Pennsylvania Weather by Month
Pennsylvania, located in the northeastern United States, is bordered by New York to the north and east, New Jersey to the east, Maryland to the southeast, Delaware to the south, West Virginia to the southwest, and Ohio to the west. Known as the “Keystone State,” Pennsylvania played a crucial role in American history, serving as the site of the Continental Congress’s signing of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia. Major cities include Philadelphia (the largest city), Pittsburgh, Allentown, Erie, and Reading. Iconic landmarks encompass Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell in Philadelphia, the Gettysburg National Military Park, the Pennsylvania State Capitol in Harrisburg, and the Amish Country in Lancaster County. Pennsylvania’s economy is diverse, with key industries including manufacturing, agriculture, healthcare, technology, and finance, contributing to its status as one of the leading economies in the United States.
Weather Overview:
Pennsylvania experiences a humid continental climate in the majority of the state, with some areas in the southwest and southeast experiencing a humid subtropical climate. The state has four distinct seasons, with cold winters and hot summers.
| Month | Average Temperature (°F) | Average Precipitation (inches) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 30.1 | 3.18 |
| February | 32.8 | 2.74 |
| March | 41.3 | 3.57 |
| April | 53.2 | 3.33 |
| May | 63.8 | 3.61 |
| June | 73.3 | 3.80 |
| July | 77.4 | 4.39 |
| August | 75.8 | 4.02 |
| September | 68.8 | 3.74 |
| October | 57.3 | 3.14 |
| November | 47.1 | 3.45 |
| December | 35.1 | 3.23 |
January
January in Pennsylvania marks the peak of winter, with cold temperatures and occasional snowfall dominating the landscape. Average temperatures range from the low 20s°F (-6°C) in the northwestern regions to the low 30s°F (-1°C) in the southeastern parts of the state. Snowstorms are common, especially in the central and northern regions, often causing travel disruptions. However, winter sports enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating in various parts of the state. January is not typically regarded as the best time for leisure travel due to the harsh weather conditions, but for those seeking winter adventures, it can be an exhilarating time to visit.
February
February in Pennsylvania continues to be cold, with temperatures gradually beginning to rise as the month progresses. Average temperatures range from the low 20s°F (-6°C) in the northwest to the mid-30s°F (1-2°C) in the southeast. Snowfall remains prevalent, although it may start to taper off towards the end of the month. Outdoor activities such as ice fishing and winter hikes are still popular during this time, but travelers should be prepared for cold and potentially snowy conditions. February can be a quieter time to visit Pennsylvania, offering opportunities for peaceful retreats and indoor attractions.
March
March heralds the arrival of spring in Pennsylvania, although temperatures can still be quite chilly, especially earlier in the month. Average temperatures range from the mid-20s°F (-3°C) in the northwest to the low 40s°F (4-5°C) in the southeast. Snow is still possible, particularly in the northwest, but it tends to melt quickly as temperatures rise. March is a transitional month, with fluctuating weather patterns ranging from sunny days to occasional rain showers. Travelers visiting Pennsylvania in March can witness the emergence of spring blooms and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring nature trails as the landscape begins to awaken from winter.
April
April marks the true onset of spring in Pennsylvania, with milder temperatures and blooming vegetation throughout the state. Average temperatures range from the low 30s°F (0-1°C) in the northwest to the low 50s°F (10-11°C) in the southeast. While occasional cold snaps and frost are still possible, especially in the early part of the month, overall conditions become more favorable for outdoor activities. April showers are common, contributing to the rejuvenation of the landscape and the vibrant growth of flora. Travelers visiting Pennsylvania in April can enjoy the beauty of springtime scenery, including cherry blossoms, tulips, and flowering trees, making it an ideal time for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
May
May brings warmer temperatures and longer days to Pennsylvania, making it one of the best months for outdoor exploration and travel. Average temperatures range from the mid-40s°F (7-8°C) in the northwest to the mid-60s°F (18-19°C) in the southeast. Spring blooms reach their peak during this month, with parks, gardens, and nature reserves bursting with color. Outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and picnicking become popular as the weather becomes more conducive to leisurely pursuits. May also marks the beginning of festival season in Pennsylvania, with events celebrating everything from music and food to arts and culture. Travelers visiting Pennsylvania in May can experience the beauty of spring in full bloom while enjoying a wide range of outdoor festivities and attractions.
June
June heralds the arrival of summer in Pennsylvania, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. Average temperatures range from the mid-50s°F (12-13°C) in the northwest to the low 70s°F (21-22°C) in the southeast. The weather becomes increasingly conducive to outdoor activities such as swimming, boating, and camping, with numerous lakes, rivers, and parks offering opportunities for recreation. June also marks the peak of festival season in Pennsylvania, with events celebrating everything from agriculture and food to music and culture. Travelers visiting Pennsylvania in June can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of summer, with ample opportunities for outdoor adventure and cultural immersion.
July
July is typically the warmest month of the year in Pennsylvania, with hot temperatures and high humidity levels. Average temperatures range from the mid-60s°F (17-18°C) in the northwest to the low 80s°F (27-28°C) in the southeast. Outdoor activities such as swimming, fishing, and barbecuing are popular ways to beat the summer heat, with many families taking advantage of the long days to enjoy picnics and outdoor gatherings. July also offers opportunities for attending county fairs, fireworks displays, and other summer events. Travelers visiting Pennsylvania in July can experience the quintessential joys of summer, from lazy days at the beach to lively celebrations of community and culture.
August
August continues the warm and humid conditions of summer in Pennsylvania, with temperatures remaining high throughout the month. Average temperatures range from the mid-60s°F (17-18°C) in the northwest to the low 80s°F (27-28°C) in the southeast. While the weather can be hot and muggy, August also brings opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation, with many parks, lakes, and outdoor venues hosting events and activities. August is also a popular time for agricultural fairs and festivals, showcasing the bounty of Pennsylvania’s farms and rural communities. Travelers visiting Pennsylvania in August can enjoy the final weeks of summer, soaking up the sun and savoring the seasonal delights of the region.
September
September marks the transition from summer to fall in Pennsylvania, with gradually cooling temperatures and changing foliage. Average temperatures range from the mid-50s°F (12-13°C) in the northwest to the low 70s°F (21-22°C) in the southeast. While early September can still feel like summer, especially in the southeast, cooler weather begins to prevail towards the end of the month. September is an ideal time for outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and scenic drives, as the landscape transforms into a kaleidoscope of autumn colors. Fall festivals and events also abound in Pennsylvania during September, offering opportunities to celebrate the harvest season and local culture. Travelers visiting Pennsylvania in September can experience the beauty of late summer and early fall, enjoying mild weather and picturesque landscapes before the onset of winter.
October
October is synonymous with fall foliage in Pennsylvania, as the leaves change colors and the landscape transforms into a breathtaking tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows. Average temperatures range from the mid-40s°F (7-8°C) in the northwest to the low 60s°F (15-16°C) in the southeast. Cool, crisp days and clear skies make October perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, apple picking, and visiting pumpkin patches. Fall festivals and events continue throughout the month, offering opportunities to celebrate the season with hayrides, corn mazes, and other autumnal delights. Travelers visiting Pennsylvania in October can immerse themselves in the beauty of fall, exploring scenic drives and hiking trails adorned with vibrant foliage.
November
November marks the transition to winter in Pennsylvania, with cooling temperatures and occasional frost towards the end of the month. Average temperatures range from the mid-30s°F (1-2°C) in the northwest to the low 50s°F (10-11°C) in the southeast. While early November may still feel like fall, with lingering foliage and mild weather, colder conditions become more prevalent as the month progresses. November is a time of transition, with outdoor activities giving way to indoor pursuits such as holiday shopping and cultural events. Travelers visiting Pennsylvania in November can experience the changing seasons, from the last traces of fall to the first hints of winter, making it an ideal time for cozy getaways and exploring indoor attractions.
December
December brings winter weather to Pennsylvania, with cold temperatures and the potential for snowfall across the state. Average temperatures range from the low 30s°F (-1°C) in the northwest to the low 40s°F (4-5°C) in the southeast. While snow is relatively rare in many parts of the state, it can occur, especially in the higher elevations and northern regions. December also brings festive holiday celebrations and events, offering opportunities to experience the magic of the season. Outdoor activities such as ice skating and holiday light displays are popular, providing entertainment for visitors of all ages. December can be a cozy and enchanting time to visit Pennsylvania, with the promise of winter festivities and seasonal cheer.
