Virginia Weather by Month
Virginia is located on the eastern coast of the United States, bordered by Maryland and Washington, D.C. to the north, the Atlantic Ocean to the east, North Carolina and Tennessee to the south, and Kentucky and West Virginia to the west. It became the 10th state on June 25, 1788. Known as the “Mother of Presidents,” Virginia has a rich history dating back to the founding of Jamestown in 1607, the first permanent English settlement in America. Major cities include Richmond (the capital), Virginia Beach (the largest city), Norfolk, Chesapeake, and Arlington. Key landmarks include Colonial Williamsburg, Monticello (Thomas Jefferson’s estate), Mount Vernon (George Washington’s home), and Shenandoah National Park. Virginia’s economy is diverse, featuring government and military, agriculture, technology, and tourism sectors.
Weather Overview:
Virginia experiences a humid subtropical climate, with four distinct seasons. The state has hot, humid summers and mild to cool winters, with significant regional variations due to its diverse topography.
| Month | Average Temperature (°F) | Average Precipitation (inches) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 37.5 | 3.10 |
| February | 40.3 | 2.77 |
| March | 48.8 | 3.68 |
| April | 58.7 | 3.13 |
| May | 67.6 | 3.94 |
| June | 75.9 | 3.43 |
| July | 79.7 | 4.53 |
| August | 78.3 | 4.50 |
| September | 71.5 | 4.22 |
| October | 60.6 | 3.32 |
| November | 50.7 | 3.01 |
| December | 41.4 | 3.05 |
January
January in Virginia typically brings cold temperatures and occasional snowfall, especially in the western and mountainous regions. Average temperatures vary across the state, with highs ranging from the 30s°F (-1 to 4°C) in the northern and western areas to the 40s°F (4-9°C) in the southern and coastal regions. Lows often dip below freezing, particularly in the western parts of the state. Snowstorms are possible, particularly in the mountains, making January an ideal time for winter sports enthusiasts to visit ski resorts such as Wintergreen and Massanutten. However, for those seeking indoor activities, Virginia offers plenty of options, including exploring historical sites like Colonial Williamsburg, touring museums in Richmond, or enjoying winery tours in the warmer coastal areas. Overall, January is a quiet time for tourism in Virginia, making it ideal for travelers who prefer fewer crowds and want to experience the state’s winter charm.
February
February continues the cold temperatures of winter in Virginia, but signs of spring begin to emerge towards the end of the month. Average highs range from the 40s°F (4-9°C) in the northern and western regions to the 50s°F (10-15°C) in the southern and coastal areas, while lows remain below freezing in most parts of the state. Snowfall is still possible, especially in the higher elevations, but days become longer and milder as the month progresses. February is an excellent time for indoor activities such as visiting museums, attending cultural events, and sampling Virginia’s culinary scene. In addition, Valentine’s Day celebrations offer romantic getaways at historic inns, bed and breakfasts, and luxury resorts across the state. As winter gives way to spring, February provides a transitional period for travelers to experience the best of both seasons in Virginia.
March
March marks the transition from winter to spring in Virginia, with fluctuating temperatures and the potential for both cold snaps and mild days. Average highs range from the 50s°F (10-15°C) in the northern and western regions to the 60s°F (15-20°C) in the southern and coastal areas, while lows hover in the 30s°F (0-5°C) to 40s°F (4-9°C) across the state. While snow is still possible, particularly in the mountainous regions, signs of spring begin to appear with blooming flowers, budding trees, and longer daylight hours. March is an ideal time for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and birdwatching as nature awakens from its winter slumber. Virginia’s state parks, including Shenandoah National Park and the Blue Ridge Parkway, offer scenic trails and breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. March also marks the start of the spring festival season, with events celebrating everything from cherry blossoms to seafood, providing opportunities for travelers to experience Virginia’s vibrant culture and community spirit.
April
April brings warmer temperatures and blooming landscapes to Virginia, making it one of the best times to visit the state. Average highs range from the 60s°F (15-20°C) in the northern and western regions to the 70s°F (21-26°C) in the southern and coastal areas, while lows generally stay above freezing. April is a beautiful time to explore Virginia’s outdoor attractions, from hiking in the mountains to strolling along the beaches. Shenandoah National Park and the Blue Ridge Parkway offer stunning displays of wildflowers and panoramic views of the Shenandoah Valley. Virginia’s coastal areas, including Virginia Beach and the Eastern Shore, beckon visitors with warm sands, refreshing ocean breezes, and a variety of water sports and activities. April is also a time for attending spring festivals and events, including garden tours, wine festivals, and historical reenactments, providing travelers with opportunities to immerse themselves in Virginia’s rich heritage and natural beauty.
May
May is a delightful time to visit Virginia, with warm temperatures, blooming flowers, and longer daylight hours creating ideal conditions for outdoor activities and exploration. Average highs range from the 70s°F (21-26°C) in the northern and western regions to the 80s°F (27-32°C) in the southern and coastal areas, while lows generally stay in the comfortable 50s°F (10-15°C) to 60s°F (15-20°C) range. May is an excellent time for hiking, biking, and exploring Virginia’s scenic landscapes, from the Appalachian Mountains to the Chesapeake Bay. Shenandoah National Park and the Blue Ridge Parkway offer a variety of trails for outdoor enthusiasts of all skill levels, while Virginia’s coastal areas provide opportunities for beachcombing, boating, and fishing. May is also a popular time for attending outdoor festivals and events, including music festivals, food festivals, and garden tours, where travelers can experience Virginia’s vibrant culture and culinary scene. Overall, May offers the perfect combination of warm weather, blooming scenery, and outdoor activities, making it an ideal time to visit the state.
June
June brings the onset of summer in Virginia, with warm temperatures and abundant sunshine beckoning outdoor enthusiasts to explore the state’s natural wonders. Average highs range from the 80s°F (27-32°C) in the northern and western regions to the 90s°F (32-35°C) in the southern and coastal areas, while lows generally remain in the comfortable 60s°F (15-20°C) to 70s°F (21-26°C) range. June is an ideal time for hiking, camping, and sightseeing in Virginia’s national parks, forests, and mountains. Shenandoah National Park and the Blue Ridge Parkway offer scenic trails and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, while Virginia’s coastal areas provide opportunities for swimming, boating, and beachcombing. June is also a popular time for attending outdoor concerts, festivals, and events, including wine festivals, seafood festivals, and historical reenactments, where travelers can immerse themselves in Virginia’s rich culture and heritage. Overall, June offers the perfect combination of warm weather, outdoor activities, and cultural events, making it an ideal time to visit the state.
July
July is the peak of summer in Virginia, with hot temperatures and sunny skies prevailing across the state. Average highs range from the 80s°F (27-32°C) in the northern and western regions to the 90s°F (32-35°C) in the southern and coastal areas, while lows may not drop below 70°F (21°C) in some areas. Despite the heat, July offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation and exploration. Shenandoah National Park and the Blue Ridge Parkway provide scenic trails and overlooks for hiking and picnicking, while Virginia’s coastal areas offer beaches, water sports, and fishing opportunities. July is also a time for attending outdoor concerts, festivals, and events, including Fourth of July celebrations, wine festivals, and county fairs, where travelers can experience Virginia’s vibrant culture and community spirit. Overall, July offers the perfect combination of warm weather, outdoor activities, and cultural events, making it an ideal time to visit the state.
August
August continues the hot and sunny conditions of summer in Virginia, with temperatures remaining high throughout the month. Average highs range from the 80s°F (27-32°C) in the northern and western regions to the 90s°F (32-35°C) in the southern and coastal areas, while lows may not drop below 70°F (21°C) in some areas. Despite the heat, August offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation and exploration. Shenandoah National Park and the Blue Ridge Parkway provide scenic trails and overlooks for hiking and picnicking, while Virginia’s coastal areas offer beaches, water sports, and fishing opportunities. August is also a time for attending outdoor concerts, festivals, and events, including agricultural fairs, craft beer festivals, and cultural celebrations, where travelers can experience Virginia’s diverse heritage and culinary scene. Overall, August offers the perfect combination of warm weather, outdoor activities, and cultural events, making it an ideal time to visit the state.
September
September marks the transition from summer to fall in Virginia, with gradually cooling temperatures and changing foliage creating a tapestry of vibrant colors across the state. Average highs range from the 70s°F (21-26°C) in the northern and western regions to the 80s°F (27-32°C) in the southern and coastal areas, while lows begin to drop into the 50s°F (10-15°C) to 60s°F (15-20°C) range. September is a beautiful time to explore Virginia’s outdoor attractions, from hiking in the mountains to strolling along the beaches. Shenandoah National Park and the Blue Ridge Parkway offer stunning displays of fall foliage and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, while Virginia’s coastal areas provide opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing. September is also a popular time for attending fall festivals and events, including apple festivals, harvest festivals, and wine tastings, where travelers can experience Virginia’s rich agricultural heritage and culinary traditions. Overall, September offers the perfect combination of mild weather, fall foliage, and outdoor activities, making it an ideal time to visit the state.
October
October is synonymous with fall foliage in Virginia, as the leaves change colors and the landscape transforms into a breathtaking tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows. Average highs range from the 60s°F (15-20°C) in the northern and western regions to the 70s°F (21-26°C) in the southern and coastal areas, while lows drop into the 40s°F (4-9°C) to 50s°F (10-15°C) range across the state. Cool, crisp days and clear skies make October perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, scenic drives, and photography. Shenandoah National Park and the Blue Ridge Parkway offer some of the best opportunities for leaf-peeping, with scenic overlooks and hiking trails providing breathtaking views of the fall foliage. October is also a popular time for visiting Virginia’s apple orchards, pumpkin patches, and corn mazes, where travelers can enjoy seasonal activities and taste the flavors of autumn. Overall, October offers the perfect combination of mild weather, fall foliage, and outdoor activities, making it an ideal time to visit the state.
November
November marks the transition to winter in Virginia, with cooling temperatures and occasional frost towards the end of the month. Average highs range from the 50s°F (10-15°C) in the northern and western regions to the 60s°F (15-20°C) in the southern and coastal areas, while lows drop into the 30s°F (0-5°C) to 40s°F (4-9°C) range across the state. 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 Virginia 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 Virginia, with cold temperatures and the potential for occasional snowfall across the state. Average highs range from the 40s°F (4-9°C) in the northern and western regions to the 50s°F (10-15°C) in the southern and coastal areas, while lows often dip below freezing. While snow is relatively rare in some parts of the state, it can occur, especially in the higher elevations of the Blue Ridge Mountains. December also brings festive holiday celebrations and events, offering opportunities to experience the magic of the season. Outdoor activities such as skiing, ice skating, and sledding are popular, providing entertainment for visitors of all ages. December can be a cozy and enchanting time to visit Virginia, with the promise of winter festivities and seasonal cheer.
