Weather in McAllen

Planning your day in McAllen? In this section, you will find the freshest weather information, including current data and forecasts to help you organise your time in the best possible way.

The climate in McAllen, located in the United States, can be characterised as hot and arid, with features resembling a subtropical steppe or even desert climate. This means the city receives an abundant amount of sunlight and heat throughout most of the year. Temperatures here rarely drop to values that could be called truly cold, even in the winter months.

Two main seasons are clearly traceable in McAllen. Summer, lasting roughly from May to September, is very hot and long. Average monthly temperatures during this period often exceed 28-30°C, and maximums can reach and surpass 35°C. Winter, from December to February, is conversely short and mild, with average temperatures around 17-19°C, making it quite comfortable. Spring (March-April) and autumn (October-November) months are warm transitional periods when the weather is pleasant for various activities.

One of the most notable features of the weather in McAllen is the extremely low level of precipitation throughout the year. Only 1-3 mm of precipitation falls monthly, which highlights the arid nature of the local climate. Although a slight increase in the number of rainy days and total rainfall volume is observed in September compared to other months, there is no pronounced rainy season here. Travellers should expect predominantly sunny and dry weather regardless of the time of year.

McAllen observes a significant annual temperature variation, characteristic of its geographical location. The hottest month is usually August, when the average temperature reaches 31.5°C, and average maximum values rise to an impressive 36.8°C. The coolest month, if one can characterise the weather with such figures, is considered January with an average temperature of 17.8°C and average minimum night-time temperatures around 12.4°C.

The summer period in McAllen, covering the months from June to August, is distinguished by consistently hot weather. Average daily temperatures at this time confidently exceed 30°C, while daytime heat often reaches marks of 35-36°C and higher. Nights bring only slight relief, as the air temperature rarely drops below 25-26°C, maintaining a sensation of constant warmth. May and September are also very warm, with average temperatures around 29°C and maximum values exceeding 34°C.

Winter in McAllen, on the contrary, is defined by mildness and comfort. From December to February, average temperatures fluctuate in the range from 17.8°C (January) to 19.4°C (February). During the day, the air usually warms up to a pleasant 23-25°C, while night-time minimums average 12-14°C. Frosts are uncharacteristic for this region. It is worth noting that notable diurnal temperature fluctuations are typical for McAllen: the difference between average daily maximums and night-time minimums throughout the year is about 10-11°C. This means that even on the hottest summer days, nights bring some coolness, and winter days remain sufficiently warm.

The city of McAllen observes a relatively low level of precipitation throughout the year. There is no clearly pronounced rainy season here, as in some other regions, however, periods with a slightly higher amount of precipitation and rainy days can be distinguished. Overall, the climate can be described as quite dry.

The highest amount of precipitation, although very moderate, usually falls in July and September, when an average of 3 mm falls. September also stands out as the month with the highest frequency of rains – precipitation is possible here for approximately 12 days a month. May and June are also characterised by a slightly higher number of days with precipitation compared to the remaining months (8 and 9 days respectively), although the volume of precipitation in these months constitutes about 2 mm. The driest months by rainfall amount are January, February, March, August, October, and December, when only 1 mm falls. The lowest number of rainy days is noted in December – on average just 4 days.

Considering the low total volumes of precipitation even in the "wettest" months, it can be assumed that rains in McAllen most often carry the character of light or short-lived showers. Temperature indicators remain positive all year round, so precipitation falls exclusively in the form of rain. Snow is uncharacteristic for this region.

When planning a trip to McAllen, it is important to consider its predominantly warm climate. The basis of your wardrobe should be light and breathable clothing made from natural fabrics. Regardless of the time of year, you will need comfortable footwear for walking, high SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and headwear for sun protection, as the sun can be active even in the cooler months.

Summer months in McAllen, from May to September, are distinguished by high temperatures, often exceeding 30-35°C. During this period, choose the lightest possible clothing: shorts, T-shirts, sundresses. Although the total amount of precipitation is small, the highest number of rainy days is observed in September, so a compact umbrella or a light waterproof jacket may be useful, especially if your visit falls during this month or in May-June, when rainy days are also possible. Do not forget swimwear if you plan to refresh yourself in a pool.

Winter months, from December to February, are mild in McAllen, with average temperatures around 17-19°C, however, minimum temperatures can drop to 12-14°C, especially in the evenings and mornings. For this period, as well as for the transitional seasons (March-April and October-November), it is recommended to use the principle of layering. Take T-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, jeans or light trousers, as well as a sweater, fleece jacket, or light jacket with you to feel comfortable with temperature changes during the day.