New Orleans (LA) Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit New Orleans.
Climate overview of New Orleans
From June to November it's hurricane season, with a peak in late August and September.
New Orleans Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in New Orleans — and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in New Orleans
Visitors to New Orleans can expect significant temperature changes throughout the year. Average maximum daytime temperatures range from a very warm 33°C (91°F) in August, the warmest time of the year, to a moderate 17°C (63°F) during cooler months like January.
At night, you can expect temperatures ranging from 25°C (77°F) in August to around 7°C (45°F) during January.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in New Orleans
New Orleans is known for its substantial rainfall, with annual precipitation reaching 1664 mm (66 in). Significant seasonal changes in precipitation occur throughout the year. In the wettest month, August it receives heavy rainfall, averaging 219 mm (8.6 in) of precipitation, recorded across 19 rainy days. In contrast, the driest month November brings less rainfall, with 67 mm (2.6 in) over 6 rainy days. For more details, please visit our New Orleans Precipitation page.
The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow
The average number of days each month with precipitation
Sunshine Hours in New Orleans
Seasonal changes in sunshine hours are quite dramatic in New Orleans. While May receives considerable daily sunshine with up to 9.3 hours, January marks the darkest time of the year, where sunshine is scarce with only 5.1 hours of sunlight per day.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Daily percentage of sunshine
Water Temperature in New Orleans
The mean water temperature over the year ranges from 20°C (68°F) in January to 28°C (82°F) in June.
Water temperature over the year
Humidity in New Orleans by Month
The relative humidity is high throughout the year in New Orleans.
The city experiences its highest humidity in July, reaching 79%. In February, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 73%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Wind Speed in New Orleans
The average wind speed over the year ranges from 3 m/s (6 knots) to 5 m/s (10 knots). It is lower in June, July, August, September and October and higher in February and March. What does this mean?
The mean monthly wind speed over the year (meters per second)
Best Time to Visit New Orleans
The weather does bring rainfall during this period, between 67 mm (2.6 in) and 149 mm (5.9 in).
Plan accordingly for July, August and December, when conditions bring the heaviest precipitation. Looking for inspiration on where to travel this year? We have a tool that recommends destinations based on your ideal conditions. Find out where to go with our weather planner.
Frequently asked questions about the climate in New Orleans
What is the best time to visit New Orleans?
October and November typically offer the most optimal weather in New Orleans. In contrast, July and August tend to have less optimal conditions.
What temperatures can I expect in New Orleans?
Daytime highs range from 17°C (63°F) in January to 33°C (91°F) in August. Nighttime lows range from 7°C (45°F) to 25°C (77°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does New Orleans get?
Annual rainfall is around 1664 mm (66 in). August is the wettest month with 219 mm (8.6 in), while November is the driest with 67 mm (2.6 in).
How sunny is New Orleans?
New Orleans receives around 2,640 hours of sunshine per year. May is the sunniest month with 279 hours, while January is the cloudiest with just 152 hours. Overall, New Orleans enjoys abundant sunshine.
New Orleans 3-Day Forecast
New Orleans (LA) 3-Day Forecast
New Orleans on the map
New Orleans is highlighted — select any city to see its climate.
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