Explore US climate zone map showing different climate region in different parts of the United States, The United States features a diverse range of climate zones, from the arid deserts of the Southwest to the humid subtropical regions of the Southeast. The Pacific Northwest is characterized by a temperate rainforest climate, while the Midwest experiences continental conditions with hot summers and cold winters. Alaska has an Arctic climate, whereas Hawaii enjoys a tropical climate. This climatic diversity impacts agriculture, lifestyle, and weather patterns across the nation, making the U.S. one of the most geographically and climatically varied countries in the world.
Explore US climate zone map to see the what climate conditions each state of United States have.
United States Maps in our Store - Order High Resolution Vector and Raster Files
Climate Zones in the United States
The United States is vast and diverse, with its wide range of geographic features contributing to varied climate zones across the country. This guide provides an overview of the major climate zones found within the U.S., highlighting their unique characteristics and influence on lifestyle, agriculture, and economy.
Extreme Highs
Month
Temperature
Location
Date
January
101 °F (38.3 °C)
Buckeye, Maricopa, Arizona
January 23, 1897
February
104 °F (40.0 °C)
Fort Ringgold, Starr, Texas
February 26, 1902
March
108 °F (42.2 °C)
Rio Grande City, Starr, Texas and Falcon Dam, Texas
March 31, 1954 and March 27, 2020
April
118 °F (47.8 °C)
Volcano Springs, Imperial, California
April 25, 1898
May
122 °F (50.0 °C)
Furnace Creek, Inyo, California
May 1 and 30, 2000
June
129 °F (53.9 °C)
Furnace Creek, Inyo, California
June 30, 2013
July
134 °F (56.7 °C)
Furnace Creek, Inyo, California
July 10, 1913
August
130 °F (54.4 °C)
Furnace Creek, Inyo, California
August 16, 2020
September
126 °F (52.2 °C)
Mecca, Riverside, California
September 2, 1950
October
117 °F (47.2 °C)
Mecca, Riverside, California
October 5, 1917
November
105 °F (40.6 °C)
Craftonville, San Bernardino, California
November 12, 1906
December
100 °F (37.8 °C)
La Mesa, San Diego, California
December 8, 1938
Extreme Lows
Month
Temperature
Location
Date
January
−80 °F (−62 °C)
Prospect Creek, Yukon-Koyukuk, Alaska
January 23, 1971
February
−75 °F (−59 °C)
Tanacross, Southeast Fairbanks, Alaska
February 3, 1947
March
−68 °F (−56 °C)
Kobuk, Northwest Arctic, Alaska
March 1, 1971
April
−50 °F (−46 °C)
Umiat, North Slope, Alaska
April 5, 1995
May
−25 °F (−32 °C)
Chandalar Lake, Yukon-Koyukuk, Alaska
May 5, 1992
June
−11 °F (−24 °C)
Anaktuvuk Pass, North Slope, Alaska
June 28, 1971
July
8 °F (−13 °C)
Anaktuvuk Pass, North Slope, Alaska
July 20, 1967
August
−6 °F (−21 °C)
Snowshoe Lake, Valdez-Cordova, Alaska
August 15, 1997
September
−15 °F (−26 °C)
Big Piney, Sublette County, Wyoming
September 20, 1983
October
−35 °F (−37 °C)
Peter Sinks, Utah
October 30, 2019
November
−62 °F (−52 °C)
Prospect Creek, Yukon-Koyukuk, Alaska
November 30, 1970
December
−72 °F (−58 °C)
Chicken, Southeast Fairbanks, Alaska
December 31, 1999
Overall Temprature Averages
Month
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Year
Mean daily maximum °F (°C)
42.6 (5.9)
46.5 (8.1)
55.3 (12.9)
64.4 (18.0)
73.6 (23.1)
82.1 (27.8)
87.1 (30.6)
85.8 (29.9)
78.8 (26.0)
66.9 (19.4)
53.9 (12.2)
44.2 (6.8)
65.1 (18.4)
Daily mean °F (°C)
32.4 (0.2)
35.7 (2.1)
43.6 (6.4)
51.9 (11.1)
61.1 (16.2)
69.5 (20.8)
74.4 (23.6)
73.1 (22.8)
66.0 (18.9)
54.6 (12.6)
43.0 (6.1)
34.3 (1.3)
53.3 (11.8)
Mean daily minimum °F (°C)
22.2 (−5.4)
24.8 (−4.0)
31.9 (−0.1)
39.3 (4.1)
48.5 (9.2)
56.9 (13.8)
61.7 (16.5)
60.3 (15.7)
53.2 (11.8)
42.2 (5.7)
32.0 (0.0)
24.4 (−4.2)
41.4 (5.3)
Average precipitation inches (mm)
2.34 (59)
2.14 (54)
2.53 (64)
2.70 (69)
3.09 (78)
3.11 (79)
2.85 (72)
2.68 (68)
2.56 (65)
2.51 (64)
2.28 (58)
2.51 (64)
31.30 (795)
Climate Zones of the United States
The United States is home to a vast array of climate zones, each contributing to the country's diverse weather patterns, ecosystems, and ways of life. These climate zones range from the Arctic cold of Alaska to the tropical warmth of Hawaii, impacting everything from agriculture to daily activities across the nation.
Northeast: Humid Continental Climate
The Northeast, including states like New York, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania, experiences a humid continental climate. This zone is characterized by four distinct seasons, with cold, snowy winters and warm, humid summers. The average winter temperatures can dip below freezing, while summer temperatures often exceed 80°F. This region's diverse weather supports a variety of agricultural products, including apples, dairy, and maple syrup.
Southeast: Humid Subtropical Climate
The Southeast, encompassing states such as Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina, is known for its humid subtropical climate. This zone features hot, humid summers with temperatures regularly surpassing 90°F and mild winters with average temperatures around 50°F. High humidity levels and frequent rainfall contribute to lush vegetation and support crops like cotton, tobacco, and citrus fruits. The region is also prone to hurricanes, which can bring significant rainfall and wind damage.
Midwest: Humid Continental Climate
The Midwest, including states like Illinois, Ohio, and Iowa, also falls under the humid continental climate zone. It experiences warm to hot summers and cold winters, with average temperatures ranging from 20°F in January to 70°F in July. The region's fertile soil and favorable climate make it a key agricultural area, producing corn, soybeans, and wheat.
Great Plains: Semi-Arid Climate
The Great Plains, stretching from North Dakota down to Texas, primarily experiences a semi-arid climate. This zone has hot summers and cold winters, with lower humidity levels and less precipitation than the humid continental regions. Average summer temperatures can reach 90°F, while winter temperatures can drop to 20°F. The semi-arid climate supports cattle ranching and the cultivation of hardy crops like wheat and barley.
Southwest: Desert Climate
The Southwest, including Arizona, Nevada, and parts of California, is dominated by a desert climate. This area is known for extremely hot summers, with temperatures often exceeding 100°F, and mild winters with average temperatures around 60°F. Precipitation is sparse, leading to arid conditions and unique vegetation like cacti and succulents. Water conservation is crucial in this region due to the low rainfall.
Pacific Northwest: Marine West Coast Climate
The Pacific Northwest, encompassing states like Washington and Oregon, features a marine west coast climate. This zone is characterized by mild, wet winters and cool, dry summers. Average winter temperatures range from 40°F to 50°F, while summer temperatures stay around 60°F to 70°F. The abundant rainfall supports dense forests and a thriving timber industry. The region is also known for its significant agricultural production, including apples, berries, and wine grapes.
California: Mediterranean Climate
California, particularly the coastal areas, enjoys a Mediterranean climate. This zone features warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summer temperatures average around 75°F to 85°F, while winter temperatures range from 50°F to 60°F. This climate is ideal for growing a variety of crops, including grapes, almonds, and avocados. California's Mediterranean climate also supports a robust tourism industry, attracting visitors year-round.
Alaska: Arctic and Subarctic Climate
Alaska's climate ranges from Arctic in the north to subarctic in the interior. The Arctic zone experiences extremely cold winters, with temperatures often dropping below -30°F, and short, cool summers averaging 40°F. The subarctic region has long, harsh winters and short, mild summers. Alaska's climate influences its wildlife and natural resources, supporting activities like fishing, oil extraction, and tourism focused on its stunning natural landscapes.
Hawaii: Tropical Climate
Hawaii, the only U.S. state with a tropical climate, enjoys warm temperatures year-round, averaging between 70°F and 85°F. The climate varies from humid on the windward sides of the islands to dry on the leeward sides. Hawaii's tropical environment supports lush vegetation and diverse ecosystems, making it a major center for agriculture, particularly in growing sugarcane, pineapples, and coffee. The warm, inviting climate is also a major draw for tourists.
Great Basin: Desert and Steppe Climate
The Great Basin, primarily located in Nevada, features a mix of desert and steppe climates. This region experiences hot summers, with temperatures often reaching 90°F, and cold winters, with temperatures dropping to around 20°F. The arid conditions and high elevation contribute to sparse vegetation and unique wildlife. The Great Basin's climate supports mining and limited agriculture, focusing on crops that can thrive in dry conditions.
