Los Angeles, California, is known for its mild to hot weather year-round, making it an ideal destination for those seeking consistent and pleasant conditions.
The city’s Mediterranean climate brings dry summers and mild, wet winters, offering a diverse range of weather experiences throughout the year.
During summer, temperatures often hover around the high 70s to mid-80s °F, ensuring warm and sunny days perfect for outdoor activities.
This coastal city experiences different weather patterns depending on the season.
While August offers the warmest water temperatures at about 68°F, the cooler months from December through April see water temperatures dipping below 60°F.
February stands out as the month with the coolest water, averaging at 58°F.
Rainfall is most common during the winter months, providing much-needed relief to the otherwise dry environment.
The varied weather conditions in Los Angeles are influenced by its geographical location and the broader climatic patterns of Southern California.
With weather records dating back to July 1, 1877, the highest temperature recorded in downtown Los Angeles was a scorching 113°F.
Despite these peaks, visitors can generally expect a comfortable and inviting climate, whether they’re exploring the city in the warm embrace of summer or the cooler, rain-kissed months of winter.
For more detailed weather trends and averages, check out this climate guide for Los Angeles.
Average Temperature in Los Angeles, California
Los Angeles enjoys a mild climate with temperatures that make it comfortable year-round.
In January, the city’s average low temperature is around 48°F, while the average high is 68°F. February sees slightly warmer days with highs reaching up to 70°F.
By March, Los Angeles starts to warm up more, with average highs of 72°F. April continues this trend, with temperatures often hitting 74°F during the daytime.
In May, the temperature reaches highs of about 75°F, remaining pleasant and mild.
June marks the start of summer with average highs climbing to 78°F. July is typically the hottest month, with daytime temperatures reaching 85°F. August remains warm, averaging about 84°F during the day.
September sees temperatures slightly drop to an average high of 83°F. October brings cooler weather, with daytime temperatures averaging around 75°F.
In November, the temperatures cool further, with highs hovering around 70°F.
December, being the coldest month, has average lows of 48°F and highs of 68°F.
Despite the cooler nights, daytime temperatures stay relatively comfortable throughout the year.
The following table summarizes monthly average high and low temperatures:
| Month | High (°F) | Low (°F) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 68 | 48 |
| February | 70 | 49 |
| March | 72 | 51 |
| April | 74 | 53 |
| May | 75 | 57 |
| June | 78 | 61 |
| July | 85 | 64 |
| August | 84 | 65 |
| September | 83 | 63 |
| October | 75 | 57 |
| November | 70 | 51 |
| December | 68 | 48 |
Los Angeles’ climate is well-balanced with warm summers and mild winters. This range of temperatures supports various activities throughout the year.
Average Precipitation in Los Angeles, California
Los Angeles experiences a Mediterranean climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The city receives most of its rainfall during the winter months, while snowfall is quite rare.
Average Rainfall in Los Angeles, California
Rainfall in Los Angeles is primarily concentrated in the cooler months between November and March.
The wettest month is typically February, with an average of 3.8 inches of rain. During this rainy period, the city can experience around 5 to 6 rainy days each month.
In a typical year, Los Angeles receives approximately 15 inches of rainfall. Most of this precipitation comes during the wetter season.
Summers are very dry, with almost no rainy days from June to September. This lack of rain contributes to the region’s Mediterranean climate.
Average Snow in Los Angeles, California
Snow is a rare event in Los Angeles. The city is at a low elevation and has mild winters, which means that temperatures rarely drop low enough for snow to form.
There have been a few historical instances of snow, the most notable being in 1932 when a few inches fell in downtown.
Most residents will never witness snow in the city, as current climate patterns continue to support mild winters and rare cold snaps.
If one does want to experience snow, they can travel to nearby mountains or snow-covered areas.
Average Sun in Los Angeles, California
Los Angeles enjoys a lot of sunshine throughout the year, with bright, clear skies being common. The city experiences long daylight hours, especially in summer, when the days stretch out wonderfully.
Average Daily Shortwave Solar Energy in Los Angeles, California
In Los Angeles, the average daily shortwave solar energy reaches its peak during summer. June, July, and August typically see high levels. Days in these months can have up to 8-9 hours of sun exposure.
Winter months, especially December, have shorter days. Solar energy is lower, but clear skies are still frequent.
Daylight hours are shorter, with around 5 hours of sunshine.
Sunrise and sunset times vary. In June, the sun rises around 5:40 AM and sets around 8:00 PM. In December, sunrise is near 6:50 AM and sunset near 4:45 PM.
The clear skies and consistent sunshine make Los Angeles a sunny, inviting place throughout the year.
Average Humidity in Los Angeles, California
The average annual humidity in Los Angeles, California, is about 65% over the year.
In May, the relative humidity reaches its peak, averaging 73%. This makes May the most humid month of the year.
Conversely, November typically has the lowest humidity, with an average of 50%.
Below is a table showing the average monthly humidity:
| Month | Average Humidity |
|---|---|
| January | 60% |
| February | 62% |
| March | 63% |
| April | 65% |
| May | 73% |
| June | 68% |
| July | 66% |
| August | 64% |
| September | 61% |
| October | 58% |
| November | 50% |
| December | 55% |
This variation in humidity makes Los Angeles’ climate unique. Residents and visitors should plan for these changes.
For more details, visit World Weather & Climate Information.
Average Wind in Los Angeles, California
Los Angeles experiences varying wind speeds throughout the year. The average wind speed is generally moderate, with some months being windier than others.
Monthly Wind Speeds:
- January: This month sees the least wind, contributing to generally calmer weather.
- July: Known as the windiest month. Wind speeds increase, offering cooler breezes during the hot summer days.
Wind Speeds:
| Month | Average Wind Speed (mph) |
|---|---|
| January | 3.8 |
| February | 4.0 |
| March | 4.5 |
| April | 4.8 |
| May | 5.2 |
| June | 5.5 |
| July | 6.0 |
| August | 5.8 |
| September | 5.4 |
| October | 4.8 |
| November | 4.2 |
| December | 3.9 |
Average Air Quality in Los Angeles, California
Los Angeles often experiences varied air quality throughout the year. The Air Quality Index (AQI) can range from “Good” to “Moderate.”
For example, in February 2019, the AQI averaged 32, considered “Good.” By November, the AQI averaged 64, classified as “Moderate.”
These values show seasonal variations.
Despite these moderate ratings, Los Angeles faces significant pollution issues. The city ranks high in PM2.5 and ozone levels compared to other U.S. cities.
In 2023, Los Angeles had fewer unhealthy air quality days than two dozen other U.S. counties, indicating some improvement.
The region’s air quality varies by location. Some of the most polluted areas include North Hollywood and Santa Clarita-Placerita.
Monitoring stations in these areas often report higher pollution levels.
Weather conditions also influence air quality. Higher temperatures, humidity, and wind can affect pollution levels.
For example, in July, the temperature can reach around 89.6°F, impacting air quality.
Humidity and dew point also play roles in these variations. Dew points can show how much moisture is in the air, affecting how pollutants behave.
Pressure systems can also impact air quality. Changes in atmospheric pressure can either disperse pollutants or trap them close to the ground.
This can make a noticeable difference in the daily air quality experienced by residents.
For those interested in staying updated, several resources provide real-time and forecasted air quality data.
Helpful tools include IQAir, AccuWeather’s AQI forecast, and AirVisual.
These platforms offer detailed information and forecasts to keep the public informed.
Topography of Los Angeles, California
Los Angeles sits in a unique location with diverse topographical features. The city covers a wide area that includes coastal regions, urban landscapes, and nearby mountains.
Coastal Areas: The western part of Los Angeles, including places like Santa Monica and Long Beach, lies along the Pacific Ocean, where sandy beaches are common. These areas experience milder temperatures due to the ocean’s influence, resulting in microclimates.
Elevation: The elevation in Los Angeles ranges from sea level at the coast to the San Gabriel Mountains’ heights. On average, the city is about 472 feet above sea level.
This elevation variance creates distinct weather patterns in different neighborhoods.
Latitude: Los Angeles is located at approximately 34° N latitude. This positioning contributes to its Mediterranean climate, characterized by mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers.
Surrounding Areas: Near the city, the landscape transitions into more arid conditions.
For example, areas towards Anaheim and the inland regions experience warmer and drier weather, resembling desert climates more closely.
Topographic Map: The city’s intricate topography is well-documented in various topographic maps.
These maps highlight the diverse elevations and terrains found throughout Los Angeles.
This combination of coastal influence, varied elevation, and latitude results in unique and diverse microclimates across the city, making Los Angeles a fascinating place to explore and live.
Extreme Weather Events that Occur in Los Angeles, California
Los Angeles is known for its mild and mediterranean climate, but it also experiences extreme weather events.
Heatwaves are common, especially in areas like Woodland Hills, which once reached a blistering 121°F. This makes it one of the hottest places in Los Angeles County, impacting both residents and the environment.
Drought is another significant issue. Southern California’s semi-arid conditions often lead to long periods without rain, stressing water resources and contributing to wildfires.
In contrast, heavy rainfall sometimes causes severe flooding.
For instance, historic floods have altered the courses of rivers like the Los Angeles and Santa Ana Rivers.
Wildfires are a persistent risk, often sparked by dry conditions and strong Santa Ana winds.
These winds can rapidly spread fires across large areas, causing massive destruction.
Thunderstorms can be intense, often accompanied by lightning strikes that ignite fires.
A recent event saw 1,000 lightning strikes, increasing wildfire risks further.
Rarely, Los Angeles experiences tornadoes, like the one that recently hit a town southeast of the city.
Such events, though uncommon, are becoming more frequent.
Freezing temperatures and hail are less common but can occur, especially in higher elevations or during unusual weather patterns.
These events can damage crops and infrastructure.
Best Time of the Year to Visit Los Angeles, California
Los Angeles offers a variety of experiences throughout the year. The best times to visit are often considered between March to May and September to November due to pleasant weather and smaller crowds.
What is Los Angeles, California Like in Spring
Spring in Los Angeles lasts from March to May. During this time, temperatures range from 50°F in the early mornings and evenings to around 75°F in the afternoons.
This season is marked by blooming flowers and clear skies, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
The city sees fewer tourists compared to summer. This means shorter lines at popular attractions like Disneyland and Universal Studios.
Spring is also whale-watching season. Thousands of gray whales migrate along the coast.
What is Los Angeles, California Like in Summer
Summer temperatures in Los Angeles can climb up to 85°F during the day, especially between July and September. The evenings cool down to around 65°F.
This is the peak tourist season, and you can expect crowded beaches and busy attractions.
It’s a great time for festivals and outdoor events. However, hotel rates can be higher.
For those sensitive to heat, mornings and late evenings are the best times to be out.
Hydration and sunscreen are essential due to the sun’s intensity.
What is Los Angeles, California Like in Fall
Fall, from September to November, is another great time to visit. Average temperatures range from 60°F to 75°F.
The crowds are less overwhelming compared to summer, making it easier to explore the city.
Autumn in Los Angeles is known for clear, sunny days and cool, crisp evenings.
Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking in Griffith Park or visiting the Santa Monica Mountains.
Fall also sees a variety of festivals, including food and wine events.
What is Los Angeles, California Like in Winter
Winters in Los Angeles are mild, with temperatures ranging from 49°F to 68°F.
December and January have the coolest weather. Rain is more likely during this time, although it’s usually light and infrequent.
This season is ideal for those who prefer a quieter visit. Crowds are minimal, and it’s easier to get reservations at popular restaurants.
Winter also offers unique events such as outdoor ice skating rinks and holiday light displays.
It’s a good time for indoor activities like visiting museums and galleries.