Salisbury Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – United States
Spring and Summer in Salisbury
Salisbury, located in Maryland, experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasons. Spring arrives in March and brings with it warm temperatures, averaging around 55°F (13°C) in March and gradually rising to 75°F (24°C) in May. April and May are generally the wettest months of the year, with average rainfall exceeding 4 inches (100mm). The summer season begins in June and lasts until August. Temperatures during this time average in the low 80s °F (28°C), with high humidity levels. Occasional thunderstorms provide some relief from the heat and humidity.
Fall and Winter in Salisbury
Autumn in Salisbury begins in September and brings milder temperatures, ranging from 70°F (21°C) in September to 50°F (10°C) in November. The fall foliage is vibrant, with reds, oranges, and yellows painting the landscape. September and October are typically the driest months of the year, with average rainfall below 2.5 inches (63mm). Winter arrives in December and lasts until February. Temperatures during this time average in the low to mid 40s °F (7°C), with occasional cold fronts bringing temperatures below freezing. Snowfall is uncommon in Salisbury, but when it does occur, it typically melts quickly.
Average Temperature in Salisbury, United States
Salisbury, located in Maryland’s Eastern Shore, experiences a humid subtropical climate characterized by warm and humid summers and mild, relatively dry winters. The average annual temperature in Salisbury hovers around 57.1°F (13.9°C). The warmest months are typically July and August, with average temperatures reaching 78°F (25.6°C) and 77.4°F (25.2°C), respectively. Conversely, the coldest months are January and February, with average temperatures dropping to 34.9°F (1.6°C) and 34.4°F (1.3°C).
Throughout the year, there is significant variation in temperature. The winters can be cold, with temperatures occasionally dipping below freezing. However, the summers are consistently warm and humid, with high temperatures often climbing into the 80s or even 90s. Precipitation is also a factor, with Salisbury receiving an average of 43 inches of rain annually. This rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with the exception of a slight decline in precipitation during the summer months.
Cloud Formations in Salisbury, United States
Salisbury, located in the coastal Mid-Atlantic region of the United States, experiences a wide variety of cloud formations throughout the year. Due to its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, Salisbury is often influenced by maritime air masses, leading to frequent cloudiness and precipitation. Cumulus clouds, characterized by their puffy, cotton-ball appearance, are common in Salisbury during the summer months. These clouds often develop into larger, towering cumulonimbus clouds, which can produce thunderstorms and heavy rainfall.
Seasonal Variations in Cloud Cover
The frequency and type of cloud cover in Salisbury vary significantly depending on the season. During the winter months, the region experiences more frequent periods of overcast skies and lower cloud bases due to the influence of cold fronts and mid-latitude cyclones. Stratus and nimbostratus clouds are common during this time, resulting in extended periods of drizzle or light rain. In the spring and fall, Salisbury experiences a transition period with more variable cloud cover and a mix of cloud types, including cirrus, altostratus, and stratocumulus.
Yearly Precipitation
Salisbury, located in the Piedmont region of North Carolina, United States, experiences a subtropical climate characterized by moderate precipitation throughout the year. The yearly average precipitation is approximately 45 inches (114 centimeters), which is distributed relatively evenly across all months. However, the wettest months tend to be July and August, when heavy thunderstorms frequently occur. During these months, Salisbury receives an average of over 4 inches (10 centimeters) of precipitation each.
Seasonality
The precipitation in Salisbury exhibits a distinct seasonality, with the wettest season occurring during the summer months and the driest season during the fall and winter. This pattern is largely influenced by the region’s prevailing weather systems. During the summer, warm, moist air from the Gulf of Mexico brings frequent thunderstorms to the area, while during the fall and winter, cooler, drier air from the northwest prevents significant precipitation. As a result, Salisbury experiences a pronounced difference in precipitation amounts between the seasons, with wet summers and relatively dry winters.
Annual Precipitation
Salisbury, United States, experiences a humid subtropical climate with an average annual precipitation of 44.23 inches (1123.1 mm). The rainfall is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year, with slightly higher amounts in the warmer months from May to September. The wettest month is July, which receives an average of 5.83 inches (148.1 mm) of rain, while the driest month is October, with an average of 2.86 inches (72.6 mm) of precipitation. The mean annual precipitation is relatively consistent, with most years receiving between 40 and 50 inches of rainfall. However, there have been periods of significant variability, such as during the severe drought of 2011-2012, when the city received only 31.96 inches (811.8 mm) of rain.
Rainfall Trends
Long-term trends in rainfall patterns in Salisbury show a slight increase in precipitation over the past several decades. Data from the National Weather Service indicates that the city has become gradually wetter since the late 19th century, with an average annual increase of approximately 0.05 inches (1.3 mm) of rain per year. This trend is consistent with observed increases in precipitation across much of the eastern United States and is likely linked to changes in atmospheric circulation patterns and rising global temperatures. While the increase in rainfall has been relatively modest, it has implications for water management and infrastructure planning in the city.
Historical Snowfall Data
Salisbury, located in Maryland, United States, has experienced varying degrees of snowfall throughout its history. The city’s average annual snowfall is approximately 18 inches (46 cm). However, snowfall amounts can fluctuate significantly from year to year. In 2010, Salisbury received a record-breaking 76 inches (193 cm) of snowfall, while in 2012, it received only trace amounts. The city’s highest single-day snowfall occurred on February 17, 1979, when 18.2 inches (46 cm) fell.
Impacts of Snowfall
Snowfall can have both positive and negative impacts on Salisbury and its surrounding areas. On the one hand, snowfall can provide a boost to the local economy, as residents spend money on snow removal equipment, winter gear, and activities such as sledding and skiing. Additionally, snowfall can create picturesque winter landscapes that attract tourists to the area. On the other hand, snowfall can also cause disruptions to daily life. Snow-covered roads can make it difficult to travel, causing delays and cancellations for commuters, businesses, and schools. Snowfall can also lead to power outages and other infrastructure issues, especially during heavy snowstorms.
Climate and Temperature
Salisbury, located in the U.S. state of North Carolina, experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot, humid summers and mild winters. The city’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean influences its weather patterns, bringing frequent rainfall and occasional hurricanes during the summer months. During the winter, temperatures typically hover around 40°F, while summer temperatures can soar above 90°F. However, the average annual temperature remains a comfortable 60°F.
Sunrise and Sunset Times
The sunrise and sunset times in Salisbury vary throughout the year due to the Earth’s axial tilt and orbit around the Sun. During the summer months, the Sun rises around 5:30 AM and sets around 8:30 PM, providing ample daylight hours for outdoor activities. In the winter, sunrise occurs later around 7:00 AM, and sunset earlier around 5:30 PM, resulting in shorter days and longer nights. The city experiences an average of 243 sunny days per year, making it an ideal destination for sun-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Moon Rise and Set Times in Salisbury, United States
The moon’s rise and set times in Salisbury, United States, vary throughout the month due to the Earth’s rotation and the moon’s orbit around the Earth. For a specific day, you can use an online moon calculator or astronomical software to determine the exact times.
Moon Visibility in Salisbury, United States
The visibility of the moon in Salisbury, United States, depends on several factors, including the phase of the moon, cloud cover, and light pollution. During a full moon, the moon is fully illuminated and most visible. During other phases, the moon’s visibility varies depending on the amount of sunlight reflecting off its surface. Cloud cover can also affect visibility, as clouds can obscure the moon from view. Light pollution from urban areas can also make it more difficult to see the moon, especially during its fainter phases.
Seasonal Humidity Patterns
Salisbury, United States, experiences a humid subtropical climate with distinct seasonal variations in humidity levels. During the warm and humid summers, average relative humidity ranges from 65% to 85%, creating an uncomfortable and muggy atmosphere. The high humidity levels are caused by moist air masses from the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. In contrast, winters are relatively dry, with average relative humidity dropping to around 50% to 60%. The drier air is due to the influence of cooler air masses from the north and west.
Impacts of Humidity
The high humidity levels during summer can have significant impacts on human comfort, health, and outdoor activities. Excessive humidity can lead to heat exhaustion, heat cramps, and heat stroke, especially during strenuous activities or prolonged exposure to high temperatures. It can also exacerbate respiratory conditions such as asthma and allergies. Furthermore, humidity can affect building materials, leading to mold growth, damage to electronics, and corrosion of metal surfaces. On the other hand, the drier winter air can cause dry skin, chapped lips, and respiratory irritation. It can also increase the risk of static electricity and worsen the symptoms of allergies.
Wind Characteristics
Salisbury, United States, experiences a humid subtropical climate with relatively consistent winds throughout the year. The prevailing wind direction is from the south-southwest, bringing warm and moist air from the Gulf of Mexico. During the summer months, winds tend to be lighter and more variable, often shifting to the southeast or east. In the winter, winds can be stronger and more gusty, particularly during the passage of cold fronts.
Wind Speed and Direction
Average wind speeds in Salisbury range from 7 to 10 mph (11 to 16 km/h) throughout the year. However, during severe weather events such as thunderstorms or hurricanes, wind gusts can exceed 50 mph (80 km/h). The direction of the wind is also influenced by the presence of landforms, with winds often channeling through valleys or around hills. In general, winds tend to be stronger during the day and weaker at night.
Spring (April-May):
Spring in Salisbury, United States, offers an enchanting blend of nature’s awakening and cultural celebrations. As the city bursts into bloom, the air fills with the sweet fragrance of wisteria and dogwood trees. The average temperature ranges from 50-70°F (10-21°C), making it ideal for outdoor activities such as nature walks, picnics, and golfing. Additionally, the Salisbury Azalea Festival, held in April, transforms the city into a vibrant canvas of colors, with stunning floral displays and lively entertainment.
Fall (September-November):
Fall in Salisbury paints the town in warm hues of gold, orange, and red. The average temperature drops to 40-60°F (4-16°C), creating a crisp and invigorating atmosphere. This season is perfect for exploring historic sites, such as the Dr. Josephus Hall House and the Salisbury National Cemetery. The leaves put on a spectacular show, turning the city’s parks and gardens into breathtaking spectacles. The Rowan County Agricultural Fair, held in October, offers a glimpse into rural life with farm animals, local crafts, and carnival rides.
Potential and Feasibility
Salisbury, United States, possesses significant solar energy potential due to its favorable geographic location in the Sun Belt region. The city experiences ample sunshine throughout the year, with an average of around 260 sunny days annually. This makes Salisbury suitable for the installation of photovoltaic systems that convert sunlight directly into electricity. Additionally, the city has a growing demand for renewable energy sources to meet its environmental goals and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
Initiatives and Development
Recognizing the potential benefits, Salisbury has taken several initiatives to promote solar energy development. The city has implemented net metering policies that allow property owners to connect their solar systems to the grid and sell excess electricity back to utilities. It has also offered financial incentives, such as tax breaks and rebates, to encourage the adoption of solar technologies. As a result, there has been a steady increase in solar installations in Salisbury. In 2023, the city reached a milestone with the completion of a 1-megawatt community solar farm, providing affordable renewable energy to residents and businesses. With continued efforts, Salisbury is well-positioned to become a leader in solar energy deployment and contribute to a cleaner energy future.
Topography of Salisbury
Salisbury, located in North Carolina, is characterized by a diverse array of topographic features. The city is situated in the Piedmont region, a transition zone between the Appalachian Mountains and the Atlantic Coastal Plain. As such, Salisbury exhibits both rolling hills and flatlands. The highest point within the city limits is Crowders Mountain, which rises to an elevation of approximately 1,600 feet above sea level. Crowders Mountain is part of the Crowders Mountain State Park, which offers scenic hiking trails and overlooks.
The Yadkin River flows through Salisbury, creating a significant topographic feature that has influenced the city’s development. The river has carved out a floodplain along its banks, providing fertile land for agriculture. Additionally, the river has created a series of bluffs and terraces, which offer panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The city has utilized the riverfront for recreational purposes, including parks, trails, and a downtown waterfront district.
Salisbury-Ocean City Wicomico Regional Airport (SBY)
Just 2 miles (3.2 km) southwest of the city center, Salisbury-Ocean City Wicomico Regional Airport (SBY) is the closest airport to Salisbury, United States. It offers convenient regional air service to popular destinations such as Philadelphia, Charlotte, and Baltimore. The airport features a modern terminal with amenities like free Wi-Fi, a snack bar, and rental car services. SBY has a single runway (6/24) that measures 5,500 feet (1,676 meters) in length, accommodating a range of aircraft, including small private planes and regional jets. The airport operates approximately 10 daily flights, connecting Salisbury to major hubs and providing easy access to destinations beyond the immediate region.
Other Nearby Airports
While SBY is the most convenient airport for those traveling to Salisbury, other airports within a reasonable driving distance include:
- Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI): Located approximately 105 miles (169 km) northeast of Salisbury, BWI is a major international airport with a wide range of domestic and international flights.
- Philadelphia International Airport (PHL): Situated approximately 140 miles (225 km) northeast of Salisbury, PHL is another major airport offering a comprehensive schedule of flights to destinations throughout the United States and beyond.
History and Culture
Salisbury, located in Maryland, United States, boasts a rich history and vibrant culture. Founded in 1732, it served as a crucial port and trade center during the 18th and 19th centuries. Today, Salisbury preserves its heritage through historic landmarks, museums, and cultural events. Notable attractions include the Ward Museum of Wildfowl Art, showcasing renowned duck decoy carvings, and the Salisbury Zoo, home to a diverse collection of animal species. The city’s downtown area features charming shops, eateries, and art galleries, offering a delightful blend of history and modernity.
Economy and Education
Salisbury serves as the economic hub of the Eastern Shore region. It hosts several major corporations, including Perdue Farms, Tyson Foods, and Lockheed Martin. The city’s economy further benefits from its proximity to the University of Maryland, Eastern Shore, which provides a skilled workforce and research opportunities. Salisbury also boasts a thriving healthcare sector, with the Peninsula Regional Medical Center being the largest employer in the region. The city’s commitment to education extends beyond higher learning, as it hosts a highly regarded public school system and community colleges. Salisbury’s focus on innovation and growth has positioned it as a desirable location for businesses and residents alike.