Indianapolis, Indiana, experiences a diverse range of weather throughout the year, reflecting its central location in the United States.
Summers in the city are warm, with an average daily high temperature above 75°F from late May to mid-September.
July stands as the hottest month, boasting average highs of 85°F and lows of 67°F. Such temperatures make it ideal for outdoor activities at places like Eagle Creek Airpark or Shelbyville.
As the calendar shifts to the cooler months, Indianapolis sees a significant drop in temperature.
The cold season stretches from late November to the end of February.
During this period, average daily high temperatures fall below 46°F.
This chilly season is perfect for enjoying indoor attractions and cozying up at local cafes. For weather observations, you can rely on data from facilities like Indianapolis International Airport.
Precipitation is spread fairly evenly throughout the year, with the city receiving about 125 days of rain annually.
The consistent weather patterns make Indianapolis a city of contrasts, offering a fascinating mix of warm summers and cold winters.
If you’re planning a visit or thinking about moving, understanding the climate helps in making informed decisions about the best times for various activities.
Average Temperature In Indianapolis, Indiana
Indianapolis experiences varied temperatures throughout the year.
January is the coldest month, with average lows around 23°F and average highs reaching 36°F.
February sees slight increases, with lows at 25°F and highs at 40°F.
By March, temperatures rise more significantly, with average highs of 52°F and lows at 34°F.
April brings more warmth, with highs around 64°F and lows at 44°F.
May is springtime, with average highs of 74°F and lows at 54°F.
June starts the summer season, with warmer temperatures, having highs around 83°F and lows at 63°F.
July, the hottest month, has average highs of 85°F and lows of 67°F.
In August, temperatures slightly drop to highs of 84°F and lows around 65°F.
September marks the beginning of fall, with average highs at 78°F and lows at 57°F.
Then, October sees cooler days, with highs at 66°F and lows around 46°F.
November temperatures further drop, averaging highs of 52°F and lows of 36°F.
Finally, December ushers in winter, with highs around 40°F and lows at 27°F.
| Month | High Temp (°F) | Low Temp (°F) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 36 | 23 |
| February | 40 | 25 |
| March | 52 | 34 |
| April | 64 | 44 |
| May | 74 | 54 |
| June | 83 | 63 |
| July | 85 | 67 |
| August | 84 | 65 |
| September | 78 | 57 |
| October | 66 | 46 |
| November | 52 | 36 |
| December | 40 | 27 |
On average, Indianapolis experiences a significant range of temperatures throughout the year. Check out more information on temperature.
Average Precipitation In Indianapolis, Indiana
Indianapolis experiences varied precipitation throughout the year. It sees both significant rainfall and snowfall, depending on the month and season.
Average Rainfall In Indianapolis, Indiana
Indianapolis receives an average annual rainfall of about 42 inches.
Rain is frequent during the warmer months, especially in May and July.
May is typically the wettest month with an average of 5 inches of rain. This period is also characterized by thunderstorms, which contribute significantly to monthly totals.
Summer months tend to be humid and wet, making up a large part of the annual precipitation.
Rain days are spread evenly, ensuring a consistent supply of moisture.
Even in late summer, rainfall remains steady, aiding in cooling down the hot temperatures.
Average Snow In Indianapolis, Indiana
During the winter months, Indianapolis sees an average annual snowfall of about 25 inches.
Snow is most common from December through February, with January being the peak month for snowfall.
January typically receives around 8 inches of snow, making it the snowiest month.
Snowfall in Indianapolis can lead to temporary disruptions given the city’s location within the snowbelt.
Snow and ice are regular features of winter, frequently affecting travel and daily life.
Snow accumulation tends to vary year to year, but sustained cold temperatures ensure snow remains for extended periods.
Average Sun In Indianapolis, Indiana
Indianapolis experiences varying levels of sunshine and daylight throughout the year, which affects daily life and activities. Understanding these patterns helps residents and visitors plan their days more effectively.
Average Daily Shortwave Solar Energy In Indianapolis, Indiana
In Indianapolis, the amount of average daily shortwave solar energy changes with the seasons.
The city receives the most solar energy from May to August, peaking at around 7.0 kWh per square meter in June. This period coincides with longer daylight hours and higher temperatures.
During the winter months, the solar energy levels drop significantly.
From November to February, the average daily shortwave solar energy falls to around 2.0 to 3.0 kWh per square meter. This reduction is due to shorter daylight hours and the sun’s lower position in the sky.
Sunrise and sunset times also vary throughout the year.
In June, the sun rises around 6:15 AM and sets around 9:15 PM, giving approximately 15 hours of daylight.
In December, daylight is much shorter, with the sun rising at about 8:00 AM and setting by 5:20 PM, totaling just over 9 hours.
Civil twilight in Indianapolis lasts about 30 minutes before sunrise and after sunset. This period allows for some outdoor activities even when the sun is not fully above the horizon.
Average Humidity In Indianapolis, Indiana
The average humidity in Indianapolis varies throughout the year.
Relative humidity measures the moisture in the air, expressed as a percentage of the maximum amount the air can hold.
In Indianapolis, the average annual humidity is 73%. The most humid month is December with an average of 78%.
| Month | Average Relative Humidity |
|---|---|
| January | 77% |
| February | 74% |
| March | 70% |
| April | 66% |
| May | 70% |
| June | 72% |
| July | 74% |
| August | 74% |
| September | 73% |
| October | 72% |
| November | 75% |
| December | 78% |
The least humid month is April with an average of 66%.
Dew point is also important in understanding humidity. A higher dew point means more moisture in the air. The dew point can affect how comfortable the weather feels.
For more information, you can visit the World Weather & Climate Information.
Average Wind In Indianapolis, Indiana
The average wind speeds in Indianapolis vary throughout the year.
Wind speeds are generally higher in the spring.
Wind speeds typically range from 3.5 to 10 mph, with gusts sometimes exceeding 20 mph in especially windy periods.
| Month | Average Wind Speed (mph) |
|---|---|
| January | 8.0 |
| February | 8.5 |
| March | 9.2 |
| April | 9.6 |
| May | 8.9 |
| June | 6.9 |
| July | 6.1 |
| August | 5.6 |
| September | 6.2 |
| October | 7.3 |
| November | 8.3 |
| December | 8.5 |
The windiest month of the year is typically April, with an average wind speed of 9.6 mph.
During these months, wind can contribute to the cooler spring temperatures.
In contrast, the summer months see lower wind speeds, with August having the lowest average at 5.6 mph.
Summer breezes are typically lighter and add to the warmth of the season without the chill of strong winds.
Wind patterns can affect daily weather, making some days feel cooler or warmer depending on the wind speed and direction.
Winds are an important factor in the overall weather experience in Indianapolis, influencing both temperature and comfort levels throughout the year.
Average Air Quality In Indianapolis, Indiana
The air quality in Indianapolis is generally good.
The Air Quality Index (AQI) often falls in the range considered safe for most of the year.
From 2016 to 2018, there were an average of 6 days per year classified as unhealthy. This indicates that most of the time, the air is suitable for outdoor activities without health concerns.
Visibility in Indianapolis can affect air quality perceptions.
On days with poor air quality, visibility can decrease, which is noticeable when air pollution levels rise. Particulate matter like PM2.5 can contribute to these visibility problems.
Quick Facts:
- Current AQI: Often falls in the “Good” category.
- Unhealthy Days: Approximately 6 days per year.
- Common Pollutants: PM2.5 and ozone.
- Temperature Range: From about 46°F in the cold season to 85°F in the hot season.
For real-time data and forecasts, tools like IQAir and AccuWeather are useful for planning outdoor activities and making informed decisions.
During summer months, when temperatures can hit 85°F, there might be increased levels of ozone contributing to air pollution.
This emphasizes the importance of checking current conditions, especially if engaging in strenuous outdoor activities.
Topography Of Indianapolis, Indiana
Indianapolis, located in Marion County, features mostly flat terrain.
This is due to its position within the Tipton Till Plain, which is characterized by gently rolling hills and glacial deposits known as till.
The city’s average elevation is about 791 feet above sea level.
The minimum elevation is around 600 feet, and the maximum elevation reaches 932 feet.
The altitude varies across different parts of the city.
For instance, Fort Benjamin Harrison State Park, located in the northeastern part of Indianapolis, has an average elevation of approximately 833 feet.
Elevation Summary:
- Average Elevation: 791 feet
- Minimum Elevation: 600 feet
- Maximum Elevation: 932 feet
Indianapolis’s landscape includes both urban and natural areas, providing a mix of city and park environments.
The terrain is mostly flat or slightly sloping, making it conducive for various types of construction and urban development.
Minimal elevation changes mean fewer challenges for transportation infrastructure.
For more detailed maps and information, visit the Indianapolis topographic map.
This map provides insights into the specific elevations and terrain features across different regions of the city.
Extreme Weather Events That Occur In Indianapolis, Indiana
Indianapolis experiences a variety of extreme weather events.
Tornadoes are one of the most significant, occurring mainly in spring and early summer. On July 29, 2024, a severe tornado caused damage in the New Castle area.
Thunderstorms are common during summer months. These storms can produce heavy rain, strong winds, and hail. The April 2, 2016 event showed how strong winds caused notable damage.
Winter storms also affect the city.
Snowfall and ice can disrupt daily life and travel. Historical data shows that Indianapolis has experienced significant snowstorms in the past.
Flooding is another concern.
Heavy rains can lead to flash floods. The city’s low-lying areas are particularly vulnerable during such events.
Summary of Extreme Weather Events:
- Tornadoes: Major threat, especially in spring and early summer.
- Thunderstorms: Frequent in summer, bringing rain, wind, and hail.
- Winter Storms: Include snow and ice, impacting travel and safety.
- Flooding: Triggered by heavy rainfall, affecting low-lying areas.
Best Time Of The Year To Visit Indianapolis, Indiana
The best time to visit Indianapolis depends on individual preferences for weather and activities.
Different seasons offer unique experiences, from spring blooms to bustling summer events.
What Is Indianapolis, Indiana Like In Spring
Spring in Indianapolis is pleasant with moderate temperatures.
From March to May, temperatures range from the mid-50s to the mid-70s Fahrenheit.
This season is ideal for outdoor activities as the weather is mild and the city parks are in full bloom.
Rainfall: Spring is a relatively wetter season, with April seeing the highest rainfall, averaging around 4 inches.
Activities: Events like the Indianapolis 500 Festival Mini-Marathon occur, making it a lively time to visit. Gardening enthusiasts should explore the White River Gardens.
What Is Indianapolis, Indiana Like In Summer
Summer in Indianapolis is warm, with temperatures often in the 80s.
The season lasts from June to September. July is typically the hottest month, with temperatures peaking at around 85°F.
Rainfall: Summer sees moderate rainfall, averaging about 4 inches per month, with thunderstorms being common.
Activities: The famous Indianapolis 500 race in May kicks off the summer. Outdoor concerts and festivals are prevalent. Visiting parks such as Eagle Creek Park is popular for boating and hiking.
What Is Indianapolis, Indiana Like In Fall
Fall in Indianapolis is a comfortable and scenic season.
From September to November, temperatures drop from the 70s to the 50s Fahrenheit.
The weather is crisp, and the city’s foliage turns vibrant red and orange.
Rainfall: Rainfall is moderate, with around 2-3 inches each month. October is often seen as the driest fall month.
Activities: Fall celebrations include the Indianapolis Colts football games. It’s also an excellent time to visit local orchards and pumpkin patches.
What Is Indianapolis, Indiana Like In Winter
Winter in Indianapolis is cold, with temperatures often falling below 40°F.
December through February are the chilliest months, with January seeing lows often below 20°F.
Snowfall: The city receives an average of 22 inches of snow each winter. January is typically the snowiest month.
Activities: Winter sports are common.
Ice skating at the Indiana State Fairgrounds and holiday light displays at Newfields add to the winter charm.
Indoor attractions like the Indianapolis Museum of Art offer cultural engagements.