Harrisburg (PA) Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit

Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Harrisburg.

Climate overview of Harrisburg

Temperatures in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, United States of America, vary greatly throughout the year. July is the hottest month at 30°C (86°F), while January is the coldest at 3°C (37°F).

Rain/snowfall is high, totalling around 1195 mm (47 in) per year. June is the wettest month and November the driest. The city also experiences warm summers and cold winters. The sunniest month is July, with 10.3 hours of sunshine per day on average.

Harrisburg Weather by Month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Harrisburg - and find the best time to visit.

Monthly Temperature in Harrisburg

The climate in Harrisburg is known for significant temperature differences throughout the year, making the weather dynamic. Average maximum daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 30°C (86°F) in July, the warmest time of the year, to a chilly 3°C (37°F) during cooler months like January.

At night, you can expect temperatures ranging from 19°C (66°F) in July to around -6°C (21°F) during January.

Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.

Temperature ranges by month

Rainfall in Harrisburg

Harrisburg has a notably wet climate with abundant precipitation, recording 1195 mm (47 in) of rain/snowfall per year. While rainfall varies throughout the year, each season offers its own charm. June brings wetter days averaging 135 mm (5.3 in) of precipitation, spread over 14 rainy days.

In contrast, the driest month November experiences a drier climate, with about 65 mm (2.6 in) of rainfall spread across 9 rainy days. For more details, please visit our Harrisburg Precipitation page.

The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow

Sunshine Hours in Harrisburg

Seasonal changes in sunshine hours are quite dramatic in Harrisburg. While July receives considerable daily sunshine with up to 10.3 hours, December marks the darkest time of the year, where sunshine is scarce with only 4.2 hours of sunlight per day.

Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.

Monthly hours of sunshine

Daily hours of sunshine

Humidity in Harrisburg by Month

Best Time to Visit Harrisburg

Conditions in Harrisburg are generally most comfortable in May, June, August and September. They are typically least comfortable in January, February, March and December.

Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.

  • Best overall: May, June, August and September
  • Warmest weather: July and August
  • Most sunshine: July
  • Fewer rainy days: January, February, March, September and November
  • Seasonal pattern: Warm summers and cold winters
  • Coldest conditions: January, with freezing nights around -6°C (21°F).

Frequently asked questions about the climate in Harrisburg

What is the best time to visit Harrisburg?

May, June, August and September typically offer the most optimal weather in Harrisburg. In contrast, January, February, March and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Harrisburg has warm summers and cold winters.

What temperatures can I expect in Harrisburg?

Daytime highs range from 3°C (37°F) in January to 30°C (86°F) in July. Nighttime lows range from -6°C (21°F) to 19°C (66°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.

How much rain does Harrisburg get?

Annual rainfall is around 1195 mm (47 in). June is the wettest month with 135 mm (5.3 in), while November is the driest with 65 mm (2.6 in).

How sunny is Harrisburg?

Harrisburg receives around 2,609 hours of sunshine per year. July is the sunniest month with 310 hours, while December is the cloudiest with just 126 hours. Overall, Harrisburg enjoys abundant sunshine.

Harrisburg 3-Day Forecast

Harrisburg on the map

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