Climate and monthly weather forecastHarrisonburg, VA
Climate and monthly weather forecast
The climate of Harrisonburg
The general climatic conditions of Harrisonburg fall under the Cfa classification according to the Köppen climate classification. Positioned in Virginia, USA, Harrisonburg experiences a humid subtropical climate, with no dry season.Throughout the year, Harrisonburg exhibits considerable variability in weather parameters. Temperatures range from a low of 23.4°F (-4.8°C) in January to a high of 83.8°F (28.8°C) in July. Relative humidity levels generally congregate closely around the 75% mark, with only slight deviations in particular months. The number of rainfall days can swing between a low of 9 days in January to a high of 18.9 days in May. Similarly, monthly rainfall ranges from 1.85" (47mm) in January to 3.46" (88mm) in May, signaling the potential for more frequent and heavier downpours during Spring.
A noticeable feature of Harrisonburg's climate is its snowfall. Significant snowfall, reaching up to 4.45" (113mm), occurs from January to March. Snowfall days are likewise greater during these months, tapering off to almost no snow from May to October. Daylight hours stretch from a bare minimum of 9.8 hours in January to a generous 14.8 hours in June, while sunshine hours and days demonstrate a similar pattern.
The best time to visit Harrisonburg
Considering the climate dynamics, the most ideal time to visit Harrisonburg would be from May to October. During these months, temperatures rest comfortably between 62.6°F (17°C) and 83.8°F (28.8°C), and rainfall decreases from its peak in May. Additionally, longer daylight hours, reaching up to 14.8 hours in June, provide ample time for outdoor activities. At this time, high visibility of around 6 miles and lower wind speeds further enhance exploratory activities.The worst time to visit Harrisonburg
The least favorable period to visit Harrisonburg would be from December to early March. Temperatures plummet to between 23.4°F (-4.8°C) and 43.7°F (6.5°C) accompanied by significant snowfall, making outdoor activities challenging. Days are also considerably shorter, with daylight hours shrinking to as low as 9.5 hours in December. Moreover, higher wind speeds might create uncomfortable conditions for visitors sensitive to wind chill.Spring weather in Harrisonburg
Spring presents an annual weather transformation in Harrisonburg. Temperatures gradually rise from 38.8°F (3.8°C) in March to a comfortable 62.6°F (17°C) in April. Spring experiences the highest rainfall of the year, with amounts soaring from 2.36" (60mm) in March to a record 3.46" (88mm) in May. Correspondingly, the number of rainfall days inflates from 14.1 days in March to a high of 18.9 days in May. Nevertheless, days grow incrementally longer, with daylight hours blooming from 12 hours in March to 14.3 hours in May. These conditions mark the onset of Harrisonburg's warmest period.Summer weather in Harrisonburg
Summer in Harrisonburg translates to warm weather, long days, and optimal visibility. Temperature highs hover between 72.1°F (22.3°C) in May and peak at a warm 83.8°F (28.8°C) in July. In contrast, rainfall and the number of rainy days decline gradually, providing a relative respite from the wet spring conditions. Daylight hours extend to up to 14.8 hours in June, coupled by up to 10.5 hours of sunshine in July, the longest throughout the year.Autumn weather in Harrisonburg
Autumn in Harrisonburg sees a downturn in temperature, with highs declining from 75.4°F (24.1°C) in September to 52.2°F (11.2°C) in November. Rainfall remains consistent without significant fluctuations, with the majority of months receiving between 2.24" (57mm) and 2.52" (64mm) of rain. However, the number of daylight hours reduces steadily from 12.4 hours in September to 10.1 hours in November. This period signals the transition into Harrisonburg's cooler months.Winter weather in Harrisonburg
Winter brings a significantly cooler climate to Harrisonburg. Temperatures stoop to as low as 23.4°F (-4.8°C) in January and rise modestly to 43.7°F (6.5°C) in December. As a unique winter characteristic, Harrisonburg also experiences its highest snowfall during these months, with a peak of 4.45" (113mm) in March and 4.13" (105mm) in February. Daylight hours dwindle to the shortest in the year, bottoming at 9.5 hours in December. These chilly, snow-laden conditions paint a picturesque winter landscape in Harrisonburg.Weather in January
January in Harrisonburg, Virginia marks the coldest month, with average low temperatures dropping to 23.4°F (-4.8°C). This is when the city experiences a notable degree of snowfall, transforming the landscape into a winter wonderland. Weather in January »Weather in February
Moving into February, the weather remains cold in Harrisonburg, but there's a slight increase in average temperatures from the preceding month, now peaking at 43.5°F (6.4°C). Days start to lengthen, however, providing a touch more daylight to enjoy outdoor activities. Weather in February »Weather in March
With the arrival of March, Harrisonburg begins to thaw, marking the advent of Spring as average temperatures now peak at 51.4°F (10.8°C). This period is characterized by longer daylight hours and a noticeable decrease in snowfall. Weather in March »Weather in April
April signifies peak springtime in Harrisonburg, Virginia with significant improvements in average temperatures, reaching as high as 62.6°F (17°C). The weather becomes increasingly pleasant over this phase, cultivating a vibrant display of blooming flora across the city. Weather in April »Weather in May
May marks the beginning of moderately warm weather in Harrisonburg, with average high temperatures mounting up to 72.1°F (22.3°C). It also brings with it the highest levels of rainfall throughout the year, vital for the flourishing local flora. Weather in May »Weather in June
The summer heat starts to set in during June with peak temperatures soaring to 79.7°F (26.5°C) in Harrisonburg, Virginia. This month is characterized by longer sunny days, minimal rainfall, and a decline in relative humidity. Evenings often provide a respite from the summer heat, making a stroll through the city's many parks and trails all the more enjoyable. Weather in June »Weather in July
July in Harrisonburg is distinctly recognized as the hottest month of the year, with average high temperatures soaring to astounding 83.8°F (28.8°C). Paired with the peak UV index, the intense heat calls for protective measures against sun exposure. Weather in July »Weather in August
Augmenting August with warm afternoons with temperatures peaking at 82°F (27.8°C), the weather in Harrisonburg, Virginia remains firmly in the summer threshold. Nonetheless, signs of the upcoming autumn start to show, with a slight reduction in heat from July, and a tad increase in the overall rainfall levels. Weather in August »Weather in September
September brings a notable decrease in temperatures, with average high temperatures dropping to 75.4°F (24.1°C) in Harrisonburg. This heralds the start of the autumn season with a crispness in the air and vibrant foliage transforming the cityscape. Weather in September »Weather in October
Entering October, the weather in Harrisonburg, Virginia takes on a distinctly autumnal tone with average temperatures descending to a cooler 63.7°F (17.6°C). This time of the year is characterized by cooler nights, vibrant fall foliage, and a more consistent weather pattern. Weather in October »Weather in November
As November unfurls, it spearheads a transition from Maika's autumn scenery to the onset of winter, with temperatures now capturing a significant drop down to 52.2°F (11.2°C). The vibrantly colored foliage begins to fade, making way for a grayer, more wintery landscape. Weather in November »Weather in December
December marks the return of the winter season in full throttle in Harrisonburg, Virginia. Average temperatures dive down significantly with lows of 28.9°F (-1.7°C), hinting at the forthcoming snowfall in the city's future. While the richness of the year's colors begins to fade, the city takes on a whole new charm with holiday lights. Weather in December »Updated: Feb 14, 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, having an average high-temperature of 38.8°F (3.8°C) and an average low-temperature of 23.4°F (-4.8°C), is the coldest month.
The months with the lowest humidity are January and July, with an average relative humidity of 74%.
Throughout the year, there are 167.3 rainfall days, and 30.35" (771mm) of precipitation is accumulated.
Months with snowfall are January through May, October through December.
Throughout the year, in Harrisonburg, there are 23.3 snowfall days, and 16.89" (429mm) of snow is accumulated.
January, February, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 2, are months with the lowest UV index in Harrisonburg, Virginia.
March is the month with the most snowfall in Harrisonburg. Snow falls for 4.8 days and accumulates 4.45" (113mm) of snow.
On Sunday, March 10. 2024, at 2:00 am, Daylight Saving Time starts in Harrisonburg, Virginia, 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, September and October, with an average relative humidity of 78%, are most humid months in Harrisonburg.
The month with the most rainfall in Harrisonburg is May, when the rain falls for 18.9 days and typically aggregates up to 3.46" (88mm) of precipitation.
In Harrisonburg, snow does not fall in June through September.
With an average of 14h and 48min of daylight, June has the longest days of the year.
The months with the highest UV index in Harrisonburg are June and July, with an average maximum UV index of 6.
In Harrisonburg, July registers the highest temperatures, averaging 83.8°F (28.8°C) at the peak and 61.9°F (16.6°C) at the lowest.
July has the most sunshine of the year, with an average of 10.5h of sunshine.
November is the month with the least rainfall in Harrisonburg. Rain falls for 9 days and accumulates 1.77" (45mm) of precipitation.
December has the shortest days of the year in Harrisonburg, Virginia, with an average of 9h and 30min of daylight.
With an average of 5.3h of sunshine, December has the least sunshine of the year in Harrisonburg, Virginia.
Average temperature
Harrisonburg, VA
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (83.8°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (38.8°F).
The month with the highest average low temperature is July (61.9°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (23.4°F).
Average pressure
Harrisonburg, VA
- Average pressure in January:
30.12"Hg - Average pressure in February:
30.09"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:
29.96"Hg
- Average pressure in July:
29.99"Hg - Average pressure in August:
30.01"Hg - Average pressure in September:
30.06"Hg - Average pressure in October:
30.05"Hg - Average pressure in November:
30.15"Hg - Average pressure in December:
30.12"Hg
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is November (30.15"Hg).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is June (29.96"Hg).
Average wind speed
Harrisonburg, VA
- Average wind speed in January:
6.4mph - Average wind speed in February:
6.8mph - Average wind speed in March:
6.6mph - Average wind speed in April:
6.8mph - Average wind speed in May:
5.6mph - Average wind speed in June:
5.1mph
- Average wind speed in July:
4.4mph - Average wind speed in August:
4.3mph - Average wind speed in September:
4.5mph - Average wind speed in October:
5.4mph - Average wind speed in November:
5.6mph - Average wind speed in December:
5.7mph
The windiest months (with the highest average wind speed) are February and April (6.8mph).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is August (4.3mph).
Average humidity
Harrisonburg, VA
The months with the highest relative humidity are May, September and October (78%).
The months with the lowest relative humidity are January and July (74%).
Average rainfall
Harrisonburg, VA
- Average rainfall in January:
1.85" - Average rainfall in February:
1.89" - Average rainfall in March:
2.36" - Average rainfall in April:
3.11" - Average rainfall in May:
3.46" - Average rainfall in June:
2.87"
- Average rainfall in July:
2.91" - Average rainfall in August:
2.91" - Average rainfall in September:
2.24" - Average rainfall in October:
2.52" - Average rainfall in November:
1.77" - Average rainfall in December:
2.44"
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is May (3.46").
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is November (1.77").
Average rainfall days
Harrisonburg, VA
- Average rainfall days in January:
9.8 days - Average rainfall days in February:
10.7 days - Average rainfall days in March:
14.1 days - Average rainfall days in April:
15.9 days - Average rainfall days in May:
18.9 days - Average rainfall days in June:
16.2 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
18 days - Average rainfall days in August:
18 days - Average rainfall days in September:
14.5 days - Average rainfall days in October:
11.8 days - Average rainfall days in November:
9 days - Average rainfall days in December:
10.4 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is May (18.9 days).
The month with the least rainy days is November (9 days).
Average snowfall
Harrisonburg, VA
- Average snowfall in January:
3.78" - Average snowfall in February:
4.13" - Average snowfall in March:
4.45" - Average snowfall in April:
0.47" - Average snowfall in May:
0.08" - Average snowfall in June:
0"
The month with the highest snowfall is March (4.45").
The months with the least snowfall are June, July, August and September (0").
Average snowfall days
Harrisonburg, VA
- Average snowfall days in January:
6.7 days - Average snowfall days in February:
6.6 days - Average snowfall days in March:
4.8 days - Average snowfall days in April:
0.5 days - Average snowfall days in May:
0.1 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:
0.4 days - Average snowfall days in November:
0.7 days - Average snowfall days in December:
3.5 days
The month with the highest number of snowfall days is January (6.7 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are June, July, August and September (0 days).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Harrisonburg, VA
- 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 12min - Average daylight in May:
14h and 18min - Average daylight in June:
14h and 48min
- Average daylight in July:
14h and 30min - Average daylight in August:
13h and 36min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 24min - Average daylight in October:
11h and 12min - Average daylight in November:
10h and 6min - Average daylight in December:
9h and 30min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 14h and 48min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 9h and 30min).
- Average sunshine in January:
5h and 24min - Average sunshine in February:
5h and 48min - Average sunshine in March:
6h and 42min - Average sunshine in April:
9h and 0min - Average sunshine in May:
9h and 0min - Average sunshine in June:
10h and 24min
- Average sunshine in July:
10h and 30min - Average sunshine in August:
10h and 6min - Average sunshine in September:
8h and 30min - Average sunshine in October:
5h and 54min - Average sunshine in November:
6h and 0min - Average sunshine in December:
5h and 18min
The month with the most sunshine is July (Average sunshine: 10h and 30min).
The month with the least sunshine is December (Average sunshine: 5h and 18min).
Average sunshine days
Harrisonburg, VA
- Average sunshine days in January:
17 days - Average sunshine days in February:
13.3 days - Average sunshine days in March:
12.7 days - Average sunshine days in April:
11.7 days - Average sunshine days in May:
9.9 days - Average sunshine days in June:
11.8 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
10.9 days - Average sunshine days in August:
10.7 days - Average sunshine days in September:
12.3 days - Average sunshine days in October:
16.9 days - Average sunshine days in November:
19 days - Average sunshine days in December:
17.6 days
The month with the most sunshine days is November (19 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is May (9.9 days).
Average UV index
Harrisonburg, VA
The months with the highest UV index are June and July (UV index 6).
The months with the lowest UV index are January, February, November and December (UV index 2).
Average cloud cover
Harrisonburg, VA
The month with the most cloud cover is March (Cloud cover 46).
The months with the least cloud cover are June and July (Cloud cover 32).
Average visibility
Harrisonburg, VA
The months with the highest visibility are February, April, June, July and November (6mi).
The months with the lowest visibility are January, March, May, August, September, October and December (5mi).
