Climate and monthly weather forecastSurprise, AZ

The climate of Surprise

Surprise, a city in the western region of the Greater Phoenix Metropolitan Area in Arizona, USA, is predominantly governed by a Subtropical Steppe climate, as described by the Köppen climate classification system as BSh. The city's geographical location contributes significantly to its distinct weather pattern.

Throughout the year, Surprise experiences an extensive range in both of its high and low-temperature parameters, with high temperature averages from 63.3°F (17.4°C) to an extreme 101.7°F (38.7°C) and low temperatures fluctuating from a chilly 46°F (7.8°C) and reaching a peak at a warm 83.1°F (28.4°C). The pattern of humidity tends to mirror that of the temperatures, beginning at 43% relative humidity in January, decreasing gradually to a low point of 17% in June, and climbing back upwards to 44% in December.

Mohave (in Western Arizona) is a desert receiving minimal average rainfall from 0.12" (3mm) in June to a high of 1.3" (33mm) in July, causing a significant fluctuation in rainfall days from merely 1.2 days in June up to 11.4 days in July. One of the notable weather characteristics of Surprise is the high average daylight hours that vary from 10 hours in January and December to an extensive 14.4 hours in June. This abundance of sunshine is also reflected in sunshine hours, which climbs from an average of 7 hours in January to 12.2 hours in June.

Wind speeds hover between 4.7mph (7.6km/h) to 6.7mph (10.8km/h) throughout the year with wind gusts surging from 7.6mph (12.2km/h) to 10mph (16.1km/h) for the majority of the year. Yet, the city enjoys a good visibility level standing steadily at 6 miles throughout the year, underlining the overall clear weather conditions.

The best time to visit Surprise

The ideal time to visit Surprise is between April and June when temperatures are warm and pleasant, ranging from a high of 81.3°F (27.4°C) to 100.4°F (38°C) and a low from 59.4°F (15.2°C) to 74.1°F (23.4°C). Relative humidity also lessens during this time frame from 22% to 17% and the hours of daylight are at their highest of the year, thus allowing for prolonged outdoor activities. Sunshine hours also contribute positively, starting at 10.8 hours in April and reaching a high of 12.2 hours in June.

The worst time to visit Surprise

It's recommended to avoid visits to Surprise during the height of summer, specifically from July to August. During this season, temperatures are at their highest, with the average high reaching a scorching 101.7°F (38.7°C) in July and a balmy 100.9°F (38.3°C) in August. The relative humidity also increases uncomfortably during this time frame, making the excess heat harder to endure.

Spring weather in Surprise

Spring in Surprise unfolds with warm and dry conditions. Temperatures during this period can range from a chilly 48.2°F (9°C) to a delightful 89.2°F (31.8°C). Relative humidity drops from 39% in February to 20% in May. These dryer conditions are welcomed by a gradual increase in sunshine hours from 7 hours in February to a bright 11.9 hours by the end of May.

Summer weather in Surprise

The summer season in Surprise is marked by sweltering heat and an increase in humidity. Temperatures can soar to a high of 101.7°F (38.7°C) in July, while the minimum temperatures can reach a hot 83.1°F (28.4°C) in August. However, this is also the period that receives the most rainfall, with July experiencing up to 1.3" (33mm) of rain spread over 11.4 days.

Autumn weather in Surprise

Autumn in Surprise ushers in a period of cooling, with temperatures ranging from an enjoyable 65.5°F (18.6°C) to a still warm 95°F (35°C). Average rainfall continues its decreasing trend starting from 1.18" (30mm) in September to 0.63" (16mm) in November. Sunshine hours also recede from 9.7 hours in September to 7.3 hours in November.

Winter weather in Surprise

Winter, spanning from December to February, is a mild season in Surprise, with low temperatures falling to a bearable 46°F (7.8°C) in January and high temperatures remaining at a peaceful 66.2°F (19°C) in February. The month of December experiences a relative increase in rainfall at 0.75" (19mm), compared to 0.59" (15mm) in January. Average daylight and sunshine hours are also at their lowest during this season, corresponding with winter solstice occurrence.

Weather in January

January starts with a chill in the air. Despite the beginning of a warm surprise in Arizona, the lowest temperature is 46°F (7.8°C). This period, marked by short days with average daylight hours of 10.2 and 43% relative humidity, also witnesses minimum rainfall. Weather in January »

Weather in February

February brings a pleasant transition, leaving the January chill behind. The days become longer with increased sunshine hours compared to the previous month. The city's temperature in February reaches up to 66.2°F (19°C). This month, sunny days are prevalent, with rainfall levels similar to January. Weather in February »

Weather in March

The first twitches of spring can be felt in March. The temperatures gradually increase, promising warmer days. A notable high of 74.7°F (23.7°C) is observed in March, slowly leading the city towards summer. Clouds are sparser in the sky, making way for pleasant sunny days and cool nights. Weather in March »

Weather in April

April carries forward the delight of March, yet it brings warmer days. The temperatures set the stage for the forthcoming summer months. Residents embrace the soothing warmth with an average high of 81.3°F (27.4°C). April witnesses less rainfall and a significant increase in sunshine hours. Weather in April »

Weather in May

May forges the path into summer, manifesting the highest temperatures yet for the year. Spending time outdoors becomes more enjoyable, as the temperature reaches a May high of 89.2°F (31.8°C). The weather is largely dry, accompanied by long hours of sunshine. Weather in May »

Weather in June

June brings the heatwave to the city of Surprise, marking the onset of summer with temperatures peaking at around 100.4°F (38°C). The city basks under an abundant sunshine. With low chances of rain, residents anticipate the occasional summer storm to provide a respite from the high heat intensity. Weather in June »

Weather in July

July, the hottest month of the year, witnesses the mercury hitting a record high of 101.7°F (38.7°C). The city of Surprise experiences its wake-up call to summer's peak. Searing heat dominates the weather, with long sunny days and minimum chances of rainfall. Weather in July »

Weather in August

August sustains July's temperatures, barely providing any respite from the summer heat. High temperatures continue through the month, reaching an average high of 100.9°F (38.3°C). Sunshine is still plentiful, and rainfall remains scarce, as Surprise endures the peak of summer. Weather in August »

Weather in September

September begins the slow transition from summer to fall. Temperatures start to drop, providing relief from the summer heat. A high of 95°F (35°C) indicates summer's slow departure. The sky fills with clouds more frequently, hinting at the approaching rainy season. Weather in September »

Weather in October

October in Surprise means embracing the fall. As the month progresses, the weather becomes cooler, and the heat of the summer becomes a distant memory. October's pleasant temperatures play around 83.5°F (28.6°C). The days are comfortable, and the chill returns to the nights, allowing everyone to enjoy Fall activities outdoors. The shift from September to October in Surprise involves a decrease in the average high-temperature, from a sweltering 95°F (35°C) to a warm 83.5°F (28.6°C). Weather in October »

Weather in November

November, leading towards the closure of the year, brings a notable drop in temperature to a maximum of 72.5°F (22.5°C). The season of fall comes to an end, preparing the city for winter's arrival. Decreased sunshine hours and increased cloud cover set the scene for the upcoming cold season. Weather in November »

Weather in December

December marks the onset of winter in the City of Surprise. The temperatures dip further, with a high of 61.7°F (16.5°C), preparing residents for cozy indoor festivities. Short daylight hours and increased humidity indicate the year's final stretch. Weather in December »