Dayton, Ohio experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons.
The warm season lasts from late May to mid-September with average daily high temperatures above 75°F.
During this period, July stands out as the hottest month, boasting an average high of 84°F and lows around 67°F. This makes it perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the city.
In contrast, the cold season starts in December and runs through the end of February, with average daily high temperatures below 46°F.
January is typically the coldest month, with highs in the low 30s and lows dropping to the low teens. Snowfall is common during these months, providing a picturesque winter backdrop.
Dayton also experiences significant rainfall throughout the year, ensuring lush greenery and vibrant foliage.
Rain is relatively evenly distributed, although May tends to be the wettest month.
For a detailed view of the weather by month, including temperature and precipitation charts, visitors can rely on comprehensive climate graphs.
Weather conditions vary, but the city offers something unique in each season.
Average Temperature in Dayton, Ohio
Dayton experiences a variety of temperatures throughout the year.
Warm Season:
The warm season lasts from May to September, with daily high temperatures above 75°F. July is the warmest month, with an average high of 84°F and a low of 67°F.
Cold Season:
The cold season spans December through February. During this period, the average daily high temperature falls below 45°F.
January is the coldest month, featuring an average low of 24°F and a high of 36°F.
Average Monthly Temperatures
| Month | Avg. High (°F) | Avg. Low (°F) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 36 | 24 |
| February | 40 | 26 |
| March | 51 | 34 |
| April | 63 | 43 |
| May | 73 | 54 |
| June | 81 | 63 |
| July | 84 | 67 |
| August | 83 | 65 |
| September | 77 | 58 |
| October | 65 | 46 |
| November | 52 | 36 |
| December | 40 | 27 |
Dayton has significant temperature variations between seasons.
The warmest month, July, reaches average highs of 84°F while the coldest month, January, has average lows of 24°F. This variation demands adaptation to different weather conditions throughout the year.
For more detailed information on temperatures, refer to the articles.
Average Precipitation in Dayton, Ohio
Dayton, Ohio experiences varied precipitation throughout the year, with distinct patterns for both rainfall and snowfall. These patterns help define the city’s climate.
Average Rainfall in Dayton, Ohio
Rainfall in Dayton, Ohio is spread across the year, but the wettest months are typically in late spring and early summer. On average, Dayton receives about 3.46 inches of rainfall per month.
May stands out as one of the rainiest months, receiving up to 4.5 inches.
Rainfall is less frequent during late summer and early fall.
September, for example, sees a considerable drop in precipitation, averaging around 2.9 inches.
Most rainy days occur in April and May, with about 12 rainy days each month, making spring a particularly wet season in Dayton.
Average Snow in Dayton, Ohio
Snowfall in Dayton is mainly concentrated in the winter months, from December through February. The city receives an average annual snowfall of around 22 inches.
January is often the peak month, with about 8 inches of snow.
Snow days are most common in January and February, averaging about 5-6 days each month.
Snowfall can sometimes extend into early March, but it quickly diminishes as temperatures rise.
Winter precipitation contributes significantly to Dayton’s yearly moisture levels, impacting daily life during these months.
Average Sun in Dayton, Ohio
Dayton experiences a diverse range of sunshine hours throughout the year, influenced by its geographic location and seasonal changes. This section explores the specifics of how much sun Dayton gets across different seasons.
Average Daily Shortwave Solar Energy in Dayton, Ohio
Dayton receives varying amounts of shortwave solar energy depending on the season.
In summer, peak sunlight hours occur, with June witnessing the highest levels of solar energy. The average daily shortwave solar energy in June can reach approximately 6.5 kWh per square meter.
In winter, solar energy decreases significantly.
December has the lowest average daily shortwave solar energy levels, dropping to about 2.1 kWh per square meter.
This reduction is due to shorter daylight hours and a lower sun angle during winter months.
A detailed pattern showing these variations can help residents and visitors understand the best times for outdoor activities and energy planning.
The amount of sunlight affects everything from outdoor events to solar panel efficiency, making awareness of these patterns beneficial.
For more detailed climate information, the yearly and monthly weather data for Dayton, Ohio, can be found here.
Average Humidity in Dayton, Ohio
Dayton experiences varying levels of humidity throughout the year. The average humidity can be quite high, especially during the winter months.
December is the most humid month in Dayton, with an average relative humidity of 76%. April has the least humidity, averaging around 64%.
Here is a breakdown of the average humidity by month:
| Month | Average Humidity (%) |
|---|---|
| January | 74.5 |
| February | 71.5 |
| March | 68.5 |
| April | 64.0 |
| May | 68.1 |
| June | 70.7 |
| July | 73.5 |
| August | 74.8 |
| September | 75.3 |
| October | 73.2 |
| November | 73.6 |
| December | 76.0 |
The highest daytime humidity often occurs in the early morning when the temperature is lower, while the lowest humidity typically occurs in the afternoon with the peak temperatures.
For more detailed climate data, you can visit Average humidity in Dayton.
Average Wind in Dayton, Ohio
Dayton, Ohio, experiences a variety of wind patterns throughout the year.
The average wind speed is around 14 mph.
Wind speeds are typically higher during the spring months. This can make outdoor activities like kitesurfing and sailing more enjoyable.
The wind tends to calm down during the hotter summer months.
During the winter months, the wind can still be quite noticeable. It’s often accompanied by cold temperatures, making conditions feel chillier.
| Season | Average Wind Speed |
|---|---|
| Winter | 12-15 mph |
| Spring | 13-17 mph |
| Summer | 10-13 mph |
| Fall | 11-14 mph |
Wind patterns can affect daily activities.
For instance, higher wind speeds in spring are ideal for activities involving wind sports.
Those interested in more details can explore articles on wind. By understanding these patterns, residents and visitors can better plan their activities year-round in Dayton.
Average Air Quality in Dayton, Ohio
Dayton, Ohio, experiences generally good air quality throughout the year. The Air Quality Index (AQI) often stays within the “Good” category, which is considered safe for outdoor activities. Thanks to regular monitoring, residents can stay informed about real-time conditions.
Key Metrics:
- AQI Levels: Dayton’s AQI usually ranges from 0-50, indicating low levels of air pollution.
- Primary Pollutants: The primary pollutants include PM2.5 and ozone.
- Seasonal Variations:
Season AQI Range Description Winter 30-50 Low pollution Spring 25-45 Generally good Summer 40-60 Mild increase due to ozone Fall 30-50 Good to moderate air quality
Dayton sees some variability in air quality, especially during summer when ozone levels can rise.
This is often due to higher temperatures and more sunlight, which can increase ozone formation.
Other Factors:
- Pressure: Higher atmospheric pressure typically correlates with lower pollution levels.
- Clouds: Cloud cover can influence air quality by affecting temperature and sunlight exposure.
- UV Index: Dayton experiences moderate UV index levels, contributing to some air quality fluctuations, particularly in the summer.
Topography of Dayton, Ohio
Dayton, Ohio, is located in Montgomery County and features varied terrain. The city’s elevation ranges from 696 feet to 1,040 feet above sea level, with an average elevation of 886 feet.
This range creates a mix of landscapes that contribute to its unique character.
Dayton is situated within a humid continental climate zone, characterized by warm, muggy summers and cold, dry winters.
The topography plays a role in these weather patterns, affecting how temperatures and precipitation vary throughout the year.
The Dayton International Airport is one of the key landmarks that highlight the city’s topography.
Located at 1,000 feet above sea level, the airport is situated on relatively high ground compared to other parts of the city.
Key Elevation Points
| Location | Elevation (feet) |
|---|---|
| Lowest Point | 696 |
| Average Elevation | 886 |
| Highest Point | 1,040 |
| Dayton International Airport | 1,000 |
Dayton’s topography also impacts transportation and infrastructure.
The differing altitudes require careful planning for roadways, drainage systems, and other public works.
Additionally, Dayton’s topography influences local wildlife and vegetation.
The variation in elevation supports diverse ecosystems, making the area rich in both flora and fauna.
Extreme Weather Events that Occur in Dayton, Ohio
Dayton, Ohio experiences a range of extreme weather events due to its Midwestern location.
Summers can bring extreme heat where temperatures rise above 102°F, sometimes resulting in dangerous heatwaves.
According to heat wave forecasts, residents can expect around 7 hot days each year.
Heavy Rainfall is another common extreme weather event.
The intensity of rain during storms has increased by 35%, leading to more frequent and severe precipitation events.
This increase in rainfall can cause flooding and other water-related hazards.
More details on these trends are available in Dayton’s climate change summary.
In the winter months, Dayton faces extremely cold temperatures and snowy conditions.
Winter can bring harsh cold snaps with temperatures dropping significantly.
Snowstorms and blizzards are also frequent, making travel and daily activities challenging.
Windy conditions can occur year-round, making both the hot and cold seasons feel more extreme.
This windiness adds to the discomfort during already extreme weather conditions.
Below is a summary table:
| Weather Event | Frequency | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Extreme Heat | 7 days/year | Risk of heatwaves and health hazards |
| Heavy Rainfall | Increasing | Flooding and water-related hazards |
| Extreme Cold | Winter months | Travel disruptions, health concerns |
| Snowstorms | Winter months | Heavy snowfall, difficult travel |
| Windy Conditions | Year-round | Enhances discomfort of other extremes |
Residents must stay prepared for these various extreme weather events to ensure safety and reduce potential risks.
Best Time of the Year to Visit Dayton, Ohio
Dayton, Ohio has distinct seasons, each with its own unique weather patterns and attractions. The best time to visit depends on what kind of weather you prefer and what activities you enjoy.
What is Dayton, Ohio Like in Spring
Spring in Dayton typically starts in March and lasts through May. During this time, temperatures gradually warm up, ranging from the mid-40s to mid-70s °F.
March is still cool, but April brings more mild weather, making it perfect for outdoor activities like visiting the parks.
Rain is fairly common, so visitors should bring umbrellas and raincoats.
The blooming flowers and trees make the city scenic, especially in public spaces like the Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark.
By May, temperatures often reach the 70s °F, making it a great time for hiking and picnics.
What is Dayton, Ohio Like in Summer
Summers in Dayton, from June through August, are hot and humid. The average high temperature in July is around 84°F, and August can reach similar highs.
Humidity levels are high, and thunderstorms are frequent.
This is a great time for water activities at the Miami River or visiting local swimming pools.
June is the beginning of the festival season, and events like the Dayton Air Show occur.
While July and August can be hot, many visitors enjoy this time for its vibrant outdoor activities and events.
What is Dayton, Ohio Like in Fall
Fall lasts from September through November. The weather cools down, with September still feeling quite warm, averaging high temperatures in the upper 70s °F.
October is ideal for outdoor activities as temperatures drop to the 60s °F.
The fall foliage is spectacular, making this a great time for scenic drives and visits to local parks.
November gets colder, averaging highs in the 50s °F, and it’s an excellent time for indoor activities like visiting museums.
Festivals celebrating the fall harvest are also common.
What is Dayton, Ohio Like in Winter
Winter in Dayton spans from December through February and is cold and somewhat snowy.
December and January are the coldest months, with average highs in the low 40s °F and lows often below freezing.
Snowfall can be expected, making it a picturesque but chilly time of year.
Winter sports like ice skating and sledding are popular, especially in local parks.
February remains cold, often reaching highs of only 33°F.
While this season can be harsh, it offers a quieter, more serene experience with fewer tourists.
Indoor attractions like theaters and restaurants become popular spots to warm up.