Weather in Palm Springs

Planning a trip or simply interested in the weather in the city of Palm Springs? Here you will find the latest information on weather conditions, including forecasts and useful charts.

The climate in Palm Springs, located in the United States, is characterised as desert. This means very hot and dry summers, as well as mild and relatively dry winters. The city receives a minimal amount of rainfall throughout the year, making it one of the most arid places.

Two main seasons are clearly defined: summer and winter. Summer, lasting from June to September, is distinguished by high temperatures, often exceeding 30-35°C, and an almost complete absence of precipitation. The winter months, from December to February, bring cooler weather with average temperatures around 9-10°C, while night-time temperatures can drop below 5°C. Spring and autumn are transitional seasons with comfortable warm temperatures and a low number of rainy days. The highest amount of precipitation, although insignificant, falls during the winter and early spring months.

A distinctive feature of the weather in Palm Springs is the consistently low humidity levels and a large number of sunny days year-round. Tourists should be prepared for significant daily temperature fluctuations, especially in desert conditions, where it can be very hot during the day and cool at night.

Palm Springs experiences a significant annual temperature variation, typical of a desert climate. The hottest months are generally July, with an average temperature of around 28.3°C and maximum values reaching 35.5°C, and August, where the average temperature is 27.7°C and the maximum is 34.5°C. The coolest months are considered to be February (average temperature 9.3°C, minimum 3.4°C) and January (average 9.7°C, minimum 4.2°C), offering a mild winter compared to the summer heat.

The summer months in Palm Springs are characterised by intense dry heat, especially during the daytime. From June to September, average maximum temperatures confidently exceed 30°C, peaking in July (35.5°C) and August (34.5°C). An important feature is the significant difference between day and night temperatures. For instance, in July, the daytime maximum can reach 35.5°C, while the night-time minimum drops to 21.1°C, creating a difference of more than 14 degrees. Such fluctuations, where daytime heat is replaced by noticeable night-time coolness, are typical for the entire summer period.

Winter in Palm Springs is quite mild and generally pleasant. From December to February, average daytime temperatures hover around 15-16°C, making this time comfortable for various outdoor activities. Nights become significantly cooler, with average minimum temperatures ranging from 3.4°C in February to 4.8°C in December. Although severe frosts are rare, the difference between day and night temperatures remains noticeable, constituting about 10-12 degrees. This means that even after a warm day, the evening may require warmer clothing.

The city of Palm Springs experiences a very arid climate throughout the year, with minimal rainfall. Nevertheless, the period from January to March can be highlighted as relatively wetter, although even during this time, rains occur infrequently and in small amounts. In January, February, and March, an average of 2 mm of precipitation falls, with March being the month with the highest number of rainy days – about 11.

There is no clearly defined rainy season in Palm Springs. Most of the year is characterised by extremely low precipitation levels. The months from May to October are particularly dry. In May, June, September, and October, the average rainfall is 0 mm. June stands out as the driest month, with only one rainy day on average.

Even in those months when precipitation is possible, it typically takes the form of light rain or drizzle, considering the small total amount. For example, in February, despite 8 rainy days, only 2 mm of precipitation falls. Summer months, such as July and August, are also very dry, with 1 mm of rainfall and approximately 4 rainy days. Overall, visitors to Palm Springs rarely have to worry about rain, regardless of the time of year.

When planning a trip to Palm Springs, it is important to consider its desert climate with hot sun and significant temperature differences between day and evening, especially in non-summer months. Regardless of the season, be sure to bring sunscreen with a high SPF, sunglasses, headwear (such as a wide-brimmed hat), and lip balm with SPF. Comfortable walking shoes are also essential, as you will likely be walking a lot. Do not forget a reusable water bottle to always stay hydrated in the dry climate.

In the summer months, from June to September, when the daytime temperature regularly rises above 30-35°C, your wardrobe should consist of the lightest and most breathable clothing possible. Shorts, t-shirts, tops made of natural fabrics (cotton, linen), sundresses, and of course, swimwear are ideal, as Palm Springs is famous for its pools. Evenings are also warm, but a light cover-up or a long-sleeved shirt may come in handy for sun protection or in air-conditioned rooms. Precipitation is practically non-existent at this time, so you will not need an umbrella.

From late autumn to early spring (November to March), the weather in Palm Springs is milder but with noticeable temperature fluctuations. The days can be pleasantly warm (around 15-20°C), but evenings and nights become cool, with temperatures dropping to 4-7°C. During this period, the key principle is layering. Bring t-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, light sweaters or fleece jackets, as well as a jacket (a windbreaker or a light insulated jacket). Jeans or other thick trousers will be appropriate. Although rainfall is minimal year-round, there are a few days with light rain in the winter months, so an ultra-light foldable windbreaker might be useful, but the main focus should be on warm clothing for the evenings.