Explore USA temperature map showing temperature of different parts or regions of United States of America.
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Temperature in the United States
The United States has one of the largest temperature ranges in the world because of its size, topography, and location. The United States is a large country that spans many latitudes and elevations, and temperatures vary greatly from one region to another and from one season to another. The country extends from the subarctic cold of Alaska to the tropical warmth of southern Florida and Hawaii and includes almost every major climate zone.
Average Temperatures by Region
During January which serves as the coldest month of the year the northern states of North Dakota Minnesota and Montana experience winter temperatures below 0°F. The regions receive prolonged periods of snow and experience cold wind temperatures. The southern states of Texas Louisiana and Florida experience mild winter conditions because their January temperatures reach between 50°F and 70°F. The summer months of July and August bring temperatures above 110°F to the southwestern and southern regions of the United States particularly in Arizona and Nevada.
Record Temperatures in the United States
The official highest temperature recorded in the United States reached 134°F (56.7°C) at Furnace Creek in Death Valley, California on July 10, 1913. The temperature measurement at Furnace Creek remains the highest recorded Earth temperature. Prospect Creek in Alaska experienced the lowest temperature reading of -80°F (-62.2°C) during January 23, 1971. The nation demonstrates wide-ranging climatic variations through these extreme weather conditions.
Coastal vs. Inland Temperature Trends
The stabilizing effect of large water bodies makes coastal regions along the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans experience moderate temperatures. San Francisco and Seattle remain free from extreme heat or cold temperatures. The Midwest and Great Plains region shows more dramatic temperature variations between seasons. The temperature in Chicago varies from below 0°F during winter to above 90°F during summer.
Temperature and Elevation
The United States experiences temperature variations because of its geographical elevation. The Rocky Mountains together with the Sierra Nevada represent higher elevation areas which maintain cooler temperatures throughout the entire year. The cities of Denver in Colorado and Flagstaff in Arizona experience cold mornings and sudden weather shifts during all seasons including summer. The summer months bring intense heat to the low-lying desert regions of Las Vegas and Phoenix.
Seasonal Variations Across the States
The United States has its most pleasant weather during the spring and fall seasons which makes these times ideal for travel and outdoor activities. Summer heatwaves primarily affect the central and southern states while winter storms mainly hit the Northeast and Midwest which can cause problems with transportation and utilities. The state of California and Washington have microclimates because temperatures can change significantly over very short distances.
Impact of Climate Change on US Temperatures
The United States has experienced an increasing average temperature during the past several decades. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reports that the contiguous U.S. has experienced a temperature rise of approximately 2°F since the late 19th century. The country is now experiencing warmer winters together with longer heatwaves and modified precipitation patterns. The warming rate in Alaska exceeds the national average by a factor of two which produces major changes to local ecosystems and weather systems.
