San Angelo Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – United States
Summer
San Angelo experiences scorching summers characterized by soaring temperatures and minimal rainfall. The average high during the warmest months, July and August, reaches a sweltering 96°F (36°C), while the average low hovers around a balmy 74°F (23°C). Occasional thunderstorms provide brief respites from the relentless heat, but humidity levels remain relatively low, making the summer months bearable.
Winter
Winters in San Angelo are typically mild, with temperatures dipping below freezing only occasionally. The average high in January, the coldest month, reaches a comfortable 55°F (13°C), while the average low falls to a chilly 26°F (-3°C). Snowfall is uncommon, and when it does occur, it quickly melts away.
Monthly Average Temperatures
San Angelo, located in the state of Texas, United States, exhibits a semi-arid climate characterized by hot summers and mild winters. The average monthly temperatures throughout the year showcase the city’s distinct seasonal variations.
During the summer months, from June to August, the average temperatures soar to their peak, with July being the hottest month. The average high temperature in July reaches approximately 99°F (37.2°C), while the average low hovers around 77°F (25°C). The heat index, which combines temperature and humidity, often exceeds 105°F (40.6°C) during this period, making it feel even hotter.
Seasonal Variations
In contrast to the sweltering summers, winters in San Angelo are relatively mild, with average temperatures rarely dropping below freezing. The coldest month is January, with an average high temperature of around 56°F (13.3°C) and an average low of 33°F (0.6°C). Snowfall is infrequent and typically melts away quickly.
Spring and fall in San Angelo offer pleasant transitional seasons. In April and May, as the winter chill subsides, the average temperatures rise steadily, ranging from the mid-60s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit (18.3°C to 28.9°C). Similarly, in September and October, the average temperatures gradually decline, with highs ranging from the mid-70s to the mid-50s Fahrenheit (23.9°C to 12.8°C).
Description of Clouds in San Angelo
San Angelo, located in Texas, experiences a wide range of cloud formations throughout the year. On clear days, the skies are typically dominated by high-altitude cirrus clouds, which appear as wispy and delicate threads. During the summer months, towering cumulus clouds often build up into magnificent thunderheads, occasionally developing into thunderstorms. These clouds are characterized by their flat base and cauliflower-like tops. In the spring and fall, San Angelo is prone to stratus clouds, which form a uniform, gray layer that cover the sky. These clouds can produce drizzle or light rain.
Types and Frequency of Clouds
The most common cloud types in San Angelo are cirrus, cumulus, and stratus. Cirrus clouds are the highest and occur in the troposphere. They are composed of ice crystals and appear as thin, white streaks. Cumulus clouds are lower and denser than cirrus clouds and have a characteristic puffy appearance. They often form in fair weather and can grow into larger clouds, such as cumulonimbus, which bring thunderstorms. Stratus clouds are the lowest and most uniform type of cloud. They cover large areas of the sky and can produce precipitation in the form of drizzle or light rain.
Monthly Precipitation Patterns
San Angelo experiences a wide range of precipitation throughout the year, with significant variation between months. The driest period typically occurs during the winter months from December to February, when average precipitation ranges from 0.4 to 0.8 inches per month. During this time, the city experiences limited rainfall and snowfall is infrequent.
In contrast, the wettest period extends from May to September, when average precipitation exceeds 2 inches per month. The heaviest rainfall occurs during the summer months of June and July, with monthly precipitation often reaching or exceeding 3 inches. This is due to the influence of monsoon moisture from the Gulf of Mexico, which results in frequent thunderstorms and occasional heavy rain events.
Annual Precipitation and Extreme Events
San Angelo’s annual precipitation averages around 22 inches, which is considered semi-arid. However, the city is prone to extreme precipitation events, particularly during the spring and summer months. Torrential downpours can lead to flash flooding, which can cause significant damage to infrastructure and property.
Droughts are another concern in San Angelo, although they are less frequent than heavy rainfall events. Extended periods of below-average precipitation can stress vegetation and agriculture. In severe cases, droughts can also impact water supplies and lead to water restrictions.
Annual Rainfall Patterns
San Angelo, located in West Texas, experiences distinct annual rainfall patterns. The region receives most of its precipitation during the warm months, with summer and spring contributing the highest amounts. The average annual rainfall is approximately 22 inches, with the wettest months occurring between May and September. During this period, thunderstorms and heavy rainfall events often lead to increased runoff and flooding.
Seasonal Variations
The rainfall distribution in San Angelo varies significantly throughout the year. During the winter months, precipitation is generally low, with January and February being the driest. As spring approaches, rainfall begins to increase, reaching its peak during the late spring and early summer months. The summer season is characterized by frequent thunderstorms and occasional heavy downpours. Fall brings a gradual decrease in rainfall, transitioning to the drier winter months.
Average Snowfall and Annual Extremes
San Angelo, Texas, experiences relatively low snowfall on average. Over the past 30 years, the city has received an average of 2.2 inches of snow annually. The median snowfall is even lower, at 1.4 inches. However, there have been years with significantly more snowfall. In 1985, for example, San Angelo saw a record 18.9 inches of snow.
Seasonal Variation and Impact
Snowfall in San Angelo typically occurs during the winter months, from December to February. The city rarely experiences significant snow accumulation, with most snowfall melting within a few days. However, occasional heavy snowfall events can disrupt daily life, causing road closures, school delays, and power outages. In February 2011, a winter storm dumped more than 12 inches of snow on the city, causing widespread power outages and temporary closures of roads and businesses.
Sunrise and Sunset Times
Sunrise and sunset times in San Angelo, United States, vary throughout the year due to the Earth’s tilt and orbit around the sun. The earliest sunrise occurs around June 20th, with the sun rising around 6:15 am. The latest sunrise occurs around December 21st, with the sun rising around 7:45 am. Similarly, the earliest sunset occurs around June 20th, with the sun setting around 8:45 pm. The latest sunset occurs around December 21st, with the sun setting around 5:30 pm.
Average Sunshine Hours
San Angelo receives an average of 3,086 hours of sunshine per year, making it one of the sunniest cities in the United States. The sunniest months are July and August, with an average of over 350 hours of sunshine each month. The least sunny months are December and January, with an average of around 200 hours of sunshine each month. The abundance of sunshine in San Angelo makes it an ideal destination for outdoor activities and solar energy production.
Moonrise and Moonset Times
In San Angelo, Texas, the moon’s visibility and positioning vary throughout the month. The times of moonrise and moonset shift daily, and the full moon appears on different dates each month. To determine precise moonrise and moonset times for a specific date in San Angelo, consult local meteorological or astronomical resources.
Phases of the Moon
The moon progresses through various phases over the course of approximately 29.5 days. In San Angelo, the full moon is visible for around three nights, while the new moon signifies the period when the moon is not visible in the sky. The first quarter moon appears halfway between the new moon and the full moon, and the last quarter moon marks the halfway point between the full moon and the new moon. The phases of the moon are determined by the relative positions of the sun, Earth, and moon, as well as the amount of sunlight reflecting off the moon’s surface.
Climate and Humidity in San Angelo
San Angelo, a city located in Texas, lies in a semi-arid climate zone with low humidity throughout the year. The average annual relative humidity is approximately 55%, making it a relatively dry place. During the hottest months, from June to August, the humidity levels tend to drop to around 40-50%, contributing to the feeling of dryness. However, during the cooler months, such as December to February, the humidity can rise slightly, reaching up to 60-70%. This increase in humidity during the winter is primarily attributed to the passage of cold fronts, which bring moisture from the Gulf of Mexico.
Impact of Low Humidity
The low humidity in San Angelo has several implications for the city’s residents. The dry air can cause skin and respiratory irritation for some individuals, especially during the summer months when temperatures soar into the high 90s or even 100s. Additionally, the lack of moisture in the air can impact plant life, as plants require a certain level of humidity to thrive. Low humidity can also exacerbate the spread of wildfires, as the dry vegetation becomes more susceptible to ignition. To mitigate these effects, many residents use humidifiers in their homes and businesses to increase indoor humidity levels, particularly during the dry winter months.
Historical Wind Patterns
San Angelo, located in West Texas, experiences a semi-arid climate with distinct wind patterns. The city is known for its strong and persistent winds, particularly during the spring and summer months. Historical data indicates that the prevailing wind direction in San Angelo is from the south-southeast, bringing warm and humid air from the Gulf of Mexico. During the winter months, winds tend to shift to the northwest, bringing cold and dry air from the northern plains. The average wind speed in San Angelo ranges from 10 to 15 miles per hour (16 to 24 kilometers per hour) throughout the year.
Influence of Geography and Local Topography
The location and topography of San Angelo play a significant role in shaping its wind patterns. The city is situated in a relatively flat region with few obstructions to wind flow. The nearby Goodfellow Air Force Base, which covers a large area to the northwest of San Angelo, also influences the city’s wind patterns. The base’s open land and lack of vegetation allow strong winds to funnel through the area and into San Angelo. Additionally, the city’s proximity to the Edwards Plateau, a region of rugged cliffs and canyons to the north, creates Venturi effects that further enhance wind speeds in the area. The combined effects of these geographical and topographical factors result in San Angelo’s characteristically windy conditions.
Spring (March-May)
Spring in San Angelo brings pleasant temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to the mid-80s. The city comes alive with blooming wildflowers, transforming the surrounding Hill Country into a vibrant tapestry of colors. This season offers ideal conditions for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and birdwatching. Moreover, the absence of extreme heat makes it comfortable to explore San Angelo’s many parks and attractions, including the San Angelo State Park and the Fort Concho National Historic Landmark.
Fall (September-November)
Fall is another excellent time to visit San Angelo. Temperatures gradually cool down, ranging from the mid-50s to the mid-70s. The foliage in the surrounding area turns a brilliant array of yellow, orange, and red, creating a breathtaking spectacle. Fall is a popular time for festivals and events, including the San Angelo Stock Show and Rodeo, which showcases local cowboys and cowgirls. This season also offers great opportunities for fishing and hunting in the nearby lakes and rivers.
Solar Potential and Infrastructure:
San Angelo, Texas, boasts ample solar energy potential due to its high average solar insolation. The city is located in the Chihuahuan Desert ecoregion, characterized by clear skies and plentiful sunshine year-round. This favorable sunlight availability makes San Angelo suitable for various solar energy technologies, including photovoltaic (PV) systems and concentrating solar power (CSP) plants. In recent years, the city has witnessed significant growth in its solar industry. Several solar farms have been established in the surrounding area, contributing to the state’s overall renewable energy production.
Benefits and Economic Impact:
Harnessing solar energy in San Angelo offers numerous benefits to the local community and the environment. PV systems installed on residential and commercial buildings can significantly reduce electricity bills by generating clean, renewable power. Utility-scale solar farms create employment opportunities in construction, operation, and maintenance, boosting the local economy. Additionally, solar energy helps displace fossil fuel use, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving air quality in the region. San Angelo’s embrace of solar power aligns with the state of Texas’s commitment to diversifying its energy sources and promoting sustainability. The city’s solar energy potential positions it as a key player in the transition towards a clean energy future for the state and beyond.
Location and Landscape
San Angelo is located on the banks of the North Concho River in the southern Great Plains of Texas. The city occupies a scenic valley surrounded by rolling hills and plateaus. The elevation ranges from 1,800 to 2,000 feet above sea level, creating a microclimate that is distinct from the surrounding region.
Erosional Features
The landscape of San Angelo is characterized by extensive erosion, which has sculpted unique geological formations. The North Concho River has carved out a series of canyons and canyons, exposing layers of sedimentary rock. The most prominent of these is the 3.5-mile-long San Angelo State Park Canyon, which features sheer cliffs and winding trails. Additionally, the city is home to the San Angelo Hills, a series of rugged hills formed by the remnants of an ancient volcanic eruption. These hills provide breathtaking views of the valley below and are popular destinations for hiking and rock climbing enthusiasts.
San Angelo Regional Mathis Field Airport (SJT)
San Angelo Regional Mathis Field Airport (SJT) is the nearest airport to San Angelo, Texas. It is located approximately 6 miles (9.7 kilometers) northeast of the city center. SJT is a public-use airport that offers scheduled passenger service to Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) on American Airlines. The airport also has a general aviation terminal and a cargo terminal.
SJT is a relatively small airport, with one main terminal and two runways. The airport is served by a variety of airlines, including American Airlines, United Airlines, and Southwest Airlines. There are direct flights to several destinations, including Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston, and Phoenix. SJT is also a popular destination for private pilots and corporate jets.
Other Nearby Airports
In addition to San Angelo Regional Mathis Field Airport, there are several other airports within a 100-mile radius of the city. These airports include:
- Abilene Regional Airport (ABI) – 82 miles (132 kilometers) north of San Angelo
- Midland International Airport (MAF) – 95 miles (153 kilometers) west of San Angelo
- Lubbock Preston Smith International Airport (LBB) – 115 miles (185 kilometers) northwest of San Angelo
- Wichita Falls Municipal Airport (SPS) – 124 miles (200 kilometers) northeast of San Angelo
History and Culture
San Angelo, nestled in the heart of West Texas, is a city with a rich history and a vibrant culture. Founded in 1880 as a stop along the Texas and Pacific Railway, San Angelo quickly became a hub for cattle and ranching. Today, the city proudly preserves its Western heritage through annual events like the San Angelo Stock Show and Rodeo and the International Waterlily Gardens’ Festival of Lights. San Angelo also boasts a thriving arts scene, with the San Angelo Symphony, the San Angelo Chorale, and the Cactus Hotel Gallery showcasing the talents of local and regional artists.
Natural Beauty and Attractions
Beyond its cultural offerings, San Angelo is renowned for its stunning natural beauty. Situated on the banks of the Concho River, the city is surrounded by rolling hills, deep canyons, and pristine lakes. Its parks and recreation areas provide ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, biking, fishing, and camping. O.C. Fisher Lake, a 1,500-acre reservoir, is a popular spot for fishing and boating. The San Angelo Nature Center offers educational exhibits and programs that highlight the region’s diverse flora and fauna. The city is also home to the Fort Concho National Historic Landmark, a former U.S. Army fort that now serves as a museum and living history center, giving visitors a glimpse into the area’s frontier past.