Located in northern Colorado, Fort Collins boasts a varied climate that offers something for everyone year-round.
The city experiences an annual average of 237 sunny days, making it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
Summers are warm with temperatures often reaching the mid-80s Fahrenheit, while winters can be cold, with average lows dropping to around 16°F.
Rainfall in Fort Collins is moderate, averaging 16 inches annually, which is below the national average of 38 inches.
The city receives a fair amount of snow each year, averaging about 48 inches, providing ample opportunities for winter sports.
The relatively dry climate and ample sunshine mean that residents and visitors can enjoy outdoor activities throughout the year.
For those interested in more detailed climate data, Fort Collins experiences distinct seasons, with spring and fall offering mild weather that many find perfect for hiking and exploring the area’s natural beauty.
With plenty of sunny days and a variety of weather conditions, Fort Collins, Colorado, is a great place to experience the full range of seasonal changes.
Average Temperature in Fort Collins, Colorado
Fort Collins experiences a variety of temperatures throughout the year.
Winter months like January and December can be quite cold.
In January, the average low temperature is around 18°F and the average high is 42°F.
Similarly, in December, temperatures range from an average low of 21°F to an average high of 43°F.
Spring months see a warming trend.
March has an average low temperature of 27°F and an average high of 52°F.
By May, temperatures rise significantly, with average lows of 44°F and average highs of 72°F.
Summer in Fort Collins is warm but not too extreme.
July is the hottest month, with an average high temperature of 87°F and an average low of 57°F.
August also remains warm, with average daily high temperatures around 85°F and night temperatures dropping to around 55°F.
Fall months bring cooler weather back to Fort Collins.
September temperatures range from an average high of 76°F to an average low of 49°F.
By November, it cools down further, with highs averaging around 50°F and lows around 25°F.
The average temperature variation throughout the year is noticeable, with January being one of the coldest and July being the warmest. These changes in temperature are typical due to Fort Collins’ location and altitude.
Average Precipitation in Fort Collins, Colorado
Fort Collins experiences diverse precipitation throughout the year, characterized by distinct patterns in rainfall and snowfall. The wetter months contrast sharply with the drier periods, influencing the overall climate and activities in the region.
Average Rainfall in Fort Collins, Colorado
Rainfall in Fort Collins is varied, with the wettest months typically occurring from May to August.
May sees 2.2 inches of rain, while June averages about 1.8 inches. These months contribute significantly to the annual precipitation.
On wetter days, Fort Collins experiences regular showers that support the local flora and fauna.
The summer months, despite being the rainy season, still provide ample sunny days, balancing the weather nicely.
From October through April, rainfall decreases, often replaced by other forms of precipitation like snow.
Average Snow in Fort Collins, Colorado
Snowfall in Fort Collins is a central feature of the winter months.
November kicks off the snowy season, which lasts until March. Fort Collins receives an average annual snowfall of about 50 inches.
December and January are particularly snowy, with each month typically seeing about 12 inches of snow.
The frequency and intensity of snow can vary year by year, but it remains a reliable aspect of the local climate.
This snowfall is crucial for water reservoirs and winter sports in the area.
Weather patterns ensure that even within snowy months, periods of clear skies are common.
Average Sun in Fort Collins, Colorado
Fort Collins experiences varied sunlight patterns throughout the year with differences in cloud cover, sunshine hours, and shortwave solar energy levels. By understanding daily and seasonal sunlight variability, residents and visitors can better plan their activities.
Average Daily Shortwave Solar Energy in Fort Collins, Colorado
In Fort Collins, the brightest month of the year is June.
During this month, the city receives an average of 7.8 kWh of shortwave solar energy per square meter. This period is marked by clear skies and ample sunshine.
Conversely, the darkest month is December, when the average daily incident shortwave energy falls to 2.4 kWh per square meter due to increased cloud cover and shorter days.
The darkest period spans from November through February, with daily values remaining below 3.4 kWh.
Throughout the year, civil twilight and variations in cloudiness impact daily sunlight levels.
Fort Collins enjoys clear or partly cloudy skies for about 60% of the year, which is favorable for outdoor activities.
The UV index also varies, peaking during summer months when sunlight is most intense.
Average Humidity in Fort Collins, Colorado
Fort Collins, Colorado, experiences moderate humidity levels throughout the year. The average humidity ranges from 30% to 70%, depending on the season.
Monthly Averages
- January: 66%
- April: 50%
- July: 42%
- October: 57%
Dew Point
The dew point is another important measure that affects how humid it feels.
- Winter: Averages around 15°F
- Summer: Can go up to 55°F
Seasonal Changes
Summer: The humidity is usually lower, with afternoon levels dropping below 40%.
Winter: The humidity increases, often reaching around 60%.
Quick Facts
- Lowest Humidity: Typically in July (around 30%).
- Highest Humidity: Usually in December and January (around 66%).
Average Wind in Fort Collins, Colorado
Fort Collins experiences varying wind speeds throughout the year. The windiest month is January, with an average hourly wind speed of 11.3 miles per hour.
In contrast, August is typically the calmest month, with wind speeds averaging just 6.6 miles per hour.
Monthly Average Wind Speeds:
| Month | Wind Speed (mph) |
|---|---|
| January | 11.3 |
| February | 10.8 |
| March | 10.2 |
| April | 9.6 |
| August | 6.6 |
Windy days are common in the winter months.
The period from April 21 to November 10 is usually calmer.
Wind speeds can influence outdoor activities. Knowing the average wind can help when planning events or sports.
In Fort Collins, the nature of wind varies significantly between months, impacting daily life. Understanding these patterns helps residents and visitors prepare for the climate.
Average Air Quality in Fort Collins, Colorado
Fort Collins experiences varied air quality throughout the year. The Air Quality Index (AQI) helps measure pollution levels. Typically, the AQI in Fort Collins ranges from Good to Moderate.
| AQI Range | Description | Health Implications |
|---|---|---|
| 0-50 | Good | Air quality is satisfactory, posing little or no risk. |
| 51-100 | Moderate | Acceptable air quality, but some pollutants may affect very sensitive individuals. |
Daily weather conditions, including temperature, wind speed, and pressure, influence air quality.
For example, higher temperatures can increase certain pollutants like ground-level ozone.
The region around Fort Collins-Loveland Municipal Airport also typically has similar air quality levels to the city itself.
Visibility can be affected by air quality changes. On days with higher AQI, visibility may be less clear due to pollutants in the air.
Seasonal variations in air quality are notable.
Summer months may see more days with moderate air quality levels due to wildfire smoke or increased ozone levels.
During winter, temperature inversions can occasionally trap pollutants close to the ground.
This happens when a layer of warm air overlays cooler air at the surface, preventing pollutants from dispersing.
Indoor air quality can also be affected if homes are not well-ventilated.
Topography of Fort Collins, Colorado
Fort Collins is located at the base of the Rocky Mountain foothills. It sits latitude 40.5853° N and longitude 105.0844° W.
The city is approximately 60 miles north of Denver and 45 miles south of Cheyenne. The elevation is 4,982 feet above sea level.
Its terrain includes gentle hills and flat areas. These landscapes create scenic views and outdoor recreational opportunities. The foothills provide a natural edge to the city.
The Cache la Poudre River runs through Fort Collins.
This river enhances the city’s natural beauty and supports local wildlife. Its banks are popular for fishing, hiking, and picnicking.
Elevation:
| Location | Elevation |
|---|---|
| Denver | 5,280 feet |
| Fort Collins | 4,982 feet |
| Cheyenne | 6,062 feet |
This table highlights Fort Collins’ elevation in comparison to nearby cities.
A mix of urban and natural settings characterizes Fort Collins. It offers well-maintained parks and trails.
Extreme Weather Events that Occur in Fort Collins, Colorado
Fort Collins experiences a range of extreme weather events throughout the year.
Severe storms: Fort Collins can have severe storm events, especially during spring and summer. Hail, heavy rain, and strong winds are common.
Storms can lead to flooding in some areas.
Droughts: Periods of drought can affect Fort Collins, reducing water availability and increasing the risk of wildfires.
Wildfires: Though less frequent directly in Fort Collins, wildfires in nearby areas can impact air quality in the city.
Heat waves: During the summer, Fort Collins can face extremely high temperatures.
For instance, a recent heat wave brought record highs to the city (source).
High Winds: The windiest month in Fort Collins is often February. This period can bring extreme gusts, especially in the mountains and foothills (source).
Cold Temperatures: Freezing temperatures are common in winter, particularly in January, which is typically the coldest month.
Snow and ice can make conditions hazardous.
Winter Storms: Fort Collins also encounters winter storms, with significant snowfall and cold temperatures.
These events can lead to travel disruptions and power outages due to heavy snow and ice.
Best Time of the Year to Visit Fort Collins, Colorado
Fort Collins offers a unique experience each season, with plenty of opportunities for both warm-weather activities and winter fun. From blooming gardens in the spring to snowy winter landscapes, here’s a breakdown of what each season has to offer.
What is Fort Collins, Colorado Like in Spring
Spring in Fort Collins spans from March to May. Daytime temperatures typically range between 50°F and 70°F.
The city begins to see more sunshine, with approximately 237 sunny days annually.
Spring is also a pleasant time to visit the local gardens and parks, as flowers begin to bloom and trees regain their leaves.
Local gardens and parks are also a great place to visit, as flowers begin to bloom and trees regain their leaves.
Rainfall is moderate, averaging around 1.6 inches per month. This makes it suitable for outdoor activities like hiking and biking.
Trails in places like Horsetooth Mountain are particularly scenic during this time. Birdwatching is also popular as many species migrate back to the area.
March can still be a bit chilly, especially in the evenings, but by May, temperatures are more consistently warm. This season is ideal for visitors looking to enjoy outdoor adventures without the summer crowds.
What is Fort Collins, Colorado Like in Summer
Summer in Fort Collins stretches from June to August. This period is characterized by warm to hot weather, with temperatures typically between 85°F and 95°F.
The city experiences around 300 days of sunshine annually, making summer perfect for outdoor activities.
June through August sees minimal rainfall, averaging less than an inch per month.
This dry climate is favorable for camping, hiking, and water sports at Horsetooth Reservoir. The annual tourism score is highest during these months.
Local events and festivals are frequent, adding vibrant cultural experiences to your visit.
Be sure to stay hydrated and carry sun protection, as UV levels can be high during this season.
Accommodations may book up quickly, so it’s wise to plan in advance.
What is Fort Collins, Colorado Like in Fall
Fall in Fort Collins is from September to November. Temperatures gradually decline from the 70s in September to the 50s by November.
This drop makes it a refreshing time to explore the area’s numerous parks and natural spaces.
September’s pleasant weather often extends the period suitable for warm-weather activities.
Rainfall averages around 1.2 inches monthly, making it one of the driest seasons.
Visitors can enjoy clear skies and mild weather ideal for hiking, biking, and attending local fall festivals. The changing foliage also adds a beautiful backdrop to any outdoor adventure.
Crowds are thinner compared to summer, offering a more relaxed experience.
Fall is also a great time to visit the region’s breweries and enjoy seasonal beer events that Fort Collins is famous for.
What is Fort Collins, Colorado Like in Winter
Winter in Fort Collins spans from December to February. Daytime temperatures range from 40°F to 50°F, while nights can dip below freezing.
Snow is common, with the city averaging 48 inches of snowfall annually. This makes it a prime location for winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding in nearby mountains.
Although winters are cold, the city still enjoys many sunny days. This mix allows for outdoor activities like ice skating and winter hiking.
Downtown Fort Collins is beautifully decorated for the holidays, offering a festive atmosphere for visitors.
Accommodations are generally more affordable in winter due to fewer tourists. Warm clothing and gear are essential for staying comfortable during your visit.
Winter is an excellent time to experience Fort Collins without the hustle and bustle of peak tourist seasons.