Oak Ridge (TN) Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit

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

Climate overview of Oak Ridge

The climate in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, United States of America, is marked by large temperature swings across the seasons, ranging from 31°C (88°F) in August to 8°C (46°F) in January.

The city receives considerable rain/snowfall, with around 1398 mm (55 in) annually. December is the wettest month. It has very warm summers and cold winters. Sunshine peaks in June, when the city sees around 9.7 hours of sunshine per day.

Oak Ridge Weather by Month

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

Monthly Temperature in Oak Ridge

In Oak Ridge, temperatures differ significantly between summer and winter months. Typically, average maximum daytime temperatures range from a very warm 31°C (88°F) in August to a chilly 8°C (46°F) in the coolest month, January.

Nights vary from 20°C (68°F) in August to around -2°C (28°F) during the colder months.

Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.

Temperature ranges by month

Rainfall in Oak Ridge

Oak Ridge experiences significant rain/snowfall throughout the year, averaging 1398 mm (55 in) of precipitation annually. Oak Ridge offers a pleasant mix of wetter and slightly drier months. The difference in precipitation between the wettest month December (155 mm (6.1 in)) and the driest month October (92 mm (3.6 in)) is not too significant. For more details, please visit our Oak Ridge Precipitation page.

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

Sunshine Hours in Oak Ridge

For those who appreciate different seasons, Oak Ridge serves as an ideal destination. Expect longer, more sun-filled days in June with an average of 9.7 hours of sunshine daily, and embrace the darker days in December, offering only 4.2 hours of daily sunlight.

Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.

Monthly hours of sunshine

Data from: Knoxville, the United States of America (31 KM, 19 Miles).

Daily hours of sunshine

Data from: Knoxville, the United States of America (31 KM, 19 Miles).

Humidity in Oak Ridge by Month

Best Time to Visit Oak Ridge

Conditions in Oak Ridge are generally most comfortable in May and October. They are typically least comfortable in January, February 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 and October
  • Warmest weather: June, July and August
  • Most sunshine: May, June, July and August
  • Fewest rainy days: April, September, October and November
  • Seasonal pattern: Very warm summers and cold winters
  • Coldest conditions: January, with freezing nights around -2°C (28°F).

Frequently asked questions about the climate in Oak Ridge

What is the best time to visit Oak Ridge?

May and October typically offer the most optimal weather in Oak Ridge. In contrast, January, February and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Oak Ridge has very warm summers and cold winters.

What temperatures can I expect in Oak Ridge?

Daytime highs range from 8°C (46°F) in January to 31°C (88°F) in August. Nighttime lows range from -2°C (28°F) to 20°C (68°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.

How much rain does Oak Ridge get?

Annual rainfall is around 1398 mm (55 in). December is the wettest month with 155 mm (6.1 in), while October is the driest with 92 mm (3.6 in).

How sunny is Oak Ridge?

Oak Ridge receives around 2,618 hours of sunshine per year. June is the sunniest month with 290 hours, while December is the cloudiest with just 125 hours. Overall, Oak Ridge enjoys abundant sunshine.

Oak Ridge 3-Day Forecast

Oak Ridge (TN) 3-Day Forecast

Oak Ridge on the map

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