Climate and monthly weather forecastColumbia, MD
Climate and monthly weather forecast
The climate of Columbia
Located in Maryland, USA, Columbia carries the Köppen climate classification Cfa. This signifies a predominately humid subtropical climate. This type of climate, encountered widely, brings no dry season, with precipitation interspersed all through the year.Throughout the given year, Columbia sees a significant temperature range. The mercury varies from a low of 26.1°F (-3.3°C) noted in January to a peak of 85.8°F (29.9°C) observed in July. Humidity rates present relatively mild fluctuations during the year, maintaining an average between 72% and 77%. Similarly, cloud coverage remains reasonably constant, with a monthly average ranging between 29% in July to 46% in March.
Precipitation in Columbia shows no dry season while demonstrating an increment in rainfall from January's 1.85" (47mm) to August's 4.06" (103mm) maxima. Correspondingly, the number of rainfall days also shows a growth pattern, going from 8.4 days in January to 17.1 days observed in August.
Columbia's sunlight hours show an expected seasonal pattern, from an average low of 9.5 hours in December to a peak of 14.9 hours in June. As a parallel trend, the number of days with sun sees some variation, from 11 in May and July to 19.6 in November.
Wind speeds in Columbia remain relatively mild through the year, averaging from 5.3mph (8.5km/h) in August to 8.6mph (13.8km/h) in March. The max wind gusts recorded also stay within a moderate range, with the highest value being 13.8mph (22.2km/h) in February.
The best time to visit Columbia
Optimal visiting conditions in Columbia arise between May and September when the temperatures range from 63.1°F (17.3°C) to 85.8°F (29.9°C). Pair this with extended daylight periods of 13.3 to 14.6 hours, and visitors can make the most of their stay here. The rainfall during this period varies between 2.6" (66mm) to 4.06" (103mm), and even though the occasional shower may be present, it does not detract from the overall experience.The worst time to visit Columbia
Given the colder conditions and shorter daylight hours, the period from November through March may not be the best for visiting Columbia. Temperatures drop to as low as 26.1°F (-3.3°C) in January and daylight hours are reduced to between 9.5 and 10.8. Additionally, snowfall is possible between December and March, with January registering the maximum at 3.03" (77mm).Spring weather in Columbia
Spring in Columbia, from February to April, witnesses an uprise in temperatures from a lower threshold of 28.6°F (-1.9°C) to a comfortable 63.1°F (17.3°C). Rainfall averages between 1.97" (50mm) and 2.36" (60mm), and the number of rainy days increases from 9.5 to 15.3. During this period, daylight hours prolong from 10.8 hours to 13.3 hours, presenting a delightful setup for spring-time activities.Summer weather in Columbia
Summer months in Columbia experience the warmest conditions, with temperatures scaling between 72.7°F (22.6°C) rising up to 85.8°F (29.9°C) by the end of July. Rainfall is distributed from 2.6" (66mm) to 4.06" (103mm) and there are up to 18 rainy days. However, the plentiful sunshine of 10.3 to 10.8 hours per day ensures a relaxing summer atmosphere.Autumn weather in Columbia
Columbia’s autumn, from August through October, registers a progressive decline in temperatures from 83.8°F (28.8°C) to 65.1°F (18.4°C). The rainfall shows a reduction from 4.06" (103mm) in August to 2.24" (57mm) by October. Even as the number of daylight hours falls from 13.7 hours to 11.2 hours, the weather remains generally pleasant.Winter weather in Columbia
Winters in Columbia, running from November through January, are characterized by cooling temperatures, falling from 53.1°F (11.7°C) to 26.1°F (-3.3°C) by the end of January. Rainfall is consistently around 2.17 to 2.24" (57mm) each month. Snowfall might be there from December onwards, with January experiencing the most at 3.03" (77mm). Although the daylight hours are the shortest, from 10 hours in November to 9.5 hours in December, the ambience remains invigorating for winter-lovers.Weather in January
As the first month of the year, January in Columbia, Maryland presents a chilly landscape, marked by a transition from the freezing temperatures of December. An additional 1.0 hour of daylight is observed, a modest increase compared to the preceding month. Weather in January »Weather in February
Maintaining the winter charm, February in Columbia, Maryland stays cold while inching towards Spring's arrival. A marginal rise in overall temperatures from January is observed along with continued but reduced snowfall. Significantly, February experiences up to 1.81" (46mm) of snowfall, a hint of mellowing winter. Weather in February »Weather in March
March ushers in Spring in Columbia, marking a noticeable deviation from the winter months. Tempered by the cool touch of winter, the city's landscape begins to transition, offering a silver lining to the Winter-weary populace. With no traces of snowfall and a definitive rise in daylight hours, March bids adieu to Winter in a calm manner. Weather in March »Weather in April
April is a monthly treat for Columbia, Maryland, presenting a lively Spring canvas. With the town bathed in more sunlight, the mood is positive and active, enhanced by cleaner skies and a rise in visibility. Interestingly, April relinquishes the final traces of snowfall from the preceding month. Weather in April »Weather in May
Warm and welcoming, May transitions Columbia into the inviting season of Summer. With increased daylight and no signs of snow, the outside invite is hard to resist. A steep climb in both the temperature and humidity levels characterizes the basic nature of the month. Weather in May »Weather in June
June in Columbia, Maryland, is typically reflective of the golden month of Summer. Days are longer, offering residents more time to experience the seasonal attractions the city provides. Changes in weather are evident, but the cooler nights provide a relieving contrast to the sometimes-sweltering days. Weather in June »Weather in July
July in Columbia, Maryland, is synonymous with peak summer. Adorned by bountiful sunshine, the city glimmers, as locals and tourists bask in the warm temperature. Despite the heat, the beauty and vitality of Columbia remains undeterred. Weather in July »Weather in August
August marks the gradual transition from the fierce heat of July towards a milder, yet still warm September. Despite the slight towel off from the heat, Columbia continues to boast of lovely sunlit days and clear skies. Humidity and rainfall increase, reflecting a frequent mix of sunshine and showers. Weather in August »Weather in September
In Columbia, Maryland, September imparts a sense of nostalgia as it brings an end to the scorching summer. The city unravels under a balanced temperature spectrum, with nature putting on its mesmerizing fall display. The slight dip in temperatures is a notable change, predicting the oncoming coolness of Autumn. Weather in September »Weather in October
October in Columbia, Maryland, announces the onset of Autumn in earnest, with temperatures tending towards more pleasant medians. The shortened daylight hours align with the shift, reinforcing the steady drop in temperature. The city basks in this transition, surrendering to the beauty of falling leaves and orange hues. Weather in October »Weather in November
November in Columbia, Maryland, is a meeting point between Autumn's end and Winter's arrival, as temperatures continue to drop. The city evolves under the changing weather spectrum, laying bare trees and shifting landscapes. A mild increase in rainfall traces the shift, echoing the approaching Winter's breath. Weather in November »Weather in December
Rounding off the year, December in Columbia, Maryland, brings Winter in its full glory. The drop in temperature is profound and signals the onset of the holiday season. Snowfall is not uncommon, and the city's landscape morphs into a winter wonderland, decorating Columbia in festive hues. Weather in December »Updated: Aug 6, 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
The month of January sees the average lowest temperatures, reaching 38.1°F (3.4°C) at the peak and 26.1°F (-3.3°C) at the low.
The month with the least rainfall is January, when the rain falls for 8.4 days and typically collects 1.85" (47mm) of precipitation.
In Columbia, during the entire year, the rain falls for 159.3 days and collects up to 30.31" (770mm) of precipitation.
January through March, November and December are months with snowfall.
Throughout the year, there are 15.9 snowfall days, and 8.7" (221mm) of snow is accumulated.
January and February, with an average of 5.1h of sunshine, are months with the least sunshine.
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 March, when snow falls for 3.3 days and typically aggregates up to 3.03" (77mm) 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.
April and July, with an average relative humidity of 72%, are the least humid months.
In Columbia, snow does not fall in April through October.
The months with the highest humidity are May and October, with an average relative humidity of 77%.
The months with the highest UV index are May through August, with an average maximum UV index of 6.
June has the longest days of the year, with an average of 14h and 54min of daylight.
Temperature records mark July as the warmest month, with highs averaging 85.8°F (29.9°C) and lows at 68.9°F (20.5°C).
With an average of 10.8h of sunshine, July has the most sunshine of the year.
The month with the most rainfall is August, when the rain falls for 17.1 days and typically aggregates up to 4.06" (103mm) of precipitation.
With an average of 9h and 30min of daylight, December has the shortest days of the year.
Average temperature
Columbia, MD
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (85.8°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (38.1°F).
The month with the highest average low temperature is July (68.9°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (26.1°F).
Average pressure
Columbia, MD
- Average pressure in January:
30.1"Hg - Average pressure in February:
30.07"Hg - Average pressure in March:
30.08"Hg - Average pressure in April:
29.99"Hg - Average pressure in May:
30.01"Hg - Average pressure in June:
29.94"Hg
- Average pressure in July:
29.97"Hg - Average pressure in August:
29.99"Hg - Average pressure in September:
30.05"Hg - Average pressure in October:
30.04"Hg - Average pressure in November:
30.14"Hg - Average pressure in December:
30.11"Hg
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is November (30.14"Hg).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is June (29.94"Hg).
Average wind speed
Columbia, MD
- Average wind speed in January:
8.5mph - Average wind speed in February:
8.5mph - Average wind speed in March:
8.6mph - Average wind speed in April:
8.5mph - Average wind speed in May:
6.8mph - Average wind speed in June:
6.3mph
- Average wind speed in July:
5.4mph - Average wind speed in August:
5.3mph - Average wind speed in September:
6.1mph - Average wind speed in October:
7.1mph - Average wind speed in November:
7.5mph - Average wind speed in December:
7.8mph
The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is March (8.6mph).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is August (5.3mph).
Average humidity
Columbia, MD
The months with the highest relative humidity are May and October (77%).
The months with the lowest relative humidity are April and July (72%).
Average rainfall
Columbia, MD
- Average rainfall in January:
1.85" - Average rainfall in February:
1.97" - Average rainfall in March:
2.2" - Average rainfall in April:
2.36" - Average rainfall in May:
3.15" - Average rainfall in June:
2.6"
- Average rainfall in July:
3.31" - Average rainfall in August:
4.06" - Average rainfall in September:
2.17" - Average rainfall in October:
2.24" - Average rainfall in November:
2.17" - Average rainfall in December:
2.24"
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is August (4.06").
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is January (1.85").
Average rainfall days
Columbia, MD
- Average rainfall days in January:
8.4 days - Average rainfall days in February:
9.5 days - Average rainfall days in March:
13 days - Average rainfall days in April:
15.3 days - Average rainfall days in May:
18 days - Average rainfall days in June:
15.5 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
17.3 days - Average rainfall days in August:
17.1 days - Average rainfall days in September:
13.3 days - Average rainfall days in October:
12.4 days - Average rainfall days in November:
9.3 days - Average rainfall days in December:
10.2 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is May (18 days).
The month with the least rainy days is January (8.4 days).
Average snowfall
Columbia, MD
The month with the highest snowfall is March (3.03").
The months with the least snowfall are April, May, June, July, August, September and October (0").
Average snowfall days
Columbia, MD
- Average snowfall days in January:
4.4 days - Average snowfall days in February:
4.6 days - Average snowfall days in March:
3.3 days - Average snowfall days in April:
0.2 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 days - Average snowfall days in November:
0.5 days - Average snowfall days in December:
2.9 days
The month with the highest number of snowfall days is February (4.6 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are May, June, July, August, September and October (0 days).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Columbia, MD
- 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:
5h and 6min - Average sunshine in February:
5h and 6min - Average sunshine in March:
6h and 48min - Average sunshine in April:
8h and 42min - Average sunshine in May:
8h and 54min - Average sunshine in June:
10h and 18min
- Average sunshine in July:
10h and 48min - Average sunshine in August:
10h and 24min - Average sunshine in September:
9h and 6min - Average sunshine in October:
5h and 36min - Average sunshine in November:
5h and 48min - Average sunshine in December:
5h and 12min
The month with the most sunshine is July (Average sunshine: 10h and 48min).
The months with the least sunshine are January and February (Average sunshine: 5h and 6min).
Average sunshine days
Columbia, MD
- Average sunshine days in January:
18.2 days - Average sunshine days in February:
15.1 days - Average sunshine days in March:
15.1 days - Average sunshine days in April:
13.6 days - Average sunshine days in May:
11 days - Average sunshine days in June:
12.3 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
11.1 days - Average sunshine days in August:
12 days - Average sunshine days in September:
14.3 days - Average sunshine days in October:
16.5 days - Average sunshine days in November:
19.6 days - Average sunshine days in December:
17.9 days
The month with the most sunshine days is November (19.6 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is May (11 days).
Average UV index
Columbia, MD
The months with the highest UV index are May, 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
Columbia, MD
The month with the most cloud cover is March (Cloud cover 46).
The month with the least cloud cover is July (Cloud cover 29).
Average visibility
Columbia, MD
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).
