Worcester, Massachusetts, experiences a humid continental climate characterized by significant variations in weather throughout the year.
Summers are warm with average high temperatures around 79°F in July, while winters can be quite cold, with average lows dipping to 18°F in January.
Snowfall is a regular feature, with Worcester receiving about 51 inches of snow annually.
Rainfall is evenly distributed across the year, with an average of 48 inches, making the region relatively wet compared to others in the United States.
The brightest month is June, which enjoys ample sunshine.
Historical data from recent years highlights that December is the darkest month, with significantly lower daytime sunlight.
Weather conditions can change rapidly given the northern hemisphere location, making it essential for residents and visitors alike to stay prepared for diverse weather patterns.
Average Temperature in Worcester, Massachusetts
Worcester experiences varied temperatures throughout the year. In January, the average low temperature is around 21.7°F.
February also sees cold weather, with averages near 23°F.
By March, temperatures start to rise, and the average low is about 30°F.
April brings more warmth, with an average high of 56°F.
May heats up further, with temperatures averaging 68°F.
June sees an average high temperature of 77°F, signaling the start of summer.
July is the warmest month, with an average high of about 81°F. August remains warm, with average temperatures around 79°F.
In September, the weather begins to cool, with average highs of 72°F. October continues this trend, with average temperatures around 60°F.
November marks the arrival of colder weather, bringing average lows of 36°F. December ends the year with cold temperatures, averaging 27°F.
Worcester’s temperature range provides a mix of cold winters and warm summers, making it important to be prepared for both extremes.
Average Precipitation in Worcester, Massachusetts
Worcester, Massachusetts experiences varied precipitation throughout the year, with both rainfall and snowfall contributing significantly to its climate patterns.
Average Rainfall in Worcester, Massachusetts
Rainfall in Worcester spans the entire year. The wet season stretches from March 19 to August 19, peaking in June with an average of 10.1 rainy days each month. A wet day is defined as one with at least 0.04 inches of rain.
During this period, residents can expect nearly a third of the days to be rainy.
In terms of annual precipitation, Worcester sees about 45.6 inches. The months of May and June are particularly notable for higher precipitation levels.
The driest month is usually February, offering some respite from consistent rain. Understanding these patterns helps residents and visitors prepare for Worcester’s varying weather conditions.
Average Snow in Worcester, Massachusetts
Snowfall is a major climatic feature during the colder months in Worcester. February stands out as the snowiest month, with around 9.7 days of snow and accumulation averaging up to 6.06 inches.
Winter typically brings regular snowfall from December through February, accounting for most of the annual snowfall.
In total, Worcester sees significant snow depths, making it important for residents to be prepared for winter weather conditions.
The accumulation of snow during these months can create challenging conditions for travel and daily activities. With annual precipitation combining both rain and snow, Worcester’s climate requires adaptable planning, especially during peak precipitation months.
Average Sun in Worcester, Massachusetts
Worcester, Massachusetts experiences a variety of sunlight conditions throughout the year. This includes variations in daily solar energy, hours of sunshine, and cloud cover.
Average Daily Shortwave Solar Energy in Worcester, Massachusetts
Worcester has notable fluctuations in shortwave solar energy. June is the brightest month with an average of 6.6 kWh per day.
The darkest month is December, averaging just 1.6 kWh of energy.
During the darker period, spanning November 2 to February 11, daily solar energy falls below 2.6 kWh.
This variation affects daylight hours and UV index, which is higher in the summer months due to longer days and clearer skies.
Worcester typically enjoys longer hours of sunshine in the summer, while winter months have more cloud cover, resulting in fewer sun hours. This impacts overall sunlight and total hours of sun residents and visitors experience year-round.
Average Humidity in Worcester, Massachusetts
Worcester, Massachusetts experiences variations in humidity throughout the year. The relative humidity is an important measure which affects how comfortable the weather feels.
Monthly Humidity Averages:
- January: 68%
- February: 66%
- March: 64%
- April: 61% (least humid month)
- May: 66%
- June: 69%
- July: 72%
- August: 73% (most humid month)
- September: 70%
- October: 67%
- November: 68%
- December: 69%
The mean annual relative humidity is approximately 67%.
Humidity Insights:
- In August, humidity peaks at around 73%, making it the stickiest month.
- April tends to be the driest month with humidity averaging 61%.
- Months with higher humidity may feel warmer even if the temperature is moderate.
Additional Weather Factors:
Pressure can influence humidity levels, with higher air pressure often leading to lower humidity. Worcester typically has a varied pressure range throughout the year, complementing its seasonal humidity changes.
Adjusting activities and plans according to these humidity levels can help residents and visitors stay comfortable, especially during the peak humid months.
Average Wind in Worcester, Massachusetts
Worcester experiences varying wind speeds throughout the year. The windiest month is February, with an average hourly wind speed of 6.5 miles per hour.
On the other hand, the calmest month is August, with an average wind speed of 3.7 miles per hour.
The wind direction in Worcester predominantly comes from the west.
Monthly Average Wind Speed
| Month | Average Wind Speed (mph) |
|---|---|
| January | 5.5 |
| February | 6.5 |
| March | 5.8 |
| April | 5.3 |
| May | 4.8 |
| June | 4.2 |
| July | 3.9 |
| August | 3.7 |
| September | 4.0 |
| October | 4.4 |
| November | 5.0 |
| December | 5.4 |
The wind speeds tend to decline starting from late spring and through the summer months.
The period from late April to mid-November is generally the calmest time of the year in Worcester.
High wind speeds are more common during the winter months, contributing to the chilly feel during those times.
Average Air Quality in Worcester, Massachusetts
The air quality in Worcester, Massachusetts varies throughout the year. Real-time data shows that the Air Quality Index (AQI) is mostly in the “Moderate” range, which suggests that air quality is generally acceptable but could be a concern for some sensitive groups.
Pollutant Levels:
- PM2.5: Fine particulate matter often shows moderate levels in Worcester, as indicated by IQAir.
- PM10: Large particles also display measurements that can affect visibility and health.
- Ozone: Usually low but can increase during hot summer days.
Locations and Data:
- Worcester-Airport: AQI around 38, indicating good air quality.
- Forest Grove: AQI 49, also considered good.
- Green Island: AQI ranges from 57-58, moderate air quality.
Yearly Trends
During winter, air quality can improve due to lower levels of ozone and particulate matter. In contrast, summer can bring higher levels of ozone due to increased temperatures.
Tips for Residents:
- Monitor daily air quality updates through reliable sources like AccuWeather.
- Reduce outdoor activities on days with high pollution levels to avoid health issues.
Topography of Worcester, Massachusetts
Worcester, Massachusetts, is situated in Worcester County in the northeastern part of the United States.
The city is known for its diverse terrain and elevation variations.
Worcester’s latitude is approximately 42.2626° N, and its longitude is around 71.8023° W.
The city’s average elevation is about 479 feet (146 meters) above sea level.
Notably, the minimum elevation in Worcester can go as low as -26 feet.
The terrain of Worcester comprises hills, valleys, and forests.
Worcester Regional Airport, located in the southwestern part of the city, sits at an elevation of about 1,000 feet.
This elevated location can result in different weather patterns compared to the lower areas.
Key Elevations
| Elevation Type | Feet | Meters |
|---|---|---|
| Average Elevation | 479 | 146 |
| Minimum Elevation | -26 | -8 |
| Highest Point (approx.) | 1,000 | 305 |
The city spreads over a variety of elevations, creating unique neighborhoods and diverse natural landscapes.
This variation impacts the local climate, with higher elevations sometimes experiencing cooler temperatures and more precipitation than lower areas.
The mix of hills and valleys contributes to Worcester’s scenic beauty and diversity in local weather patterns.
Extreme Weather Events that Occur in Worcester, Massachusetts
Worcester, Massachusetts experiences several types of extreme weather events.
These include winter storms, heatwaves, and flooding. Each of these events can have significant impacts on the community.
Winter storms have been more frequent and intense since the 1950s.
Heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures can disrupt daily life.
Hail is also a possibility during severe winter storms, causing damage to property and vehicles.
Worcester is not immune to heatwaves.
Over the summer months, temperatures can rise significantly, leading to potential health risks.
Up to 320 visits for heat-related illness are documented every year, with 8 deaths reported recently.
Flooding can occur due to heavy rainfall or melting snow.
Flooding affects both urban and suburban areas, causing road closures and property damage.
Tracking monthly data shows that Worcester County frequently experiences severe weather, including heavy precipitation.
Table: Average Snowfall and Rainfall in Worcester, MA
| Month | Average Snowfall (inches) | Average Rainfall (inches) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 18 | 3.1 |
| February | 15 | 3.2 |
| March | 12 | 4.1 |
| April | 3 | 3.8 |
| May | 0 | 4.0 |
| June | 0 | 4.3 |
| July | 0 | 4.2 |
| August | 0 | 4.0 |
| September | 0 | 3.9 |
| October | 1 | 4.2 |
| November | 7 | 4.5 |
| December | 13 | 3.9 |
Best Time of the Year to Visit Worcester, Massachusetts
Worcester, Massachusetts, experiences distinct seasons, making each time of year unique. Visitors can enjoy various activities depending on whether they visit in spring, summer, fall, or winter.
What is Worcester, Massachusetts Like in Spring
Spring in Worcester is pleasant and refreshing.
Temperatures during this season typically range from 40°F to 60°F in March and gradually rise, reaching about 60°F to 70°F by May.
April brings blossoming flowers and lush green parks.
This period is perfect for outdoor activities such as walking through Elm Park or exploring the EcoTarium.
Rainfall can be frequent, averaging around 4 inches in April, so bringing an umbrella is recommended.
Spring also marks the start of local festivals and farmers’ markets, adding vibrant energy to the city.
Spring is an ideal time for those who enjoy mild temperatures and blooming landscapes.
What is Worcester, Massachusetts Like in Summer
Summers in Worcester are warm and inviting.
July is the hottest month, with average highs around 80°F and occasionally reaching the mid-80s.
Nights are cooler, often dropping to the mid-60s.
Outdoor activities are popular during this time, such as hiking in the surrounding parks and attending outdoor concerts.
Swimming is also an option at nearby lakes and pools.
Summers have relatively low rainfall and longer daylight hours, providing plenty of time to explore the city.
Visitors can also enjoy seasonal foods at local eateries.
What is Worcester, Massachusetts Like in Fall
Fall in Worcester is a sight to behold.
September and October see temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F, making it a comfortable time to visit.
The changing foliage transforms the city into a colorful landscape.
Autumn festivals, including apple picking and pumpkin patches, are popular activities.
The air becomes crisper as November approaches, with temperatures dropping to the 40s.
Rainfall is moderate, with an average of 3-4 inches per month.
Fall offers a mix of mild warmth and cooler breezes, perfect for scenic drives and walks through the city’s parks.
What is Worcester, Massachusetts Like in Winter
Winters in Worcester are cold and often snowy.
December through February sees temperatures between 20°F and 40°F.
Snowfall is common, averaging about 50 inches annually.
Visitors can enjoy winter sports such as skiing and ice skating.
It is also a festive time with holiday decorations and events.
Indoor activities like visiting museums and theaters are popular.
Warm clothing is a must, as wind chills can make it feel colder.
Winter provides a cozy atmosphere for holiday celebrations and exploring Worcester’s indoor attractions.