Climate and monthly weather forecast
New Orleans, LA

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Commuter buses on the street in New Orleans, Louisiana
Commuter buses on the street in New Orleans, Louisiana

The climate of New Orleans

New Orleans, Louisiana, USA, is situated in a humid subtropical zone, denoted as Cfa in the Köppen climate classification. The location's climate is characterized by hot, humid summers and mild winters, a commonality with cities in the said climate zone. The geographic positioning of New Orleans significantly influences the weather patterns throughout the year, providing the city with ample rainfall across all seasons.

Distinct variations can be noted in the weather parameters year-round. High temperatures in New Orleans range from 60.4°F (15.8°C) in January to a peak of 89.4°F (31.9°C) in both July and August. Meanwhile, low temperatures exhibit a similar trend, registering at 48.6°F (9.2°C) in January and peaking at 79.5°F (26.4°C) in August. The city experiences a relatively high humidity level year-round, averaging between 72% to 77% in all twelve months.

Rainfall in New Orleans varies considerably across the year. The driest month is March, with an average precipitation of 0.43" (11mm), while the wettest month is July, receiving up to 1.57" (40mm) of rain on average. Additionally, the city enjoys long daylight hours throughout the year, peaking at 14.1 hours in June before decreasing to 10.2 hours in December. The city's wind speed ranges from 6.6mph (10.6km/h) to 9.8mph (15.8km/h), with the strongest gusts being experienced in December at 14.5mph (23.3km/h).

The best time to visit New Orleans

To experience the best weather in New Orleans, many travelers find the cooler months of November through April to be ideal. During this time, average high temperatures range between 60.4°F (15.8°C) to 82.9°F (28.3°C) while low temperatures vary from 48.6°F (9.2°C) to 71.2°F (21.8°C), providing comfortable weather for outdoor activities. Additionally, rainfall is relatively low compared to other parts of the year, with November being particularly dry, receiving an average of just 0.63" (16mm) of rain.

The worst time to visit New Orleans

The worst time to visit New Orleans is often considered to be during the hottest and most humid months, from June to September. During this period, the average temperature during the day can exceed 86.5°F (30.3°C), peaking at an uncomfortable 89.4°F (31.9°C) in July and August. These months also receive the highest rainfall, with July and August accumulatively receiving up to 3.03" (77mm) of rain.

Spring weather in New Orleans

Spring in New Orleans encompasses the months of March, April, and May. During this season, the city sees an increase in temperature, with average highs progressing from 70.7°F (21.5°C) in March to 82.9°F (28.3°C) by May. Overnight lows, however, remain comfortable, ranging from 58.3°F (14.6°C) to 71.2°F (21.8°C). This period also experiences a gradual increase in rainfall, starting with 0.43" (11mm) in March and ending with 0.75" (19mm) in May.

Summer weather in New Orleans

The summer months from June to August in New Orleans are hot and humid. High temperatures average between 88.3°F (31.3°C) to 89.4°F (31.9°C), while low temperatures remain warm, spanning from 77.7°F (25.4°C) to 79.5°F (26.4°C). Rainfall is also at its peak during this season, reaching up to 1.57" (40mm) in July.

Autumn weather in New Orleans

Autumn in New Orleans witnesses a marked shift in weather conditions from September to November. High temperatures begin at 86.5°F (30.3°C) and cool down to 68.9°F (20.5°C), while low temperatures decrease from 76.3°F (24.6°C) to 57.4°F (14.1°C). Rainfall decreases over the course of the season, starting at 0.47" (12mm) in September and reducing to 0.63" (16mm) by November.

Winter weather in New Orleans

December through February marks the winter season in New Orleans. During this period, high temperatures average from 63.5°F (17.5°C) to 64.6°F (18.1°C), while low temperatures drop to as low as 48.6°F (9.2°C) in January. Despite being the coldest months of the year, winters are relatively mild compared to other regions. Rainfall measures at 0.79" (20mm) in December, increasing slightly to 0.55" (14mm) in February.

Weather in January

The New Year in New Orleans, Louisiana, greets its residents with relatively mild temperatures. It's known for varying weather patterns that couples cool wind gusts reaching speeds of 14.7mph (23.7km/h) with slightly humid air boasting 74% relative humidity. Weather in January »

Weather in February

February in New Orleans comes with its own set of weather conditions, distinctively different from the preceding month. The city goes through slightly increased rainfall with moistened conditions facilitated by humidity levels of around 77%. Weather in February »

Weather in March

New Orleans transitions into the spring season during March, offering a departure from the slightly more humid climate of the previous month. Mild temperature rises are evident alongside a reduction in humidity levels. Predictable wind patterns create a harmonious blend with the pleasant weather characterized by a soft sunlight pouring in for around 7.9 hours per day. Weather in March »

Weather in April

April in New Orleans manifests itself with warmer days and longer sunlight. The hustle-bustle of city life enjoys the nurturing warmth of 9.9 hours of average daily sunshine, painting lively pictures of the thriving city. April weather enters a transition phase from mild subtropical climate to more summer-like conditions. Weather in April »

Weather in May

May, highlighting the onset of summer, breaks away the spring equilibrium by bringing a hot streak to New Orleans. The city experiences a substantial increase in average temperature highs and lows noted at 82.9°F (28.3°C) and 71.2°F (21.8°C) respectively. Weather in May »

Weather in June

June in New Orleans signifies the full onset of the sweltering summer heat. While the city copes with relative humidity around 72%, the abundance of daylight hours enhances its vibrant lifestyle. The weather drawings on average more rainfall than in the previous month, preparing a moist platform for July's weather, known to be the wettest in the year. Weather in June »

Weather in July

The summer peaks in the city of New Orleans during the hot and humid month of July. Showers provide an intermittent relief from the city's heat, with rainfall reaching its yearly peak at 1.57" (40mm). July is a unique month, characterized by the city bracing itself against high temperature and rainfall. Weather in July »

Weather in August

New Orleans promises a weather consistency in August as it retains the vibes of the prior summer month. Similar to July, August sustains high humidity levels, prevalent heat and noteworthy rainfall, marking it as an extension of July's weather peak. Weather in August »

Weather in September

September in New Orleans rings the curtain down on summer, ushering in the beginnings of mild autumn weather. The temperature undergoes a slight drop from the summer zenith, making the city's climate more bearable. Although precipitation drops compared to August, the September skies remain relatively clear, offering generous sunlight. Weather in September »

Weather in October

October in New Orleans offers a stark contrast from the previous humid month, presenting an agreeable, gentle climate. The cooler winds complement the moderate temperature to provide quintessential autumn weather. Daylight hours contract further, in tune with the advent of less sultry conditions. Weather in October »

Weather in November

November in New Orleans builds the climatic bridge towards winter. The city witnesses a tangible decrease in temperature and daylight hours, crafting a cooler feel around the city. As November steps forward towards the end, the more wintry December, its weather forms an inviting prelude to the year’s end. Weather in November »

Weather in December

December wraps up the year in New Orleans by offering a fresh, cool ambiance. Compared to November, this month records a palpable drop in the average temperature, painting a wintery canvas across the city. Lowest temperatures hover around 52.5°F (11.4°C), setting a unique December characteristic for the entire year. Weather in December »
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Frequently asked questions

What time of the year is the coldest in New Orleans?

In New Orleans, the average lowest temperatures are observed in January, with a high of 60.4°F (15.8°C) and a low of 48.6°F (9.2°C).

How much does it rain in New Orleans?

In New Orleans, Louisiana, during the entire year, the rain falls for 112.1 days and collects up to 9.37" (238mm) of precipitation.

When does it snow in New Orleans?

January is the only month when snow falls.

What is the snowiest month in New Orleans?

January has the most snowfall days of the year. Snow falls for 0.1 days.

How many days does it snow in New Orleans?

Throughout the year, there are 0.1 snowfall days.

What are the most humid months in New Orleans?

February and December, with an average relative humidity of 77%, are most humid months in New Orleans.

When it does not snow in New Orleans?

February through December are months without snowfall in New Orleans, Louisiana.

What is the driest month in New Orleans?

March and April are months with the least rain when the rain falls for 8.3 days and typically aggregates up to 0.43" (11mm) of rain.

When is Daylight Saving Time (DST) in New Orleans?

On Sunday, March 10. 2024, at 2:00 am, Daylight Saving Time starts in New Orleans, and the time zone changes from CST to CDT. Daylight Saving Time ends Sunday, November 3. 2024, at 2:00 am, and the time zone reverts from CDT to CST.

What is the month with the highest UV index in New Orleans?

The months with the highest UV index are May through September, with an average maximum UV index of 7.

When are the longest days in New Orleans?

The month with the longest days in New Orleans, Louisiana, is June, with an average of 14h and 0min of daylight.

What month has the most sunshine in New Orleans?

June has the most sunshine of the year in New Orleans, with an average of 11h of sunshine.

What month is the hottest in New Orleans?

In New Orleans, the warmest months are July and August, registering an average high-temperature of 89.4°F (31.9°C).

What is the rainiest month in New Orleans?

The month with the most rainfall is July, when the rain falls for 15.5 days and typically aggregates up to 1.57" (40mm) of precipitation.

What is the least humid month in New Orleans?

The least humid month in New Orleans is October, with an average relative humidity of 71%.

What is the month with the shortest days in New Orleans?

December has the shortest days of the year in New Orleans, Louisiana, with an average of 10h and 18min of daylight.

What is the month with the least sunshine in New Orleans?

December has the least sunshine of the year in New Orleans, Louisiana, with an average of 5.1h of sunshine.

When is the lowest UV index in New Orleans?

December is the month with the lowest UV index, with an average maximum UV index of 3.

Average temperature
New Orleans, LA

Average temperature - New Orleans, LA

The warmest months (with the highest average high temperature) are July and August (89.4°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (60.4°F).

The month with the highest average low temperature is August (79.5°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (48.6°F).

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Average pressure
New Orleans, LA

Average pressure - New Orleans, LA

The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is January (30.16"Hg).
The months with the lowest atmospheric pressure are June, August and September (29.97"Hg).

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Average wind speed
New Orleans, LA

Average wind speed - New Orleans, LA

The windiest months (with the highest average wind speed) are February and April (9.8mph).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is July (6.6mph).

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Average humidity
New Orleans, LA

Average humidity - New Orleans, LA

The months with the highest relative humidity are February and December (77%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is October (71%).

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Average rainfall
New Orleans, LA

Average rainfall - New Orleans, LA

The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is July (1.57").
The driest months (with the least rainfall) are March and April (0.43").

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Average rainfall days
New Orleans, LA

Average rainfall days - New Orleans, LA

The month with the highest number of rainy days is August (17.2 days).
The month with the least rainy days is November (4.7 days).

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Average snowfall days
New Orleans, LA

Average snowfall days - New Orleans, LA

The month with the highest number of snowfall days is January (0.1 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (0 days).

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Average daylight / Average sunshine
New Orleans, LA

Average daylight / Average sunshine - New Orleans, LA

The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 14h and 0min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 10h and 18min).

The month with the most sunshine is June (Average sunshine: 11h and 0min).
The month with the least sunshine is December (Average sunshine: 5h and 6min).

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Average sunshine days
New Orleans, LA

Average sunshine days - New Orleans, LA

The month with the most sunshine days is November (23.5 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is August (8.9 days).

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Average UV index
New Orleans, LA

Average UV index - New Orleans, LA

The months with the highest UV index are May, June, July, August and September (UV index 7).
The month with the lowest UV index is December (UV index 3).

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Average visibility
New Orleans, LA

Average visibility - New Orleans, LA

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

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New Orleans, Louisiana, USA

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