The climate of the United States varies due to changes in latitude, and a range of geographic features, including mountains and deserts. Generally, on the mainland, the climate of the U.S.

West of 100°W, much of the U.S. has a cold semi-arid climate in the interior upper western states (Idaho to the Dakotas), to warm to hot desert and semi-arid climates in the southwestern U.S.

A humid subtropical climate is found along and south of a mostly east–west line from the Virginia/Maryland capes (north of the greater Norfolk, Virginia area), westward to approximately northern Oklahoma, north of the greater Oklahoma City area. Along the Atlantic seaboard, the humid subtropical climate zone extends southward into central Florida.

[failed verification] Hawaii and the U.S. territories also have tropical climates.

Higher-elevation areas of the Rocky Mountains, the Wasatch Range, Sierra Nevada, and Cascade Range are alpine. Coastal areas of Oregon and Washington have an oceanic climate.

The primary drivers of weather in the contiguous United States are the seasonal change in the solar angle, the migration north–south of the subtropical highs, and the seasonal change in the position of the polar jet stream.

In the Atlantic Ocean, the Bermuda High creates a south-southwest flow of tropical air masses over the southeastern, south-central and central United States – resulting in warm to hot temperatures, high humidity and frequent intense (but usually brief) showers and/or thunderstorms as the heat builds in the afternoon.

In the Northern Hemisphere winter, the subtropical highs retreat southward. The polar jet stream (and associated conflict zone between cold, dry air masses from Canada and warm, moist air masses from the Gulf of Mexico) drops further southward into the United States – bringing more frequent periods of stormy weather, with rain, ice and snow, and much more variable temperatures, with rapid temperature rises and falls not uncommon.

(Florida, the Gulf Coast, the Desert Southwest, and southern California) however, often have more stable weather, as the polar jet stream’s impact does not usually reach that far south.

The Gulf of Alaska is the origination area of many storms that enter the United States. Such “North Pacific lows” enter the U.S.

Across the central states from late fall to spring, “Panhandle hook” storms move from the central Rockies into the Oklahoma/Texas panhandle areas, then northeast toward the Great Lakes.

Across the northern states in winter usually from Montana eastward, “Alberta clipper” storms track east and bring light to moderate snowfalls from Montana and the Dakotas across the upper Midwest and Great Lakes states to New England, and often, windy and severe Arctic outbreaks behind them.

In the cold season (generally November to March), most precipitation occurs in conjunction with organized low-pressure systems and associated fronts. In the summer, storms are much more localized, with short-duration thunderstorms common in many areas east of 100°W and south of 40°N.

In the warm season, storm systems affecting a large area are less frequent, and weather conditions are more solar {sun} controlled, with the greatest chance for thunderstorm and severe weather activity during peak heating hours, mostly between 3 PM and 9 PM local time.

From late summer into fall (mostly August to October), tropical cyclones (hurricanes, tropical storms and tropical depressions) sometimes approach or cross the Gulf and Atlantic states, bringing high winds, heavy rainfall, and storm surges (often topped with battering waves) to Gulf and Atlantic lowlands and coastal areas.

The Southwest has a hot desert climate, at lower elevations. Cities like Phoenix, Las Vegas, Yuma, and Palm Springs have average highs over 100 °F (38 °C) during the summer months and lows in the 70s or even 80s.

In Phoenix, Las Vegas and similar Southwestern desert areas, on average June is the driest month, after Pacific-originating winter storms have concluded and before the Southwestern summer “monsoon” begins. The Southwest and the Great Basin are affected by said monsoon from the Gulf of California from July–September.

Further eastward in the desert Southwest (Tucson, Arizona eastward toward El Paso, Texas), winter-season precipitation decreases, while the summer monsoon increasingly provides a summer precipitation maximum. For example, El Paso and Albuquerque, New Mexico have a pronounced July to September precipitation maximum.

Forest fires across the Western United States (especially the southwest) occur many years, and can be severe to extreme in especially hot, dry summer seasons.

Summer high temperatures often reach the 90s, but low temperatures drop into the low 60s and even 50s. As in other temperate desert climates, the dry air results in large differences (sometimes over 40 degrees) between daytime high and nighttime low temperatures.

The coast of California has a Mediterranean climate. Daily high temperatures range from 70 to 80 °F (21 to 27 °C) in the summer to 50 to 65 °F (10 to 16 °C) in winter, with low temperatures from the 60 °F (16 °C)s in summer to the mid 40s F in winter.[citation needed] Like most Mediterranean climates, much of coastal California has a wet winter and dry summer.

As such, the warmest summer weather is delayed until August, even September in many areas of the California coast. on average, September is the warmest month in San Francisco.

In California’s inland river valleys (Bakersfield, Sacramento areas), the wet-winter, dry-summer pattern remains, but winters are cooler and more prone to occasional frost or freeze, while summers are much hotter, with blazing sunshine and daytime high temperatures not uncommonly in the 90s to over 100 °F (38 °C).

The Gulf and South Atlantic states have a humid subtropical climate with mostly mild winters and hot, humid summers. Most of the Florida peninsula including Tampa and Jacksonville, along with other coastal cities like Houston, New Orleans, Savannah, Charleston and Wilmington all have average summer highs from near 90 to the lower 90s F, and.

Which city in the United States has the best weather. It’s a subjective question since everyone has a different idea of what “best weather” means.

Others who want to soak up the sun may point to Yuma, Arizona, with its 308 sunny days per year. The average high July high temperature in Yuma is 110°F.

Asking which weather is best is similar to asking which pizza toppings are best. Everyone has their own opinion, and many hold to that opinion rather passionately.

Removing all subjectivity from “best weather” discussions is impossible. However, since most people enjoy temperate weather and dislike extremes such as high heat and bitter cold, we will use the following data points to make it as objective as possible.

Also, only cities with populations over 200,000 were considered. No disrespect to smaller towns, but this type of survey requires such lines to be drawn.

And the further down the list you go, the more subjective it becomes. But let’s give it a go anyway, shall we.

Using the simple metrics listed above, the award for the best year-round weather goes to San Jose, California. San Jose enjoys moderate temperatures consistently throughout the year.

The temperature in San Jose never drops below 32°F. The city also averages 257 days per year with clear to partly cloudy skies.

The average annual high temperature is close to 72°F. It is hard to imagine a city with more idyllic weather than the “Capital of Silicon Valley.”.

©iStock.com/GerardoBrucker. Let’s take a look at some of the runners-up for the cities with the best weather in the United States.

This southern California city experiences an average of three days above 90°F per year, just one day more than San Jose. When it comes to clear skies, San Diego edges out San Jose, with clear to partly cloudy skies 263 days out of the year.

San Diego averages less than 12 inches of rain per year, which is close to arid climate conditions. The average high temperature is close to 70°F year-round.

But which city enjoys superior weather. Is it San Jose or San Diego.

Both are spectacular. San Diego certainly makes a strong case for the best weather in the United States.

Wait a minute…isn’t San Francisco famous for its fog. Yes, it is.

It may surprise you to find out that the city enjoys 260 days per year with clear to partly cloudy skies. San Francisco averages just three days per year above 90°F and zero days below 32°F.

Again, it is impossible to make this exercise completely objective. Personal preference always weighs in.

No, San Francisco is not foggy all the time.

The weather in Los Angeles is warmer than the other cities listed thus far, but the city still only averages 21 days of temperatures over 90°F each year. The temperature tops 100°F two days a year, on average.

It is also the sunniest city in the top five, with 277 days of clear to partly cloudy skies every year. Personal preference for clear skies versus cooler temperatures will either move L.A.

sees 277 sunny days a year. ©iStock.com/choness.

Obviously, the temperature in Honolulu never dips to 32°F. The city experiences an average of 25 days above 90°F each year.

The city averages 22 inches of rain per year, with the majority of the precipitation falling from October to April.

In fact, January and February are the only months during the year when the average high is below 80°F. Hawaii may be the eighth smallest state in the U.S.

It varies between the different islands, elevations, and so forth. Conditions can be drastically different in two locations that are only separated by a short distance.

Honolulu’s weather lives up to its tropical paradise reputation. ©zabela23/Shutterstock.com.

The state’s capital city enjoys clear to partly cloudy skies 265 days per year. There are 18 days below freezing, on average, and approximately 70 days above 90°F.

December is the coldest month, with average high temperatures in the mid-50s.

©iStock.com/miroslav_1. Puerto Rico’s capital city enjoys 276 partly cloudy to clear days each year.

There are 66 days in a typical year when the thermometer climbs above 90°F. San Juan’s average high temperature year-round is 86°F.

January is the coolest month, with an average high of 83°F. The average highs are in the upper 80s from June to October.

©iStock.com/Sean Pavone. Modesto is known for its hot summers and temperate, short winters.

The temperature climbs into the 90s virtually every day in July and August. The city experiences around 22 days of below-freezing temperatures per year.

The city sees clear to partly cloudy conditions 300 days a year. Is the sun always shining in Modesto.

©Jacob Boomsma/Shutterstock.com. If you’ve been waiting for The Sunshine State to make its appearance, here you go.

Tampa sees 244 days each year with either partly cloudy or clear skies. Only two days dip below the freezing mark, while 110 days climb above 90°F.

Tampa sees 244 sunny days per year. ©iStock.com/Sean Pavone.

Remember that population parameters weeded out a lot of other cities, but that does not take anything away from Oklahoma City. If you want a lot of clear skies and a city that experiences hot and cold weather almost equally, then “The Big Friendly” is for you.

The city enjoys 235 clear to partly cloudy days throughout the year. It’s not a tropical paradise nor is it a winter wonderland.

Oklahoma City has almost an equal share of hot and cold weather, with lots of sunny days throughout the year. ©iStock.com/Sean Pavone.

The California cities at the top of the list receive little rainfall. Droughts are commonplace, and the risk of wildfires can be extremely high.

cities with the worst air quality. Greenhouse gasses are changing the climate, meaning L.A.’s temperatures are on the rise.

Of course, Los Angeles is not the only city that could see such adverse weather in the future. It is an issue that affects all of us.

©trekandshoot/Shutterstock.com. San Juan’s location in the Caribbean means the city is a target for hurricanes.

Oklahoma City runs the risk of tornadoes. Oklahoma is the third-most tornado-prone state in the United States.

It’s just a reminder that, as with all things in life, it’s not perfect. Tornadoes are a common threat in Oklahoma City, as seen by these power line towers at the city limits that were destroyed by an EF5 tornado.

Now that we’ve listed out the top ten weather cities in the United States, which cities score the worst using the same criteria (including the 200,000 population minimum). These cities don’t necessarily have the worst weather overall in the U.S., but they earn special honors for excelling in one category.

Miami, Florida, receives more rain than Seattle in an average year. In fact, Miami is the rainiest major city in the United States, with an average of 67.4 inches per year.

The big difference is the cloud cover. When it rains in Miami, it is almost always followed by sunshine soon after.

In Seattle, the clouds remain. Seattle is the cloudiest major city in the cont.

Issued January 19, 2012: The data presented in this report are final through August and preliminary from September-December. Ranks, anomalies, and percent areas may change as more complete data are received and processed.

In 2011, the contiguous United States (CONUS) average annual temperature of 53.8 degrees F (12.1 degrees C) was 1.0 degree F (0.6 degree C) above the 20th century average, and was the 23rd warmest year on record. Since 1895, the CONUS has observed a long-term temperature increase of about 0.12 degree F (0.07 degree C) per decade.

Over the long-term, precipitation averaged across the CONUS, is increasing at a rate of about 0.18 inch (4.6 mm) per decade.

On a only two states with annual temperatures below average.

Although the CONUS as a whole was drier than average for the year, record high at 58 percent.

A list of select cities breaking annual temperature and precipitation records during 2011 can be found here.

hurricane in three years, made three landfalls along the Atlantic coast in late August, causing damage from the Carolinas to Vermont.

This annual report places the temperature and precipitation averages into historical perspective, while summarizing the notable events that occurred in 2011. More detailed analysis on individual months can be found through the Climate Monitoring home page.

Winter. The 2010/11 winter season was marked by anomalously cold temperatures across the eastern half of the country, with the coolest temperature anomalies across the Southeast.

Florida had its tenth coldest winter on record. A strong negative phase of the Arctic Oscillation (AO) was associated with much-cooler-than-average temperatures across the eastern U.S.

Florida and Georgia both had their coolest December on record, with temperature anomalies of more than 9 degrees F (5 degrees C) and 8 degrees F (4 degrees C) below average, respectively. By mid-January, the negative phase of the AO had subsided, and more seasonal to above-average temperatures returned to the Southeast by cooler than normal.

The presence of La Niña during winter influenced precipitation patterns during the season. The 3-month average CONUS precipitation of 5.71 inches (145 mm) was 0.76 inch (19 mm) below average.

The wetness across the Northern Plains primed the region for spring and summer flooding, while the dryness in the South was a precursor to the spring and summer drought.

Spring. The spring (March-May) average CONUS temperature of 52.3 degrees F (11.3 degrees C) was 0.5 degree F (0.3 degree C) above average.

Above-normal temperatures were present from New Mexico, across the South, and along the Eastern Seaboard. Texas had its second warmest spring on record.

The precipitation (and lack of precipitation) was the big story during spring 2011. The nationally-averaged precipitation during the season was 1.41 inches (39 mm) above average.

In the South, storm systems repeatedly developed in the mid-Mississippi Valley, just a few hundred miles from the drought-stricken Southern Plains, then raced northeastward. In general, drought intensified in the South, while much of the Northeast, Ohio Valley and Northwest were subjected to historic or near-historic wetness.

The storms brought snow pack totals across much of the West to more than 180 percent of normal. The record precipitation and snow melt caused significant flooding in late spring and early summer along several rivers, including the Mississippi, Ohio, Missouri, Souris, and James.

In contrast to the wetness, Texas was record dry for the three-month period. Its statewide-averaged precipitation for spring was a paltry 2.56 inches (65 mm), more than 5 inches (127 mm) below normal.

The active storm pattern brought a record-breaking severe weather season to the South and Southeast. As strong storms moved into the warm and moisture-rich atmosphere across the Southeast, 1,155 tornadoes were spawned, killing hundreds of people and causing over 20 billion U.S.

Summer. The summer period (June-August) was warm for much of the CONUS, with only Oregon and Washington having summertime temperatures ranking among the bottom third of their historical distributions.

A persistent ridge across the eastern U.S. brought the epicenter of the hot temperatures to the Southern Plains, where New Mexico, Texas, Oklahoma, and Louisiana had their warmest summer on record.

During the summer of 2011, all states across the contiguous U.S., with the exception of Vermont, experienced at least one day with a location having a daily maximum temperature exceeding 100 degrees F (37.8 degrees C).

The drought across Texas was amplified during the summer of 2011, due to the very warm temperatures and the lack of precipitation. The state had its driest summer on record with a statewide average of 2.44 inches (62.0 mm) of rain accumulating.

At the end of August, 81 percent of Texas was in the worst category of drought (D4, ‘Exceptional’ Drought), and analysis of tree-ring records dating back to 1550 indicated that the summer of 2011 drought is matched by only one summer (1789) in the 429-year tree-ring record. A persistent dome of high pressure was present for much of the summer across the Southern Plains, limiting storms from entering the region and causing temperature to soar.

Connecticut and New Jersey were record wet for the summer. As a whole, the CONUS was drier-than-average with a nationally average precipitation total 0.9 inch (23 mm) below the LTA.

Although autumn (September-November) 2011 brought several extremes to the U.S., it was a significantly quieter season compared to the spring and summer. The average autumn temperature for the CONUS was 1.3 degrees above average.

Eight other states had an average temperature that was one of the ten warmest on record. Conversely, four states in the Southeast and along the Gulf Coast had below-average autumn temperatures.

Two significant storms impacted the CONUS during autumn. Tropical Storm Lee made landfall along the Louisiana coast on September 4th, and moved along a frontal boundary into the Ohio Valley and eventually into the Northeast.

An early season storm brought heavy snow accumulations to the northeastern United States on October 29th-31st. The heavy, wet snow falling on the autumn foliage, combined with strong winds, caused havoc across the region.

Beneficial precipitation fell across the core drought areas of Texas and Oklahoma. Minnesota had its third driest autumn on record.

Pennsylvania and Ohio were both record wet for the period, and five other states had autumn precipitation ranking among their ten wettest.

Alaska temperatures in 2011 were above the 1971-2000 average, continuing the upward trend of the last 20 years. However, there was variation between the seasons.

Spring temperatures were 0.9 degrees F (0.5 degrees C) below average, summer temperatures were 0.7 degrees F (0.4 degrees C) below average, and fall was 0.4 degrees F (0.2 degrees C) warmer than the average. For the annual period, Alaskan temperatures were 0.2 degrees C above average, driven almost entirely by very warm temperatures in December (third.

Looking to move somewhere with the best year-round weather in the US. Typically people who are looking for good weather aim to move to where it is 70 degrees year-round in the United States.

Below are the best places to live for the best weather all year long. 8 Cities with the Best Weather in the US:

Since it’s located away from the coast, you can avoid the cold wind that you would get from a city like San Francisco. Instead, you can expect similar weather for most of the year with very few extremes.

If you’re looking for the best climate in the US, this might be it. With an average high of 84 degrees and 0 days below freezing, Honolulu provides the best year-round weather in the United States.

Honolulu is home to many renowned beaches, a respected and celebrated local culture, and a growing job market fueled by tourism. With 0 days below freezing and around 280 days of full or partial sun, there’s no debate that Los Angeles has some of the best weather in the US.

This means perfect weather almost 365 days a year in Los Angeles. LA is probably at the top of the list for the 8 Cities with the Best Weather in the US.

The city has 0 days below freezing on average, and only around 3-5 days above 90 degrees every year. The rest of the year, the temperature stays between 58 to 70 degrees.

If you’re looking for US cities with the best weather, make sure to check out Charleston, South Carolina. The city typically experiences temperatures between 56 and 76 degrees year-round.

And unlike more northern cities, the winters there are extremely mild. If you want good weather on the east coast, Charleston is a great option to consider.

The weather tends to stay between 64 and 82 degrees there, with traditionally no snow or cold weather. While it does rain in Sarasota more than some of the other best-weather cities, it tends to pass quickly and clears back into gorgeous weather.

For about ¾ of the year, St. George sits between 55-75 degrees, making it a great city to live in if you want the best weather.

The skies stay clear and blue for most of the year. Plus, you’re only a short drive away from Las Vegas (without having to worry about the Vegas heat).

The temperature stays between 40-60 degrees and rarely gets below freezing. The winters tend to be free of snow and unbearably cold temperatures.

When looking for cities with good weather, it’s important to also look for places with a strong job market, steady growth in home value, and safe neighborhoods with good schools. Be sure also to consider humidity when looking for cities with good weather.

If you’re looking to move to one of these places, make sure to check out our tips for how to make friends in a new city. That way, you can make friends quickly to enjoy the beautiful weather with.

If you liked this list, make sure to sign up for our blog newsletter to receive our other content.

Texas’ weather varies widely, from arid in the west to humid in the east. The huge expanse of Texas encompasses several regions with distinctly different climates: Northern Plains, Trans-Pecos Region, Texas Hill Country, Piney Woods, and South Texas.

Texas ranks first in tornado occurrence with an average of 139 per year. Tropical cyclones can affect the state, either from the Gulf of Mexico or from an overland trajectory originating in the eastern Pacific Ocean.

Significant floods have occurred across the state throughout history, both from tropical cyclones and from stalled weather fronts.

During the summer, this area of state sees the most clear days. Winter nights commonly see temperatures fall below the freezing mark, or 32 °F (0 °C).

Tornadoes, caused by the convergence of westerly and southerly prevailing winds during the late spring, are common, making the region part of Tornado Alley. Poor land management, drought, and high wind speeds can cause large dust storms, minimized in modern times by improved land-management practices, but most troublesome in the 1930s during the Dust Bowl period.

International areas with comparable climate: Southern China. North Argentina.

The Trans-Pecos region, also known as Big Bend Country, is in the west-central and western parts of the state, consisting of the Chihuahuan Desert and isolated mountain ranges. During fall, winter, and spring, it experiences the most clear days statewide.

Snowfall is rare at lower elevations, although the highest mountain peaks are prone to heavy snowfalls during winter. The arid climate is the main reason for desertification of the land, but overgrazing is slowly widening the land area of that desert.

The wettest months in this region occur during the summer. Winds are strengthened as they are forced to push through canyons and valleys.

International areas with comparable climate: Iraq. Iran.

The Texas Hill Country, or central Texas is shaped by its many rivers and hills. The climate is semi-arid west of Brady through Junction to Rocksprings, but it is sub-humid east and south of that area.

Humidity is high during the warm season, though afternoons especially further northwest can see a wind shift and drier air before Gulf air returns after sunset. The vegetation is both broadleaf evergreen and deciduous in the river valleys, and coniferous where there is greater elevation.

In a single year the region can receive up to 48 inches (1,200 mm) of precipitation, and flooding is common near rivers and in low-lying areas, while drier years might receive only 12 inches (300 mm) of precipitation. average annual precipitation ranges from 21 inches (530 mm) in western sections up to 35 inches (890 mm) in southeast.

International areas with comparable climate: Israel. Lebanon.

It receives the most rainfall. more than 60 inches (1,500 mm) annually in the far east.

While coastal sections see the most cloudy days statewide and year-round, northern sections see the most clear days during the summer. The wettest months of the year are April and May.

Hurricanes also strike the region, the most disastrous of which was the Galveston Hurricane of 1900. More recently Hurricane Rita pummeled the Golden Triangle of southeast Texas.

During winter and spring along the immediate coast, temperatures are kept cool by relatively cool gulf waters. Dense advection fog can form when warm air moves over the cool shelf waters during February and March, stopping ship traffic for days.

International areas with comparable climate: Taiwan. Philippines.

The region of South Texas includes the semiarid ranch country and the wetter Rio Grande Valley. Considered to be the southernmost tip of the American Great Plains region, the inland region has rainfall that is similar to that of the Northern Plains.

Summers are hot and humid. Rain in the coastal region is more abundant than in the inland region, and subtropical forests line the Rio Grande.

This owes to the threat from tropical weather systems, including hurricanes, which can bring torrential rains of 5 to 10 inches (130 to 250 mm) in one or two days. The resulting September monthly rainfall maximum prevails, for example, at Corpus Christi, South Padre Island and Brownsville.

The winters in the inland region are variable, but usually mild. Snow is a rare occurrence due to the lack of humidity in winter, and the summers are for the most part hot and dry, but at times can be humid when winds come off the Gulf of Mexico.

The southernmost part of the state falls just within the tropical climate classification. Occasional years of above average temperatures result in an abundance of tropical flora in the lower Rio Grande Valley, typical of a tropical savanna climate.

International areas with comparable climate: India. Vietnam.

Northern and western sections of the state average snowfall annually due to their colder average readings each winter. For one week in February 1956, a snow storm of historic proportions struck northern Texas.

El Paso, in Far West Texas, received 22.4 in (57 cm) of snow during a 24-hour period December 13–14, 1987. For central and southern sections, snowfall is considerably more unusual.

More recently around Christmas of 2004, up to 13 inches (33 cm) of snow fell along the middle coast, with the maximum occurring at Victoria.

Four stations recorded their longest continuous readings at or below 32 °F (0 °C) on record. Lubbock saw temperatures at or below freezing for 9 days (207 hours).

Snow which fell on December 14 and 15 across northern Texas stayed on the ground until New Year’s Day of 1984.

At Austin, the temperature remained at or below freezing for 7 days (168 hours). At Abilene, the period at or below freezing totaled 10 days (252 hours).

San Angelo endured 6 days (152 hours) at or below freezing temperatures.

Texas is part of the Tornado Alley section of the country. The state experiences the most tornadoes in the Union, an average of 139 a year.

Tornadoes in Texas generally occur in April, May, and June.

Some of the most destructive hurricanes in U.S. history have impacted Texas.

Alaska’s Bridal Veil Falls is usually frozen in winter. Shoshone Falls, in Idaho, is 36 feet taller than Niagara Falls.

You’re likely to sweat a little to get to some of the best waterfalls. But they deliver a cool refuge and a powerful reminder of nature’s force.

Waterfalls splash through national parks and preserves and are tucked away in state parks known only to nearby residents. Waterfall lovers will travel thousands of miles and hike or bike to see these prime examples of nature in action.

Here are 10 stunning waterfalls across the United States that are well worth the effort to travel there:. Those who brave the Arizona heat to visit Havasu Falls are rewarded with refreshing natural swimming pools.

The falls are at the bottom of Havasu Canyon on the Havasupai Indian Reservation adjacent to Grand Canyon National Park. Havasupai means “people of the blue-green waters,” and the name doesn’t disappoint when it comes to the aquamarine pools at the base of the falls.

The village and falls are only accessible by hiking or horseback. It’s a 10-mile trip from the trailhead to the falls, which are about two miles beyond Supai Village.

The area that includes the waterfall is managed by the tribe, which limits the number of visitors. One of the most beautiful and popular spots in the area, reservations are recommended.

High in the Multnomah Falls area of the Columbia River Gorge in Western Gorge, Oregon, is the aptly named Triple Falls. The Oneonta Creek that runs through the gorge splits into three channels, which make their way around rock formations before they take the 64-foot plunge over the ledge.

A moderately steep 5-mile round trip hiking trail takes visitors to an overlook above the segmented waterfall, but hikers rarely venture to the base. There are 10 other waterfalls within a few miles, but take the time to see Triple Falls.

Off the famous Hana Highway, nestled into the Kipahulu District of Maui’s Haleakala National Park is the 400-foot Waimoku Falls. The falls are on the Pipiwai Trail, which gains 800 feet in elevation along the 4-mile round trip hike.

On the way to Waimoku, hikers will pass the 185-foot Makahiku Falls and through a thick bamboo forest. Flowing down a steep lava-rock wall, covered by moss and vegetation, Waimoku Falls and the pool below are visible and accessible from a rocky hill above.

Swimming is possible in the Kipahula District, but the pool under Waimoku Falls is not deep enough and falling rocks are a risk. There are much better-suited pools along the way.

Amazing video of waterfalls in the Dominican Republic. The dark water of appropriately named Blackwater Falls comes crashing down five stories into the river below at West Virginia’s Blackwater Falls State Park.

You can see the waterfall from numerous spots within the park, watching the amber-colored river plunge down and twist through the 8-mile long gorge.

The falls are open year-round, with a beautiful array of wildflowers, panoramic views and a winter sled run.

At their most powerful, the falls extend across the entire 900-foot-wide canyon, spilling into the Snake River below. Depending on the volume of water, the falls can take the form of a few trickling streams or a solid wall of water.

Nearby recreation areas offer an abundance of water sports, such as canoeing, kayaking and paddle boarding on the Snake River.

A frozen waterfall. In winter, that’s what you’ll find when you visit Bridal Veil Falls, about 15 miles outside Valdez, Alaska.

For hikers who don’t want to cross a glacier to get to the falls, the 2-mile Valdez Goat Trail has a great vantage point of the falls about a mile into the hike.

Its closeness to the ocean keeps temperatures around freezing, rather than the sub-arctic temperatures seen in other parts of the canyon.

Some of the streams tumble over several ridges on their way, while others take the steep drop all at once. A 2-mile hike along Little Stony Creek will lead visitors to the falls.

The Cascades Recreation Area is the beginning of the hike to the falls, with the trail also open to horses and bicycles, as well as year-round trout fishing.

By following the Mist Trail or the John Muir Trail inside California’s Yosemite National Park, visitors will be treated to a close-up view of Vernal Fall.

Just beyond the bridge the two trails diverge. Adventurous hikers can continue along the Mist Trail up 600 granite steps of “nature’s giant staircase” to the top of 317-foot Vernal Fall.

Beyond Vernal Fall on the Mist Trail you’ll find the impressive Nevada Fall.

Amid several years of drought, Vernal Fall is one of the better waterfalls to seek out, according to a National Park Service spokeswoman, because it is fed by a glacier and a spring in addition to snow melt. Some of the park’s other falls are running dry due to the lack of precipitation.

How to visit Mexico’s stunning Agua Azul waterfalls. When most people think of the Midwest, waterfalls don’t immediately spring to mind.

Change your thinking: Potato River Falls, found in Gurney, Wisconsin, has been called one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the region. Located at the end of Potato River Falls Road in a county park, the falls are easily viewable from several trails.

The waterfall, divided into Upper and Lower falls, plunges 90 feet into the river. On the half-mile trail that leads to Upper Falls, hikers can access the top of Potato River Falls by following the river bank.

One of the best kept secrets of Michigan’s Western Upper Peninsula, Bond Falls has a 40-foot drop that extends 100 feet wide and divides into several smaller cascades.

Bond Falls is very accessible, with a level boardwalk from the parking area near the base of the falls leading visitors to a viewing point.

This year, El Niño is in place heading into winter for the first time in five years, driving the outlook for warmer-than-average temperatures for the northern tier of the continental U.S., according to NOAA’s U.S. Winter Outlook.

El Niño tends to result in increased storms across the southern tier of the U.S. and milder conditions across much of the northern U.S.

El Niño is just one factor driving winter weather, but it has a history of producing some significant winter storms in the southern U.S. Figure: This figure from NOAA’s Climate.gov illustrates the wintertime El Niño pattern of an extended Pacific Jet Stream along with its regional influences of changing temperatures and precipitation.

For December 2023–February 2024, warmer-than-average temperatures are favored in Alaska and the West Coast into the Northern Great Plains and Midwest and into the Mid-Atlantic Coast from northern North Carolina to Maine.

Much of the remainder of the U.S. has equal chances for below-, near-, or above-average seasonal temperatures.

Areas where El Niño historically favors below-normal temperatures can also have long-term warming trends, such as the southern U.S. and the North Slope of Alaska.

For December 2023–February 2024, wetter-than-average conditions are favored across northern Alaska, much of the southern U.S. westward into California and the Great Basin, and along the Atlantic Coast from Massachusetts to Florida.

Drier-than-average conditions are more likely from Idaho east into the Great Lakes Region and in southern Alaska. The highest probabilities for below-normal precipitation are in southern Alaska, from Montana into northwest North Dakota, and from Michigan into northeast Indiana and northwest Ohio.

will see equal chances for below-, near-, or above-average seasonal precipitation. For updated winter weather forecasts, please visit NOAA’s WPC Winter Weather Forecasts or CPC Week-2 U.S.

Figure: This map of the U.S. is colored by the combined National Risk Index composite ratings for Winter Weather, Ice Storm, and Cold Wave.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) provides information on the risk of different climate hazards across the 50 states and Washington, D.C., through the National Risk Index (NRI) platform. The NRI leverages available data for natural hazards and community risk factors to develop a baseline relative risk measurement for each U.S.

The combined NRI for Winter Weather, Ice Storms, and Cold Waves, shown on the map above, represents a community’s relative risk for winter weather (winter storm events in which the main types of precipitation are snow, sleet, or freezing rain), ice storms (freezing rain events with significant ice accumulations), and cold waves (rapid falls in temperature within 24 hours and extreme low temperatures for an extended period), based on the historical annualized frequency of such weather, when compared to the rest of the U.S.

Do frigid winter temperatures have you looking for a warm, sandy beach. Do blizzards and ice storms make you wish for lush, green hiking trails.

to visit for the perfect warm winter vacation getaway in the U.S. Table of Contents.

As one of the warmest places in the U.S., Arizona is a popular destination for many during the cold winter months. The different regions of this state have a lot to offer year-round, from Arizona summer adventures to gorgeous winter escapes.

Winter blues have you down. Sedona may be the perfect place to reset and refocus your mind.

While it may snow in some parts of Sedona between December and January, March is actually the best month to visit Sedona. By this time, the weather highs are in the 70s and 80s.

In February, the highs are in the 60s and 70s. And the weather throughout the winter boasts sunny and clear skies.

And for a USA winter vacation, this is one of the best times before Summer in Arizona brings monsoons and fiery hot temperatures. Be sure to plan ahead though.

Tucson, Arizona, is a vibrant and diverse city, with a rich cultural heritage and a wealth of outdoor and indoor attractions to explore. From the stunning vistas of Saguaro National Park and Sabino Canyon to its bustling downtown area and the thriving arts scene, Tuscon is the perfect winter American destination.

The winter months are a particularly wonderful time to visit Tuscon, with mild and sunny weather, perfect for exploring the city’s many parks, museums, and attractions. Phoenix, Arizona, has some of the warmest temperatures in the country, making it one of the best warm winter vacations USA.

Hiking is popular here, so be sure to check out these trails:. In addition, Phoenix offers many warm winter events, like ZooLights at the Phoenix Zoo and Las Noches de Las Luminarias at the Desert Botanical Garden.

And best of all. The city of Phoenix is close to several other beautiful warm destinations in Arizona.

Well, Phoenix is one of the warmest places in the US in January.

Want to escape to the desert. Southern California, and the areas nearby, are some of the most popular warm places to visit in the U.S.

Perfect for social distancing, this park provides ample outdoor space for yourself and is an easy place to plan a Joshua Tree in one-day itinerary. This protected area in southern California is characterized by unique rock formations, desert ecosystems in the Mojave and Colorado deserts, and uniquely bristled Joshua trees.

February is also great if you love cold nights (40s) and warm days in the mid-60s. Love to shop for the winter holidays.

from the Art District, to downtown shops, to the River in Rancho Mirage. The perfect 70-degree weather in Palm Springs makes it a great place to explore the natural beauty, too.

Or check out the beautiful Mount San Jacinto (view pictured above). Best yet, take the 48-minute drive out of town and see Joshua Tree National Park (listed above).

Visit the four parks of Coronado Beach, walk “The Strand” between La Jolla and Mission Beach, or watch surfers at Tourmaline Surfing Park.

Before planning a trip to these events, check the current COVID-19 guidelines.

Take advantage of these cooler temperatures by investigating remote places that may be too far to reach in the summertime heat. Stay into the evening and enjoy a different kind of wintry light show- the night sky.

while deserts are typically considered warm areas, the dry weather can be a bit chilly at night. This is one of the warmest places in the U.S.

Los Angeles is the city of cities, offering different landscapes that can range from beaches to mountains to deserts. There are several neighborhoods or “small cities” to visit throughout this vast metropolis.

And the cooler weather provides the perfect climate for hiking, camping, and outdoor activities. If you love cultural heritage, head to our favorite LA neighborhood: Boyle Heights — just 5 minutes from downtown LA.

Generally speaking, Los Angeles is one of the warmest cities in the U.S., and as such has plenty of free and other fun things to do in the winter for the holidays, including:. These are just a few of many great ways to experience classic Los Angeles in the winter, while also enjoying the holiday season and the warm outdoors.

Tucked between the mountains of Santa Ynez and the shores of the Pacific Ocean, Santa Barbara offers the best of all worlds. Mountains, beach, and city.

For outdoor lovers, you’ll never run out of things to do from surfing to hiking to visiting waterfalls. So skip the traffic in Los Angeles, and drive up two hours north to this beautiful city that is warm year-round.

Budget travelers beware – Santa Barbara is one of the more expensive places to visit in the USA during the winter months. So if you’re on a tight budget, book your trip to Santa Barbara ahead of time.

Looking for the best winter vacation in the US for adults. For a good party with the cozy glow of lights in the wintry months, what better place than Vegas.

While nights can get chilly, staying busy on the Strip is sure to keep you warm. Take a drive through the Glittering Lights at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, or visit the Vegas Festival of Lights.

While in Vegas, take advantage of the sunny days with one of these beautiful Las Vegas hikes like Red Rock National Conservation Area or Valley of Fire State Park. If you love being in the water, head to Arizona Hot Springs and soak in the hot mineral spring water.

If you love culture and the outdoors, go on one of these amazing day trips from Las Vegas. Unfortunately, the Grand Canyon is NOT warm in the winter months, but here is an epic guide to visiting the Grand Canyon in the winter.

If you are truly looking for the warmest winter vacations in the USA, head to Puerto Rico. While the weather is always warm in Puerto Rico, there is also much less rain this time of year.

Additionally, from mid-December through New Year’s, Puerto Rico awakens with holiday feasts, festivals, and excitement. Don’t miss the Festival del Petate in the Plaza Publica de Sabana Grande, where local artisans celebrate the petate tree in a unique way.

Finally, visit the largest carnival on the island at Hiram Bithorn Stadium during La Feria. While New Mexico is not the warmest place in the winter, it is still one of the most beautiful winter destinations in the U.S.

March is the warmest month, with temperatures in the 50s and 60s. There are many other holiday events in the winter, like:

Here, locals come together to enjoy cider, music, and the beautiful Palace of the Governors. Sorry, it’s not warmer, but it’s so cute I wanted to offer it as a winter option.

Although the weather does drop, it’s still relatively warmer in Charlotte. For instance, this February, there are temperatures in the sunny 60s and 70s.

Indulge in the warm and cozy atmosphere of local cafes and restaurants, where you can sample delicious Southern cuisine.

Another must-visit historic site is the Charlotte Hawkins Brown Museum, which celebrates the life and legacy of the prominent educator and civil rights activist. For those seeking a taste of the arts, the Mint Museum is a premier destination, with collections spanning over 5,000 years of art and design.

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California State has a diverse range of climates spread throughout the region. Temperature differences between the higher latitudes of the north and the lower latitudes of the south play a large role in the weather patterns, as do elevation changes between the Mediterranean-like coast and the near-subarctic temperatures of the high peaks.

So, while average winter temperatures in Los Angeles may hover around 20 degrees below its average summer temps, places like San Francisco might experience little change in their average temperatures at all. Or, if you’re in a place like Death Valley, you might see summer temperatures double from winter ones.

These wildly different climate patterns are influenced by elevation, latitude, precipitation and ocean currents, and California sure has a lot of variety when it comes to these. By using the Köppen climate classification system (a system used to define climate boundaries around the world), we can see that California alone has four of the five global climate zones and ten different climate subdivisions.

Here they are, along with their classification letters.

A little chilly, for sure.

These climate areas experience dry summers and only a few months above 50 degrees Fahrenheit. The coldest months get to around 25 degrees Fahrenheit, but no lower than -36 degrees.

Moral of the story, check the weather forecast before you go alpine camping.

Basically, these little regional pockets have their warmest months anywhere between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit, making them perfect for summer hiking and camping.

Average winter temperatures are fairly equal, with all of them averaging out at above freezing in even the coldest months. The only difference is that this Cold-Summer Mediterranean usually only has 1-3 months of temperatures higher than 50 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer.

These regions include nearly all of the California’s coast to the north of Los Angeles, as well as Northeastern California and the Sierra Nevada foothills. Unlike the hot Mediterranean sea, the Pacific Ocean brings cool currents to the comparatively higher altitude Californian coast, resulting in cooler summer temperatures.

Much of the Central Valley and Southern California experience these blistering hot summers and mild winters, including the Angeles State Forest, Santa Clarita, Sacramento and as far north as Redding.

This is where things start to merge slowly into desert-like climates, which the remaining climate sub regions all fall into. South from Los Angeles, we see the coastline get colder winters (with at least one month averaging below freezing) with warm/hot summers, usually around higher plateaus.

It’s in these regions that we start to see larger temperature fluctuations during the day, sometimes by as much as 30 degrees’ difference.

Only very few regions experience this climate in California, those being San Bernardino, Downtown Los Angeles, Pasadena and Santa Ana. Like we said, only a really tiny area gets this weather.

Cold desert regions experience dry seasons all year ’round, with colder winters than those of a hot desert. One of the best ways to see the differences between cold and hot deserts is to visit Joshua Tree National Park, which includes both the slightly cooler, higher Mojave Desert and the lower, hotter Colorado Desert.

Finally, we get the hottest, driest regions of the state which include most of southeast California, the most famous of which being the Mojave Desert and Death Valley. These hot deserts get some of the hottest temperatures on the planet, with the highest temperature ever recorded reaching 134 degrees Fahrenheit in Death Valley.

There is little to no rain, no cloud cover and some of the most extreme heat you’ll find anywhere on the planet. And to think, there are subarctic regions just mere hours away.

With so many diverse climate regions in just one state, it sure makes exploring and traveling an adventure. If you live in our Southern California apartments (which, it just so happens, falls into the hot semi-arid region.

Featured photo courtesy Pixabay/12019. Graphic photo courtesy Adam Peterson, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.

We all crave the perfect balance of sunny days, cool breezes, and mild temperatures. But where can we find such paradise in the United States.

Sun-soaked Beaches and Mediterranean Climate. California boasts over 3,000 hours of sunshine annually.

There’s a reason California is known as the Golden State. Because it boasts over 3,000 hours of sunshine annually (3,348 to be exact), the Mediterranean climate offers mild winters, warm summers, and abundant sunny days.

With average temperatures ranging from 60°F to 75°F throughout the year, California is a dream destination for sun-seekers. Furthermore, California’s diverse topography and coastal location create a variety of microclimates, providing something for everyone.

The marine layer, a unique weather phenomenon along the California coast, contributes to the state’s mild climate. This cool, moist air mass rolls in from the ocean, creating a natural air conditioning effect and keeping temperatures in check.

Rainfall is usually brief and localized, ensuring you’ll find sunny skies just a short drive away. Aloha, perfect weather.

©Kelly Headrick/Shutterstock.com. Hawaii often comes to mind when people think of perfect weather.

The islands’ trade winds help maintain a comfortable environment, offering relief from the heat. Rainfall is usually brief and localized, ensuring you’ll find sunny skies just a short drive away.

Island hopping is a great way to experience Hawaii’s diverse climates and weather conditions. From Hilo’s lush, rainy forests on the Big Island to the sun-drenched beaches of Maui, each island offers its unique weather experience.

These breezes provide natural air conditioning that keeps temperatures comfortable even during the warmest months. Warm Winters and Sunny Skies.

monsoon season, between June and September, brings much-needed moisture to the arid landscape. ©Globe Guide Media Inc/Shutterstock.com.

With over 300 days of sunshine annually, the state offers plenty of opportunities to soak up some rays. In the winter, daytime temperatures in cities like Phoenix and Tucson average around 70°F, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.

Arizona’s monsoon season, between June and September, brings much-needed moisture to the arid landscape. The intense storms are often brief, followed by stunning rainbows and breathtaking sunsets.

This seasonal migration has led to a thriving community of winter visitors who enjoy the state’s abundant sunshine and mild temperatures. Pleasant Summers and Manageable Winters.

©iStock.com/SeanXu. Nestled in the Rocky Mountains, Colorado experiences a mild, semi-arid climate.

Winters can be chilly, but the abundant sunshine (300 days per year) and dry air make them more manageable. Colorado’s higher elevations also offer a reprieve from the summer heat, making it an attractive destination year-round.

These warm, dry winds can cause temperatures to soar by 20 to 40 degrees in just a few hours. But this offers a welcome break from winter’s chill.

Because higher elevations have cooler temperatures and lower humidity, this provides a comfortable environment for outdoor activities throughout the year. Four Distinct Seasons and Moderate Temperatures.

Appalachian Mountains. , offers a range of climates to suit every preference.

North Carolina boasts four distinct seasons and a moderate climate, making it a great choice for those seeking year-round comfort. The average temperatures are in the mid-80s.

Winters are mild, with daytime temperatures typically reaching the 50s. The state’s varied topography, from the Atlantic coastline to the Appalachian Mountains, offers a range of climates to suit every preference.

The current helps keep winters mild and provides a pleasant ocean breeze during the summer months. One weather wildcard to consider when choosing North Carolina as your ideal destination is hurricanes.

Subtropical Climate and Abundant Sun. Florida.

©iStock.com/lucky-photographer. Florida’s subtropical climate provides warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine year-round.

While humidity and afternoon thunderstorms are common during the warmer months, the trade-off is near-perfect weather for beach combing and sunbathing the rest of the year. Florida experiences two distinct seasons: wet and dry.

The dry season, from October through May, offers cooler temperatures and less rainfall. While Florida is prone to hurricanes and tropical storms, its abundant sunshine and warm temperatures make it a sought-after destination for those seeking year-round warmth.

Embracing Oregon’s ‘liquid sunshine’ is essential for those seeking to enjoy the state’s mild climate. ©Marisa Estivill/Shutterstock.com.

The state enjoys an oceanic climate, with cool summers and relatively mild winters. Coastal areas like Astoria and Newport benefit from the moderating influence of the Pacific Ocean, with temperatures ranging from 45°F to 70°F throughout the year.

With abundant greenery and a wealth of outdoor activities, Oregon is a hidden gem for those seeking the best weather in the country. The rain shadow effect, created by the Cascade Mountains, contributes to Oregon’s diverse climate.

The eastern side is much drier and sunnier. This phenomenon allows residents and visitors to choose their preferred climate by traveling across the state.

The frequent rain showers nourish the lush landscapes and contribute to the state’s stunning natural beauty. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer regarding the best weather in the United States.

Whether you’re drawn to the sun-soaked beaches of California, the tropical allure of Hawaii, or the mild climate of the Pacific Northwest, there’s a state that’s perfect for you. The states listed above may have the best weather year-round, but they aren’t the only states with weather that is ideal throughout the year.

With the exception of Texas which has a combination climate of subtropical and arid desert, all of the states listed below have a subtropical climate. Based along the southern region of the United States, some of the states that didn’t make the list but are top contenders are:

Grab the sunscreen, dust off your hiking boots, and start planning your next adventure in one of these seven weather paradises.

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According to the Köppen climate classification, most of Western Oregon has a warm-summer Mediterranean climate (or Csb type), which features warm, dry summers, and wet winters with frequent overcast and cloudy skies. Eastern Oregon falls into the cold semi-arid climate (or BSk type), which features drier weather.

West of the Cascade Range, winters are chilly with frequent rain and occasional snow. Temperatures can get very cold, but only occasionally, as the result of Arctic cold waves.

Precipitation in the state varies widely: some western coastal slopes approach 200 inches (5,100 mm) annually, while the driest places, such as the Alvord Desert (in the rain shadow of Steens Mountain) in eastern Oregon, get as little as 5 inches (130 mm).

As humid ocean air flows east from the ocean and encounters the Coast Range, it rises steeply, cools, and loses moisture through condensation, which produces heavy rain. The heaviest precipitation in the state occurs at 2,000 to 4,000 feet (610 to 1,220 m) above sea level in these coastal mountains.

In the Willamette Valley east of the Coast Range, storms “blowing” from the Pacific retain enough moisture to drop from 35 to 45 inches (890 to 1,140 mm) annually in the most heavily populated part of the state. East of the valley, the storm air rises again as it meets the Cascade Range, cooling once more and forming condensate at elevations often as low as 3,000 feet (910 m).

The remaining two-thirds of the state is relatively dry, classified as semi-arid, with large areas receiving no more than 12 inches (300 mm) a year. Exceptions occur at higher elevations in the Blue Mountains and the Wallowa Mountains to the northeast, which get 50 to 80 inches (1,300 to 2,000 mm) a year.

Across Oregon, the wet season runs from November through March, when the jet stream is strongest in the Northern Hemisphere. Precipitation is less in the months between winter and summer: April through June in the spring and September and October in the fall.

Snowfall in Oregon is greatest in the Cascade Range. Based on data from ski resorts and a few official weather stations, average annual snowfall in the Cascades can range from 300 to 550 inches (760 to 1,400 cm).

In the Blue Mountains of eastern Oregon, snowfall totals can also be large, between 150 and 300 inches (380 and 760 cm). On the other hand, most winter precipitation in the Coast Range falls as rain, though heavy snow sometimes occurs.

In most mountain areas in Oregon, the ground above 4,500 feet (1,400 m) is covered with snow from December through April. Snow depths, which vary with elevation and time of year, average an estimated 50 to 100 inches (130 to 250 cm) in the Cascades and 25 to 65 inches (64 to 165 cm) in the Blue Mountains at the end of January.

Glaciers remain year-round on some Cascade peaks higher than 7,000 feet (2,100 m) above sea level.

Further inland, between the Coast Range and the Cascades, snowfall generally averages from 5 to 10 inches (13 to 25 cm) a year. East of the Cascades, in non-mountain settings, the annual totals range from 15 to 75 inches (38 to 191 cm), depending on location.

In addition to seasonal cycles in solar radiation (more in summer, less in winter), major factors affecting temperatures in Oregon include the moderating influence of the Pacific Ocean combined with variations in surface elevation, especially the Cascade Range. In general, temperatures on Earth drop by about 4 °F (2 °C) per each 1,000 feet (300 m) increase in elevation.

In addition, the Cascades, running north–south from border to border, generally retain relatively warm Pacific air masses on the western side of the state and relatively cool continental air masses on the eastern side. This prevailing pattern breaks down occasionally when dense cold air flows down the Columbia Gorge into the Willamette Valley and lowers temperatures more than usual from Portland to Eugene.

Oregon has a wide range of temperatures, though the extremes are rare. The highest was recorded on July 29, 1898, in Hermiston, Oregon, and again on August 10, 1898, in Redmond, Oregon, both east of the Cascades, when the temperature reached 122 °F (50 °C).

The temperature in the Willamette Valley is mild compared to the desert regions of the state, with high temperatures at or above 90 °F (32 °C) occurring only five to fifteen times per year, and low temperatures below 30 °F (−1 °C) similarly infrequent. The hottest area of the state is the southwest.

From sea to shining sea, the United States enjoys a variety of climates and very different weather patterns. During the summer months, some parts of the US heat up – a lot.

Can you guess which city in the United States is the hottest.

Death Valley, California, recorded a temperature of 134 degrees Fahrenheit on July 10, 1913. More than a century later, that temperature remains the highest ever recorded in the United States.

El Azizia, Libya, held the crown with a 136.4-degree temperature reading in 1923 until the World Meteorologist Organization decertified the record temp after an interesting investigation in 2012, giving Death Valley the title as the hottest place in the world. Related Content: Stay Safe During Summer Heat Waves.

The hottest city in the US with a population of over 250,000 people is Phoenix, Arizona. The daily high reaches 100 degrees on a nearly daily basis between May and September.

The next 9 hottest cities in America are: Two notoriously hot states, Texas, and Florida, are conspicuously absent from the top of the US heat records.

While temperatures consistently top 110 degrees, the hottest recorded temperature in Texas is 120 degrees Fahrenheit. It was first set in Fort Worth and Seymour, Texas in 1936, and matched by the city of Monahans, Texas in 1994.

Surprisingly, no Florida city has topped 110 degrees. The closest the state has come was in 1931 when the small city of Monticello hit the state record of 109.

In a country with climate zones as diverse as the US, it can get hot even in places you wouldn’t guess. Temperatures in Alaska are more pleasant than you might assume.

The hottest temperature ever recorded in Alaska was 100 degrees at Fort Yukon in 1915. Even if your city isn’t breaking heat records, it’s important to stay comfortable.

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