Virginia Beach, Virginia, boasts a diverse climate and weather conditions that vary throughout the year.
With over 213 sunny days annually, it provides plenty of opportunities for beachgoers to enjoy its coastlines.
The summers are warm, with July being the calmest month, experiencing an average hourly wind speed of 9.4 miles per hour.
Winter brings colder weather to Virginia Beach, making January the coldest month with temperatures ranging around 41°F. Despite the chill, snow is infrequent, totaling about 6 inches per year, making it a destination with mild winters compared to other parts of the United States.
Virginia Beach receives an average rainfall of 38 inches annually, ensuring its lush landscapes remain vibrant.
The spring and fall months offer pleasant and moderate weather, perfect for outdoor activities and exploring.
The city experiences seasonal variations that cater to different preferences, making Virginia Beach a versatile destination year-round.
Average Temperature In Virginia Beach, Virginia
Virginia Beach experiences a variety of temperatures throughout the year.
January is the coldest month with an average low of 31.6°F and a high of 50.3°F. It can get as cold as 17°F on the coldest nights.
In contrast, July is the hottest month, boasting average high temperatures around 87°F. The average low during this month is about 71°F.
Summer months from May to September are warm and pleasant, with average highs ranging from 75°F to 85°F. These months make it ideal for beachgoers and tourists.
Fall and spring in Virginia Beach have mild temperatures.
April enjoys average highs of 68°F and lows of 50°F, while October sees highs around 71°F and lows near 56°F.
Winter can be chilly but generally not severe.
The average highs during December, January, and February hover around 50°F, while the lows can dip to mid-30s°F.
| Month | Average High (°F) | Average Low (°F) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 50.3°F | 31.6°F |
| July | 87°F | 71°F |
| April | 68°F | 50°F |
| October | 71°F | 56°F |
The hot season lasts from late June to mid-September, with daily high temperatures averaging above 80°F.
In contrast, the cool season spans from early December to early March, where daily high temperatures are below 55°F.
To learn more about temperature trends and details, you can refer to temperature data and articles available online.
Average Precipitation in Virginia Beach, Virginia
Virginia Beach experiences varied precipitation throughout the year, with rainfall being the primary form of moisture. Snowfall is rare and typically occurs in the winter months.
Average Rainfall in Virginia Beach, Virginia
Virginia Beach sees its highest rainfall from late spring to early fall.
The rainiest months are June through October. The wettest month is September, receiving about 5.9 inches of rain.
During the rainy season, expect a mix of light and heavy rainfall, with rain alone accounting for the majority of wet days.
The average annual rainfall is around 47 inches.
Monthly Rainfall Overview:
- June: 4.3 inches
- July: 5.1 inches
- August: 5.6 inches
- September: 5.9 inches
- October: 4.2 inches
The driest month is February, averaging about 3 inches of rain.
The marked contrast between the wet and dry months makes Virginia Beach’s climate interesting for residents and visitors.
Average Snow in Virginia Beach, Virginia
Snowfall in Virginia Beach is infrequent due to its mild winters. When snow does fall, it is usually light and melts quickly.
The coldest month is January, with average temperatures ranging between 31.6°F and 50.3°F.
On the rare occasions it snows, the snowfall is minimal, typically averaging less than 5 inches per year. Most snow events occur between December and February.
Key snowfall months:
- December: Occasionally sees light snow with average precipitation.
- January: The coldest month, potentially bringing brief snowfalls.
- February: Generally has the coolest water temperatures but minimal snowfall.
For more information on snow and ice, readers can check out related content on snow and ice.
Average Sun In Virginia Beach, Virginia
Virginia Beach enjoys a substantial amount of sunshine throughout the year.
This is beneficial for outdoor activities and beachgoers.
Understanding the amount of solar energy and daily sunshine can help residents and visitors plan their activities better.
Average Daily Shortwave Solar Energy In Virginia Beach, Virginia
Virginia Beach receives significant shortwave solar energy, essential for both weather patterns and human activities.
During the summer months, from June to August, the daily shortwave solar energy averages the highest, reaching around 6.5 kWh/m².
In contrast, the winter months see a decrease, with December averaging closer to 2.5 kWh/m².
The sunshine hours peak in July with approximately 10 hours of sun per day.
Sunrise and sunset times vary, creating longer daylight periods in the summer.
For example, in June, sunrise occurs around 5:30 AM, and sunset happens near 8:30 PM. Civil twilight extends the usable light period, allowing for more time spent outdoors.
The abundance of sunshine not only enhances outdoor experiences but also contributes to the region’s natural beauty, making Virginia Beach a top destination year-round.
Average Humidity In Virginia Beach, Virginia
Virginia Beach experiences varying humidity levels throughout the year.
The annual average humidity is approximately 68%.
Monthly Averages:
- August: 74.0% (most humid month)
- April: 62.0% (least humid month)
The rest of the year falls between these extremes, offering a range of comfort levels.
Dew Point:
Dew points are a good indicator of how humid it feels outside. In Virginia Beach, the dew point can vary greatly:
- Peak Summer: Often reaches around 70°F, making it feel quite muggy.
- Winter: Dew points drop significantly, often below 40°F, providing drier conditions.
Muggy Days:
The number of muggy days increases during the summer months, particularly in July and August.
This is when the combination of high temperatures and high humidity can make it feel very uncomfortable outside.
Humidity Effects:
High humidity impacts everyday life, influencing outdoor activities, energy use, and even health.
Residents and visitors should be prepared for muggy days, particularly in the summer months, when conditions can feel oppressive due to the high humidity levels.
Average Wind In Virginia Beach, Virginia
The average wind speed in Virginia Beach varies throughout the year.
From March 31 to August 26, the wind is mostly from the south.
The windiest month is July, with the highest wind speed peaking at 41% from the south.
Starting from August 26 to September 18, the wind direction shifts more to the east, with a peak percentage of 33% in early September.
During the nights, wind speeds can decrease, making for calmer conditions compared to the daytime.
For detailed and precise wind data and to understand seasonal changes, you can refer to resources researching wind patterns extensively.
Year-round, Virginia Beach experiences varying wind speeds and directions as the seasons change.
The shifts in wind direction help provide a dynamic coastal climate.
These changes impact activities such as boating and beach-going, so it’s good to be aware of the usual wind patterns.
Average Air Quality In Virginia Beach, Virginia
Virginia Beach often enjoys good air quality. The Air Quality Index (AQI) frequently falls between 0 to 50, indicating healthy conditions. Higher values can occur but are less common.
For current data, you can check Virginia Beach air quality.
Air quality can be affected by sky conditions.
On clear, sunny days, pollutants disperse more easily. Cloud cover can trap pollutants close to the ground. Days that are partly cloudy can have varying air quality.
Pressure can also impact air quality.
Higher pressure often means clearer skies and better air quality. Lower pressure can lead to cloudiness and decreased air quality.
Weather Factors Influencing Air Quality:
- Clouds: Can trap pollutants, leading to poorer air quality.
- Visibility: Peaks on clear days; low visibility indicates poor air quality.
- UV Index: Lower when skies are overcast, higher on sunny days.
Tracking air quality is essential for those with respiratory issues.
Regular updates can be found using resources like AccuWeather.
| Weather Factor | Influence on Air Quality |
|---|---|
| Cloud Cover | Can trap pollutants |
| Sky Conditions | Clear skies improve AQ |
| Visibility | Poor visibility indicates bad AQ |
| Pressure | Higher pressure betters AQ |
| UV Index | Higher with clear skies |
Topography Of Virginia Beach, Virginia
Virginia Beach is located at 36.8529° N latitude and 75.9780° W longitude. It features a diverse topography with its elevation ranging from -39 feet to 56 feet.
Average Elevation:
- The average elevation of Virginia Beach is 7 feet above sea level.
Highest and Lowest Points:
- The maximum elevation in the city reaches up to 56 feet.
- The minimum elevation dips down to -39 feet.
Land and Water:
- The city covers a total area of 497 square miles.
- Of this, 249 square miles is land, while 248 square miles is water.
- The city drains a significant portion into the Chesapeake Bay through the Lynnhaven River.
Major Features:
- Located along the Atlantic Ocean, Virginia Beach boasts multiple beaches and oceanfront areas.
- The Naval Air Station Oceana is a key naval base situated in the city.
Climate Influence:
- The proximity to the ocean influences the local climate and sea temperature, creating a moderate environment.
- Water Temperature: The Atlantic Ocean and surrounding bodies of water play a significant role in leveling the city’s temperature fluctuations year-round.
Extreme Weather Events That Occur In Virginia Beach, Virginia
Virginia Beach experiences different types of extreme weather events throughout the year.
Hurricanes and Tropical Storms:
- The Atlantic hurricane season, from June to November, often impacts Virginia Beach.
- Heavy rainfall and strong winds can lead to significant flooding in the area.
- The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has predicted an aggressive hurricane season, with 8 to 13 hurricanes expected this year.
Flooding:
- Extreme rainfall events contribute to severe flooding in Virginia Beach.
- This can affect homes and roads, making travel difficult and sometimes dangerous.
- Reports indicate that natural disasters, including floods, have placed Virginia Beach homeowners at risk.
Severe Storms:
- Virginia Beach is no stranger to severe storms.
- While primarily occurring in the warmer months, these storms can bring heavy rain, high winds, and even hail.
- Severe storms have historically been among the most frequent types of billion-dollar disasters in the state.
Winter Weather:
- Although rare, winter storms do impact Virginia Beach.
- These can bring snow, ice, and very cold temperatures.
- Winter storms in the region can sometimes lead to power outages and hazardous road conditions.
A table highlighting the main extreme weather events can be useful:
| Event | Season | Potential Impacts |
|---|---|---|
| Hurricanes/Tropical Storms | June to November | Flooding, wind damage |
| Flooding | All year | Property damage, road blockages |
| Severe Storms | Mainly Warm Months | Rain, wind, hail |
| Winter Storms | Winter | Snow, ice, cold temperatures, power outages |
Best Time Of The Year To Visit Virginia Beach, Virginia
The best time to visit Virginia Beach is during the warmer months when you can enjoy the beaches and outdoor activities. Each season offers unique experiences, so timing your visit based on your preferences will enhance your trip.
What Is Virginia Beach, Virginia Like In Spring
Spring in Virginia Beach is pleasant and mild.
March sees average high temperatures around 60°F, with April warming up to the low 70s°F. By May, highs can reach the upper 70s°F.
Rainfall is moderate during this season, averaging about 3-4 inches per month.
This makes spring a good time for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring local parks.
Tourism is lower compared to summer, so you can enjoy fewer crowds and lower accommodation costs.
Events like the Virginia Arts Festival also take place, adding cultural experiences to your visit.
What Is Virginia Beach, Virginia Like In Summer
Summer is peak tourist season in Virginia Beach.
From June to August, temperatures often soar to the mid-80s°F, making it ideal for beach activities and swimming. July is typically the hottest month with highs near 90°F.
Rainfall during summer can be higher, especially in July and August, but showers are usually brief.
Be prepared for more crowds, as schools are out and families are vacationing.
Attractions such as the boardwalk and outdoor concerts are in full swing.
Make sure to book accommodations well in advance to secure the best rates and locations.
What Is Virginia Beach, Virginia Like In Fall
Autumn in Virginia Beach is cooler and calmer.
September still offers warm temperatures, averaging in the low 80s°F, but by October, highs drop to around 70°F. November can be much cooler, with highs in the upper 50s°F.
Rainfall decreases compared to summer, averaging about 3 inches per month.
This season is great for visiting if you prefer fewer tourists and cooler weather.
Fall festivals, hayrides, and farmers’ markets provide plenty of activities.
The fall colors and milder climate make it a nice time for outdoor walks and exploring the local countryside.
What Is Virginia Beach, Virginia Like In Winter
Winter in Virginia Beach is relatively mild compared to more northern areas.
December and January are the coldest months, with highs around 50°F and lows in the 30s°F.
February starts to warm slightly, reaching the mid-50s°F.
Snow is rare, but rain is fairly common, adding up to about 3-4 inches per month.
While beach activities aren’t ideal, there are indoor attractions like museums and aquariums.
Hotel rates are lower, and fewer tourists mean a more relaxing visit.
This is a good time for a quiet getaway and enjoying indoor activities.