Weather and climate in Connecticut: Four distinct seasons. Cold, snowy winters. Hot, humid summers. Mild, pleasant springs. Colorful autumn foliage. Coastal areas milder. Inland areas more extreme. Occasional hurricanes. Frequent rain and snow. High humidity levels.
Four distinct seasons
Connecticut experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons: cold, snowy winters; hot, humid summers with frequent thunderstorms; a spring with plenty of rain and rapid temperature changes; and an autumn with mild temperatures and sunny skies, particularly notable for its fall foliage in October and November. For more detailed information about the weather patterns and seasonal highlights, visit the Iexplore Weather Guide for Connecticut.
Cold, snowy winters
In Connecticut, winters are characterized by cold temperatures, with daytime highs rarely above 40°F along the coastline and averaging 30°F in inland areas like Litchfield County. The state receives significant snowfall, with an average annual total of 37 inches, and the coldest month is typically January, with average overnight temperatures ranging from 17.2°F in Hartford to 21°F in Greenwich. For more details on experiencing this chilly season, visit the Winter in Connecticut page.
Hot, humid summers
Connecticut experiences hot and humid summers, characterized by temperatures often reaching the mid-80s to low 90s, with average highs of 81°F in New London and 85°F in Windsor Locks. High humidity makes the actual temperatures feel even hotter, and the state can see occasional heat waves with temperatures up to 100°F. Additionally, the region is subject to quick-moving summer thunderstorms and rare but possible tornadoes. For more detailed information, you can explore the Geography of Connecticut which delves into these climatic conditions and more.
Mild, pleasant springs
In Connecticut, the 2024 spring is expected to be mild and pleasant, with warmer than normal temperatures anticipated, particularly in April, and drier than normal conditions in March, though May is expected to see wetter than normal precipitation. Spring in the state is generally humid and mild, with temperatures gradually rising to 60-62 degF by April and May, and intermittent rain and thunderstorms are common during this period.
Colorful autumn foliage
Connecticut's fall foliage season typically begins in late September and extends through early November, with peak colors expected between October 3 and November 8, although the exact timing can be influenced by weather conditions. The best viewing areas include the Northwest Hills, Eastern parts of the state, and other wooded regions. For more detailed information about the vibrant autumn display, you can visit the official Connecticut's Fall Foliage website.
Coastal areas milder
Coastal areas in Connecticut experience milder winters and longer frost-free seasons compared to inland areas, with warmer average temperatures and less snowfall, particularly in regions like New Haven and the southern coast. These regions are influenced by the moderating effects of the Atlantic Ocean. For more detailed information about the climate and weather patterns in Connecticut, you can visit the State Climate Summaries website.
Inland areas more extreme
Inland areas of Connecticut experience more extreme climate conditions, with colder temperatures in winter and greater temperature variations compared to the coastal regions. The average annual snowfall increases significantly from the coast to the northwestern corner of the state, and inland areas see more days with minimum temperatures of zero or below. For more detailed information, you can refer to the Climate Summary which provides comprehensive insights into these climatic patterns.
Occasional hurricanes
Connecticut is susceptible to hurricanes, with the official hurricane season running from June 1 to November 30. Coastal towns, especially those along the Long Island Sound, are most prone to hurricane impacts, including hurricane-force winds, storm surges, and flooding. The state has experienced significant hurricane damage in the past, such as the major hurricane in 1938. For more detailed information on how to respond and prepare, visit the Connecticut Emergency Response Guide.
Frequent rain and snow
Connecticut experiences frequent precipitation, with an average of 50 inches of rain per year and 37 inches of snow, exceeding the US averages. Precipitation is fairly evenly distributed among the four seasons, with measurable precipitation occurring on about 119 days per year, and snowfall varying from 30-35 inches along the coast to 50 inches in the Northwest Hills. For more detailed information about the climate in Connecticut, you can visit the BestPlaces website.
High humidity levels
Connecticut experiences high humidity levels, particularly in the summer months, with average daily humidity ranging from 73% in July to 74% in August, and morning humidity often reaching as high as 79-80% during these months. High humidity is also correlated with reduced air quality, discomfort, and health concerns, especially for those with respiratory issues. For more detailed monthly figures and insights, you can visit the Connecticut Humidity Statistics page. Understanding these patterns can be crucial for planning outdoor activities or managing health conditions adversely affected by humidity.