Climate and monthly weather forecast
Harrisburg, PA

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A church, a mosque, and other buildings along State Street in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
A church, a mosque, and other buildings along State Street in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania

The climate of Harrisburg

Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, USA, sits within the realm of a Humid subtropical climate zone, according to the Köppen climate classification. It carries the Cfa classification, indicating no dry season throughout the year. Throughout the 12-month cycle, Harrisburg observes significant variations in weather parameters, ranging from temperature and rainfall to wind speed and daylight hours.

Temperature fluctuates broadly, rolling from a frigid low of 22.1°F (-5.5°C) in January to a balmy high of 83.8°F (28.8°C) at the peak of July. Relative humidity hovers around the 75-80% mark, contributing to the region's "humid" classification. On the topic of precipitation, the rainfall scale swings from 0.71" (18mm) in January and February to a high of 1.3" (33mm) in August, with an average of 9.7 days seeing precipitation.

Uniquely, sunlight hours also experience considerable shifts, from a low of 4.6 hours per day in January to a high of 10.5 hours per day in July. Wind speed dips and rises as well, with 4.8mph (7.7km/h) in July and August, climbing to 8.1mph (13km/h) in March and April. It's also worth mentioning the sporadic snowfall from December to March, peaking at 1.3" (33mm) in February.

The best time to visit Harrisburg

Optimal timing for a visit to Harrisburg would be during the transition months. Specifically, May and September present the most appealing conditions. May offers a blend of moderate temperatures, at 70.3°F (21.3°C), relatively low rainfall at 1.26" (32mm), and a generous sunlight window of approximately 8.5 hours per day. Similarly, September also provides temperate conditions, ample sunlight, and lesser rainfall.

The worst time to visit Harrisburg

The least travel-friendly period in Harrisburg falls in winter, starting from December to February. During this span, temperatures can plummet as low as 22.1°F (-5.5°C), accompanied by snowfall ranging from 0.08" (2mm) to 1.3" (33mm). January in particular experiences the harshest cold, combined with the maximum annual cloud cover at 50%.

Spring weather in Harrisburg

Spring, spanning March to May, is marked by progressively warming temperatures, with averages ascending from 47.8°F (8.8°C) to 70.3°F (21.3°C). Corresponding with the temperature shift, daylight duration noticeably extends from 12 hours to 14.4 hours. Meanwhile, precipitation shows a moderate uptick, culminating in May with 1.26" (32mm).

Summer weather in Harrisburg

Harrisburg's summer, extending from June to August, boasts the highest temperatures, maxing at 83.8°F (28.8°C) in July. Despite higher temperatures, rainfall remains steady, with August seeing the most precipitation at 1.3" (33mm). Longer days prevail in this season, offering between 14.7 hours and 15 hours of daylight.

Autumn weather in Harrisburg

The autumn months, September through November, ushers in a gradual decrease in temperatures, from 74.3°F (23.5°C) to 50°F (10°C), and reduced daylight hours. Rainfall, however, undergoes a slight upswing in October, with a monthly average of 1.06" (27mm).

Winter weather in Harrisburg

Harrisburg's winters, spanning December to February, are defined by colder temperatures, reaching lows of 22.1°F (-5.5°C) in January. Notably, December sees the least amount of daylight, with averages dropping to 9.4 hours per day. Winter also bears witness to the city's annual snowfall, which can reach as much as 1.3" (33mm) in February.

Weather in January

The year begins with chilly temperatures in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, bringing crisp air and frosty mornings to the city. Snowfall of 1.18" (30mm) and measures of cold wind gusts of 13mph (20.9km/h) often chill the bones. Locals are used to bundling up, and outdoor activities are often enjoyed despite the cold. Weather in January »

Weather in February

In Harrisburg, the second month of the year is not a dramatic departure from the first, still characterized by cold, but slightly milder conditions. It's important to note that snowfall increases to 1.3" (33mm), and there's an uptick in the average wind speed from 8mph (12.9km/h) to 8.1mph (13km/h). Weather in February »

Weather in March

As spring draws near, temperatures in Harrisburg start to rise, making the city gradually come alive with colors. March witnesses a decline in snowfall to 1.1" (28mm) and temperatures taking a swing towards warmth. Less harsh weather conditions allow for outdoor adventures, and residents see daylight stretching for 12 hours on average. Weather in March »

Weather in April

April signals a definite arrival of spring in Harrisburg, with warmer days and gentle showers replacing the remnants of winter. Observations indicate a significant fall in snowfall, dwindling to 0.04" (1mm), and temperatures climbing higher. Weather in April »

Weather in May

May marks a glorious season for this city of Pennsylvania, as summer begins to unfold itself. Rainfall increases to 1.26" (32mm) in May, ushering lush green landscapes across Harrisburg. Fresh foliage, scattered rain showers, and increasing warmth create pleasing afternoons and memorable sunsets. Weather in May »

Weather in June

June brings the full majesty of summer to Harrisburg with long, sunny days and pleasant evenings. Interestingly, June ushers in a surge in UV index to 6, indicating bright, strong sunshine. People seek refuge under trees in parks or near water bodies during the midday hours. Weather in June »

Weather in July

With July arrives the peak of the summer heat in Harrisburg, denoting pool days, picnics, and cookouts. In terms of temperature, July tops the chart with highs averaging at 83.8°F (28.8°C), making it the warmest month. Evening walks, riverboat cruises, and dining under the stars are common activities during this time. Weather in July »

Weather in August

In Harrisburg, August continues the robust summer trend of July, though slightly less intense. The peak heat from July slightly diminishes with the temperature lowering down to 81.5°F (27.5°C). Outdoor activities continue to be popular as locals venture out to enjoy the remaining summer days. Weather in August »

Weather in September

As September approaches, signs of the impending fall surface and a transition from the high summer heat to milder temperatures begins. A significant drop in temperature to an average high of 74.3°F (23.5°C) makes September a pleasant month. Weather in September »

Weather in October

October in Harrisburg is renowned for its autumnal charm, combined with mellow temperatures and less rainfall. Original data has shown wind speed increasing from 5.3mph (8.5km/h) to 6.6mph (10.6km/h), bringing along a breezy ambiance. Weather in October »

Weather in November

November carries along the transition from colorful fall to stark winter in Harrisburg. Interestingly, November sees a slight return of snowfall with 0.08" (2mm) recorded on average. It's a time when the remaining leaves fall, leaving trees bare and the skies often grey. Weather in November »

Weather in December

Harrisburg greets December with the arrival of winter, characterized by chilling temperatures and festive moods. Data reflects the increase of snowfall to 0.59" (15mm), adorning the city in a white blanket. Twilight falls earlier, and the city is adorned with holiday decorations, creating a magical ambiance. Weather in December »
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Frequently asked questions

What part of the year is the coldest in Harrisburg?

January is Harrisburg's coldest month, registering average high temperatures of 35.1°F (1.7°C) and lows of 22.1°F (-5.5°C).

What is the driest month in Harrisburg?

January and February are months with the least rain in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, when the rain falls for 5.7 days and typically aggregates up to 0.71" (18mm) of rain.

How much does it rain in Harrisburg?

In Harrisburg, during the entire year, the rain falls for 122.3 days and collects up to 11.73" (298mm) of precipitation.

When does it snow in Harrisburg?

January through April, November and December are months with snowfall in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.

How much does it snow in Harrisburg?

Throughout the year, in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, there are 19.9 snowfall days, and 4.29" (109mm) of snow is accumulated.

What are the months with the lowest UV index in Harrisburg?

January through March, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 2, are months with the lowest UV index.

What is the most humid month in Harrisburg?

February is the most humid month in Harrisburg, with an average relative humidity of 80%.

When does it snow the most in Harrisburg?

The month with the most snowfall in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, is February, when snow falls for 5.6 days and typically aggregates up to 1.3" (33mm) of snow.

What is the month with the least sunshine in Harrisburg?

February has the least sunshine of the year in Harrisburg, with an average of 4.5h of sunshine.

What is the least humid month in Harrisburg?

March and April, with an average relative humidity of 75%, are the least humid months.

When is Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Harrisburg?

On Sunday, March 10. 2024, at 2:00 am, Daylight Saving Time starts in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, and the time zone changes from EST to EDT. Daylight Saving Time ends Sunday, November 3. 2024, at 2:00 am, and the time zone reverts from EDT to EST.

When it does not snow in Harrisburg?

May through October are months without snowfall.

What is the month with the highest UV index in Harrisburg?

May through July, with an average maximum UV index of 6, are months with the highest UV index in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.

When are the longest days in Harrisburg?

The month with the longest days in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, is June, with an average of 15h and 0min of daylight.

What is the warmest month in Harrisburg?

July temperatures tend to peak at an average high of 83.8°F (28.8°C) and dip to a low of 63.5°F (17.5°C).

What month has the most sunshine in Harrisburg?

July has the most sunshine of the year, with an average of 10.5h of sunshine.

What is the rainiest month in Harrisburg?

August is the month with the most rainfall. Rain falls for 12.3 days and accumulates 1.3" (33mm) of precipitation.

What is the month with the shortest days in Harrisburg?

The month with the shortest days in Harrisburg is December, with an average of 9h and 24min of daylight.

Average temperature
Harrisburg, PA

Average temperature - Harrisburg, PA

The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (83.8°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (35.1°F).

The month with the highest average low temperature is July (63.5°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (22.1°F).

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Average pressure
Harrisburg, PA

Average pressure - Harrisburg, PA

The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is November (30.13"Hg).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is June (29.95"Hg).

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Average wind speed
Harrisburg, PA

Average wind speed - Harrisburg, PA

The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is March (8.2mph).
The calmest months (with the lowest average wind speed) are July and August (4.8mph).

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Average humidity
Harrisburg, PA

Average humidity - Harrisburg, PA

The month with the highest relative humidity is February (80%).
The months with the lowest relative humidity are March and April (75%).

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Average rainfall
Harrisburg, PA

Average rainfall - Harrisburg, PA

The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is August (1.3").
The driest months (with the least rainfall) are January and February (0.71").

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Average rainfall days
Harrisburg, PA

Average rainfall days - Harrisburg, PA

The month with the highest number of rainy days is May (13.9 days).
The month with the least rainy days is January (5.7 days).

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Average snowfall
Harrisburg, PA

Average snowfall - Harrisburg, PA

The month with the highest snowfall is February (1.3").
The months with the least snowfall are May, June, July, August, September and October (0").

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Average snowfall days
Harrisburg, PA

Average snowfall days - Harrisburg, PA

The month with the highest number of snowfall days is January (6.3 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are June, July, August, September and October (0 days).

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Average daylight / Average sunshine
Harrisburg, PA

Average daylight / Average sunshine - Harrisburg, PA

The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 15h and 0min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 9h and 24min).

The month with the most sunshine is July (Average sunshine: 10h and 30min).
The month with the least sunshine is February (Average sunshine: 4h and 30min).

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Average sunshine days
Harrisburg, PA

Average sunshine days - Harrisburg, PA

The month with the most sunshine days is November (21.8 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is July (14.1 days).

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Average UV index
Harrisburg, PA

Average UV index - Harrisburg, PA

The months with the highest UV index are May, June and July (UV index 6).
The months with the lowest UV index are January, February, March, November and December (UV index 2).

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Average visibility
Harrisburg, PA

Average visibility - Harrisburg, PA

The months with the highest visibility are January, February, March, April, June, July, August, October, November and December (6mi).
The months with the lowest visibility are May and September (5mi).

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Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, USA

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