Salt Lake City, Utah, boasts a diverse climate characterized by four distinct seasons.
Summers are warm, with temperatures peaking in July. During this time, the average high reaches 92°F and occasionally dips to a cool 66°F at night. This period, from June to September, is when the city experiences the most sunshine and soaring temperatures.
The cold season spans from November to February, bringing chilly days and frigid nights. During this period, average daily high temperatures drop below 47°F, and winter temperatures can fall to an average low of 21°F in December. With winter also comes increased snowfall, especially in December, averaging about 2.68 inches.
Year-round, the city’s weather is influenced by its unique geographical location in the northern hemisphere. On average, Salt Lake City enjoys about 3059 hours of sunshine annually and experiences 88 days of precipitation. These climate patterns make it a fascinating place to observe the dynamic interplay between seasonal shifts and daily weather. For detailed climate data, visit Climate and Average Weather Year Round in Salt Lake City.
Average Temperature in Salt Lake City, Utah
Salt Lake City experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year.
During the hot season, which lasts from June 9 to September 12, average daily highs exceed 81°F. July stands out as the hottest month, with highs around 92°F and lows around 66°F.
In contrast, the cold season spans from November 21 to February 24. During this time, the city sees average daily highs below 46°F. January is the coldest month, with average highs near 37°F and lows around 23°F.
Monthly Average Highs and Lows
| Month | Average High | Average Low |
|---|---|---|
| January | 37°F | 23°F |
| April | 61°F | 39°F |
| July | 92°F | 66°F |
| October | 64°F | 43°F |
| December | 37°F | 23°F |
Salt Lake City also experiences varying temperatures between different years. For instance, from 1992 to 2021, the highest recorded temperature was 94°F.
Understanding temperature variations helps residents and visitors prepare for the city’s diverse weather conditions.
Average Precipitation in Salt Lake City, Utah
Salt Lake City experiences varied precipitation throughout the year, with distinct patterns in rainfall and snowfall. This city sees precipitation in both rain and snow forms, significantly influenced by the season.
Average Rainfall in Salt Lake City, Utah
Rainfall in Salt Lake City is distributed unevenly across the year. The wettest month is May, which typically sees about 1.8 inches of rain. On average, Salt Lake City receives about 1.28 inches of rainfall per month.
Rainfall tends to be higher during the spring months and tapers off during the summer, with August often seeing less rain than other months. The decreased summer rainfall is offset by slightly higher precipitation in September and October. Spring and fall are characterized by moderate rains, making these seasons more humid than summer.
Average Snow in Salt Lake City, Utah
Snowfall is a significant component of Salt Lake City’s total precipitation, particularly from November to March. The city averages about 56 inches of snow annually. January is usually the snowiest month, with about 12 inches of snow.
Snow begins to fall in late October or early November, reaching its peak in January. It then starts to taper off in February and March. The cold season also includes days with light snow and occasional heavy snowstorms, making the winter months distinct and impactful in terms of total snowfall. This snowy period contributes greatly to the city’s total winter precipitation.
Average Sun in Salt Lake City, Utah
Salt Lake City experiences a significant amount of sunshine throughout the year, making it a sunny destination. The sun’s rays reach the ground frequently, and there are many days with mainly clear skies.
Average Daily Shortwave Solar Energy in Salt Lake City, Utah
The city receives an average of 12 hours and 12 minutes of sunlight each day. This means that the sun is a significant feature of life in Salt Lake City, often making the weather bright and cheerful.
On average, the sun’s rays reach the ground during 66 percent of daylight hours. This translates to about 2490 hours of sunshine annually. Typically, the sky is mainly clear on 125 days a year, with at most 30 percent cloud cover.
Overall, Salt Lake City’s climate is sunny, with plenty of sunlight throughout the year. This abundance of sunshine makes many days ideal for outdoor activities and enjoying the city’s beautiful landscapes.
Average Humidity in Salt Lake City, Utah
Salt Lake City, Utah, experiences varying humidity levels throughout the year. Relative humidity measures the actual amount of moisture in the air as a percentage of the maximum amount of moisture the air can hold.
In December, the most humid month, the average humidity is around 75%. In contrast, July has the lowest humidity at approximately 36% (World Weather & Climate).
The average annual humidity in Salt Lake City is about 56% (World Weather & Climate). This can fluctuate significantly depending on the season and weather conditions.
| Month | Average Humidity (%) |
|---|---|
| January | 68% |
| February | 63% |
| March | 57% |
| April | 50% |
| May | 44% |
| June | 38% |
| July | 36% |
| August | 38% |
| September | 43% |
| October | 51% |
| November | 61% |
| December | 75% |
During the winter months, the dew point rises, reaching its highest level in December, when it averages 34°F (Time and Date). This is due to the increased moisture and colder temperatures.
The daily high temperature during the hot season, from June to September, remains above 81°F. This is when the air feels drier despite higher temperatures (Weather Spark).
Average Wind in Salt Lake City, Utah
Salt Lake City experiences a variety of wind patterns throughout the year. The average wind speed varies depending on the season.
In summer, the winds are generally calm. From June to August, wind speeds average around 5 to 10 mph. Winters see stronger winds, particularly in December and January, with speeds often reaching 10 to 15 mph.
The windiest month in Salt Lake City is usually April. During this time, the winds can rise to an average speed of 12 mph. This can sometimes result in gusts that are higher, especially in the afternoons.
Wind patterns also influence the weather conditions. During some parts of the year, the winds can bring cooler temperatures, especially from the northwest. In spring and fall, winds can create dynamic weather changes, sometimes bringing in cold fronts or even influencing snowfall.
While specific wind events and speeds can vary, it’s safe to say that understanding the typical wind patterns can help residents and visitors prepare better for their time in Salt Lake City.
For more information on wind patterns, you can check various articles related to wind to get detailed insights.
Wind speeds and directions are essential for many activities, including aviation and outdoor sports. Knowing when and where the wind is strongest can make a big difference in planning activities or travels.
Average Air Quality in Salt Lake City, Utah
In Salt Lake City, air quality varies significantly throughout the year.
The Air Quality Index (AQI) fluctuates seasonally. In 2019, the highest AQI levels were recorded in December (60), January (57), and November (39). On the contrary, June, May, and April had the cleanest air with AQI readings of 10, 10, and 11 respectively.
| Month | AQI Value |
|---|---|
| December | 60 |
| January | 57 |
| November | 39 |
| June | 10 |
| May | 10 |
| April | 11 |
Salt Lake City’s air pollution can be impacted by geography and climate. Due to its valley location, pollutants can become trapped, especially during winter months when temperature inversions are common.
From 2016 to 2018, the city experienced an average of 25.7 days with unhealthy ozone levels and 11.5 days with unhealthy PM2.5 levels annually. These pollutants can affect visibility and health, particularly during peak periods.
Despite periodic poor air quality, many days still fall within the “good” range, meaning an AQI of 0 to 50. Monitoring and taking precautions on days with high pollution levels can help residents manage their health and activities.
For more details on current air quality, the Salt Lake City Air Quality Index provides real-time updates. This helps individuals plan their day and make healthier lifestyle choices by staying informed.
Topography of Salt Lake City, Utah
Salt Lake City, the capital of Utah, is located at a latitude of 40.76°N and a longitude of 111.89°W.
The city covers 110.4 square miles (286 km²) and has an average elevation of 4,327 feet (1,319 meters) above sea level.
The lowest point is near the Jordan River and the Great Salt Lake, at about 4,210 feet (1,280 meters). The highest point within the city is higher, but specific details vary by source.
Key Elevations:
- Average: 4,327 feet
- Lowest Point: 4,210 feet
- Location: Near Jordan River & Great Salt Lake
Salt Lake City sits in a valley, which influences its unique weather patterns.
The terrain includes both low elevations and notable high points, making the city diverse in topography.
The mountains surrounding the city contribute to its scenic views and recreational opportunities.
The Salt Lake City International Airport is also situated within this valley and shares similar elevation characteristics.
These unique geographic features influence everything from weather to travel and recreation.
For those looking to explore topographic maps, the Utah Geological Survey provides detailed resources.
Extreme Weather Events that Occur in Salt Lake City, Utah
Salt Lake City experiences a wide range of extreme weather events.
During the winter months, temperatures can fall well below freezing. The coldest month is usually January, with average lows around 21°F.
Some winters, like the winter of 1948-49, are particularly brutal, with frigid conditions causing significant impacts on daily life and local wildlife.
Heavy snowfall is another common extreme weather condition. Salt Lake City averages about 56 inches of snow per year.
Snowstorms can cause major disruptions, from school closures to traffic accidents. For example, the Bingham Canyon avalanche in 1926 was the deadliest, taking the lives of 14 people.
Summers can bring very hot weather. The hottest month is typically July, with average highs reaching up to 92°F.
In some years, temperatures soar even higher. In August 2024, temperatures hit an extreme high, reaching 115°F in southern Utah, pushing St. George and Zion Canyon to their yearly peaks.
Occasionally, Salt Lake City encounters rare weather events like tornadoes. In August 1999, an unexpected tornado struck downtown, killing one person and injuring 80 others.
Consistent dry spells and periods of significant drought also affect the region.
The Great Salt Lake is drying out, leading to environmental concerns and increased carbon dioxide emissions. This phenomenon is causing profound changes in the local ecosystem.
Best Time of the Year to Visit Salt Lake City, Utah
Choosing the ideal time to visit Salt Lake City depends on your interests. The city offers bright spring blooms, hot summer sunshine, colorful fall foliage, and snowy winter adventures.
What Is Salt Lake City, Utah Like in Spring
Spring in Salt Lake City spans from March to May. During this time, temperatures typically range from 40°F to 70°F, making it a comfortable season for outdoor activities.
The snow begins to melt, and the city’s parks and gardens come to life with blooming flowers and greenery.
Spring is perfect for hiking in the nearby canyons like Big Cottonwood Canyon and enjoying scenic drives.
Events such as the Utah Arts Festival and spring concerts attract visitors. Rain is also more common, averaging around 1.5 inches to 2 inches per month, so packing a light rain jacket is advisable.
What Is Salt Lake City, Utah Like in Summer
Summer in Salt Lake City, from June to August, brings hot weather with temperatures often between 60°F and 90°F. July and August are the warmest months, with occasional temperatures climbing above 100°F.
Despite the heat, summer is a popular time for tourists. This season offers many outdoor activities such as boating on the Great Salt Lake, visiting local farmers’ markets, and exploring nearby national parks.
Summer thunderstorms are frequent, bringing brief relief from the heat but also contributing to about 1 inch of rain per month.
Crowds can be heavy at popular attractions, so it’s best to plan visits during weekdays if possible.
What Is Salt Lake City, Utah Like in Fall
Fall, from September to November, is a beautiful time to visit Salt Lake City.
Temperatures drop from 70°F in September to around 50°F in November. The fall colors are breathtaking, especially in the canyons and nearby mountains.
Tourist numbers dwindle after Labor Day, making it easier to find accommodations and enjoy the city’s attractions without the crowds.
Fall is ideal for activities like hiking, mountain biking, and visiting local wineries.
Rainfall is relatively low, averaging around 1 inch per month, making it comfortable for most outdoor adventures.
This season is also known for harvest festivals and other local events celebrating the autumn harvest.
What Is Salt Lake City, Utah Like in Winter
Winter runs from December to February. It is a magical time in Salt Lake City, especially for winter sports enthusiasts.
January is usually the coldest month, with temperatures ranging from 20°F to 40°F.
Salt Lake City is famous for its snow, earning it the nickname “Ski City.” The nearby mountains boast some of the best skiing and snowboarding conditions in the United States. Resorts like Alta and Snowbird attract visitors from all over.
While it can snow frequently, the city itself usually gets a few inches accumulation. Snowfall averages about 50 inches annually. The winter months also host festive events and activities like ice skating and holiday markets.