Ann Arbor, Michigan, experiences a humid continental climate, characterized by warm, humid summers and cold, snowy winters. The city’s climate is influenced by its location in the Great Lakes region, which moderates temperatures and provides moisture.
Temperature
Ann Arbor’s average annual temperature is 50.3°F (10.2°C). The warmest month is July, with an average temperature of 73.6°F (23.1°C), while the coldest month is January, with an average temperature of 24.7°F (-4.1°C).
| Month | Average Temperature (°F) |
|---|---|
| January | 24.7 |
| February | 27.8 |
| March | 37.3 |
| April | 48.3 |
| May | 58.4 |
| June | 68.4 |
| July | 73.6 |
| August | 72.4 |
| September | 63.1 |
| October | 52.2 |
| November | 40.6 |
| December | 30.6 |
Precipitation
Ann Arbor receives an average of 33.2 inches of precipitation per year, which is evenly distributed throughout the year. The wettest month is May, with an average precipitation of 3.7 inches, while the driest month is February, with an average precipitation of 1.8 inches.
| Month | Average Precipitation (inches) |
|---|---|
| January | 2.2 |
| February | 1.8 |
| March | 2.4 |
| April | 3.1 |
| May | 3.7 |
| June | 3.5 |
| July | 3.3 |
| August | 3.1 |
| September | 2.8 |
| October | 2.5 |
| November | 2.6 |
| December | 2.3 |
Snowfall
Ann Arbor receives an average of 32.5 inches of snow per year. The snowiest month is January, with an average snowfall of 9.1 inches, while the least snowy month is April, with an average snowfall of 0.2 inches.
| Month | Average Snowfall (inches) |
|---|---|
| January | 9.1 |
| February | 6.8 |
| March | 5.3 |
| April | 0.2 |
| May | 0.0 |
| June | 0.0 |
| July | 0.0 |
| August | 0.0 |
| September | 0.0 |
| October | 0.2 |
| November | 2.4 |
| December | 8.5 |
Humidity
Ann Arbor’s average relative humidity is 74%. The most humid month is July, with an average relative humidity of 80%, while the least humid month is January, with an average relative humidity of 68%.
Wind
Ann Arbor’s average wind speed is 10.2 mph. The windiest month is March, with an average wind speed of 11.8 mph, while the least windy month is August, with an average wind speed of 9.0 mph.
Climate Change
Ann Arbor’s climate is changing, as evidenced by the following trends:
- Increasing temperatures: Ann Arbor’s average annual temperature has increased by 2.2°F (1.2°C) since 1895.
- More precipitation: Ann Arbor is receiving more precipitation, with the annual average increasing by 4.5 inches since 1895.
- More extreme weather events: Ann Arbor is experiencing more extreme weather events, such as heat waves, droughts, and floods.
These trends are expected to continue in the future, and Ann Arbor is taking steps to adapt to the changing climate.
Tips for Staying Comfortable in Ann Arbor’s Climate
Here are some tips for staying comfortable in Ann Arbor’s climate:
- Dress in layers: Ann Arbor’s climate can be unpredictable, so it’s important to dress in layers so that you can adjust to the changing temperatures.
- Stay hydrated: Ann Arbor’s climate can be humid, so it’s important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
- Seek shade: Ann Arbor’s summers can be hot, so it’s important to seek shade when you’re outdoors.
- Be prepared for snow: Ann Arbor’s winters can be snowy, so it’s important to be prepared for snow by having a warm coat, hat, and gloves.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when dealing with Ann Arbor’s climate:
- Don’t get too cold: Ann Arbor’s winters can be cold, so it’s important to dress warmly when you’re outdoors.
- Don’t get too hot: Ann Arbor’s summers can be hot, so it’s important to stay hydrated and seek shade when you’re outdoors.
- Don’t ignore the wind: Ann Arbor’s wind can be strong, so it’s important to be aware of the wind when you’re outdoors.
- Don’t be afraid of the snow: Ann Arbor’s winters can be snowy, but it’s important to remember that the snow is temporary and will eventually melt.
