Meridian, Idaho, offers a diverse climate throughout the year, making it an interesting place for weather enthusiasts.
In this city, the hot season lasts for almost three months, from June 13 to September 10, with daily highs averaging above 81°F.
The hottest month in Meridian is July, which sees average highs of 91°F and lows of 60°F.
On the other hand, Meridian experiences a cold season lasting about three months, from November 18 to February 19, where daily highs stay below 47°F.
During the entire year, the area receives precipitation for roughly 82 days, resulting in about 12.48 inches of rain.
This balanced mix of hot summers and cold winters offers a unique experience for visitors and residents alike.
With 211 sunny days per year, Meridian enjoys more sunshine than the US average. Such weather conditions make it an attractive destination for those seeking varied seasonal experiences.
These patterns and long-term averages help paint a clear picture of what to expect when living or visiting Meridian, a gem in the northern hemisphere.
Average Temperature in Meridian, Idaho
Meridian, Idaho experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year.
Summer is marked by high temperatures reaching an average of 91°F in July, the hottest month.
Nights in summer see lows around 60°F.
Winter brings colder weather. December is the coldest month with an average low of 25°F and a high of 37°F.
The cold season lasts from mid-November to mid-February with daily highs below 47°F.
The average annual temperatures are as follows:
| Month | High (°F) | Low (°F) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 37 | 25 |
| February | 43 | 28 |
| March | 54 | 35 |
| April | 63 | 41 |
| May | 71 | 48 |
| June | 82 | 55 |
| July | 91 | 60 |
| August | 89 | 59 |
| September | 78 | 50 |
| October | 64 | 40 |
| November | 48 | 30 |
| December | 37 | 25 |
The mean temperature throughout the year is about 53°F.
Daytime temperatures can vary significantly from night time, contributing to perceived temperatures that fluctuate.
During the day, temperatures can rise notably, while nights cool down, providing a broad temperature range.
Rainfall and humidity levels also play roles in how the temperature is felt through different seasons.
Average Precipitation in Meridian, Idaho
Meridian, Idaho experiences relatively low levels of precipitation throughout the year.
Rainfall is spread unevenly, with the driest months occurring in the summer and the wettest months in winter.
Average Rainfall in Meridian, Idaho
The average annual rainfall in Meridian is around 10.4 inches.
Most of the rain falls during the cooler months, with December being the wettest month, averaging 1.7 inches of rain.
Summer months, particularly June through August, are much drier, often receiving less than 0.5 inches per month.
This low level of rainfall means that Meridian has long dry periods.
For example, the city often sees almost no rain in July and August. Consistent dry spells are typical, especially during the summer.
Average Snow in Meridian, Idaho
Snowfall in Meridian is also modest. The city averages about 10.9 inches of snow per year.
December often sees the most snow, with approximately 4.9 inches falling throughout the month.
Snow can also be expected from November through February, with each month contributing to the total snowfall.
Unlike rain, snow tends to accumulate on the ground, impacting daily activities.
The snow and ice conditions can sometimes make travel difficult, especially during peak winter months.
Snowfall is generally light to moderate, which means it clears fairly quickly.
Average Sun in Meridian, Idaho
Meridian, Idaho, experiences a variety of sun exposure throughout the year, influenced by daylight, cloud cover, and other factors. This section breaks down the key aspects of sun patterns in Meridian.
Average Daily Shortwave Solar Energy in Meridian, Idaho
The amount of daily shortwave solar energy varies by season.
During summer, Meridian enjoys clear skies with minimal cloud cover. This results in high levels of solar energy, averaging 6.96 kWh per square meter per day in July.
In contrast, cloud cover increases during the winter, reducing daily solar energy to about 1.44 kWh per square meter in December.
The changing hours of sun and twilight periods also affect how much energy is absorbed.
UV index data reveals that summer months have higher values, often reaching extreme levels, which underscores the need for sun protection.
The winter months see much lower UV levels. These variations are crucial for planning outdoor activities and understanding the climate of Meridian.
To explore more data on solar energy in Meridian, visit this resource.
Average Humidity in Meridian, Idaho
Humidity in Meridian, Idaho varies throughout the year.
The average humidity levels are generally comfortable, with some fluctuations during the different seasons.
Winter months often see higher humidity due to cooler temperatures. December and January often have the highest readings.
In contrast, the summer months bring lower humidity, making the heat more bearable.
Here’s a simple breakdown of average humidity by season:
- Winter: Higher humidity, often around 75%-80%
- Spring: Moderate humidity, around 60%-70%
- Summer: Lower humidity, typically between 30%-40%
- Fall: Increasing humidity, around 50%-60%
Dew point is another critical measure. It indicates how comfortable the air feels. Lower dew points mean drier air.
In Meridian:
- Winter dew points can reach around 30°F
- Summer dew points hover around 50°F
Understanding these trends helps residents plan their daily activities.
Higher humidity in winter can make the cold feel harsher. Conversely, lower summer humidity means dry heat.
For more detailed monthly averages, you can refer to the climate and weather data.
Average Wind in Meridian, Idaho
Meridian, Idaho experiences varying wind patterns throughout the year.
Wind speed tends to be moderate, with occasional gusts.
Monthly Wind Speed:
- January: Average wind speed around 7 mph
- March: Slight increase to 8 mph
- July: Calmer with an average of 6 mph
- October: Wind returns to about 7 mph
The windiest month tends to be March.
During this time, winds can occasionally reach higher speeds, peaking at around 10-12 mph.
Wind Direction
- Winter Months: Predominantly from the north and northwest
- Spring and Summer: Generally from the southwest
- Fall: Shifts back to northwest direction
These changes in wind direction are typical and align with seasonal weather patterns.
Throughout the year, wind conditions in Meridian are suitable for various outdoor activities. The consistency of the wind speeds makes planning easier for both residents and visitors.
Average Air Quality in Meridian, Idaho
The air quality in Meridian, Idaho, is generally good, but it can fluctuate due to local factors like seasonal changes and nearby wildfires.
Based on recent data, the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Meridian usually ranges from “Good” to “Moderate.”
For instance, specific monitoring locations such as West Carlton Avenue and St. Luke’s Meridian often show varying AQI levels.
Here is a snapshot of AQI values in Meridian from IQAir:
| Location | AQI Value | Description |
|---|---|---|
| West Carlton Avenue | 29 | Good |
| St. Luke’s Meridian | 40 | Good |
The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality provides real-time air quality updates to help residents keep track of pollution levels.
Seasonal factors, such as agricultural activities and wildfires, can affect air quality.
For example, during wildfire season, AQI may rise, impacting overall air conditions.
Residents should stay updated on current air quality forecasts through sites like AccuWeather and IQAir.
When air quality is good, visibility is typically high, and pressure conditions are stable.
But during poorer air quality periods, visibility can decrease, and certain health advisories may be issued.
Topography of Meridian, Idaho
Meridian, Idaho is situated in the Treasure Valley near Boise. The city lies at an elevation of about 2,600 feet above sea level.
Landscape Features:
- Flat Plains: Meridian’s landscape is mostly flat plains.
- Foothills: The nearby Boise Foothills offer some elevation change and scenic views.
- Rivers and Streams: The city is close to the Boise River, which flows to the north.
Geographical Coordinates:
- Latitude: 43.6121° N
- Longitude: 116.3915° W
Meridian’s topography makes it ideal for agriculture, with fertile soil supporting various crops. Residential and commercial developments are expanding, blending urban and rural elements.
Residents and visitors enjoy outdoor activities, with many parks and green spaces throughout the city.
The flat terrain also makes biking and walking popular. The proximity to the foothills provides opportunities for hiking and nature exploration.
Extreme Weather Events that Occur in Meridian, Idaho
Meridian, Idaho experiences a variety of extreme weather conditions throughout the year. These events can sometimes pose risks and challenges for the residents.
Heatwaves
During the summer, Meridian often faces intense heatwaves.
Temperatures can soar above 100°F, making it crucial for people to stay hydrated and avoid sun exposure during peak hours.
For instance, temperatures as high as 108°F have been recorded.
Winter Storms
Winter in Meridian can bring significant snowstorms.
These storms can result in heavy snowfall, which impacts travel and daily routines.
Accumulations of several inches in a short period are not uncommon, leading to school closures and hazardous driving conditions.
Hail
Hailstorms are another extreme weather event that can occur.
Hailstones can vary in size but can cause considerable damage to property and crops.
Vehicles and roofs are particularly vulnerable during these hail occurrences.
Wildfires
Dry conditions and high temperatures during the summer can lead to wildfires.
These fires can spread rapidly, especially in areas with dense vegetation.
Wildfires not only lead to air quality issues due to smoke, but can also prompt evacuations.
Thunderstorms
Meridian also faces occasional severe thunderstorms.
These storms can bring heavy rainfall, lightning, strong winds, and even tornadoes.
Lightning strikes and strong winds during these storms can lead to power outages and fallen trees.
Residents are advised to stay informed about weather alerts and to take necessary precautions during these extreme weather events.
For real-time updates, the National Weather Service provides reliable information.
Best Time of the Year to Visit Meridian, Idaho
The best time to visit Meridian, Idaho depends on your preference for weather and activities.
Summers are warm and sunny while winters can be cold but dry. Spring and fall offer mild temperatures.
What is Meridian, Idaho Like in Spring
Spring in Meridian starts in March and extends through May.
March can be cool with daytime highs around 54°F and lows near 33°F.
By April, temperatures rise, with highs reaching 63°F and lows around 39°F.
May features even warmer days, with nearly 73°F highs and 46°F lows.
Rainfall is moderate, making spring a good time for outdoor activities.
Flowers start to bloom, and parks become more vibrant. It’s an ideal period for hiking and exploring local trails.
What is Meridian, Idaho Like in Summer
Summer in Meridian spans from June through August.
July is the hottest month, with average high temperatures around 91°F and lows near 60°F.
June is slightly cooler, with highs averaging 81°F. By August, the weather remains warm with highs close to 88°F.
Rainfall is minimal, often totaling less than an inch per month.
The long sunny days are perfect for barbecues, swimming, and outdoor festivals. Visitors enjoy the numerous parks and recreational areas.
What is Meridian, Idaho Like in Fall
Fall from September to November brings a cool-down from the summer heat.
September sees highs around 79°F and lows near 50°F.
October temperatures drop further to around 65°F during the day and 40°F at night.
November gets colder, with highs averaging 50°F and lows near 30°F.
Fall is characterized by colorful foliage and crisp air.
It’s a popular time for visiting pumpkin patches and apple orchards. Light rain can occur but usually doesn’t interfere with outdoor plans.
What is Meridian, Idaho Like in Winter
Winter extends from December through February, with average high temperatures below 47°F.
January is typically the coldest month, with highs around 37°F and lows near 24°F.
December and February have similar cold conditions, with day temperatures ranging between 35°F and 46°F.
Snow is minimal, usually just a few inches per season, but nights can be quite cold.
Winter activities include ice skating and holiday festivals.
Most days are dry, making winter sports and indoor activities enjoyable.