Joliet, Illinois, located just southwest of Chicago, experiences a humid continental climate. This type of climate features cold winters and warm summers.
The warmest month is July, with average high temperatures reaching 84°F and lows around 64°F. This weather is perfect for outdoor activities and festivals in the city of Joliet.
In contrast, the cold season in Joliet spans from late November to early March. January is the coldest month, with average highs around 29°F and lows at 17°F.
Snow is common during this period, making it a key part of the winter landscape. The average snowfall in January is about 4.33 inches.
Spring and fall bring moderate weather, making these seasons an ideal time to visit Joliet.
For instance, May and September offer pleasant temperatures ranging between 68°F to 79°F, perfect for exploring the region.
Rainfall is spread throughout the year, but May typically sees more precipitation, ensuring lush spring landscapes.
The weather patterns in Joliet make it a city with distinct seasons, each offering its own unique charm.
Average Temperature In Joliet, Illinois
Joliet experiences varied temperatures throughout the year. The hottest month is July, with average highs of 84°F and lows of 64°F.
Conversely, January is the coldest month, with high temperatures averaging 31°F and lows around 17°F.
In May, the average high temperature starts to rise above 74°F, signaling the beginning of the warm season. This trend continues through June, July, and August.
Here is a breakdown of monthly temperatures:
| Month | Average High Temp (°F) | Average Low Temp (°F) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 31 | 17 |
| February | 35 | 20 |
| March | 46 | 28 |
| April | 59 | 39 |
| May | 71 | 50 |
| June | 80 | 60 |
| July | 84 | 64 |
| August | 82 | 63 |
| September | 76 | 55 |
| October | 64 | 43 |
| November | 48 | 33 |
| December | 35 | 21 |
The cold season runs from late November to early March, with average daily high temperatures below 41°F.
The warm season covers late May to mid-September, featuring average daily highs above 74°F.
Average Precipitation In Joliet, Illinois
Joliet, Illinois experiences a range of precipitation throughout the year, with distinct patterns in both rainfall and snowfall.
Average Rainfall In Joliet, Illinois
In Joliet, the yearly rainfall is about 38 inches.
The months of May and June see the highest levels of rain, with an average of 4 to 5 inches each. July usually experiences around 4 inches of rain.
During the fall, September and October receive about 3 inches each.
Winter months like January and February are drier, with rainfall averaging around 2 inches.
Overall, rainfall is fairly well-distributed throughout the year.
Average Snow In Joliet, Illinois
Joliet gets significant snowfall in the winter months. The annual snowfall is around 30 inches with January being the snowiest month. In January, snowfall reaches about 10 inches.
Snow begins to fall in November and continues through March. December and February also have substantial snowfall, averaging between 6 to 8 inches.
Snow and ice conditions are particularly harsh in January.
Average Sun In Joliet, Illinois
Joliet, Illinois experiences a varied amount of sunshine throughout the year. Key points include the daily amount of solar energy and the notable changes in sunrise and sunset times across seasons, as well as the UV index.
Average Daily Shortwave Solar Energy In Joliet, Illinois
The average daily shortwave solar energy in Joliet shows distinct patterns.
During summer, solar energy peaks due to longer days and clearer skies. In July, the peak month, Joliet gets up to 6.22 kWh per square meter per day on average.
In winter, this value drops significantly.
In January, the average is about 1.85 kWh per square meter per day.
Sunrise and sunset times exhibit a noticeable shift, with sunrise as early as 5:20 AM in June and as late as 7:15 AM in December.
Similarly, sunsets range from 8:30 PM in June to 4:30 PM in December.
Graphs and charts often illustrate these changes clearly.
For those planning outdoor activities, understanding the average daily shortwave solar energy and UV index, especially during summer months, is crucial for sun protection and maximizing daylight hours.
Average Humidity In Joliet, Illinois
Joliet, Illinois experiences a range of humidity levels throughout the year.
On average, December is the most humid month with relative humidity reaching 76% (World Weather & Climate Information).
In contrast, the least humid month is May, with an average relative humidity of 64%.
Relative Humidity by Month:
| Month | Average Humidity |
|---|---|
| January | 75% |
| February | 72% |
| March | 69% |
| April | 67% |
| May | 64% |
| June | 66% |
| July | 68% |
| August | 70% |
| September | 71% |
| October | 72% |
| November | 74% |
| December | 76% |
The average annual percentage of humidity in Joliet is around 70%.
Dew points in Joliet fluctuate along with the humidity levels.
During humid months, the air feels more moist and sticky because of higher dew points. In drier months like May, dew points are lower, leading to a more comfortable atmosphere.
Cloud cover also varies with humidity.
Higher humidity often correlates with more cloud cover, leading to overcast skies. Lower humidity usually means clearer skies and more sunshine.
Average Wind In Joliet, Illinois
The average wind speed in Joliet, Illinois varies throughout the year. Wind speeds typically increase during the fall and spring months, while summer and winter tend to have calmer winds.
The windiest month in Joliet is March, with average wind speeds reaching up to 17 mph.
In contrast, July tends to have the calmest winds, with an average speed of about 10 mph.
Wind speed is an important factor for various outdoor activities. On average, annual wind speeds range from 10 mph to 17 mph.
A table summarizing the average wind speeds in key months:
| Month | Average Wind Speed (mph) |
|---|---|
| January | 15.5 |
| March | 17 |
| July | 10 |
| October | 14.5 |
Average Air Quality In Joliet, Illinois
Joliet, Illinois generally experiences good air quality. Based on recent data, the Air Quality Index (AQI) often falls within the “Good” category, indicating minimal risk for outdoor activities.
Throughout the year, the AQI in Joliet ranges from “Good” to “Moderate.”
On some days, the AQI can go up to 58, which falls under “Moderate.” This means that while some pollutants are present, they are not at a level significant enough to affect most people’s health.
Historical Data Points
- June 23: AQI 22, Good, Temperature: 86°F, Wind: 8.9 mph
- June 25: AQI 21, Good, Temperature: 82.4°F, Wind: 11.2 mph
- July 21: AQI 58, Moderate, Temperature: 78.8°F, Wind: 10.0 mph
Pollutants and Their Levels
PM2.5: This is the primary pollutant in Joliet and often determines the AQI.
PM2.5 levels are within safe limits most of the time but can occasionally rise to moderate levels.
Weather Impact on Air Quality
Joliet’s weather, including factors like temperature and wind, can impact air quality.
For instance, on days with higher temperatures and low wind speeds, air quality can slightly deteriorate. Wind helps disperse pollutants, improving the AQI.
Visibility and Air Pressure
Visibility in Joliet is usually clear and unaffected by air quality.
Air pressure patterns in Joliet are typical for the region and have a minor impact on daily air quality levels.
For more detailed and real-time air quality updates in Joliet, check out IQAir.
This helps residents stay informed and make better choices for outdoor activities.
Topography Of Joliet, Illinois
Joliet, Illinois, is situated at approximately 41.5250° N latitude and 88.0817° W longitude.
It spans areas in Will County and Kendall County.
The average elevation of Joliet is 645 feet (197 meters) above sea level.
This makes it relatively flat, with slight variations in elevation across different parts of the city.
Elevation Details
- The highest point in the city reaches around 680 feet.
- The lowest areas dip to around 600 feet.
Historical Context
The topography of Joliet has been shaped significantly by glacial activity in the past.
The city’s gently rolling plains are characteristic of the region, which was once covered by glaciers.
New Lenox, a nearby area within Will County, shares similar topographic features and has an average elevation of around 685 feet.
More detailed maps of Joliet and its surrounding areas can be found through topographic maps that highlight the terrain and elevation, such as this one.
Terrain and Features
Joliet mostly features inland plains, slightly rolling hills, and modest elevation changes.
The city includes parks and nature reserves which provide green space and natural scenery for residents.
The Des Plaines River runs through Joliet, adding to the city’s varied landscape and influencing the surrounding land.
Key Locations
- Goodings Grove Park: Approximately 715 feet elevation.
- Beecher: Near Joliet, with an elevation averaging 600 feet.
Residents and visitors can visually explore these elevations and get a better sense of the layout by referring to interactive topographic maps such as those available here.
Extreme Weather Events That Occur In Joliet, Illinois
Joliet, Illinois experiences various extreme weather events throughout the year.
Thunderstorms are a common occurrence, especially in the summer.
These storms can bring heavy rain, wind, lightning, and sometimes hail.
For example, a recent storm damaged the Illinois Rock and Roll Museum and left roadways blocked.
You can learn more about the music venue damage and roadblocks caused by this storm.
Hailstorms can also pose significant risks.
Hailstones, varying in size from small pellets to larger chunks, can cause property damage and pose safety hazards. Joliet often sees hail during severe thunderstorms.
Tornadoes are another potential threat.
While not as frequent as thunderstorms, tornadoes can cause widespread destruction. Residents need to stay alert during tornado warnings and take appropriate safety measures.
In winter, Joliet can experience heavy snowstorms.
These storms can lead to road closures and hazardous driving conditions. Snow accumulation can range from a few inches to over a foot in severe cases.
Flooding is also a concern, particularly during heavy rainfall.
Thunderstorms and rapid snowmelt can cause rivers and drainage systems to overflow, leading to flooded streets and basements.
Keeping an eye on weather advisories and being prepared for these events is crucial for residents. For current weather advisories in Joliet, visit AccuWeather.
Best Time Of The Year To Visit Joliet, Illinois
Joliet, Illinois offers a range of experiences through its distinct four seasons. Visitors can explore the city in different ways depending on the time of year, each with its unique weather and activities.
What Is Joliet, Illinois Like In Spring
Spring in Joliet, Illinois spans from March to May.
During this season, temperatures gradually rise from the low 40s to the high 60s (°F).
The city experiences blooming flowers and green landscapes, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities like hiking and visiting local parks.
Rainfall is common in spring, with an average of 3-4 inches per month.
This can mean occasional wet days, so packing an umbrella is advisable.
Spring festivals and events start to pop up around the city, offering a taste of local culture and cuisine.
Visitors can enjoy the pleasant weather before the heat of summer sets in.
What Is Joliet, Illinois Like In Summer
Summer in Joliet, Illinois runs from June to September.
This is the warmest season, with daily high temperatures often exceeding 80°F, peaking in July with highs around 84°F and lows about 64°F.
Summer is a popular time for tourists due to the warm and sunny weather.
Outdoor activities such as picnics, boating, and concerts are common.
Rain is less frequent, averaging around 3 inches per month.
Though it can be hot, the evenings are usually cooler and more comfortable.
Festivals, fairs, and outdoor markets are prevalent, making it a vibrant time to visit.
What Is Joliet, Illinois Like In Fall
Fall in Joliet, Illinois extends from September to November.
Temperatures drop from the 70s in early September to the 40s by November, creating a cool and comfortable atmosphere.
The city features beautiful fall foliage, making it perfect for scenic drives and nature walks.
Rainfall is moderate, averaging around 2-3 inches per month.
Fall is also a time for harvest festivals and Halloween events, adding a festive feel to the city.
It’s an excellent season for those looking to experience a quieter, more relaxed visit with cooler temperatures and fewer tourists.
What Is Joliet, Illinois Like In Winter
Winter in Joliet, Illinois lasts from December to February. It is the coldest season, with temperatures often dropping below freezing.
January is the harshest month, with averages around 17°F and significant snowfall, up to 4.33 inches.
Cold weather activities such as ice skating and indoor events are popular during this time. The city is quieter in winter, making it suitable for visitors who prefer fewer crowds.
Snow-covered landscapes offer picturesque views, though travelers should be prepared for cold and icy conditions.
Winter in Joliet can be a magical time, but it requires warm clothing and a readiness for winter weather.
Visitors can enjoy the city’s winter charm if they are prepared for the cold temperatures and snow.