Scranton Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – United States

Summer (June to August)

Scranton’s summers are characterized by warm to hot and humid conditions. The average high temperature in July, the warmest month, is 83°F (28°C), while the average low is 63°F (17°C). During summer, the city experiences frequent thunderstorms, which can bring heavy rainfall and gusty winds. The relative humidity is also high, often reaching 70% to 80%, making it feel oppressive at times.

Winter (December to February)

In contrast to its warm summers, Scranton’s winters are cold and snowy. The average high temperature in January, the coldest month, is 33°F (1°C), and the average low drops to 18°F (-8°C). Snowfall is common during this season, with an average annual accumulation of 46.7 inches (119 cm). Additionally, the strong winds associated with winter storms can create wind chills that make the weather feel even colder. Ice storms can also occur, resulting in hazardous driving conditions.

Summer in Scranton

During the summer months in Scranton, Pennsylvania, the average temperature ranges from the mid-60s to low 80s Fahrenheit (18-28 degrees Celsius). The warmest month is typically July, with an average high temperature of around 82°F (28°C) and an average low of around 62°F (17°C). The humidity levels in Scranton during the summer can be somewhat high, making the heat feel even more oppressive at times. However, there are often breaks in the humidity with cooler and more comfortable days mixed in.

Winter in Scranton

In contrast to the warm summer months, Scranton’s winters are cold and snowy. The average temperature in January, the coldest month, is around 24°F (-4°C), with an average low of around 14°F (-10°C). Snowfall is common during the winter months, with an average of around 40 inches (102 centimeters) per year. The combination of cold temperatures and snow can make outdoor activities challenging, but there are still plenty of indoor attractions and activities to enjoy in Scranton during the winter season.

Cloud Types and Distribution

Scranton, Pennsylvania, experiences a diverse array of cloud formations due to its location in the humid continental climate zone. During the summer months, cumulus clouds dominate the skies, often growing into towering cumulonimbus clouds that produce thunder and lightning. These clouds form as warm, moist air rises from the ground and condenses rapidly. In the colder winter months, cirrus clouds often prevail, characterized by their thin, wispy appearance. These high-altitude clouds are composed of ice crystals and are formed when moisture in the upper atmosphere freezes.

Cloud Impacts

The presence of clouds has significant impacts on Scranton’s weather and climate. Clouds provide shade, reducing the amount of solar radiation reaching the ground and helping to regulate temperatures. Cumulus clouds, in particular, can bring isolated showers or thunderstorms, providing much-needed precipitation during the drier summer months. However, overcast conditions associated with cirrus clouds can block out sunlight, leading to cooler and less pleasant weather. Clouds also play a role in the formation of fog and freezing rain, which can affect visibility and road conditions, respectively.

Precipitation Characteristics

Scranton, Pennsylvania, experiences various forms of precipitation throughout the year, including rain, snow, sleet, and freezing rain. The city receives an average annual precipitation of 45 inches (114 cm), which is relatively evenly distributed throughout the year. However, there are slight seasonal variations, with summer months tending to be slightly wetter than winter months. The wettest month is typically June, with an average rainfall of 4.6 inches (11.7 cm), while the driest month is usually January, with an average of 2.8 inches (7.1 cm) of precipitation.

Snowfall Patterns

During the winter months, Scranton often experiences significant snowfall. The city averages 42 inches (107 cm) of snowfall annually, primarily falling between December and March. Snowfall can occasionally reach several feet within a short period, especially during winter storms. These storms can cause significant disruptions to daily life, including road closures, power outages, and school cancellations. The heaviest snowfall on record in Scranton occurred in February 1961, when the city received 38.8 inches (98.6 cm) of snow in a single storm.

Rainfall Patterns

Rainfall in Scranton, Pennsylvania, follows a distinct seasonal pattern. The city experiences relatively even distribution of precipitation throughout the year, with an average of 4.5 inches per month. However, there is a slight peak in rainfall during the summer months, particularly in July, when an average of 4.9 inches of rain falls. Conversely, the driest month is October, receiving an average of 3.1 inches of rain.

Climate Influences

Scranton’s rainfall patterns are primarily influenced by its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and the prevailing wind patterns. The city is located within the Eastern Temperate Rainforest climate zone, characterized by abundant rainfall throughout the year. The moist air from the ocean is carried inland by the prevailing westerly winds, leading to frequent precipitation events. Additionally, the city’s location in a valley surrounded by mountains can contribute to increased rainfall due to orographic lift, where moist air is forced to rise over the mountains and condense to form clouds and precipitation.

Annual Snowfall

Scranton, Pennsylvania experiences a significant amount of snowfall throughout the winter months. The city receives an average of 40.9 inches of snow each year, which is more than the national average. The snow typically falls between October and April, with the heaviest snowfall occurring in January and February. Scranton’s location in the northeastern United States contributes to its high snowfall, as the city is affected by both cold air masses from the north and moisture from the Atlantic Ocean.

Impact of Snowfall

The heavy snowfall in Scranton can have a significant impact on the city and its residents. Snowfall can disrupt transportation, close schools and businesses, and cause power outages. The city’s snow removal crews work around the clock to clear the roads and sidewalks, but it can take time to clear all of the snow. Residents are advised to be prepared for the winter weather and to take precautions when driving or walking in snowy conditions. The snowfall can also bring joy to the city, as it provides opportunities for winter activities such as sledding, skiing, and snowboarding.

Temperature and Humidity

Scranton, United States, experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasonal variations. During the summer months (June to August), temperatures typically range from the low to mid-80s Fahrenheit (27 to 29 degrees Celsius), with average humidity levels around 60%. The winters (December to February) are cold and snowy, with average temperatures hovering around the mid-20s Fahrenheit (-4 to -2 degrees Celsius) and humidity levels dropping to around 50%.

Rainfall and Sunshine

Scranton receives an average of 43 inches (109 centimeters) of precipitation annually, distributed fairly evenly throughout the year. The wettest months are May and June, with average rainfall exceeding 4 inches (10 centimeters). Conversely, the driest months are January and February, with average rainfall below 2 inches (5 centimeters). Scranton enjoys an average of 205 sunny days per year, with the sunniest months being July and August.

Phases and Visibility

The Moon goes through different phases throughout its orbital cycle around Earth. In Scranton, United States, the Moon’s phases are visible as the Sun’s rays illuminate different sections of the lunar surface. During the New Moon phase, the Moon is not visible from Earth because its illuminated side faces away from the planet. As the Moon moves through its phases, it gradually becomes more visible until it reaches the Full Moon phase, when the entire illuminated side faces Earth. After the Full Moon, the Moon’s illuminated area decreases until it becomes invisible again during the New Moon phase.

Motion and Position

The Moon’s motion can be observed from Scranton. As the Moon orbits Earth, it appears to move across the sky from east to west. The Moon’s declination, which is its angle above or below the celestial equator, also changes throughout its orbit. This change in declination causes the Moon to appear higher or lower in the sky. Additionally, the Moon’s distance from Earth varies during its orbit, affecting its apparent size and brightness. The Moon is closest to Earth at perigee and farthest from Earth at apogee. The Moon’s position can be used for navigation, timekeeping, and religious observations.

Annual Humidity

Scranton, Pennsylvania experiences significant humidity throughout the year, with average relative humidity levels ranging between 60% and 80%. The most humid period typically occurs during the summer months, from June to August, when high temperatures and moisture in the air contribute to uncomfortable humidity levels. During this time, the average relative humidity can reach as high as 85%. In contrast, the driest period occurs during the winter months, from December to February, when cold temperatures and less precipitation result in lower humidity levels. Even during this period, however, the average relative humidity remains above 60%.

Seasonal Variations

The humidity in Scranton exhibits distinct seasonal variations. During the spring, from March to May, humidity levels gradually increase as temperatures rise and precipitation becomes more frequent. By June, the humidity reaches its peak, creating a sultry and oppressive atmosphere. The summer months continue to bring high humidity, with occasional thunderstorms and heavy rainfall contributing to the moisture content in the air. As autumn approaches, from September to November, humidity levels begin to decline as temperatures cool and precipitation decreases. By winter, the humidity drops to its lowest levels, resulting in a relatively dry season with crisp and clear days.

Wind Patterns and Speed

Scranton, Pennsylvania, experiences a variety of wind patterns and speeds throughout the year. During the winter months, the city is often affected by the flow of cold air from the northwest, resulting in strong and gusty winds. These winds can reach speeds of up to 30 mph and can cause wind chills that make outdoor activities uncomfortable. In the summer, the prevailing winds come from the southwest and are typically warmer and more humid. These winds tend to be less intense and provide a refreshing respite from the summer heat. However, occasional thunderstorms can bring strong gusts of wind, especially during the afternoon and evening.

Impact on Local Climate

The wind in Scranton has a significant impact on the city’s local climate. The strong winds in winter help to keep temperatures cold and can create snowdrifts that can block roads and cause delays. In the summer, the prevailing winds from the southwest bring warmer and more humid air, contributing to the city’s hot and muggy summer weather. These winds also transport moisture from the Gulf of Mexico, leading to frequent rainfall and occasional thunderstorms. The wind can also affect air quality, as strong gusts can stir up dust and pollen, particularly during dry spells.

Spring (April-May)

Spring in Scranton is a delightful time to visit, with mild temperatures and a vibrant atmosphere. The average high in April is 58°F (14°C), while the average low is 38°F (3°C). In May, the average high rises to 68°F (20°C), and the average low climbs to 48°F (9°C). The city comes alive with the blooming of cherry blossoms and other spring flowers, creating a picturesque backdrop for outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy strolls through Nay Aug Park, relax by Lake Scranton, or embark on a scenic drive along the Lackawanna River.

Summer (June-August)

Summer in Scranton is a season of warm temperatures and abundant sunshine. The average high in June is 78°F (26°C), while the average low is 58°F (14°C). In July and August, the average highs soar to 82°F (28°C), and the average lows remain in the mid-60s°F (18-19°C). The extended daylight hours provide ample opportunities for exploring the city’s attractions, including the Steamtown National Historic Site, the Anthracite Heritage Museum, and the Electric City Trolley Museum. Visitors can also take part in outdoor concerts, festivals, and sporting events held throughout the summer months.

Solar Energy Potential

Scranton, located in northeastern Pennsylvania, has a moderate solar energy potential. The city receives an average of 1,900 sunshine hours annually, which is slightly below the national average. However, the city’s relatively flat terrain and lack of tall buildings make it suitable for the installation of solar panels. In recent years, Scranton has seen a growing interest in solar energy, with several large-scale solar projects being developed within the city limits.

Incentives and Policies

To encourage the adoption of solar energy, the city of Scranton offers various incentives and policies. These include property tax exemptions for solar installations, net metering programs that allow homeowners to sell excess solar power back to the grid, and financial assistance for low-income households. Additionally, Pennsylvania state law provides a 30% tax credit for solar installations. These incentives and policies have helped to make solar energy more affordable and accessible for residents of Scranton.

Topography of Scranton

Scranton, Pennsylvania, is situated in the Endless Mountains region of the Appalachian Plateau. The city is located in a valley formed by the Lackawanna River, which flows through the city from north to south. The surrounding hills are primarily composed of sandstone and shale, with elevations ranging from 500 to 1,000 feet above sea level. The highest point in Scranton is Mount Cobb, which rises to 1,150 feet. The city’s topography has had a significant impact on its development, as the hills and valleys have influenced the location of roads, neighborhoods, and industries.

Water Features

In addition to the Lackawanna River, Scranton is home to several other water bodies. Roaring Brook flows through the eastern part of the city and joins the Lackawanna River near downtown. The city is also home to two small lakes, Lake Scranton and Elmhurst Reservoir. These water features provide opportunities for recreation, such as fishing, boating, and swimming. The Lackawanna River is also a vital transportation resource, as it was once used to transport coal and other goods. Today, the river is used primarily for recreation and fishing.

Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport (AVP)

The closest airport to Scranton, Pennsylvania, is Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport (AVP), located approximately 10 miles (16 kilometers) south of the city center. It is the primary airport serving northeastern Pennsylvania and offers various commercial flights to major hubs, including Philadelphia, New York, and Charlotte. AVP has a convenient terminal with amenities such as restaurants, shops, and car rental services. Additionally, the airport provides easy access to Scranton and the surrounding region via major highways and public transportation options.

Other Nearby Airports

While Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport is the most convenient option for travelers seeking direct flights to and from Scranton, several other airports are located within a reasonable driving distance. Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton International Airport (ABE), approximately 60 miles (96 kilometers) southwest of Scranton, offers a wider range of flight options and may provide more competitive fares. Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), located about 90 miles (145 kilometers) southeast of Scranton, is a major hub with extensive domestic and international connections. Travelers can consider these airports as alternatives depending on their travel plans and preferences.

About Scranton, United States

Scranton, Pennsylvania is a city in the United States located in the northeastern part of the state. It is the county seat of Lackawanna County and the sixth-largest city in Pennsylvania. Scranton is known for its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning natural beauty. The city was founded in 1840 and named after George W. Scranton, one of the founders of the Lackawanna Iron and Coal Company. Scranton quickly became a major industrial center, producing iron, coal, and textiles. In the early 20th century, the city experienced a boom in immigration, with people from Poland, Ireland, Italy, and other countries settling in Scranton. Today, Scranton is a thriving city with a diverse population and a strong economy.

Scranton is home to several colleges and universities, including the University of Scranton, Marywood University, and Lackawanna College. The city also has a vibrant arts and culture scene, with numerous museums, theaters, and art galleries. Scranton is perhaps best known as the setting for the popular television series “The Office,” which ran from 2005 to 2013. The show helped to put Scranton on the map and attract tourism to the city. Scranton is a great place to live, work, and raise a family. It offers a rich history, diverse culture, and stunning natural beauty. The city is also home to several colleges and universities, a vibrant arts and culture scene, and a strong economy.