Tennessee Weather by Month
Tennessee, located in the southeastern United States, is bordered by Kentucky and Virginia to the north, North Carolina to the east, Georgia, Alabama, and Mississippi to the south, and Arkansas and Missouri to the west. It became the 16th state on June 1, 1796. Tennessee has a rich history influenced by Native American cultures, European explorers, and settlers, with significant contributions to American music, particularly blues, country, and rock and roll. Major cities include Nashville (the capital and largest city), known as the “Music City” for its vibrant music scene, Memphis, Knoxville, Chattanooga, and Clarksville. Iconic landmarks encompass the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Graceland (Elvis Presley’s estate), the Ryman Auditorium, and the Parthenon replica in Nashville. Tennessee’s economy is diverse, with key sectors including manufacturing, agriculture, healthcare, and tourism, driven by attractions like the Grand Ole Opry and the Tennessee Aquarium.
Weather Overview:
Tennessee experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot, humid summers and mild winters. The state’s weather can vary significantly between regions, with higher elevations in the east experiencing cooler temperatures and more precipitation.
| Month | Average Temperature (°F) | Average Precipitation (inches) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 39.2 | 4.63 |
| February | 42.8 | 4.50 |
| March | 50.7 | 5.41 |
| April | 59.8 | 4.53 |
| May | 68.8 | 4.79 |
| June | 76.7 | 4.15 |
| July | 80.6 | 4.26 |
| August | 79.4 | 3.34 |
| September | 73.4 | 3.16 |
| October | 61.9 | 3.11 |
| November | 51.4 | 4.25 |
| December | 42.2 | 4.82 |
January
January in Tennessee marks the heart of winter, with cold temperatures and occasional snowfall, particularly in the eastern part of the state. Average temperatures range from the low 30s°F (-1 to 2°C) in the east to the mid-40s°F (7-8°C) in the west. However, temperatures can fluctuate significantly depending on elevation and proximity to water bodies. While snow is more common in the higher elevations of the Appalachian Mountains, lower elevations and western regions may experience freezing rain or sleet instead. January is generally a quiet time for tourism in Tennessee, making it an ideal month for travelers seeking to avoid crowds and enjoy indoor activities such as visiting museums, attending concerts, and exploring historic sites.
February
February continues the winter chill in Tennessee, with cold temperatures persisting across the state. Average temperatures range from the low 30s°F (-1 to 2°C) in the east to the upper 40s°F (8-9°C) in the west. While snowfall tends to decrease compared to January, winter weather can still occur, especially in the higher elevations. February offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and ice fishing in the eastern part of the state, where snowfall is more common. In the western regions, visitors can explore Tennessee’s cities, cultural attractions, and culinary scene without the summer crowds. February can be an excellent time for travelers interested in experiencing Tennessee’s local culture and cuisine, attending food festivals, and exploring scenic drives through the countryside.
March
March marks the transition from winter to spring in Tennessee, with gradually warming temperatures and the emergence of blooming flora. Average temperatures range from the mid-40s°F (7-8°C) in the east to the low 50s°F (10-11°C) in the west. While chilly days are still possible, especially in the early part of the month, overall conditions become more favorable for outdoor activities and exploration. March is an ideal time for hiking, birdwatching, and wildflower viewing in Tennessee’s parks and natural areas. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, in particular, offers opportunities to witness the spring bloom of wildflowers such as trilliums, violets, and bloodroots. March also brings festivals and events celebrating the arrival of spring, including cherry blossom festivals and music concerts. Travelers visiting Tennessee in March can experience the beauty of the changing seasons and enjoy a wide range of outdoor and cultural activities.
April
April brings the true arrival of spring to Tennessee, with mild temperatures and blooming flora blanketing the landscape. Average temperatures range from the low 50s°F (10-11°C) in the east to the mid-60s°F (18-19°C) in the west. Spring blooms reach their peak during this month, with cherry blossoms, dogwoods, and azaleas adorning the countryside. April offers ideal conditions for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and picnicking in Tennessee’s parks and nature reserves. The state’s rivers and lakes provide opportunities for fishing, boating, and kayaking, while its scenic drives offer panoramic views of springtime scenery. April is also a popular time for attending outdoor festivals and events, including music festivals, food fairs, and art shows. Travelers visiting Tennessee in April can experience the beauty of spring in full bloom and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the season.
May
May is one of the best times to visit Tennessee, with mild temperatures and longer days perfect for outdoor adventures. Average temperatures range from the mid-60s°F (18-19°C) in the east to the low 70s°F (21-22°C) in the west. Spring blooms continue to dazzle, with rhododendrons, irises, and wildflowers adding color to the landscape. May offers ideal conditions for hiking, camping, and exploring Tennessee’s national and state parks. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park beckons visitors with its scenic trails, waterfalls, and panoramic views. May is also a popular time for wildlife viewing, as animals emerge from hibernation and migrate to their summer habitats. Travelers visiting Tennessee in May can experience the beauty of springtime scenery and enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities in the state’s diverse landscapes.
June
June heralds the arrival of summer in Tennessee, with warm temperatures and abundant sunshine. Average temperatures range from the low 70s°F (21-22°C) in the east to the upper 70s°F (25-26°C) in the west. The weather becomes increasingly conducive to outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and boating. Tennessee’s lakes, rivers, and reservoirs provide opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding, while its parks and forests offer scenic settings for picnics, nature walks, and photography. June is also a popular time for visiting Tennessee’s cultural attractions, including historic sites, museums, and music venues. Despite the warm temperatures, June offers plenty of opportunities for travelers to enjoy the natural beauty and cultural richness of Tennessee.
July
July is typically the warmest month of the year in Tennessee, with hot temperatures and high humidity levels. Average temperatures range from the mid-70s°F (23-24°C) in the east to the low 80s°F (27-28°C) in the west. Heatwaves are common, especially in the central and western regions, where temperatures can soar into the 90s°F (32-35°C) or higher. July is a popular time for outdoor recreation, with visitors flocking to Tennessee’s parks, lakes, and rivers to enjoy swimming, boating, and fishing. The state’s water parks and splash pads offer refreshing escapes from the summer heat, while its scenic drives provide opportunities for exploring the countryside. July also brings festivities such as Independence Day celebrations, fireworks displays, and summer concerts. Travelers visiting Tennessee in July can embrace the summertime energy and take advantage of the state’s abundant recreational opportunities.
August
August continues the hot and sunny conditions of summer in Tennessee, with temperatures remaining high throughout the month. Average temperatures range from the mid-70s°F (23-24°C) in the east to the low 80s°F (27-28°C) in the west. While the weather can be sweltering, August also brings opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation. Tennessee’s parks, forests, and lakes offer refreshing escapes from the summer heat, with activities such as hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. August is also a popular time for visiting Tennessee’s cultural attractions, including museums, art galleries, and historic sites. Despite the heat, August offers plenty of opportunities for travelers to enjoy the natural beauty and cultural richness of Tennessee.
September
September marks the transition from summer to fall in Tennessee, with gradually cooling temperatures and changing foliage. Average temperatures range from the mid-70s°F (23-24°C) in the east to the low 80s°F (27-28°C) in the west. While early September may still feel like summer, especially in the central and western regions, cooler weather begins to prevail towards the end of the month. September is an ideal time for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing, as the landscape transforms into a tapestry of autumn colors. Fall festivals and events also abound in Tennessee during September, offering opportunities to celebrate the harvest season and local culture. Travelers visiting Tennessee 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 Tennessee, as the leaves change colors and the landscape transforms into a breathtaking tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows. Average temperatures range from the mid-60s°F (18-19°C) in the east to the low 70s°F (21-22°C) in the west. Cool, crisp days and clear skies make October perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, scenic drives, and photography. Fall festivals and events continue throughout the month, offering opportunities to celebrate the season with hayrides, pumpkin patches, and harvest markets. Travelers visiting Tennessee 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 Tennessee, with cooling temperatures and occasional frost towards the end of the month. Average temperatures range from the mid-50s°F (13-14°C) in the east to the low 60s°F (15-16°C) in the west. 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 Tennessee 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 Tennessee, with cool temperatures and the potential for occasional frost or light snowfall across the state. Average temperatures range from the low 40s°F (4-5°C) in the east to the mid-40s°F (7-8°C) in the west. While snow is relatively rare in most parts of the state, it can occur, especially in the higher elevations of the Appalachian Mountains. December also brings festive holiday celebrations and events, offering opportunities to experience the magic of the season. Outdoor activities such as holiday light displays, Christmas markets, and carriage rides are popular, providing entertainment for visitors of all ages. December can be a cozy and enchanting time to visit Tennessee, with the promise of winter festivities and seasonal cheer.
