Roanoke Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – United States

Temperatures and Humidity

Roanoke experiences a humid subtropical climate with hot, humid summers and mild, moderately dry winters. The average annual temperature is 55.2°F (13°C), with average highs in the upper 80s °F (31°C) during the warmest months (June-August) and average lows in the 20s °F (-6°C) during the coldest months (December-January). The city receives an average of 38 inches (965 mm) of precipitation per year, with the majority falling in the summer months (May-August). The humidity levels are relatively high throughout the year, especially during the summer months.

Seasonal Climate

The spring season in Roanoke (March-May) is characterized by mild temperatures, occasional showers, and blooming flowers. The average temperature in April, the warmest spring month, is 54.2°F (12.3°C). In the summer (June-August), temperatures soar and humidity levels rise, resulting in hot and uncomfortable conditions. Nighttime temperatures often remain in the 70s °F (21°C), providing little relief from the heat. The city also experiences frequent thunderstorms during this season. The autumn season (September-November) is generally mild and pleasant, with gradually decreasing temperatures and occasional periods of rain. The average temperature in October, the warmest autumn month, is 50.9°F (10.5°C).

Spring and Fall

In Roanoke, spring and fall are characterized by mild and pleasant weather. The average temperature in March, the first month of spring, is around 45°F (7°C). As the season progresses, temperatures gradually rise, reaching an average of 60°F (16°C) in May. Spring is known for its occasional bouts of rain, but sunny days are also common.

Fall arrives in September, bringing with it cooler temperatures. The average temperature in September is around 65°F (18°C), dropping to 50°F (10°C) by November. Fall is typically a dry season, with crisp and clear days. The foliage in the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains is a spectacular sight during this time of year, as the leaves turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow.

Summer

Summer in Roanoke is hot and humid, with average temperatures in July and August reaching 80°F (27°C). High humidity levels can make the heat feel even more oppressive at times. Thunderstorms are more frequent during the summer months, providing some relief from the heat and humidity.

Winter

Winter in Roanoke is cold and snowy. The average temperature in January, the coldest month of the year, is around 30°F (-1°C). Snowfall is common, with an average of 20 inches (51 cm) falling each year. Winter storms can sometimes bring heavy snowfall and icy conditions, making travel hazardous.

Cloud Cover in Roanoke

Roanoke experiences a range of cloud cover throughout the year, influenced by its location within the eastern United States. During the summer months (June to August), thick cumulus and towering cumulonimbus clouds are common due to the warm, humid conditions that promote atmospheric instability. These clouds often bring heavy rainfall and occasional thunderstorms. In the autumn (September to November), as temperatures cool, stratus and cirrus clouds become more prevalent. These clouds are typically thin and allow for sunshine to filter through, resulting in partly cloudy skies.

Seasonal Variations

Winter (December to February) in Roanoke is characterized by frequent low-level stratus clouds and occasional fog. These clouds often obscure the sky, leading to gloomy and overcast conditions. During periods of cold fronts, altostratus and nimbostratus clouds can bring prolonged periods of precipitation, including rain or snow. Spring (March to May) witnesses a gradual decrease in cloud cover as temperatures rise and atmospheric instability increases. Cirrocumulus and cirrus clouds become more common, signifying improved weather conditions. However, occasional showers and thunderstorms can still occur due to the influence of cold fronts that pass through the region.

Annual Precipitation

Roanoke, located in the western region of Virginia, experiences moderate precipitation throughout the year. The annual average rainfall in Roanoke is approximately 42 inches, which is distributed relatively evenly across the twelve months. However, there are slight variations in precipitation levels throughout the year. The wettest months typically occur during the spring and summer, with May and June receiving the highest rainfall, averaging around 4.5 inches each. In contrast, the driest months tend to fall during the winter, with January and February receiving the least amount of precipitation, averaging around 2.5 inches each.

Seasonal Precipitation Patterns

Roanoke’s precipitation patterns are influenced by its location within the temperate climate zone and its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. During the spring and summer months, warm and moist air from the Gulf of Mexico moves northward, bringing frequent rainfall to the region. This is often accompanied by thunderstorms and occasional severe weather events. In the fall, as temperatures begin to cool, precipitation levels generally decrease, with occasional showers or drizzle. Winter brings cold and dry air masses, resulting in less frequent and lighter precipitation. Snowfall is possible during the winter, but it is typically not significant, averaging around 10 inches annually.

Annual Rainfall

Roanoke, Virginia, is located in a temperate climate zone with four distinct seasons. The average annual rainfall in Roanoke is 41 inches (104 cm), which is evenly distributed throughout the year. However, there is some variation in rainfall from month to month, with the wettest months being May and June, and the driest months being January and February. The city is also prone to occasional heavy rainfall events, which can cause flooding.

Droughts and Floods

Roanoke has experienced several droughts in recent years, most notably the drought of 2002-2003. During this drought, the city’s water supply was threatened, and water restrictions were put in place. The drought ended with heavy rainfall in the spring of 2003. Roanoke has also experienced several floods in recent years, most notably the flood of 2018. During this flood, the Roanoke River overflowed its banks, causing widespread damage to homes and businesses.

Average Snowfall

Roanoke, a city in the Blue Ridge Mountains of western Virginia, generally experiences moderate snowfall. Over the past decade, the average annual snowfall in Roanoke has ranged from 12 to 25 inches. Due to the city’s elevation and proximity to mountain ranges, snowfall tends to be higher in the eastern and southern parts of the city. The months of January and February are typically the snowiest, although snowfall can occur from December to March.

Impacts of Snowfall

Snowfall in Roanoke can impact various aspects of life in the city. During heavy snowfall events, roads may become slick and hazardous, leading to traffic delays and accidents. Schools may close or delay openings, and businesses may operate on reduced hours or close altogether. Snow removal crews typically work to clear major roads and intersections, but smaller streets and sidewalks may remain covered in snow for several days. Residents and visitors should be prepared for winter weather conditions, including wearing appropriate clothing, using snow tires or chains on vehicles, and maintaining an emergency kit in case of prolonged power outages.

Sun in Roanoke, United States: Yearly Overview

Roanoke, Virginia experiences varied amounts of sunshine throughout the year. The city receives the most sunlight during the summer months, with an average of 10-12 hours of sunshine per day. During this time, the sun typically rises around 6:00 AM and sets around 9:00 PM, providing ample daylight hours for outdoor activities.

Sun in Roanoke, United States: Seasonal Variations

The amount of sunlight in Roanoke fluctuates significantly across the seasons. During the winter months, the city experiences shorter days and less sunlight. On average, Roanoke receives only 6-8 hours of sunshine per day during this time. The sun typically rises around 7:30 AM and sets around 5:30 PM, resulting in fewer daylight hours for outdoor activities. The spring and fall months offer a gradual transition in the amount of sunlight, with Roanoke receiving 8-10 hours of sunshine per day during these seasons. The sun typically rises around 7:00 AM and sets around 8:00 PM during these transitional months.

Visibility and Phases

Roanoke, Virginia, located in the eastern United States, experiences a variety of moon phases and visibility patterns throughout the year. The moon’s orbit around the Earth determines its position relative to the sun and Earth, resulting in different phases. During a new moon, the moon is not visible as it is positioned between the sun and Earth. As the moon moves in its orbit, it gradually becomes visible as a crescent and then a waxing gibbous moon. The full moon occurs when the moon is opposite the sun, creating the maximum illumination. Subsequently, the moon gradually wanes, progressing through its decreasing phases, until it becomes invisible again during a new moon.

Moonrise and Moonset Times

The moonrise and moonset times in Roanoke vary daily. These times can be influenced by factors such as the moon’s phase, season, and latitude of the location. During the summer months, when the days are longer, the moon tends to rise and set later than in the winter months. The moon’s altitude above the horizon also varies throughout the year. Near the summer solstice, the moon reaches its highest point in the sky as it passes through its full phase. In contrast, during the winter solstice, the moon’s altitude is lower as it goes through the new moon phase. Understanding moonrise and moonset times is important for lunar photography, astronomy, and other outdoor activities that take place under the moonlight.

Average Humidity Levels

Roanoke, Virginia, experiences moderate humidity levels throughout the year. The average annual relative humidity is around 69%. During the summer months, humidity levels are generally higher, averaging around 75% from June to August. This is due to the warm, humid air masses that move into the region from the Gulf of Mexico. In contrast, the winter months are characterized by lower humidity levels, averaging around 60% from December to February. During this time, the air is drier and colder, resulting in a more comfortable environment.

Seasonal Variations

The humidity levels in Roanoke exhibit significant seasonal variations. In the spring, humidity levels gradually increase as temperatures rise. May is typically the most humid month, with an average relative humidity of 77%. As summer approaches, humidity levels continue to rise, reaching their peak in July and August. During these months, the air is often thick and uncomfortable, especially during periods of high temperatures. In the fall, humidity levels gradually decrease as temperatures cool. October is typically the least humid month, with an average relative humidity of 63%. As winter sets in, humidity levels continue to decline, reaching their lowest point in January and February.

Wind Patterns and Speed

Roanoke, Virginia, experiences variable wind patterns throughout the year. During the spring and fall, prevailing westerly winds dominate, bringing mild temperatures and occasional gusts. In the summer, southerly winds become more frequent, carrying warm and humid air from the Gulf of Mexico. These winds often bring precipitation and can contribute to severe thunderstorms. Winter winds predominantly come from the northwest, bringing cold and blustery conditions. Roanoke’s average wind speed is moderate, ranging from 7 to 9 miles per hour.

Seasonal Variability and Extremes

The wind speed and direction in Roanoke vary significantly by season. In the winter, winds are typically stronger and more consistent, with frequent gusts exceeding 20 miles per hour. This is due to the strong pressure gradients created by the contrasting temperatures between the cold continental air and the warmer coastal air. In the spring and fall, wind speeds tend to be lower and more variable. Calm winds are common during these seasons, especially during the early morning and late evening hours. During the summer, winds are typically light and variable, with afternoon thunderstorms often bringing gusty conditions.

Spring (March-May):

Spring in Roanoke is a season of vibrant colors and gentle temperatures. With an average temperature range of 40-65 degrees Fahrenheit, it’s ideal for outdoor activities. The Blue Ridge Mountains come alive with blooming wildflowers and cascading waterfalls, making for picturesque hiking and biking trails. The city’s parks, such as Mill Mountain Zoo and Park, offer abundant opportunities for picnics, strolls, and enjoying the blooming gardens. The Roanoke Star, a towering landmark on Mill Mountain, provides stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Fall (September-November):

Fall transforms Roanoke into a canvas of warm hues. As the leaves change into brilliant shades of gold, crimson, and amber, the city takes on a captivating beauty. The average temperature ranges from 50-75 degrees Fahrenheit, making it a perfect time for exploring the surrounding mountains and valleys. Fall foliage drives are popular in this region, with scenic routes like the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Roanoke Valley Greenway offering breathtaking vistas. Wineries, orchards, and cideries abound in the area, offering opportunities for tastings and fall-themed festivities.

Solar Energy Potential

Roanoke, Virginia enjoys abundant sunshine, making it an ideal location for solar energy utilization. The city receives an average of 4.6 peak sunlight hours per day, exceeding the national average of 4.0 hours. This favorable solar radiation provides a significant opportunity for the development of solar energy systems. Roanoke’s geographical position in the mid-Atlantic region further enhances its solar potential, as the city lies within the Sun Belt, a region characterized by high levels of solar insolation.

Solar Energy Initiatives

Recognizing the city’s solar potential, Roanoke has implemented numerous initiatives to promote its development. The Roanoke Valley Broadband Authority (RVBA) has established a solar farms program that enables residents to subscribe to renewable energy credits generated by large-scale solar installations. The city also offers incentives for homeowners and businesses that install solar panels, including tax exemptions and rebates. As a result of these initiatives, Roanoke has witnessed a steady increase in solar energy adoption, with numerous homes, businesses, and public facilities now utilizing solar panels to generate clean, renewable energy.

City of Roanoke:

The City of Roanoke is situated within the Roanoke Valley, a vibrant urban area nestled among the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. The topography of the city is characterized by rolling hills and valleys, with a prominent ridgeline known as Roanoke Mountain forming the backdrop to the western skyline. The Roanoke River meanders through the city, adding scenic beauty and creating a natural boundary between the downtown area and the surrounding neighborhoods. The elevation of the city ranges from approximately 800 feet above sea level near the river to over 2,200 feet on the slopes of Roanoke Mountain, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Valley and Surrounding Mountains:

The Roanoke Valley is surrounded by a diverse array of mountains, each with its own unique characteristics. To the west, the Blue Ridge Mountains form a rugged and majestic barrier, their peaks reaching elevations of over 5,000 feet. These mountains offer hiking, climbing, and outdoor recreation opportunities, with stunning vistas of the valley below. To the east, the Allegheny Mountains rise less dramatically but still provide scenic views and recreational opportunities. The Blue Ridge Parkway, a scenic mountain road, winds its way through the region, connecting Roanoke to other major cities along the Appalachian Trail.

Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport (ROA)

Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport (ROA) is the closest airport to Roanoke, Virginia, located approximately 7 miles (12 kilometers) northwest of the city center. The airport serves the Roanoke Valley and surrounding areas, with flights to destinations such as Atlanta, Baltimore, Charlotte, Cincinnati, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C. ROA offers a variety of amenities for travelers, including a food court, retail shops, a business center, and free Wi-Fi. Ground transportation options from the airport include taxis, rental cars, and public buses.

Lynchburg Regional Airport (LYH)

Lynchburg Regional Airport (LYH) is another option for air travel in the region, although it is located approximately 55 miles (89 kilometers) southeast of Roanoke. LYH serves the Lynchburg area and offers flights to destinations such as Atlanta, Charlotte, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C. The airport is smaller than ROA and has fewer amenities, but it may provide more convenient flight options for some travelers. Ground transportation from LYH includes taxis, rental cars, and public buses.

Arts and Culture

Roanoke boasts a thriving arts and culture scene that caters to diverse tastes. The Taubman Museum of Art houses an impressive collection of American and European art, while the Virginia Museum of Transportation showcases a vast array of locomotives and transportation artifacts. The Mill Mountain Theatre produces critically acclaimed live performances, ranging from musicals to dramas. For music lovers, the Roanoke Symphony Orchestra and the Blue Ridge Music Center offer top-notch entertainment. Additionally, Roanoke is home to vibrant street art murals and public sculptures that enhance the city’s urban landscape.

Outdoors and Recreation

Roanoke’s natural surroundings offer ample opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Mill Mountain Park, perched atop a 1,700-foot summit, provides breathtaking panoramic views and hiking trails. The Roanoke River Greenway spans over 20 miles, offering scenic biking, walking, and kayaking routes. Explore the rhododendrons and wildflowers of the Blue Ridge Parkway, just a short drive from the city. Roanoke’s Carvins Cove Natural Reserve boasts a beautiful reservoir, perfect for fishing, kayaking, and birdwatching. Visitors can also enjoy camping, rock climbing, and mountain biking at Hanging Rock State Park.