Climate and monthly weather forecastPittsburgh, PA
Climate and monthly weather forecast
The climate of Pittsburgh
Categorized by the Köppen climate classification as Cfa, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is characterized by a humid subtropical climate with no dry season. This unique climate categorization is influenced by the city's geographical position, which consists of valleys and ridges with three rivers converging within the city limits. Within this classification, humidity levels hover between 73% in summer months and 84% in winter. Additionally, throughout the year, the pressure ranges from 30.08" (764mm) in spring to 30.11" (765mm) in winter while cloud percentages vary from 36% to 70%.The city experiences distinct seasonal weather changes. High temperatures ascend from 33.1°F (0.6°C) in winter to 84°F (28.9°C) in summer before descending again. Conversely, low temperatures vary from 21°F (-6.1°C) in winter to 63°F (17.2°C) in summer. Rainfall and snowfall also demonstrate significant fluctuations. Rainfall varies from 1.54" (39mm) to 3.07" (78mm) while snowfall ranges from zero in summer to 3.31" (84mm) in winter. The differentiations in precipitation are accompanied by substantial shifts in both sunshine hours, from 2.8 hours to a peak of 10.1 hours, and daylight hours, which range from 9.3 hours to 15 hours.
It is noteworthy that the maximum average monthly wind speed picks up pace from February's 7.6mph (12.2km/h) to April's 7.5mph (12.1km/h), then slows down during summer months to a low 4.8mph (7.7km/h) in July and August, and gradually increases to December's peak of 7.3mph (11.7km/h).
The best time to visit Pittsburgh
The ideal time to visit Pittsburgh would be during the late spring and early summer months which provide a hospitable climate. From May to June, temperatures climb from 61°F (16.1°C) to 79.3°F (26.3°C) and rainfall is moderate, ranging between 2.76" (70mm) and 3.07" (78mm). Humidity stays relatively steady around 76% and abundant sunshine hours from 8.7 to 9.3 hours combined with extended daylight hours from 14.4 to 15 hours offer excellent conditions for outdoor activities.The worst time to visit Pittsburgh
Winter months prove to be challenging for tourism in Pittsburgh, with January being the coldest period. During this time, high and low temperatures range from a frigid 33.1°F (0.6°C) to a chilly 21°F (-6.1°C). Additionally, rainfall reaches lows at 1.69" (43mm) and high humidity levels about 84% add to the wintry bleakness. Only 2.8 hours of sunshine with 9.7 hours of daylight may feel gloomy to tourists, and snowfall at an average 3.31" (84mm) could disrupt travel plans.Spring weather in Pittsburgh
Springtime in Pittsburgh is characterized by an inviting lift in temperature. From March through May, high temperatures rise from a mild 47.8°F (8.8°C) to a comfortable 72.1°F (22.3°C), while low temperatures increase from 31.5°F (-0.3°C) to 51.4°F (10.8°C). Rainfall is moderately high, fluctuating from 2.05" (52mm) to 3.07" (78mm). The city sees brightening with average sunshine hours stretching from 5.2 hours to 8.7 hours, and daylight hours extending from 12 hours to 14.4 hours.Summer weather in Pittsburgh
Summertime in Pittsburgh, encompassing June to August, brings warmth and sun to the city. High temperatures gravitate from a pleasant 79.3°F (26.3°C) to a warm 84°F (28.9°C), while low temperatures climb from 58.6°F (14.8°C) to 63°F (17.2°C). Rainfall stays consistent around 2.76" (70mm), providing much-needed relief from the heat. Daylight extends to 15 hours, and visitors will enjoy the longest sunshine duration of the year ranging from 9.3 hours to 10.1 hours.Autumn weather in Pittsburgh
Autumn sees a gradual drop in temperatures in Pittsburgh, with high temperatures falling from 75.7°F (24.3°C) in September to 49.1°F (9.5°C) in November. Similarly, low temperatures drop from 55.9°F (13.3°C) to 34.2°F (1.2°C). Rainfall during this period decreases moderately from 2.13" (54mm) to 1.54" (39mm). Daylight hours get considerably shorter from 12.5 hours to 9.9 hours and sunshine hours dwindle from 8.2 hours to 4.7 hours.Winter weather in Pittsburgh
Winter in Pittsburgh, spanning December to February, is chilly and overcast. High and low temperatures reach their yearly lowest, fluctuating from 33.1°F (0.6°C) to 39.4°F (4.1°C) and from 21°F (-6.1°C) to 23.4°F (-4.8°C) respectively. Rainfall is relatively stable between 1.69" (43mm) and 2.13" (54mm), and with elevated humidity levels around 84%, the cold can feel more biting. The city sees the least amount of sunshine, with duration from 2.8 hours to 3.4 hours and daylight hours range from 9.3 hours to 9.7 hours. The snowfall starts to gather, ranging from 2.01" (51mm) to 3.31" (84mm).Weather in January
The first month of the year in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, often sees winter weather in full flow. As temperatures reach icy extremes, residents can expect a monthly high of 33.1°F (0.6°C) and a low of 21°F (-6.1°C). The sky remains mostly overcast, with limited sunlight hours, making indoor activities a good choice this month. Weather in January »Weather in February
February in Pittsburgh witnesses a subtle rise in temperatures, hinting at a slow transition towards spring weather. Snowfall decreases slightly, although winter conditions remain, with snowfalls of 2.83" (72mm) still possible. Weather in February »Weather in March
The arrival of March ushers in an early spring atmosphere in Pittsburgh, characterized by softer, more bearable temperatures. Sunshine duration increases quite significantly from February, culminating in a monthly daytime high temperature of 47.8°F (8.8°C), indicative of the gradually pacifying weather. Weather in March »Weather in April
April in Pittsburgh witnesses a complete transformation into spring, with regular rain showers and a burst of flora across the city. The weather is very changeable, with rainfalls the highest for the year at 2.76" (70mm), contributing to the growth of new greenery all around. Weather in April »Weather in May
In May, Pittsburgh displays full-on spring weather, coupled with agreeable warmth and an explosion of colors throughout the city. The noticeable rise in relative humidity to 76% is indicative of the city's transition from spring to summer, with an increase in late afternoon thunderstorms. Weather in May »Weather in June
Summer officially kicks off in June in Pittsburgh, and it's characterized by enjoyable warmth and long daylight hours. Typical June weather sees a high of 79.3°F (26.3°C), providing residents and tourists the perfect conditions for exploring the city. Weather in June »Weather in July
July is the peak of summer in Pittsburgh, demonstrating the season's most intense conditions. With a remarkable high temperature of 84°F (28.9°C), it is undeniably the hottest month of the year. Despite the heat, it's a fantastic time to partake in water-related activities, or simply relax in the numerous city parks. Weather in July »Weather in August
In August, summer starts to wind down in Pittsburgh, though warm weather persists throughout the month. Summer peaks start to descend, with noticeable changes, including a drop in the maximum temperature to 82.2°F (27.9°C). Though experiencing some rain, it's still a great time for outdoor exploration before autumn sets in. Weather in August »Weather in September
September in Pittsburgh greets autumn with open arms, showcasing a steady decrease in temperatures, resulting in comfortable, moderate weather. The daylight hours reduce significantly from August down to 12.5 hours along with a slight increase in rainfall. Weather in September »Weather in October
The arrival of October in Pittsburgh brings substantial changes in the city's weather pattern, bringing an end to the summer heat and welcoming the full onset of autumn. The fallen leaves create a breathtaking spectacle, transforming the city into a picturesque postcard-like scene. Weather in October »Weather in November
In November, the city of Pittsburgh starts to transition from autumn to winter, with a significant fall in temperatures. The weather is quite variable this time of year, with sudden shifts and an increased chance of early snowfall. Weather in November »Weather in December
December in Pittsburgh is undeniably a winter month, characterized by shorter daylight hours and frosty temperatures. The city enters into a spectacular mode as a winter wonderland, hosting myriad of holiday celebrations. Although snowfall picks up from November with a decent 2.01" (51mm) recorded, it's not daunting for residents who seize the opportunity for fun-filled winter activities. Weather in December »Updated: Jul 26, 2024
Published by: Weather Atlas | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Published by: Weather Atlas | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Frequently asked questions
January, with its average high-temperature of 33.1°F (0.6°C) and an average low-temperature of 21°F (-6.1°C), holds the record as the coldest month.
January and February, with an average relative humidity of 84%, are most humid months.
In Pittsburgh, during the entire year, the rain falls for 163.6 days and collects up to 26.93" (684mm) of precipitation.
Months with snowfall are January through April, October through December.
January is the month with the most snowfall. Snow falls for 14.4 days and accumulates 3.31" (84mm) of snow.
In Pittsburgh, during the entire year, snow falls for 47.7 days and aggregates up to 11.77" (299mm) of snow.
The month with the least sunshine is January, with an average of 2.8h of sunshine.
On Sunday, March 10. 2024, at 2:00 am, Daylight Saving Time starts, and the time zone changes from EST to EDT. Daylight Saving Time ends Sunday, November 3. 2024, at 2:00 am, and the time zone reverts from EDT to EST.
May is the month with the most rainfall. Rain falls for 18.9 days and accumulates 3.07" (78mm) of precipitation.
In Pittsburgh, snow does not fall in May through September.
The months with the highest UV index are May through July, with an average maximum UV index of 6.
June has the longest days of the year, with an average of 15h and 0min of daylight.
Pittsburgh's July weather, with an average high temperature of 84°F (28.9°C) and an average low temperature of 63°F (17.2°C), tends to be the warmest of the year.
The months with the lowest humidity are July and August, with an average relative humidity of 73%.
August has the most sunshine of the year, with an average of 10.1h of sunshine.
November is the month with the least rainfall. Rain falls for 9.8 days and accumulates 1.54" (39mm) of precipitation.
The month with the shortest days in Pittsburgh is December, with an average of 9h and 18min of daylight.
December is the month with the lowest UV index, with an average maximum UV index of 1.
Average temperature
Pittsburgh, PA
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (84°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (33.1°F).
The month with the highest average low temperature is July (63°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (21°F).
Average pressure
Pittsburgh, PA
- Average pressure in January:
30.11"Hg - Average pressure in February:
30.08"Hg - Average pressure in March:
30.08"Hg - Average pressure in April:
29.97"Hg - Average pressure in May:
30"Hg - Average pressure in June:
29.95"Hg
- Average pressure in July:
29.98"Hg - Average pressure in August:
30"Hg - Average pressure in September:
30.05"Hg - Average pressure in October:
30.03"Hg - Average pressure in November:
30.13"Hg - Average pressure in December:
30.11"Hg
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is November (30.13"Hg).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is June (29.95"Hg).
Average wind speed
Pittsburgh, PA
- Average wind speed in January:
8mph - Average wind speed in February:
7.6mph - Average wind speed in March:
7.3mph - Average wind speed in April:
7.5mph - Average wind speed in May:
6.1mph - Average wind speed in June:
5.7mph
- Average wind speed in July:
4.8mph - Average wind speed in August:
4.8mph - Average wind speed in September:
5.2mph - Average wind speed in October:
6.3mph - Average wind speed in November:
6.8mph - Average wind speed in December:
7.3mph
The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is January (8mph).
The calmest months (with the lowest average wind speed) are July and August (4.8mph).
Average humidity
Pittsburgh, PA
The months with the highest relative humidity are January and February (84%).
The months with the lowest relative humidity are July and August (73%).
Average rainfall
Pittsburgh, PA
- Average rainfall in January:
1.69" - Average rainfall in February:
1.93" - Average rainfall in March:
2.05" - Average rainfall in April:
2.76" - Average rainfall in May:
3.07" - Average rainfall in June:
2.76"
- Average rainfall in July:
2.76" - Average rainfall in August:
2.05" - Average rainfall in September:
2.13" - Average rainfall in October:
2.09" - Average rainfall in November:
1.54" - Average rainfall in December:
2.13"
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is May (3.07").
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is November (1.54").
Average rainfall days
Pittsburgh, PA
- Average rainfall days in January:
8.9 days - Average rainfall days in February:
9 days - Average rainfall days in March:
12.8 days - Average rainfall days in April:
15.9 days - Average rainfall days in May:
18.9 days - Average rainfall days in June:
16.5 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
18.2 days - Average rainfall days in August:
16 days - Average rainfall days in September:
12.9 days - Average rainfall days in October:
14.2 days - Average rainfall days in November:
9.8 days - Average rainfall days in December:
10.5 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is May (18.9 days).
The month with the least rainy days is January (8.9 days).
Average snowfall
Pittsburgh, PA
The month with the highest snowfall is January (3.31").
The months with the least snowfall are May, June, July, August and September (0").
Average snowfall days
Pittsburgh, PA
- Average snowfall days in January:
14.4 days - Average snowfall days in February:
10.8 days - Average snowfall days in March:
7.1 days - Average snowfall days in April:
1.4 days - Average snowfall days in May:
0 days - Average snowfall days in June:
0 days
- Average snowfall days in July:
0 days - Average snowfall days in August:
0 days - Average snowfall days in September:
0 days - Average snowfall days in October:
0.2 days - Average snowfall days in November:
3.5 days - Average snowfall days in December:
10.3 days
The month with the highest number of snowfall days is January (14.4 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are May, June, July, August and September (0 days).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Pittsburgh, PA
- Average daylight in January:
9h and 42min - Average daylight in February:
10h and 42min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 0min - Average daylight in April:
13h and 18min - Average daylight in May:
14h and 24min - Average daylight in June:
15h and 0min
- Average daylight in July:
14h and 42min - Average daylight in August:
13h and 42min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 24min - Average daylight in October:
11h and 6min - Average daylight in November:
9h and 54min - Average daylight in December:
9h and 18min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 15h and 0min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 9h and 18min).
- Average sunshine in January:
2h and 48min - Average sunshine in February:
3h and 24min - Average sunshine in March:
5h and 12min - Average sunshine in April:
7h and 24min - Average sunshine in May:
8h and 42min - Average sunshine in June:
9h and 18min
- Average sunshine in July:
9h and 48min - Average sunshine in August:
10h and 6min - Average sunshine in September:
8h and 12min - Average sunshine in October:
5h and 6min - Average sunshine in November:
4h and 42min - Average sunshine in December:
3h and 12min
The month with the most sunshine is August (Average sunshine: 10h and 6min).
The month with the least sunshine is January (Average sunshine: 2h and 48min).
Average sunshine days
Pittsburgh, PA
- Average sunshine days in January:
10.7 days - Average sunshine days in February:
9.6 days - Average sunshine days in March:
12.3 days - Average sunshine days in April:
11.9 days - Average sunshine days in May:
9.8 days - Average sunshine days in June:
12.2 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
11.1 days - Average sunshine days in August:
13.4 days - Average sunshine days in September:
13.8 days - Average sunshine days in October:
14.9 days - Average sunshine days in November:
16.5 days - Average sunshine days in December:
11.5 days
The month with the most sunshine days is November (16.5 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is February (9.6 days).
Average UV index
Pittsburgh, PA
The months with the highest UV index are May, June and July (UV index 6).
The month with the lowest UV index is December (UV index 1).
Average cloud cover
Pittsburgh, PA
The month with the most cloud cover is January (Cloud cover 70).
The month with the least cloud cover is August (Cloud cover 34).
Average visibility
Pittsburgh, PA
The months with the highest visibility are April, June, July, August and November (6mi).
The months with the lowest visibility are January, February, March, May, September, October and December (5mi).
