Anniston weather by month
Understand the climate of Anniston, Alabama, and plan your activities, wardrobe, and travel accordingly. Whether you’re a local resident, a new homeowner, or a tourist, knowing what each month brings will help you stay comfortable and make the most of the Beautiful South’s changing weather.
Table of Contents
- Anniston Weather Overview
- Monthly Weather Patterns
- January
- February
- March
- April
- May
- June
- July
- August
- September
- October
- November
- December
- Practical Seasonal Tips
- Comparison Table: Anniston vs. Birmingham
- FAQs
- Resources
Anniston Weather Overview
Anniston experiences a humid subtropical climate (Köppen Cfa), characterized by hot, humid summers and mild winters. The city receives an average of 42 inches of precipitation annually, spread fairly evenly but with a pronounced rainy season in late spring and early summer. Here’s why this matters:
- Leverage the warm months for outdoor adventures such as hiking the Muscle Shoals or exploring the North Warrior.
- Prepare for nighttime fog especially in early spring and fall, which can limit visibility while driving.
- Adjust indoor HVAC and dehumidifiers during the humid months to maintain indoor comfort.
Monthly Weather Patterns
Below is a month-by-month breakdown of Anniston’s average temperatures, precipitation, and notable weather events. Use this as a quick reference for planning.
January
- Avg. High: 46 °F (8 °C)
- Avg. Low: 26 °F (‑3 °C)
- Rainfall: 2.3 in (58 mm)
- Typical Weather: Mild, occasional frost, low humidity.
February
- Avg. High: 50 °F (10 °C)
- Avg. Low: 30 °F (‑1 °C)
- Rainfall: 2.1 in (53 mm)
- Typical Weather: Windy, clear skies, chance of sudden snow flurries.
March
- Avg. High: 59 °F (15 °C)
- Avg. Low: 38 °F (3 °C)
- Rainfall: 2.8 in (71 mm)
- Typical Weather: Gradual warming, increasing humidity.
April
- Avg. High: 68 °F (20 °C)
- Avg. Low: 49 °F (9 °C)
- Rainfall: 4.0 in (102 mm)
- Typical Weather: Showers, occasional thunderstorms, pleasant evenings.
May
- Avg. High: 76 °F (24 °C)
- Avg. Low: 57 °F (14 °C)
- Rainfall: 3.8 in (97 mm)
- Typical Weather: Pre‑summer heat, rise in humidity, early heatwaves possible.
June
- Avg. High: 84 °F (29 °C)
- Avg. Low: 65 °F (18 °C)
- Rainfall: 5.2 in (132 mm)
- Typical Weather: Hot and humid, frequent afternoon thunderstorms.
July
- Avg. High: 88 °F (31 °C)
- Avg. Low: 70 °F (21 °C)
- Rainfall: 6.0 in (152 mm)
- Typical Weather: Peak heat, high humidity, 1‑2 tropical storm remnants each season.
August
- Avg. High: 86 °F (30 °C)
- Avg. Low: 69 °F (21 °C)
- Rainfall: 5.8 in (148 mm)
- Typical Weather: Consistently hot, thunderstorms, occasional flash floods.
September
- Avg. High: 81 °F (27 °C)
- Avg. Low: 63 °F (17 °C)
- Rainfall: 5.0 in (127 mm)
- Typical Weather: Declining temperatures, decreasing precipitation, early chances of tropical systems.
October
- Avg. High: 71 °F (22 °C)
- Avg. Low: 45 °F (7 °C)
- Rainfall: 3.5 in (89 mm)
- Typical Weather: Crisp evenings, moderate humidity, pleasant hiking conditions.
November
- Avg. High: 60 °F (16 °C)
- Avg. Low: 35 °F (2 °C)
- Rainfall: 2.9 in (74 mm)
- Typical Weather: Cooler mornings, gradual temperature drop, early rain showers.
December
- Avg. High: 49 °F (9 °C)
- Avg. Low: 27 °F (‑3 °C)
- Rainfall: 2.6 in (66 mm)
- Typical Weather: Mild winters, occasional snowfall (rare), reduced humidity.
Quick Reference Table
| Month | Avg. High | Avg. Low | Rainfall (in) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 46 °F (8 °C) | 26 °F (‑3 °C) | 2.3 | Mild, frost possible |
| Feb | 50 °F (10 °C) | 30 °F (‑1 °C) | 2.1 | Windy, slight snow risk |
| Mar | 59 °F (15 °C) | 38 °F (3 °C) | 2.8 | Warming trend |
| Apr | 68 °F (20 °C) | 49 °F (9 °C) | 4.0 | Showery, humid |
| May | 76 °F (24 °C) | 57 °F (14 °C) | 3.8 | Pre‑summer heat |
| Jun | 84 °F (29 °C) | 65 °F (18 °C) | 5.2 | Hot, thunderstorms |
| Jul | 88 °F (31 °C) | 70 °F (21 °C) | 6.0 | Peak heat, tropical risk |
| Aug | 86 °F (30 °C) | 69 °F (21 °C) | 5.8 | Hot, flash floods |
| Sep | 81 °F (27 °C) | 63 °F (17 °C) | 5.0 | Cooling down |
| Oct | 71 °F (22 °C) | 45 °F (7 °C) | 3.5 | Crisp, cozy |
| Nov | 60 °F (16 °C) | 35 °F (2 °C) | 2.9 | Cooler, rain |
| Dec | 49 °F (9 °C) | 27 °F (‑3 °C) | 2.6 | Mild winter, rare snow |
Practical Seasonal Tips
| Season | Key Actions | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | Warm layers, check HVAC, keep windows sealed against wind | Wear a windproof jacket and carry a reusable water bottle to prevent dehydration. |
| Spring (Mar–May) | Monitor thunderstorm alerts, bring light rain gear | Use a portable umbrella, especially around Chattanooga & N. Warrior Trail. |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | Stay hydrated, avoid midday sun, use sunscreen | Drink at least 8 glasses of water, attend outdoor events after 3 pm. |
| Fall (Sep–Nov) | Layer clothing, watch for early frost | A lightweight jacket for nighttime hikes in the Eno River Trail. |
Additional Tips
- Heatwaves: Install a dehumidifier in living spaces to reduce perceived temperature.
- Thunderstorms: Use a safe harbor (e.g., sturdy building) and avoid lakeside boating during heavy rain.
- Fall foliage: Plan trips to Lookout Mountain between late September and early October for vivid colors.
- Winter sports: Look for Ski resorts in nearby Mountain towns; Anniston itself offers scenic autumn drives.
Comparison Table: Anniston vs. Birmingham
| Feature | Anniston | Birmingham |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Summer Temp (°F) | 87 | 86 |
| Avg. Winter Temp (°F) | 49 | 48 |
| Annual Precipitation (in) | 42 | 47 |
| Humidity (Summer) | 70–80 % | 75–85 % |
| Mountain Access | Requires 1‑hour drive | 30‑minute drive |
| Typical Rainfall (April) | 4.0 | 4.5 |
| Snowfall (Dec) | Rare, <0.5 in | Rare, <0.5 in |
Birmingham’s urban setting gives slightly more precipitation, while Anniston’s more rural charm offers quieter, natural experiences.
FAQs
What is the best time to visit Anniston for outdoor activities?
Late spring (April–May) and early fall (September–October) offer moderate temperatures and lower humidity.
Does Anniston experience tornadoes?
While not in the core Tornado Alley, tornadoes can occur in late spring and early summer; keep a weather app handy.
Is it cold enough for snow in December?
Snow is rare and typically light, but temperatures can dip below freezing; prepare for chillier evenings.
What’s the humidity like on a typical summer day?
Humidity can reach 80–90 % in July and August, making it feel hotter than the temperature alone suggests.
- When are the most pleasant fireworks displays?
July 4th and the Fourth of July weekends usually have optimal temperatures with manageable humidity.
Resources
- National Weather Service – Anniston, AL: NWS Anniston
- Weather Underground – Anniston Historical Data: WU Anniston
- Mississippi Valley State University – Climate Research: MVSU Climate
- Visit Anniston Tourism: Anniston Tourism
- National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration (NOAA): NOAA Climate Data Online
Keep this guide handy whenever you plan your day or month in Anniston—whether it’s to plan a hike, schedule a workday, or enjoy a holiday. Happy exploring!
