civic Center Music Hall. The Paseo Arts District is known for its eclectic boutiques and art galleries. The city hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, including the Paseo Arts Festival and the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon. The Chesapeake Energy Arena, home to the Oklahoma City Thunder NBA team, is a major entertainment venue for concerts and sporting events.