Santa Clara Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – United States

Climate

Santa Clara’s climate is predominantly Mediterranean, characterized by warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Temperatures range from an average minimum of 40°F (4°C) in January to an average maximum of 84°F (29°C) in July. Rainfall occurs primarily from November to April, with an average annual precipitation of around 14 inches (356 mm). The combination of ample sunshine and moderate precipitation creates a favorable climate for outdoor activities throughout much of the year.

Average Weather Year Round

Winter (December-February): Coldest months with average temperatures between 40-55°F (4-13°C). Rainfall is common, averaging around 3-4 inches (76-102 mm) per month. Occasional frost or light snow can occur.

Spring (March-May): Gradually warming with average temperatures rising to 55-65°F (13-18°C). Rainfall decreases, averaging around 1-2 inches (25-51 mm) per month. Blossoming flowers and fresh vegetation add vibrancy to the landscape.

Summer (June-August): Hottest and driest season with average temperatures between 65-85°F (18-29°C). Precipitation is scarce, averaging less than 0.5 inches (13 mm) per month. Clear skies and abundant sunshine make it an ideal time for outdoor activities.

Fall (September-November): Gradual cooling with average temperatures ranging from 55-65°F (13-18°C). Rainfall increases slightly, averaging around 1-2 inches (25-51 mm) per month. Changing foliage and crisp air signal the transition to cooler months.

Annual Temperature Averages

Santa Clara, located in the heart of Silicon Valley, experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasonal variations. The average annual temperature in Santa Clara is a comfortable 59.9°F (15.5°C). Summers are typically warm and dry, with average temperatures ranging from 65.0°F (18.3°C) in May to 82.0°F (27.8°C) in August. Winters are generally mild and wet, with average temperatures varying from 43.2°F (6.2°C) in December to 54.6°F (12.6°C) in February.

Seasonal Variations

The warmest months in Santa Clara are July and August, with average high temperatures exceeding 80°F (26.7°C). The hottest day ever recorded in Santa Clara reached 113°F (45°C) in July 2006. Conversely, the coldest months are December and January, with average low temperatures dipping below 40°F (4.4°C). The coldest day on record in Santa Clara was 20°F (-6.7°C) in December 1990. Precipitation is relatively evenly distributed throughout the year, with an average annual rainfall of 15.75 inches (400 mm). The wettest month is February, with an average rainfall of 3.05 inches (77.5 mm), while the driest month is July, with an average rainfall of 0.03 inches (0.8 mm).

Types of Clouds in Santa Clara

Santa Clara, located in the San Francisco Bay Area, typically experiences a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. The cloud cover in Santa Clara varies throughout the year, with the driest months being June through September. During these months, the skies are predominantly clear or partly cloudy, with occasional high clouds.

In the winter months, from November to April, Santa Clara sees an increase in cloud cover. Low clouds, such as stratus and stratocumulus, often blanket the region, bringing overcast skies and occasionally leading to drizzle or light rain. During this time, fog is also common, particularly in the early morning and evening hours. Cumulus and cumulonimbus clouds may also appear during the winter months, associated with periods of rain or thunderstorms.

Cloud Cover Statistics

Santa Clara has an average annual cloud cover of 53%, with the cloudiest month being January (62%) and the clearest month being August (43%). The city experiences an average of 120 clear days per year, with the most occurring in the summer months. Foggy days are most common in the winter, with an average of 30 days per year. Santa Clara’s cloud cover patterns contribute significantly to its climate and affect various aspects of daily life, such as solar energy production, outdoor recreation, and air quality.

Total Precipitation

Santa Clara, located in the heart of Silicon Valley, experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild, rainy winters and warm, dry summers. Annual precipitation averages around 35 inches (889 mm), with the majority falling during the winter months from November to April. During these months, storms from the Pacific Ocean bring steady rainfall, often leading to periods of extended wetness. In contrast, the summer months are typically dry, with very little precipitation.

Seasonal Distribution

The seasonal distribution of precipitation in Santa Clara is highly variable. Winters can be wet and rainy, with monthly averages ranging from 2 to 5 inches (51 to 127 mm). Occasionally, strong storms can bring heavy downpours, resulting in localized flooding. Spring and fall are transitional seasons, with moderate levels of precipitation and a gradual increase in rainfall towards winter. Summers are typically very dry, with monthly averages below 0.5 inches (13 mm). During these months, the region experiences clear skies and little to no rain.

Rainfall Patterns

Santa Clara experiences a Mediterranean climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season typically spans from November to April, while the dry season encompasses the remaining months. During the wet season, Santa Clara receives the majority of its annual precipitation, with average monthly rainfall ranging from 3 to 5 inches. In contrast, during the dry season, rainfall is sparse, with average monthly amounts below 1 inch. Historically, the city has experienced significant variability in rainfall patterns, with wet years exceeding 20 inches of rain annually and dry years falling below 10 inches.

Annual Trends

Over the past decades, Santa Clara has witnessed an overall decline in annual rainfall. This trend is consistent with observed changes in precipitation patterns across California and is attributed to a combination of factors, including climate change, shifts in weather patterns, and human-induced alterations in the environment. The decrease in rainfall has implications for water availability and resource management, necessitating the implementation of conservation measures and sustainable water practices to ensure the long-term water security of the city and its surrounding region.

Average Snowfall

Santa Clara, California, situated in the heart of Silicon Valley, experiences minimal snowfall due to its coastal location and the shielding effect of the Santa Cruz Mountains. The average annual snowfall is a negligible 0.0 inches, making it an unlikely destination for snow enthusiasts.

Historical Snowfall Events

Despite the rarity of snowfall, Santa Clara has experienced occasional snow flurries and isolated snowstorms throughout its history. In February 1976, the area witnessed a light dusting of snow that settled on rooftops and lawns, creating a picturesque winter scene. However, such events are infrequent and typically do not accumulate enough to warrant snow removal or disrupt daily activities.

Historical Sunshine Data

Santa Clara, California, enjoys a Mediterranean climate with warm, sunny summers and mild, wet winters. According to historical data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the city averages approximately 3,100 sunshine hours annually. The sunniest months are July and August, with an average of around 11-12 hours of sunshine per day. Conversely, December and January are the cloudiest months, with an average of only 5-6 hours of sunshine daily.

Influencing Factors

The amount of sunshine in Santa Clara is influenced by several factors, including latitude, elevation, and prevailing wind patterns. Located at around 37 degrees north latitude, the city is situated in the Northern Hemisphere’s subtropics, where there is ample sunlight throughout the year. Santa Clara’s proximity to the Pacific Ocean also affects its sunshine patterns. The ocean moderates temperatures and creates a maritime air mass that tends to bring more clouds and fog to the coastal areas during the summer months. Additionally, the city’s relatively low elevation (approximately 25 meters above sea level) allows for minimal obstruction of sunlight by nearby mountains or hills.

Moon Visibility in Santa Clara, United States

Santa Clara, California, enjoys excellent moon visibility due to its favorable location. Situated in the San Francisco Bay Area, Santa Clara benefits from the region’s typically clear skies and mild temperatures. The absence of major light pollution in the immediate vicinity further enhances the visibility of the moon. As a result, residents can witness the intricate lunar landscape, including craters, mountains, and valleys, with remarkable clarity.

The rising and setting times of the moon vary throughout the year, offering different opportunities for observation. During the moon’s waxing phase, when the illuminated portion increases, it rises in the afternoon and sets after midnight. Conversely, during the waning phase, it rises in the early morning and sets before sunset. The full moon is visible throughout the night, providing ample time for stargazing and lunar exploration.

Annual Humidity Levels in Santa Clara, United States

Santa Clara, located in the heart of Silicon Valley in Northern California, experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The city’s humidity levels vary throughout the year, with the most significant changes occurring between the summer and winter seasons.

During the summer months of June through August, Santa Clara’s humidity typically ranges between 60% and 70%. This humidity level is considered moderate, providing a comfortable outdoor environment for activities such as hiking, biking, and picnics. The higher humidity levels during this period are primarily due to the warm temperatures and increased moisture in the air.

In contrast to the summer months, the winter months of December through February in Santa Clara witness a significant decrease in humidity. The average humidity levels during this period drop to around 50%, making the air feel drier and less humid. This reduction in humidity is primarily attributed to the cooler temperatures and reduced moisture in the atmosphere.

Seasonal Wind Patterns:

Santa Clara, located in Northern California, experiences distinct seasonal wind patterns. During the summer months (June to September), the prevailing wind direction is from the west-northwest, bringing in cool and refreshing sea breezes. These winds typically range in speed from 10 to 15 mph (16-24 km/h), providing a welcome respite from the summer heat. In the winter months (December to February), the wind direction shifts to the east-southeast, bringing in warmer and drier winds from the interior. These winds are often stronger, reaching speeds of 15 to 20 mph (24-32 km/h), and can contribute to increased fire danger.

Local Microclimates:

Due to Santa Clara’s unique topography and land use, several local microclimates can create notable variations in wind patterns. The city’s proximity to the mountain ranges to the east (Santa Cruz Mountains) and west (Diablo Range) can result in localized channeling effects. For example, the Santa Clara Valley, in which the city is situated, acts as a wind tunnel, guiding north-south winds through the region. Additionally, the presence of urban development, such as buildings and trees, can further disrupt wind flow, creating sheltered areas and wind corridors within the city.

Spring and Fall (March-May and September-November):

Spring and fall offer ideal weather conditions for exploring Santa Clara. With average temperatures ranging from 55-75°F (13-24°C), it’s pleasant for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and visiting the Mission Santa Clara de Asís. These seasons also coincide with fewer crowds, ensuring a more authentic and intimate experience at attractions like the Intel Museum and the Silicon Valley Tech Trek.

Summer (June-August):

Summer in Santa Clara is characterized by warm and sunny weather, with average temperatures in the mid-70s to mid-80s (°F). While it can get hot during the day, the evenings are typically cool and refreshing. This time of year offers opportunities for enjoying festivals like the Santa Clara County Fair and outdoor concerts at the Levi’s Stadium. However, it’s important to note that summer is also peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher accommodation rates. If you’re sensitive to heat, it’s recommended to schedule outdoor activities for early morning or late evening to avoid the hottest hours.

Solar Energy Potential in Santa Clara

Santa Clara, located in the San Francisco Bay Area of California, enjoys abundant sunlight year-round, making it a highly favorable region for solar energy. The city experiences an average of 290 sunny days annually, with peak sunshine hours occurring during the summer months. This translates into an average solar insolation of over 5 kilowatt-hours per square meter per day. Moreover, Santa Clara’s generally mild climate ensures minimal shading from vegetation or severe weather conditions.

Solar Energy Development in Santa Clara

In recent years, Santa Clara has made significant progress in harnessing its solar potential. The city government has implemented various policies and incentives to promote rooftop solar installations. As a result, numerous residential and commercial properties now feature solar panels, contributing to a growing local solar energy network. Additionally, Santa Clara is home to several large-scale solar farms, including the San Jose Light Tower Facility and the Wilson Creek Solar Farm. These facilities generate substantial amounts of renewable electricity, further reducing Santa Clara’s reliance on fossil fuels.

San Jose and its Surrounding Valley

The topography of Santa Clara is dominated by the Santa Clara Valley, a broad, flat plain that runs along the San Francisco Bay. The valley is surrounded by hills and mountains, including the Santa Cruz Mountains to the west, the Diablo Range to the east, and the Gabilan Range to the south. The valley is also home to several rivers and creeks, including the Guadalupe River and the Coyote Creek.

Foothills and Mountains

The foothills and mountains surrounding the Santa Clara Valley provide scenic views and recreational opportunities. The Santa Cruz Mountains are a popular destination for hiking, biking, and camping. The Diablo Range is home to several wineries and vineyards, as well as the Mount Diablo State Park, which offers stunning views of the Bay Area. The Gabilan Range is a less developed area, but it offers opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and hunting.

Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC)

The nearest airport to Santa Clara, California, United States, is Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC). It is located approximately 3 miles (5 kilometers) northwest of downtown Santa Clara and offers a wide range of domestic and international flights. SJC is a major hub for Southwest Airlines and serves as a convenient gateway to the Silicon Valley region. The airport features two terminals, Terminal A and Terminal B, and has a variety of amenities including restaurants, shops, and free Wi-Fi.

San Francisco International Airport (SFO)

While SJC is the closest airport to Santa Clara, San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is another major international airport that is located approximately 30 miles (48 kilometers) north of Santa Clara. SFO offers a wider range of international destinations and is a major hub for United Airlines. It is also a larger airport, with four terminals and a more extensive array of amenities. Depending on factors such as traffic and flight availability, SFO may be a viable option for travelers who are seeking more flight choices or international connections.

Overview of Santa Clara, United States

Santa Clara is a vibrant city located in the heart of Silicon Valley in Northern California. Home to over 120,000 residents, Santa Clara is known for its rich history, thriving technology industry, and scenic surroundings. The city boasts a diverse population and a dynamic economy driven by innovation and entrepreneurship.

Santa Clara’s history dates back to the late 18th century when Spanish missionaries established Mission Santa Clara de Asís. The mission flourished and became a cultural and agricultural center. In the 20th century, Santa Clara became a major hub for the technology industry, with companies such as Intel, Apple, and Nvidia establishing their headquarters in the city. Today, Santa Clara continues to be a focal point of technological advancement, fostering research, development, and innovation.