Climate and monthly weather forecastColumbus, IN
Climate and monthly weather forecast
The climate of Columbus
Located in the geographical heartland of the United States, Columbus, Indiana enjoys a climate identified by the Köppen climate classification as Cfa, indicating a Humid subtropical climate with no defined dry season. The weather in Columbus presents a varied and significant progression of temperatures, precipitation, and general atmospheric conditions throughout the year, unified by its subtropical characteristics.To put it into perspective, Columbus enjoys an interesting spread of temperature ranges during the year. The monthly high temperatures range from 35.2°F (1.8°C) in January to 83.3°F (28.5°C) in July while the monthly low temperatures fluctuate between 22.5°F (-5.3°C) in January and 65.5°F (18.6°C) in July. In terms of humidity, Columbus maintains a relatively high degree of atmospheric moisture throughout the year, with a relative humidity remaining consistently in the range between 74% in October and 81% in January, February, and July.
Regarding precipitation, rainfall patterns vary between 1.73" (44mm) in September and jumps to a high of 3.5" (89mm) in May. The number of rainfall days goes from a minimum of 9.4 days in January and February to a maximum of 18.3 days in May. Columbus also experiences a fair share of snowfall, ranging from 1.89" (48mm) in January and December to zero inches from May to September. Snowfall days peak at 9.6 in January and drop to zero again from May to September. A unique weather pattern to note is the strong level of daylight hours that Columbus enjoys, which range from 9.8 hours in December and January to a high of 14.9 hours in June.
The best time to visit Columbus
Considering the amalgamation of weather conditions, the most appealing time for visitors is between late Spring to early Autumn, encompassing the months of May to September. These months bring moderate temperatures, a manageable level of rainfall, and the longest duration of daylight. This period allows visitors to enjoy all outdoor activities in a more temperate, mild climate. The average high temperatures during these months vary between 73°F (22.8°C) in May to 83.3°F (28.5°C) in July, while the rainfall tends to hover around the 2 to 3" (76mm) mark. The daylight hours extend up to 14.9 hours in June, ensuring ample time to explore the city and its surroundings.The worst time to visit Columbus
In contrast, the colder months of December, January, and February can prove challenging for visitors due to the more frigid weather conditions. The high temperature averages clock in at 35.2°F (1.8°C) in January and 40.6°F (4.8°C) in December. Furthermore, the average potential for snowfall increases during this period (reaching 1.89" (48mm) in January and December), likely to result in more challenging travel conditions on the roads.Spring weather in Columbus
As the earth renews itself, Columbus embraces the spring season (March to May) with a sense of warmth and rejuvenation. Temperatures rise steadily, going from a high average of 51.1°F (10.6°C) in March up to 73°F (22.8°C) in May. Accompanying the rise in temperatures, there is an elevation in rainfall with an increase from 2.6" (66mm) in March to 3.5" (89mm) in May. An interesting feature of spring is the prominent increase of daylight hours, from 12 hours in March to 14.3 hours by May.Summer weather in Columbus
From June to August, the summer season reigns in Columbus, with maximum average temperatures consistently above 81.1°F (27.3°C). The city experiences a decline in rainfall from 2.6" (66mm) in June to 2.05" (52mm) by the end of August and lesser days of rainfall comparatively. The daylight hours are the longest in the year during summer, with the city bathed in light for up to 14.9 hours daily in June.Autumn weather in Columbus
Autumn, spanning September to November, greets Columbus with a gradual cooldown. After the sweltering summer months, temperatures recede gently from September's high of 77°F (25°C) to 51.1°F (10.6°C) in November. Similarly, rainfall levels taper off from 1.73" (44mm) in September to 2.13" (54mm) by the end of November.Winter weather in Columbus
Throughout December to February, Columbus enters its coldest phase with average high temperatures descending from 40.6°F (4.8°C) in December to 35.2°F (1.8°C) by February. Winter brings with it increased snowfall, with potential snowfall totals reaching 1.89" (48mm) in December and January respectively. As expected, the daylight hours hit their annual low point in winter, with 9.8 hours registered in December and January. Despite the lower temperatures and reduced daylight, Columbus continues to exude a unique charm with its snow-covered landscapes and festive winter atmospheres.Weather in January
In the heart of winter, Columbus, Indiana experiences steady cold temperatures. Significantly, January delivers the coldest average high and low temperatures of the year at 35.2°F (1.8°C) and 22.5°F (-5.3°C) respectively. A mix of both steady rainfall and various snowy days contribute to January exemplifying a classic winter month. Weather in January »Weather in February
Transitioning from January, February still commands wintry weather conditions yet a slight rise in temperatures gradually occurs. A mild increase in snowfall occurs in February, at 2.17" (55mm), as compared to the following winter months. Weather in February »Weather in March
March serves as a transition period between the harsh winter and the milder spring weather in Columbus, Indiana. The most notable transformation in March is the leap in high temperatures, averaging at 51.1°F (10.6°C) from the previous considerably colder months. Weather in March »Weather in April
April truly marks the beginning of spring weather in Columbus, with warmer temperatures and rain becoming more frequent. The largest leap in high temperatures occurs between March to April, soaring to the average of 63.1°F (17.3°C). Weather in April »Weather in May
May signals the progression towards the warmer months with summer just around the corner. The increase in temperature is consistent with previous months, the average high now at a mild 73°F (22.8°C). The gradually increasing warmth is coupled with the highest relative humidity at 80% and a significant spike in rainfall compared to any preceding month, at 3.5" (89mm). Weather in May »Weather in June
The arrival of June officially ushers in summer with temperatures reaching upward of 81.1°F (27.3°C) as the average high. The month is characterized by its long daylight hours and peak sunshine duration at 10.2 hours per day. The comfortable combination of warmth and sunshine makes Columbus a prime location for outdoor summer activities. Weather in June »Weather in July
July brings the hottest average temperatures to Columbus, Indiana, with a high reaching 83.3°F (28.5°C). The month shares the highest UV Index of the year, rated as ‘high’ at 6, along with June and August. The heat of July coupled with notable humidity and occasional rainstorms forms the quintessential Midwest summer climate. Weather in July »Weather in August
August continues to embrace high summer temperatures, similar to July's, with the emphasis on lingering warmth and recurring humidity. The maximum average temperature remains high, peaking at 82.8°F (28.2°C). Even though temperatures are still quite high, there is a mild drop witnessed from the preceding month. Weather in August »Weather in September
Moving into September, fall begins to set its foot in Columbus, Indiana. After the summer's intense heat, September records a significant drop in average high temperature to 77°F (25°C). The slight drop in temperatures creates a more comfortable outdoor climate compared to previous hot months. Weather in September »Weather in October
October immerses Columbus wholly into fall with markedly cooler temperatures and significantly less rainfall compared to September. With an average high temperature now at a comfortable 64.6°F (18.1°C), the change is evident. Weather in October »Weather in November
As November comes around, fall weather is fully realized and the first signs of winter weather are on the horizon. The succeeding month of November experiences a striking dip in maximum temperature, from 64.6°F (18.1°C) of October to a chilling 51.1°F (10.6°C). Weather in November »Weather in December
December welcomes winter back into Columbus, Indiana with temperatures averaging a high of 40.6°F (4.8°C) and a considerable increase in snowfall at 1.89" (48mm). The month is characterized by its chilly conditions, shorter daylight hours, and the return of snowy days. Weather in December »Updated: Aug 19, 2024
Published by: Weather U.S. | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Published by: Weather U.S. | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Frequently asked questions
January, on average, is the coldest month, registering a high temperature of 35.2°F (1.8°C) and a low of 22.5°F (-5.3°C).
The months with the highest humidity are January, February, July and December, with an average relative humidity of 81%.
Throughout the year, there are 163.5 rainfall days, and 29.29" (744mm) of precipitation is accumulated.
January through April, November and December are months with snowfall.
In Columbus, during the entire year, snow falls for 34.1 days and aggregates up to 8.54" (217mm) of snow.
With an average of 4.1h of sunshine, January has the least sunshine of the year.
The months with the lowest UV index are January, February, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 2.
The month with the most snowfall is February, when snow falls for 7.8 days and typically aggregates up to 2.17" (55mm) of snow.
On Sunday, March 10. 2024, at 2:00 am, Daylight Saving Time starts, 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.
May is the month with the most rainfall in Columbus. Rain falls for 18.3 days and accumulates 3.5" (89mm) of precipitation.
In Columbus, snow does not fall in May through October.
June has the longest days of the year, with an average of 14h and 54min of daylight.
The months with the highest UV index are June through August, with an average maximum UV index of 6.
During the warmest month in Columbus, July, temperatures average a high of 83.3°F (28.5°C) and a low of 65.5°F (18.6°C).
July has the most sunshine of the year, with an average of 10.4h of sunshine.
September is the month with the least rainfall. Rain falls for 14.1 days and accumulates 1.73" (44mm) of precipitation.
October is the least humid month, with an average relative humidity of 74%.
The month with the shortest days is December, with an average of 9h and 30min of daylight.
Average temperature
Columbus, IN
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (83.3°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (35.2°F).
The month with the highest average low temperature is July (65.5°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (22.5°F).
Average pressure
Columbus, IN
- Average pressure in January:
30.14"Hg - Average pressure in February:
30.11"Hg - Average pressure in March:
30.08"Hg - Average pressure in April:
29.96"Hg - Average pressure in May:
29.97"Hg - Average pressure in June:
29.93"Hg
- Average pressure in July:
29.98"Hg - Average pressure in August:
29.98"Hg - Average pressure in September:
30.03"Hg - Average pressure in October:
30.03"Hg - Average pressure in November:
30.13"Hg - Average pressure in December:
30.12"Hg
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is January (30.14"Hg).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is June (29.93"Hg).
Average wind speed
Columbus, IN
- Average wind speed in January:
8.9mph - Average wind speed in February:
8.9mph - Average wind speed in March:
8.6mph - Average wind speed in April:
8.7mph - Average wind speed in May:
7.1mph - Average wind speed in June:
6.3mph
- Average wind speed in July:
5.3mph - Average wind speed in August:
5.3mph - Average wind speed in September:
5.9mph - Average wind speed in October:
7.5mph - Average wind speed in November:
7.9mph - Average wind speed in December:
8.2mph
The windiest months (with the highest average wind speed) are January and February (8.9mph).
The calmest months (with the lowest average wind speed) are July and August (5.3mph).
Average humidity
Columbus, IN
The months with the highest relative humidity are January, February, July and December (81%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is October (74%).
Average rainfall
Columbus, IN
- Average rainfall in January:
2.09" - Average rainfall in February:
2.05" - Average rainfall in March:
2.6" - Average rainfall in April:
3.23" - Average rainfall in May:
3.5" - Average rainfall in June:
2.6"
- Average rainfall in July:
2.83" - Average rainfall in August:
2.05" - Average rainfall in September:
1.73" - Average rainfall in October:
2.24" - Average rainfall in November:
2.13" - Average rainfall in December:
2.24"
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is May (3.5").
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is September (1.73").
Average rainfall days
Columbus, IN
- Average rainfall days in January:
9.4 days - Average rainfall days in February:
9.4 days - Average rainfall days in March:
14.6 days - Average rainfall days in April:
16 days - Average rainfall days in May:
18.3 days - Average rainfall days in June:
16.7 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
16.7 days - Average rainfall days in August:
14.6 days - Average rainfall days in September:
14.1 days - Average rainfall days in October:
11.6 days - Average rainfall days in November:
10.4 days - Average rainfall days in December:
11.7 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is May (18.3 days).
The months with the least rainy days are January and February (9.4 days).
Average snowfall
Columbus, IN
The month with the highest snowfall is February (2.17").
The months with the least snowfall are May, June, July, August, September and October (0").
Average snowfall days
Columbus, IN
- Average snowfall days in January:
9.6 days - Average snowfall days in February:
7.8 days - Average snowfall days in March:
5 days - Average snowfall days in April:
0.8 days - Average snowfall days in May:
0 days - Average snowfall days in June:
0 days
- Average snowfall days in July:
0 days - Average snowfall days in August:
0 days - Average snowfall days in September:
0 days - Average snowfall days in October:
0.2 days - Average snowfall days in November:
2.5 days - Average snowfall days in December:
8.2 days
The month with the highest number of snowfall days is January (9.6 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are May, June, July, August and September (0 days).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Columbus, IN
- Average daylight in January:
9h and 48min - Average daylight in February:
10h and 48min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 0min - Average daylight in April:
13h and 18min - Average daylight in May:
14h and 18min - Average daylight in June:
14h and 54min
- Average daylight in July:
14h and 36min - Average daylight in August:
13h and 42min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 24min - Average daylight in October:
11h and 12min - Average daylight in November:
10h and 0min - Average daylight in December:
9h and 30min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 14h and 54min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 9h and 30min).
- Average sunshine in January:
4h and 6min - Average sunshine in February:
5h and 18min - Average sunshine in March:
6h and 12min - Average sunshine in April:
7h and 24min - Average sunshine in May:
8h and 48min - Average sunshine in June:
10h and 12min
- Average sunshine in July:
10h and 24min - Average sunshine in August:
9h and 36min - Average sunshine in September:
8h and 24min - Average sunshine in October:
6h and 54min - Average sunshine in November:
5h and 24min - Average sunshine in December:
4h and 18min
The month with the most sunshine is July (Average sunshine: 10h and 24min).
The month with the least sunshine is January (Average sunshine: 4h and 6min).
Average sunshine days
Columbus, IN
- Average sunshine days in January:
13.5 days - Average sunshine days in February:
12.5 days - Average sunshine days in March:
12.2 days - Average sunshine days in April:
11.8 days - Average sunshine days in May:
10.3 days - Average sunshine days in June:
10.6 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
11.3 days - Average sunshine days in August:
13.6 days - Average sunshine days in September:
13.8 days - Average sunshine days in October:
17.7 days - Average sunshine days in November:
16.9 days - Average sunshine days in December:
13.6 days
The month with the most sunshine days is October (17.7 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is May (10.3 days).
Average UV index
Columbus, IN
The months with the highest UV index are June, July and August (UV index 6).
The months with the lowest UV index are January, February, November and December (UV index 2).
Average cloud cover
Columbus, IN
The month with the most cloud cover is January (Cloud cover 58).
The month with the least cloud cover is August (Cloud cover 29).
Average visibility
Columbus, IN
The months with the highest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, August, September, October and November (6mi).
The months with the lowest visibility are July and December (5mi).
