Climate

Albuquerque’s moderate climate is one of it’s most attractive and desirable features. Best described as “arid continental”, it offers abundant sunshine, low humidity, little rain and snowfall and a wide range of seasonal temperatures. Sunny days and low humidity are the most renowned features of the weather in Albuquerque.

View of Albuquerque (NM) and the Sandia by Ron Cogswell, on Flickr
More than half the average annual precipitation of 7-9 inches falls in the July to August time frame. This is referred to as the monsoon season. During the monsoon season, it is not unusual to have heavy afternoon rain showers, clearing to beautiful sunsets. The remainder of the annual precipitation falls as rain or snow. Most snowfall occurs in the mountain elevations leaving the city relatively dry.

While average daily temperatures have a wide range, seasonal extremes are rare. Winter daytime temperatures average in the high 40s and low 50s and very few days remain below freezing all day. Nighttime temperatures will drop below freezing, but are followed by crisp, usually sunny mornings. Snowfall occurs in the city about 3-4 times each winter but seldom remains on the ground for more than 24-48 hours. The mountain slopes receive enough snow to allow for excellent skiing.

Spring arrives in March and April with a few moderately windy days. Temperatures range in the 60’s and 70’s with conditions just right for spring daffodils and tulips to make their appearances. Fruit trees tend to bloom early.

Because Albuquerque is a desert community, most people think it has very hot summers. However, the high altitude (5,300 ft. above sea level) and low humidity keep most summer temperatures between 85-95 degrees. Muggy days are rare and cool nights (in the 60s) are common.

The autumn season parallels the spring in temperatures, but usually has no seasonal winds. Ideal conditions and extraordinary color changes inthe trees and foliage meke this season ideal for outdoors activities until late October. First frost usually occurs in October or early November.

flickr photo by Ron Cogswell http://flickr.com/photos/22711505@N05/9513770986 shared under a Creative Commons (BY) license

 

Terrain

High desert, semi-arid plateau with mountains to the east

Elevation

5311 ft above sea level

Humidity

Average between 30% and 50%

Average Precipitation

8.12 inches annually

Average January Temperature

High 47º F
Low 22º F

Average July Temperature

High 93º F
Low 65º F