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
Depending on the time of the year, temperatures range from very warm to moderate in New Orleans. Typically, average maximum daytime temperatures range from a very warm 33°C (91°F) in August to a moderate 17°C (63°F) in the coolest month, January.
Nights vary from 25°C (77°F) in August to around 7°C (45°F) during the colder months.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in New Orleans
New Orleans has a relatively rainy climate with high precipitation levels, averaging 1664 mm (66 in) of rainfall annually. The climate in New Orleans shows significant variation throughout the year. Expect heavy rainfall in August, the wettest month, with an average of 219 mm (8.6 in) of precipitation over 19 rainy days.
In contrast, the driest month November offers drier and sunnier days, with around 67 mm (2.6 in) of rainfall 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
For those who appreciate different seasons, New Orleans serves as an ideal destination. Expect longer, more sun-filled days in May with an average of 9.3 hours of sunshine daily, and embrace the darker days in January, offering only 5.1 hours of daily sunlight.
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
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
- Best overall: October and November
- Warmest weather: June, July and August
- Most sunshine: May and June
- Fewest rainy days: March, April and November
- Best for swimming: Any time of year. The sea stays pleasantly warm year-round.
- Seasonal pattern: Very warm summers and mild winters
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. New Orleans has very warm summers and mild winters.
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 on the map
New Orleans is highlighted - select any city to see its climate.
Popular this month
Where to go in August - average daytime high across popular destinations.
Kissimmee
33°C (91°F) Orlando33°C (91°F) Miami Beach32°C (90°F) Destin32°C (90°F) New York City
29°C (84°F) Big Bear Lake
27°C (81°F) Los Angeles
24°C (75°F) San Francisco22°C (72°F) 
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