Cleveland, Ohio, experiences a diverse climate with four distinct seasons.
The warm season lasts for about 3.7 months, from late May to late September, with temperatures often rising above 72°F. July is usually the hottest month, seeing highs around 81°F and lows around 68°F. This period is perfect for enjoying outdoor activities and exploring the vibrant city life.
During the cold season, which spans from early December to mid-March, Cleveland transforms into a winter wonderland.
The average high temperature falls below 44°F, and January typically brings the coldest days with temperatures dipping to around 43°F. Snowfall is common, adding a festive charm to the cityscape.
Rainfall in Cleveland is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year. February and November are the months with the least rain, typically aggregating up to around 1.14 inches each.
This consistent precipitation supports the lush greenery and beautiful parks that make Cleveland a picturesque destination year-round. For more detailed climate data, visit Cleveland’s climate and weather.
Average Temperature In Cleveland, Ohio
Cleveland experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year.
Winter: January is the coldest month. The average high is around 34°F, and the low can drop to 22°F. February and March are slightly warmer, with highs reaching around 38°F and 47°F, respectively.
Spring: April and May see a significant warm-up. April’s average high is 60°F, while May’s high is around 72°F.
Summer: The warmest months are June, July, and August. July is the hottest month, with an average high of 81°F and a low of 68°F.
Fall: September and October see a cooling trend. The average high in September is 73°F, and in October, it drops to 61°F.
Monthly Averages:
- January: High: 34°F, Low: 22°F
- February: High: 38°F, Low: 25°F
- March: High: 47°F, Low: 33°F
- April: High: 60°F, Low: 42°F
- May: High: 72°F, Low: 53°F
- June: High: 81°F, Low: 61°F
- July: High: 81°F, Low: 68°F
- August: High: 79°F, Low: 67°F
- September: High: 73°F, Low: 60°F
- October: High: 61°F, Low: 49°F
- November: High: 49°F, Low: 36°F
- December: High: 38°F, Low: 27°F
These average temperatures give a clear idea of what to expect month by month in Cleveland, Ohio. For more detailed information on temperature trends, visit ChaseDay.com for articles on temperature fluctuations.
Average Precipitation In Cleveland, Ohio
Cleveland experiences a mix of rain and snow throughout the year. Understanding the average rainfall and snow totals can help residents and visitors plan accordingly.
Average Rainfall In Cleveland, Ohio
Rainfall in Cleveland is spread fairly evenly throughout the year. The city receives around 38 inches of rain annually. May tends to be the wettest month, with average rainfall near 4 inches. Most months receive about 2.5 to 3.5 inches of rain.
Rain alone is more common in the summer months. During this time, the city has an average daily high temperature above 72°F. On average, Cleveland has about 130 wet days each year. These days include all types of precipitation.
Average Snow In Cleveland, Ohio
Cleveland’s snowy season lasts from late November to early March. During this period, the total snowfall averages around 68 inches per year. January is typically the snowiest month, with an average of about 18 inches of snow.
Snow alone is prevalent in the months of December, January, and February. Cleveland sees an average of 45 days with at least some snow accumulation. For those interested in more about snow and ice, this article provides additional insights.
Average Sun In Cleveland, Ohio
Cleveland experiences varying levels of sunlight throughout the year, influenced by factors like cloud cover and seasonal changes. The amount of solar energy and daylight can vary significantly from month to month.
Average Daily Shortwave Solar Energy In Cleveland, Ohio
In Cleveland, the average daily shortwave solar energy ranges from around 1.5 kWh/m² in December to about 6.5 kWh/m² in June. This level of solar energy is influenced by the percentage of cloud cover.
During summer months, clear skies are more common, allowing for higher sunlight levels. By contrast, the winter months feature more cloudy days, reducing the amount of sunlight received.
Sunrise and sunset times also vary, impacting the total daylight hours. In June, Cleveland enjoys long days with early sunrises and late sunsets. Conversely, December has much shorter days with limited sunlight hours.
Partly cloudy conditions are frequent in spring and fall, offering a moderate amount of sunlight. These intermediate periods contribute to the city’s overall sunlight variability, balancing clear skies and cloud cover.
Average Humidity In Cleveland, Ohio
In Cleveland, Ohio, the average humidity varies throughout the year. The area is known for its changing humidity levels, which can affect how comfortable or muggy it feels.
December is the most humid month, with an average relative humidity of 74.0%. This can make the winter days feel even colder and more damp.
April has the least humidity, with an average of 66.0%. This lower humidity can make spring feel more pleasant and less sweltering.
Here is a breakdown of the average monthly humidity:
| Month | Average Humidity (%) |
|---|---|
| January | 72 |
| February | 70 |
| March | 68 |
| April | 66 |
| May | 68 |
| June | 70 |
| July | 72 |
| August | 74 |
| September | 72 |
| October | 70 |
| November | 72 |
| December | 74 |
The yearly average humidity in Cleveland is 71%. This means the city often feels humid and can sometimes feel muggy, especially during the summer months. The highest humidity levels can lead to sweltering days, adding to the discomfort. Winters, on the other hand, can feel more biting with the added humidity.
Average Wind In Cleveland, Ohio
Cleveland experiences varying wind speeds throughout the year.
Wind Speed:
- Average annual wind speed: varies, typically around 10-12 mph.
- Spring and fall tend to be windier seasons.
Windiest Month:
- April is often the windiest month with average speeds reaching up to 13-14 mph.
- Winter months: generally calmer, especially January and February.
Typical Wind Speed by Season:
| Season | Average Wind Speed (mph) |
|---|---|
| Winter | 9-11 |
| Spring | 12-14 |
| Summer | 8-10 |
| Fall | 10-12 |
Direction:
- Predominant wind direction: west and southwest.
- Occasional shifts: north and northeast, especially during winter storms.
Wind patterns: influenced by Lake Erie. Cold air flows from the lake can increase wind speeds, particularly in the colder months. Summers generally experience lighter winds with fewer intense gusts.
Residents and visitors should be prepared for gusty conditions, especially during spring. Knowing the general wind trends can help in planning outdoor activities and ensuring safety.
Average Air Quality In Cleveland, Ohio
Cleveland’s air quality varies throughout the year. The city has faced significant air pollution issues. In 2020, Cleveland ranked as the most polluted city in Ohio out of 28 cities.
Key Details:
- Ranking: Cleveland had higher pollution levels compared to other cities in Ohio.
- Particulate Matter: The city’s air quality often exceeds the U.S. EPA standard for “good.”
Pollution levels often measured include particulate matter (PM2.5), a major component affecting health.
Average PM2.5 Concentrations:
- Seville: 10.0 µg/m³
- Wadsworth: 9.9 µg/m³
- Cleveland: Higher than Seville and Wadsworth
Residents may track Cleveland’s air quality using AccuWeather. This tool helps plan outdoor activities and make healthier decisions.
The National Weather Service also provides data on air quality, alongside other weather-related information like fog, heat, and thunderstorms. Regular checks and forecasts can assist in staying informed.
Topography Of Cleveland, Ohio
Cleveland, located in Cuyahoga County, has a diverse landscape that features various elevations and terrains.
The city sits along the southern shore of Lake Erie and experiences a rapid elevation rise as one moves inland.
Elevation Details:
- Average Elevation: 705 feet (215 meters)
- Minimum Elevation: 564 feet (172 meters)
- Maximum Elevation: 1,165 feet (355 meters)
The Public Square area, a key landmark in downtown Cleveland, is at 650 feet (198 meters) above sea level.
Just about a mile from the lakeshore, the land here transitions quickly in elevation.
Geographical Coordinates:
- Latitude: 41.39063 to 41.60444 degrees North
- Longitude: -81.87909 to -81.53274 degrees West
Cleveland’s proximity to Lake Erie means its terrain includes both flat and hilly areas.
The land closest to the lake is relatively flat, but elevations increase as you move further from the water.
This incline is noticeable, particularly in areas like the airport and other inland sites.
Elevation Highlights
- Lake Shore: 569 feet above sea level
- Public Square: 650 feet, 1 mile inland
The city’s topography plays a significant role in its climate and weather patterns, contributing to its unique characteristics influenced by both continental and lake effects.
Extreme Weather Events That Occur In Cleveland, Ohio
Cleveland experiences a variety of extreme weather events throughout the year.
Winter Storms
Winter storms are common in Cleveland. For instance, a significant snow and sleet storm on February 15 brought over a foot of snow to Northwest Ohio.
The coldest month, January, often sees temperatures drop below freezing, leading to snow and ice.
Blizzards
Cleveland also faces blizzards.
A notable blizzard occurred on December 23-24, resulting in extreme cold, high winds, and up to 4 inches of snow.
Blizzards can cause widespread disruption due to blowing and drifting snow.
Heat Waves
Heat waves are not rare in Cleveland.
Defined as three or more days above 90°F, a heat wave can make summers extremely challenging.
July, the hottest month, frequently experiences these intense heat events.
Flash Flooding
Flash flooding is another critical issue.
In August 2023, significant flash flooding resulted from 2 to 4 inches of rainfall, causing severe damage and disruptions.
This highlights the importance of being prepared for sudden heavy rainfalls.
River Flooding
River flooding often follows heavy rain or snowmelt.
In February 2022-23, a rain, snow, and ice storm resulted in 0.10 to 0.25 inches of ice and 2 to 6 inches of snow, leading to numerous river flooding events.
Best Time Of The Year To Visit Cleveland, Ohio
The best times to visit Cleveland are during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and comfortable.
Summers can be hot and winters cold, but each season offers unique experiences for visitors.
What Is Cleveland, Ohio Like In Spring
Spring in Cleveland begins with cold weather and gradually warms up.
March has an average high of 47ºF and a low of 31ºF, with around 3.06 inches of precipitation.
As the season progresses, April sees average highs of 60ºF and lows of 41ºF, with rainfall increasing to 3.75 inches.
By May, the average temperature rises to highs of 71ºF and lows of 51ºF.
Spring is a time of blooming flowers and longer daylight hours, making it an excellent period for outdoor activities.
The air is cool and refreshing, and the city’s parks become vibrant with tulips and other flowers.
This season is perfect for visiting the Cleveland Metroparks or taking a stroll along the lakefront.
What Is Cleveland, Ohio Like In Summer
Summer in Cleveland can be quite warm.
The hot season lasts from late May to mid-September, with daily highs often above 89°F.
July is the hottest month, featuring average highs of 96°F and lows of 72°F.
Despite the heat, summer is popular for outdoor festivals, concerts, and beach activities along Lake Erie.
Tourists can enjoy the city’s many summer events and use the long days to explore Cleveland’s cultural attractions.
The days are the longest around June 20, allowing for extended daylight to visit places such as the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame or the Cleveland Museum of Art.
What Is Cleveland, Ohio Like In Fall
Fall is one of the best times to visit Cleveland.
September and October offer warm sunny days with highs ranging from 70°F to 60°F and lows dropping to around 50°F.
The comfortable temperatures and clear skies make it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
The fall foliage in the city’s many parks and tree-lined streets creates a picturesque setting.
This season is perfect for attending local festivals and enjoying autumn activities like apple picking or visiting pumpkin patches.
The cooler, less humid air is refreshing and inviting for both tourists and residents.
What Is Cleveland, Ohio Like In Winter
Winters in Cleveland are cold, lasting from late November to late February.
The average daily high temperature during the cool season is below 66°F. December 21 marks the shortest day of the year, with minimal daylight.
January is typically the coldest month with temperatures often dropping below freezing.
Snowfall is common, and the average wind speed of 8 mph can make it feel even colder.
Winter activities include ice skating, skiing, and visiting indoor attractions. The city’s holiday decorations and events add a festive charm despite the cold temperatures.