Weather in Charlotte

Planning your day in Charlotte or just want to stay updated on the weather? In this section, you will find the most up-to-date information: current weather conditions, detailed forecasts, and useful charts to help you plan your time.

The climate in Charlotte is characterised as humid subtropical, which means there are four distinct seasons. Travellers can expect warm, and at times hot, summers here, and relatively mild, cool winters. Overall, the weather in Charlotte is quite comfortable for visiting throughout most of the year, however, it is worth considering the temperature features characteristic of each season.

The summer months, from June to August, are the sultriest: the average temperature hovers around 25-27.5°C, and maximum readings often exceed 30°C. Winters, covering the period from December to February, are cool here, with an average temperature of about 6-10°C, while minimum values can drop to 2-5°C. Spring and autumn delight with pleasant moderate weather, ideal for exploring the city and outdoor activities. As for precipitation, according to the provided data, it falls in small amounts (2-4 mm per month) and is relatively evenly distributed throughout the year, with the number of days with precipitation varying from 7 to 11, with some increase to 14-16 days in July and August.

The climate in Charlotte demonstrates a distinct change of seasons with a noticeable annual temperature range. The coldest month is traditionally January, when the average air temperature is about 6.7°C, with night-time lows dropping on average to 2.2°C, and daytime highs reaching 11.2°C. Conversely, the peak heat occurs in July: the average temperature in this month rises to 27.5°C, with daytime highs often exceeding 32°C (averaging 32.4°C), and night-time temperatures remaining at the level of 22.6°C.

Summer months in Charlotte, especially June, July, and August, are characterised as hot. Daytime air temperatures during this period consistently stay at high marks: in June, maximum values average 30.4°C, in July – 32.4°C, and in August – 30.9°C. Nights also remain warm, with minimum temperatures rarely dropping below 20-22°C. This creates a sensation of rather sultry weather, especially in combination with high humidity, indicated by the 14-16 rainy days in July and August. Daily temperature fluctuations in summer are approximately 10°C, which means some cooling during the night hours compared to the daytime heat.

Winter in Charlotte, covering December, January, and February, feels cool, but generally mild. In January, the coldest month, average night-time temperatures are about 2.2°C, however, daytime highs usually rise to 11.2°C. December and February are slightly warmer: average temperatures are 8.3°C and 10.0°C respectively, with maximum daytime values from 12.8°C to 14.9°C. Night frosts are possible but are not a constant phenomenon. The difference between day and night temperatures in winter is also noticeable and is about 9-10°C, which ensures more comfortable conditions during daylight hours.

In Charlotte, precipitation is distributed relatively evenly throughout the year in terms of total volume, which is generally low. Most months receive between 3 and 4 mm of precipitation. The "driest" months in terms of falling moisture are June and October, when only 2 mm is recorded. Thus, there is no pronounced rainy season or dry season in Charlotte if relying solely on monthly precipitation volume.

However, the picture changes if you look at the frequency of rainy days. Here, a clearer seasonality is observed. The greatest number of days with precipitation occurs in the summer months: July leads with 16 rainy days, followed by August with 14 days. This means that in summer, especially in the middle, it rains more often, practically every other day in July. The "driest" month in terms of precipitation frequency is October, when on average there are only 7 rainy days. September and November are also characterised by fewer days with precipitation – 8 days in each.

Given the low total monthly precipitation volumes even with a significant number of rainy days (for example, in July only 3 mm over 16 days), it can be assumed that precipitation in Charlotte most often takes the form of light or moderate rain. Although winter temperatures, especially in January (minimum monthly average temperature 2.2°C), theoretically allow for the possibility of snow, the main form of precipitation throughout the year is rain. Thus, periods with more frequent, but not necessarily heavy, rains fall mainly in the summer months.

When packing for Charlotte, it is important to remember its four seasons and changeable weather. The key principle when packing your suitcase should be layering. This will allow you to easily adapt to temperature changes throughout the day, from morning chill to daytime warmth, as well as the temperature difference indoors and outdoors. An indispensable item for your trip will be comfortable walking shoes, as Charlotte is great for walking. Considering that rainy days happen throughout the year, although precipitation is usually not heavy (2-4 mm per month), a light umbrella or a compact raincoat will be very handy, especially in the summer months when the number of days with precipitation increases.

If your trip falls during the summer months (June-August), when it is hot and humid in Charlotte, with average maximum temperatures around 30-32°C, pack light and breathable clothing made from natural fabrics, shorts, t-shirts, and sandals. Do not forget sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for protection against the strong southern sun. In winter (December-February), the weather becomes cool, with average temperatures around 6-10°C and minimum values dropping to 2-5°C. At this time, you will need warm clothes: sweaters, fleece jumpers, an insulated jacket, a hat, gloves, and a scarf, as well as waterproof shoes in case of rain.

Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) in Charlotte are transitional seasons with pleasant, moderate weather. Temperatures in spring gradually rise from 12°C to 22°C, and in autumn decrease from 23°C to 12°C. Layering is also relevant at this time: long-sleeved t-shirts or shirts, light jackets or cardigans, jeans or trousers. In early autumn and late spring, it can still be quite warm, so do not pack summer things and sunscreen too far away. In any case, check the weather forecast immediately before your trip to make final adjustments to your wardrobe and be ready for any whims of nature in the USA.