El Centro weather by month
Introduction
El Centro, California, sits in the heart of the Imperial Valley and enjoys a classic desert climate. With mild winters, hot summers, and a brief, pleasant rainy season, residents and visitors alike need a clear picture of what to expect each month. This guide offers a month‑by‑month breakdown of El Centro’s weather, highlights seasonal trends, and answers the most common questions about living or traveling in this vibrant valley.
Monthly Weather Overview Table
| Month | Avg. High (°F) | Avg. Low (°F) | Avg. Precipitation (in) | Sunshine Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 64 | 31 | 0.23 | 8.3 |
| February | 66 | 33 | 0.18 | 8.8 |
| March | 71 | 37 | 0.10 | 10.0 |
| April | 77 | 41 | 0.10 | 11.2 |
| May | 86 | 50 | 0.14 | 12.5 |
| June | 98 | 61 | 0.17 | 13.0 |
| July | 108 | 71 | 0.10 | 13.3 |
| August | 107 | 71 | 0.12 | 13.1 |
| September | 100 | 65 | 0.05 | 12.0 |
| October | 88 | 53 | 0.08 | 10.8 |
| November | 73 | 42 | 0.16 | 9.4 |
| December | 66 | 33 | 0.23 | 8.5 |
(Data averages collected from 1990‑2022 NOAA records.)
Seasonal Breakdown
Spring (March – May)
Spring is the transition season. March begins with mild nights and gradually shifts to warm afternoons. By May, daytime temperatures exceed 85 °F, while nights stay comfortable around 50 °F. Rainfall is minimal, with March and April receiving the majority of the valley’s annual precipitation (~0.26 in combined).
Summer (June – August)
The peak of heat arrives in July and August, with sustained daytime highs around 107 °F and hot, dry nights near 71 °F. July is the driest month (only 0.10 in), but overall summer precipitation stays low. The desert’s clear skies offer up to 13 hours of sunshine daily.
Fall (September – November)
September begins with residual heat, dipping to 65 °F at night, while November settles into cooler, mild days. Rainfall slowly climbs, especially in October and November, peaking at 0.16 in in December and January.
Winter (December – February)
Winter brings the most comfortable temperatures for outdoor pursuits. Average highs stay in the low 60s, lows in the low 30s. The valley enjoys its highest monthly precipitation during December (0.23 in) and January (0.23 in). Nighttime temperatures occasionally dip near 28 °F, so evening travelers should layer up.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the coolest time of year in El Centro?
December–January. Average lows hover around 28–32 °F.
Which month has the highest rainfall?
December and January share the largest monthly precipitation (≈0.23 in).
When is best for outdoor activities?
Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) offer mild days and comfortable nights.
Do El Centro winters get very cold?
Not usually. Days stay in the low 60s and nights rarely go below 30 °F.
- Is heat a problem in September?
Heat tapers off after mid‑September; daytime highs average 100 °F, night lows are about 65 °F.
Resources
National Weather Service—Imperial County Forecast
NOAA Climate Data Online (CDO) – Detailed monthly averages
California Climate Change Services – Climate normals for the Imperial Valley
El Centro Chamber of Commerce – Local tourism and climate info
- Weather Underground – El Centro, CA Historical Weather
With this month‑by‑month guide, you’ll know exactly what to expect from El Centro’s weather. Whether you’re planning a trip, moving, or simply curious, this concise, data‑driven overview gives you the confidence to navigate the valley’s unique climate. Safe travels and enjoy the sunny days and starry desert nights of El Centro!
