San Bernardino, located in California, boasts a climate that varies throughout the year but generally tends to be mild.
In August, the warmest month, water temperatures average around 69°F. This makes it a great time for water activities.
In contrast, the coolest water temperatures are found in February, averaging below 61°F.
The temperatures in San Bernardino see a wide range, influenced by its subtropical climate.
The coldest month is January, with average temperatures around 54°F.
Summers can get quite hot, providing a stark difference from the milder winters.
This variation makes planning a visit or deciding what to wear an important consideration.
San Bernardino benefits from long daylight hours, especially in June, offering about 14 hours and 24 minutes of daylight.
While snow is rare, occurring on average only 0.1 days a year, the overall climate remains inviting.
This city provides a balanced and temperate environment throughout the year, making it a comfortable place for residents and visitors alike.
Average Temperature in San Bernardino, California
San Bernardino experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year.
January tends to be the coldest month, with average lows reaching about 44.6°F. During this month, highs are typically around 62.2°F.
In contrast, August is known as the hottest month. Average high temperatures in August climb to about 79.1°F.
The chart below shows a breakdown of average high and low temperatures by month in San Bernardino:
| Month | Average High (°F) | Average Low (°F) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 62.2 | 44.6 |
| February | 63.3 | 45.3 |
| March | 66.2 | 48.4 |
| April | 70.6 | 52.5 |
| May | 75.8 | 57.8 |
| June | 82.2 | 63.6 |
| July | 87.2 | 68.0 |
| August | 79.1 | 67.8 |
| September | 83.6 | 64.3 |
| October | 77.0 | 56.8 |
| November | 68.5 | 48.5 |
| December | 62.0 | 44.8 |
February sees the coldest temperatures with waters cooler than 61°F.
Throughout the year, temperatures in San Bernardino can vary greatly, but the climate remains relatively mild compared to other regions. The warmest and coldest points make it possible to enjoy a variety of activities year-round.
Average Precipitation in San Bernardino, California
San Bernardino experiences varied precipitation throughout the year. The city has relatively dry months with minimal rainfall and occasional rain during wetter months.
While snow is almost nonexistent, the little snow that does fall is significant for the area’s climate.
Average Rainfall in San Bernardino, California
San Bernardino’s average annual rainfall is about 15 inches. The wettest month is typically February, experiencing around 3 inches of rain.
The city’s driest month is usually July, with no notable rainfall.
During the wet season, from November to March, San Bernardino sees more consistent rain. The city might experience around 4-6 rainy days each month during this period.
Such a moderate amount of rain helps maintain the region’s semi-arid climate without causing frequent flooding or excessive wet conditions.
Average Snow in San Bernardino, California
Snowfall in San Bernardino is rare. On average, the city records about 0.1 days of snow per year.
When it does snow, it’s often light and melts quickly. The city’s low elevation and warm climate do not favor heavy snowfall.
The rare instances of snow usually occur in December or January. These months can occasionally see a light dusting that does not accumulate significantly.
For those interested in snow and ice information, articles may provide additional insights into how snow affects various regions.
Average Sun in San Bernardino, California
San Bernardino experiences a good amount of sunshine throughout the year, which affects daily activities and energy usage patterns. The city enjoys a significant amount of daylight, especially during the summer months.
Average Daily Shortwave Solar Energy in San Bernardino, California
San Bernardino gets plenty of sunlight, especially in June, which is the brightest month of the year. During this month, the city averages around 8.6 kWh of energy from the sun per square meter per day.
From November to early February, San Bernardino sees the darker period of the year. The daily shortwave solar energy drops to below 4.1 kWh per square meter.
The month with the least amount of sunlight is December, with an average daily incident shortwave energy of 3.1 kWh per square meter.
Residents can expect longer daylight hours and more sunshine in the summer, which can be useful for planning outdoor activities and energy conservation.
Average Humidity in San Bernardino, California
San Bernardino experiences varying humidity levels throughout the year.
During the summer months, humidity can be quite low, often falling below 50%. This is typical for many regions in California, where dry conditions prevail during the hotter months.
In contrast, winter months see higher humidity levels. December and January often experience the highest humidity, often exceeding 70%.
Monthly Average Humidity in San Bernardino:
| Month | Average Humidity (%) |
|---|---|
| January | 71 |
| February | 68 |
| March | 65 |
| April | 60 |
| May | 58 |
| June | 54 |
| July | 50 |
| August | 49 |
| September | 55 |
| October | 60 |
| November | 65 |
| December | 70 |
The dew point also shows seasonal variation. In the summer, it tends to be lower, leading to drier air. Winter months have higher dew points, making the air feel more humid.
Cloud cover impacts perceived humidity. San Bernardino usually has clearer skies in the summer, contributing to lower humidity. Cloudier winter skies often mean higher humidity levels.
Average Wind in San Bernardino, California
San Bernardino has varied wind conditions throughout the year. This section will cover key details about the average wind speeds and trends.
Average Wind Speed
The average wind speed in San Bernardino is typically around 4.5 mph. This can fluctuate depending on the season and specific weather patterns.
Wind Patterns by Season
During spring and summer, winds can be slightly stronger. Fall and winter often see calmer winds.
Windiest Month
April is considered the windiest month of the year. Wind speeds during this month can reach up to 5 mph.
Influence on Weather
Wind can have a significant impact on daily weather. It can influence temperature changes, bring in different air masses, and affect the local UV Index.
Wind Direction
Winds often blow from the west. This consistency helps in planning outdoor activities as knowing the wind direction can be crucial.
Useful Summary Table
| Month | Average Wind Speed (mph) |
|---|---|
| January | 4.0 |
| April | 5.0 |
| July | 4.2 |
| October | 4.3 |
Average Air Quality in San Bernardino, California
San Bernardino, California, experiences various air quality levels throughout the year.
PM2.5 (particulate matter) levels and weather conditions influence day-to-day air quality.
Air quality in San Bernardino can generally be categorized under the “Moderate” range according to the San Bernardino Air Quality Index.
Historical data indicates that a significant portion of the year experiences moderate air quality. For example, in 2020, about 32% of days fell into the “Moderate” category.
Monthly Breakdown
- January: Mostly moderate air quality.
- August: Mixed days with moderate and occasionally unhealthy levels.
- December: Often sees improved air quality.
Air quality in different parts of the city can vary.
San Bernardino – 4th Street typically shows moderate readings, while sites like Pumalo St East and Sterling have varied reports.
| Month | PM2.5 Levels (μg/m³) | Status |
|---|---|---|
| January | 12-35 | Moderate |
| March | 15-38 | Moderate |
| June | 10-30 | Good to Moderate |
| September | 17-39 | Moderate |
| November | 18-40 | Moderate |
Weather elements like pressure and visibility also impact air quality conditions.
San Bernardino often experiences changes in atmospheric pressure, affecting pollution dispersion.
Finally, throughout the year, visibility in San Bernardino can be reduced during increased pollution periods. This affects daily activities and planning.
For more details on real-time data and historical trends, refer to AccuWeather’s Air Quality Index.
Topography of San Bernardino, California
San Bernardino, California, sits at various elevations, contributing to its unique topography. The city’s altitude ranges significantly, from 846 feet to 6,250 feet above sea level. This variation creates diverse landscapes and affects weather patterns.
The San Bernardino Mountains to the north and east are key features.
These mountains rise sharply, offering opportunities for hiking and viewing scenic vistas. They also impact the local climate by creating a rain shadow effect, which leads to drier conditions on the leeward side.
San Bernardino itself features a mix of flat valleys and rugged hills.
The average elevation in the city is about 2,172 feet. The terrain includes urban areas, natural open spaces, and agricultural zones.
Nearby, the Santa Ana River flows through the region, influencing the area’s geography and providing essential water resources. The river’s presence adds to the diverse habitats found in San Bernardino.
Despite being inland, the region’s topography is influenced by its proximity to the Pacific Ocean.
Coastal breezes often travel through gaps in the mountains, moderating temperatures, especially during hot summer months.
Topographic maps of San Bernardino show detailed elevation changes and terrain features, making it easier to understand the area’s physical layout.
These maps highlight the contrast between the flat valley floors and the steep mountain slopes.
San Bernardino’s topography plays a critical role in its natural beauty, outdoor recreation opportunities, and overall climate patterns.
Extreme Weather Events That Occur in San Bernardino, California
San Bernardino, California, experiences a range of extreme weather events due to its geographical location. These events can affect daily life, infrastructure, and natural environments.
Heavy Rain and Flooding
Heavy rainstorms occur, especially during the winter months.
For instance, on December 31, 1909, a storm brought 4.23 inches of rain, causing significant flooding in areas like Lytle Creek and the Santa Ana River. This led to severe damage and isolation of Colton.
Extreme Heat
San Bernardino is also subject to extreme heat, particularly in the summer. Record-high temperatures have been documented.
For example, desert climate sites, including Palm Springs, experienced their hottest June on record with temperatures averaging around 93.5°F to 91.7°F.
Thunderstorms and Flash Floods
Thunderstorms can trigger flash floods, causing quick and severe changes in landscape and infrastructure.
In 2014, thunderstorms caused flash floods in San Bernardino County, resulting in significant damage and burying vehicles under mud and rocks.
Droughts
Periods of drought are common and can last for several months.
These dry spells stress water resources and vegetation. Reduced rainfall and high temperatures contribute to these conditions, making water conservation important.
High Winds
San Bernardino also encounters high winds that can contribute to the spread of wildfires.
These winds are often part of larger weather systems and can cause additional damage to property and natural habitats.
Best Time of the Year to Visit San Bernardino, California
San Bernardino, California experiences diverse weather patterns throughout the year. Spring and fall offer the most pleasant weather, with mild temperatures and minimal rainfall. Summer is very hot, while winter remains mild with occasional rain.
What Is San Bernardino, California Like in Spring
Spring in San Bernardino spans from March to May.
Temperatures range from 50°F to 75°F, making it a great time for outdoor activities. Rainfall is relatively low, averaging about 0.7 inches in March and decreasing throughout the season.
The climate is favorable for hiking in the nearby San Bernardino Mountains and exploring the San Bernardino National Forest.
Spring’s mild weather makes it one of the best times to visit the area without facing extreme temperatures.
What Is San Bernardino, California Like in Summer
Summer, from June to August, is very hot in San Bernardino.
Daytime temperatures often exceed 90°F, and July and August are the hottest months, with highs reaching up to 98°F. Nights are cooler, but temperatures rarely drop below 60°F.
Rainfall is minimal, totaling less than half an inch for the entire summer.
The dry and hot weather can be challenging for some, but it’s ideal for those who enjoy warm climates. Visitors should stay hydrated and seek shade during peak afternoon hours to avoid heat-related issues.
What Is San Bernardino, California Like in Fall
Fall, from September to November, sees a gradual decrease in temperature.
September remains warm with highs around 85°F, but by November, temperatures range between 50°F and 70°F. Rainfall begins to increase slightly, especially in November, with about 0.5 inches of rain.
Fall is another excellent time to visit.
The temperatures are more moderate, making it comfortable for outdoor activities. The change in weather also means fewer crowds, providing a more relaxed environment for sightseeing and hiking.
What Is San Bernardino, California Like in Winter
Winter in San Bernardino, from December to February, is mild but can be rainy.
Daytime temperatures usually range from 40°F to 65°F. The wettest months are January and February, with an average rainfall of about 2 inches each month.
Though not as popular a time to visit, winter offers a quieter experience.
The surrounding mountains may have snow, providing a contrasting landscape and opportunities for winter sports in nearby mountain areas.
Visitors can still enjoy milder weather compared to other regions.