Weather and climate in Mississippi: Humid subtropical climate year-round. Mild winters, rarely snowfall. Hot, humid summers. Rainfall throughout the year. Peak hurricane season: June-November. Tornadoes peak in spring and fall. High humidity levels common. Temperature extremes: summer and winter. Thunderstorms frequent, especially spring/summer. Coastal areas experience more rain.
Humid subtropical climate year-round.
Mississippi has a humid subtropical climate, characterized by long, hot summers and short, mild winters. The state's proximity to the Gulf of Mexico moderates temperatures and increases humidity, with rainfall distributed fairly evenly throughout the year. Although the wettest period is typically during winter and early spring, it is essential to understand that Mississippi Weather provides a unique experience with its climatic variations influenced by geographical features. The blend of these factors contributes to the state's distinct seasonal patterns, offering both challenges and charm to its residents and visitors alike.
Mild winters, rarely snowfall.
Mississippi experiences mild winters with rare snowfall, as the state is characterized by a humid subtropical climate with temperate winters, and measurable snow or sleet falls in only about 95% of the years, often in small amounts. For a deeper understanding of these climatic conditions, you can explore more information on the Mississippi State University Geosciences website.
Hot, humid summers.
Mississippi experiences hot, humid summers characterized by long periods of high temperatures, often exceeding 100°F, and high humidity due to prevailing southerly winds from the Gulf of Mexico. This makes the summer months the least comfortable time of the year. For more insights on the climate of Mississippi, you can visit the State Climatologist's website of Mississippi State University.
Rainfall throughout the year.
Mississippi receives significant rainfall throughout the year, with annual averages ranging from about 50 inches in the north to around 65 inches along the coast. The state experiences an average of 55.9 inches of precipitation annually, with the Gulf Coast regions like Biloxi and Gulfport receiving over 66 inches. In different regions, the number of days with wet weather varies from 95 to 121 days, reflecting the diverse climatic experiences across the state. For more detailed information on the Average Yearly Precipitation, this site provides comprehensive data on Mississippi's climate patterns.
Peak hurricane season: June-November.
The peak hurricane season in Mississippi runs from June 1 to November 30, with the most active months typically being August, September, and October. Preparing for these months is crucial for ensuring safety and minimizing damage. Residents are encouraged to visit the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency website to access comprehensive resources and guidelines on hurricane preparedness. Understanding the risks and having a solid plan in place can significantly help in safeguarding lives and property during this intense period.
Tornadoes peak in spring and fall.
Tornadoes in Mississippi peak during the spring and fall months due to climate change, which strengthens the jet stream and leads to more frequent and intense storms. During these periods, the jet stream's waves dip into the Southeast, increasing the energy available for severe thunderstorms and tornadoes. For more details on how these dynamic weather patterns affect the region, you can read the full article on the Sun Herald website.
High humidity levels common.
Mississippi experiences high humidity levels throughout the year, with average relative humidity ranging from 71% to 77% across different months. The highest humidity levels typically occur in the morning, with peak values often exceeding 90% from May to September. For those interested in detailed month-by-month data, the Weather Information provides extensive insights on these variations, making it essential for planning activities and understanding climate patterns in Mississippi.
Temperature extremes: summer and winter.
Mississippi experiences significant temperature extremes, with the highest recorded temperature being 115°F in Holly Springs on July 29, 1930, and the lowest recorded temperature being -19°F in Corinth on January 30, 1966. Summer temperatures often exceed 100°F, while winter temperatures can drop below freezing, though subzero temperatures are rare and usually occur only in the northern parts of the state. For more detailed climate data and trends, you can visit the CoolWeather website.
Thunderstorms frequent, especially spring/summer.
Thunderstorms in Mississippi are most frequent in July and occur on average 50 to 80 days annually, with the majority happening between noon and 6:00 p.m. during the warm season. They are also common in late fall, winter, and early spring, often associated with frontal activity. For more detailed information on the climatic patterns and occurrences of thunderstorms in the region, you can consult the Mississippi Climate Report.
Coastal areas experience more rain.
Coastal areas in Mississippi receive significantly more rainfall than other regions, with cities like Gulfport and Pascagoula averaging around 68-70 inches of precipitation annually. This is notably higher compared to the statewide average of 55.9 inches. Detailed insights into the Average Yearly Precipitation of Mississippi can help understand these regional differences in climate and their impact on local environments and economies.