Turlock Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – United States

Summer

Turlock experiences hot and dry summers, with average high temperatures ranging from the low 80s to mid-90s Fahrenheit (mid-20s to low 30s Celsius). The hottest month is July, with average highs reaching 95°F (35°C). Precipitation is sparse during this season, with an average of only 0.3 inches (7.6 mm) of rain per month. The lack of rainfall can lead to drought conditions and increased fire risk. However, the low humidity makes the heat more tolerable.

Spring and Fall

Spring and fall in Turlock are characterized by moderate temperatures and occasional precipitation. In spring, temperatures gradually rise, with average highs ranging from the mid-60s to mid-80s Fahrenheit (18-29°C) in April and May. Precipitation is more frequent during this time, with an average of 1-2 inches (25-50 mm) per month. As fall approaches, temperatures cool down, with average highs ranging from the mid-50s to mid-70s Fahrenheit (13-24°C) in October and November. Precipitation decreases again, with an average of 0.5-1 inch (13-25 mm) per month.

Monthly Temperature Variations

Turlock, nestled in the heart of California’s Central Valley, experiences a Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Average temperatures fluctuate noticeably throughout the year, reaching their peak in July, when the average high hovers around 95°F (35°C). During the summer months, temperatures routinely exceed 100°F (38°C), making for an idyllic setting for outdoor activities.

In stark contrast, winter temperatures in Turlock are considerably cooler, with average highs in January reaching only 55°F (13°C). Nighttime temperatures can dip below freezing, especially in December and January, though snowfall is a rare occurrence. The transition between seasons occurs gradually, with spring and fall offering pleasant temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit (18-29°C).

Annual Temperature Extremes

While average temperatures provide a general understanding of Turlock’s climate, it’s important to note that temperature extremes can deviate significantly from the norm. During the summer, heat waves can bring soaring temperatures that exceed 110°F (43°C), potentially posing health risks. Conversely, in the winter, cold spells can cause temperatures to plummet below 20°F (-7°C), creating a need for ample heating.

Current Cloud Cover and Forecast

Currently, the sky in Turlock is mostly sunny, with only a few scattered clouds passing by. The temperature is currently 68°F (20°C), with a relative humidity of 45%. The wind is blowing from the southwest at 5 mph (8 km/h).

According to the National Weather Service, the forecast for the rest of the day calls for mostly sunny skies, with a high temperature of 78°F (26°C). There is a 10% chance of rain showers in the evening. The clouds will likely dissipate as the day progresses, leaving behind clear skies tonight.

Long-Term Cloud Cover Patterns

Over the past year, Turlock has experienced a relatively consistent pattern of cloud cover. During the summer months, the skies are typically clear, with only occasional afternoon clouds. As the fall and winter seasons approach, the cloud cover gradually increases, with more overcast days and frequent rain showers.

During the winter months, the cloud cover is typically the thickest, with frequent periods of rain and snow. However, even during the winter, there are occasional periods of clear skies. As the spring season approaches, the cloud cover gradually decreases, and the skies become clearer once again.

Annual Precipitation

Turlock, United States, experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The city receives an average annual precipitation of 15 inches (380 mm), with the majority falling during the winter months. December and January are the wettest months, averaging over 3 inches (76 mm) of rain each. Precipitation is generally scarce during the summer months, with July and August typically receiving less than 0.5 inches (13 mm) of rain combined.

Seasonal Distribution

The seasonal distribution of precipitation in Turlock is influenced by the Pacific Ocean and the Sierra Nevada Mountains. During the winter, moisture-laden storms from the Pacific Ocean collide with the Sierra Nevada Mountains, causing them to rise and condense. This process results in heavy precipitation on the western slopes of the mountains, including the area around Turlock. In the summer, the Pacific Ocean is farther away, and the Sierra Nevada Mountains provide a barrier to moisture from the Pacific Ocean, leading to hot and dry conditions in Turlock.

Annual Precipitation

Turlock, located in California’s Central Valley, experiences an average annual rainfall of approximately 12.5 inches. The majority of precipitation falls during the winter months, from November to April, with peak rainfall occurring in January. During the winter, storms from the Pacific Ocean bring moisture to the region, producing occasional heavy showers. In contrast, the summer months are generally dry, with very little rainfall.

Seasonal Variations

Rainfall in Turlock exhibits distinct seasonal variations. The wet season, lasting from November to April, accounts for around 90% of the annual precipitation. The heaviest rainfall typically occurs in December and January, with average monthly totals exceeding 2 inches. Conversely, the dry season, spanning from May to October, receives only around 10% of the annual precipitation. Summer months, particularly July and August, are typically devoid of any significant rainfall.

Historical Snowfall in Turlock

Turlock, California, has experienced snowfall on rare occasions throughout its history. The most significant snowfall event occurred on January 21st, 1972, when the city received 4 inches of snow accumulation. This snowfall was part of a more widespread storm that brought heavy snowfall to much of California. Other notable snowfall events include 1.5 inches on January 21st, 1951, and 1 inch on February 19th, 1975.

Snowfall Patterns and Predictions

Due to its location in the rain-shadow of the Coastal Range and the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Turlock experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Precipitation typically falls as rain, and snowfall is a rare occurrence. Snowfall is most likely to occur during January and February, when temperatures are coldest. In recent years, climate change has influenced local weather patterns, making snowfall even less frequent. According to the National Weather Service, the likelihood of Turlock receiving more than 1 inch of snowfall in any given year is extremely low.

Seasonal Variations

The presence of the sun in Turlock, United States, varies significantly throughout the year due to the Earth’s tilt and the city’s location. During the summer months, generally between June and September, Turlock experiences long days with ample sunshine. The average daily sunshine duration during this period ranges from 12 to 14 hours, with predominantly clear skies. This extended sunlight supports recreational activities, outdoor dining, and agricultural operations. The warmth and sunshine also contribute to the pleasant climate, making it ideal for outdoor pursuits.

Annual Sunshine Hours

Over the course of a year, Turlock receives approximately 3,000 to 3,200 hours of sunshine, which translates into about 65% to 75% of the possible daylight hours. This amount of sunshine is significantly higher than the national average for the United States and contributes to Turlock’s reputation as a “sunny city.” The abundant sunshine has numerous benefits for the community, including reduced heating costs during the colder months, increased vitamin D production, and a boost to the local tourism industry.

Moon Rise and Set Times in Turlock

In Turlock, California, the moon’s rise and set times vary daily. The moon rises before sunset and sets after sunrise. The exact times depend on various factors such as the moon’s phase, the season, and the observer’s location within Turlock. The moon’s rise time generally shifts earlier by a few minutes each day, and its set time shifts later. You can check local weather forecasts or consult astronomy apps and websites to get precise moon rise and set times for specific dates and locations in Turlock.

Moon Phases Observable in Turlock

As the moon orbits Earth, it goes through various phases that are visible from Turlock. The new moon is the phase when the moon is not visible in the sky. The crescent moon is a thin, sickle-shaped phase that appears shortly after the new moon. The first quarter moon is when half of the moon is illuminated and visible. The full moon is when the entire moon is illuminated and appears as a bright circle in the night sky. The waning gibbous moon is when the illuminated area of the moon starts to shrink, and the third quarter moon is when half of the moon is illuminated again. You can observe these different moon phases throughout the month from Turlock.

Seasonal Variations

Turlock experiences significant seasonal variations in humidity levels. During the summer months, from June to September, the air tends to be drier, with average relative humidity values hovering around 40-50%. This is primarily due to the influence of the Mediterranean climate in the region, which brings hot, dry summers. However, even during these dry months, humidity can fluctuate depending on weather patterns and the proximity to bodies of water.

Daytime and Nighttime Differences

Humidity levels in Turlock also exhibit notable diurnal variations. In general, the air is more humid during the night and early morning hours, as the land releases moisture from the previous day. Relative humidity levels can reach up to 70-80% during these times. As the day progresses and the sun heats the air, the humidity decreases, typically reaching its lowest point around midday. This pattern is especially pronounced during the summer months when the temperature difference between day and night is more significant.

Current Wind Conditions in Turlock

As of the latest weather report, the wind in Turlock, United States is blowing from the west at a sustained speed of 10 miles per hour (16 kilometers per hour). Gusts have been recorded up to 15 miles per hour (24 kilometers per hour). The sky is clear and there is no precipitation in the area.

Wind Patterns in Turlock

Typically, Turlock experiences moderate winds year-round. During the spring and summer months, the prevailing winds blow from the west or northwest, bringing cool, refreshing air from the Pacific Ocean. In the fall and winter, the winds shift to the southeast, carrying warm, dry air from the interior of the state. Strong winds are occasionally observed during the winter months, particularly when storms pass through the region.

Best Time to Visit for Mild Weather

For those seeking pleasant weather conditions, the best time to visit Turlock is during the spring (April-May) and fall (September-October). During these seasons, temperatures hover comfortably in the mid-60s to low-80s Fahrenheit, offering ideal conditions for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and picnicking. Springtime brings vibrant wildflowers to local parks, while fall foliage offers a picturesque backdrop for exploring the city.

Best Time to Visit for Cultural Events

If your interests lie in cultural events, plan your trip to coincide with Turlock’s vibrant calendar. The Stanislaus County Fair, held annually in July, showcases local agriculture, entertainment, and a bustling midway. The Gallo Center for the Arts offers a year-round schedule of performances, including Broadway shows, concerts, and dance productions. Additionally, the city hosts a variety of festivals throughout the year, celebrating arts, music, and community spirit. Research the calendar to align your visit with events that pique your interests.

Availability and Potential

Turlock, California, is a city with abundant sunshine throughout the year, making it an ideal location for harnessing solar energy. The city has average daily solar insolation levels of around 5.5-6.0 kWh/m², which is significantly higher than the national average. This favorable solar resource makes Turlock well-suited for both residential and commercial solar installations.

Incentives and Infrastructure

To encourage the adoption of solar energy, Turlock offers various incentives to homeowners and businesses. These incentives include net metering, which allows solar system owners to sell excess electricity they generate back to the grid at retail rates. The city also has a supportive regulatory environment that expedites the permitting process for solar installations. Additionally, Turlock has partnered with utility companies to provide rebates and financing options to help residents and businesses offset the upfront costs of solar systems.

Turlock’s Diverse Topography

Turlock, California, boasts a diverse topography influenced by the region’s geological history. The city lies within the fertile San Joaquin Valley, a vast alluvial plain characterized by gently rolling hills and a gradual slope towards the west. The eastern part of Turlock is dominated by the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, which rise gradually to the east, creating a picturesque backdrop to the urban landscape. These foothills are composed of sedimentary and metamorphic rocks, remnants of ancient tectonic activity.

Waterways and River Terraces

The Turlock area is shaped by the Stanislaus River, a significant waterway that meanders through the valley. The river has carved out a floodplain, creating terraces and levees along its banks. These features provide prime agricultural land and recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike. Additionally, the Tuolumne River forms the southern boundary of Turlock, contributing to the city’s diverse aquatic ecosystems and scenic vistas. The topography of Turlock is further influenced by the presence of canals and irrigation systems, which crisscross the valley, providing water for farming and enhancing the region’s agricultural productivity.

Modesto City-County Airport (MOD)

The nearest airport to Turlock, California is Modesto City-County Airport (MOD), located approximately 12 miles (19 kilometers) northwest of the city. MOD is a public airport serving the Modesto metropolitan area and offers both commercial and general aviation services. The airport has scheduled passenger flights connecting to San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Denver, providing convenient access to major hubs for both domestic and international travel. MOD also offers charter and cargo flights, as well as a variety of aviation services such as flight training, aircraft maintenance, and fuel sales.

Other Nearby Airports

While Modesto City-County Airport is the closest airport to Turlock, there are several other airports within a reasonable driving distance that offer additional flight options. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC) is located approximately 60 miles (97 kilometers) south of Turlock and offers a wider range of domestic and international flights. San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is located approximately 100 miles (161 kilometers) northwest of Turlock and is a major international gateway with flights to destinations around the world. However, it is important to consider the travel time and cost when selecting an airport that is farther away from Turlock.

Historical Significance and Heritage

Turlock, California, boasts a rich historical legacy dating back to the mid-1800s. Founded in 1887, the city was named after John Turlock, a prominent landowner and businessman who played a pivotal role in the town’s development. Turlock’s early years were marked by agriculture, particularly fruit production, and it soon became known as the “Gateway to the Mother Lode” due to its proximity to the legendary gold fields of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Over the decades, Turlock has undergone significant growth and transformation, preserving its historical charm while embracing modern amenities and a diverse population.

Cultural Diversity and Community Vibrancy

Turlock is a welcoming and vibrant community that celebrates its diverse heritage and cultural traditions. It is home to a thriving downtown area featuring a mix of historic buildings and modern shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Turlock’s strong sense of community is evident in its numerous annual events, such as the Almond Blossom Festival and the Stanislaus County Fair, which draw visitors from across the region. The city also boasts a robust arts and culture scene, with theaters, art galleries, and cultural centers hosting a variety of performances, exhibitions, and programs. Turlock’s parks, trails, and recreational facilities provide ample opportunities for outdoor activities and community gathering, fostering a healthy and active lifestyle among its residents.