Guntersville weather by month
Introduction
Guntersville, located in the heart of Alabama on the shores of the Tennessee River, offers a fairly mild climate that attracts residents and tourists alike. Whether you’re planning a move, a vacation, or just curious about what the weather “feels” like each month, this guide breaks down Guntersville’s temperature ranges, precipitation levels, and sunshine hours month by month. It’s packed with useful data for travelers, outdoor enthusiasts, and local planners alike.
Guntersville Weather Overview
Guntersville experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot, humid summers and mild winters. The city’s average temperatures swing between the low teens in January and the upper 80s in July, with rainfall distributed fairly evenly throughout the year—though the spring and summer months tend to bring the most precipitation. Sunshine averages around 4–5 hours per day in winter and up to 8–9 hours in summer, making it an appealing spot for year-round outdoor activities.
Monthly Weather Details
January
- Average High: 54 °F
- Average Low: 33 °F
- Precipitation: 2.8 in
- Sun Hours: 2.9 hrs/day
- Notes: Winter storms are rare, but temperatures can drop to the low 20s on cold snaps.
February
- Average High: 60 °F
- Average Low: 38 °F
- Precipitation: 2.5 in
- Sun Hours: 3.3 hrs/day
- Notes: Feb is one of the drier months, with occasional tornado threat in late March.
March
- Average High: 68 °F
- Average Low: 45 °F
- Precipitation: 3.4 in
- Sun Hours: 4.4 hrs/day
- Notes: Spring showers bring the first taste of summer moisture and lush greenery.
April
- Average High: 75 °F
- Average Low: 52 °F
- Precipitation: 4.1 in
- Sun Hours: 5.7 hrs/day
- Notes: April sees increased thunderstorm activity—keep an eye on the weather radar.
May
- Average High: 82 °F
- Average Low: 60 °F
- Precipitation: 4.6 in
- Sun Hours: 6.4 hrs/day
- Notes: May is usually the start of the humid, muggy period, perfect for lake boating.
June
- Average High: 88 °F
- Average Low: 66 °F
- Precipitation: 4.8 in
- Sun Hours: 7.2 hrs/day
- Notes: July and August bring the hottest days, so sunscreen and hydration are a must.
July
- Average High: 90 °F
- Average Low: 68 °F
- Precipitation: 4.2 in
- Sun Hours: 7.5 hrs/day
- Notes: The peak of the humid season; evenings often bring cooling breezes off the river.
August
- Average High: 89 °F
- Average Low: 67 °F
- Precipitation: 4.3 in
- Sun Hours: 7.3 hrs/day
- Notes: Late‑summer thunderstorms are common; watch for flash flooding near the river.
September
- Average High: 83 °F
- Average Low: 61 °F
- Precipitation: 3.9 in
- Sun Hours: 6.7 hrs/day
- Notes: The heat starts to subside, making early autumn a great time for outdoor sports.
October
- Average High: 73 °F
- Average Low: 52 °F
- Precipitation: 3.2 in
- Sun Hours: 5.5 hrs/day
- Notes: Crisp mornings and cooler evenings are typical; wildlife displays can be vivid.
November
- Average High: 61 °F
- Average Low: 41 °F
- Precipitation: 3.0 in
- Sun Hours: 4.0 hrs/day
- Notes: The fall season brings mild temperatures; the river remains a serene backdrop.
December
- Average High: 53 °F
- Average Low: 34 °F
- Precipitation: 2.9 in
- Sun Hours: 3.2 hrs/day
- Notes: Cold fronts can bring occasional snow flurries, but the region rarely sees heavy snow.
Guntersville Weather By Month Table
| Month | Avg High (°F) | Avg Low (°F) | Precipitation (in) | Sun Hours (hrs/day) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 54 | 33 | 2.8 | 2.9 |
| February | 60 | 38 | 2.5 | 3.3 |
| March | 68 | 45 | 3.4 | 4.4 |
| April | 75 | 52 | 4.1 | 5.7 |
| May | 82 | 60 | 4.6 | 6.4 |
| June | 88 | 66 | 4.8 | 7.2 |
| July | 90 | 68 | 4.2 | 7.5 |
| August | 89 | 67 | 4.3 | 7.3 |
| September | 83 | 61 | 3.9 | 6.7 |
| October | 73 | 52 | 3.2 | 5.5 |
| November | 61 | 41 | 3.0 | 4.0 |
| December | 53 | 34 | 2.9 | 3.2 |
Seasonal Patterns & Climate Insights
- Warm, Humid Summers: July and August are the hottest months, with average highs hovering around 90 °F. The humidity can push perceived temperatures even higher, so light clothing and plenty of water are essential.
- Mild Winters: Guntersville rarely experiences extreme cold; even the lowest average lows are above the freezing point. Snowfall is uncommon, making winter road conditions generally safe.
- Rainfall Distribution: Precipitation peaks during late spring and early summer due to increased thunderstorm activity. However, the city enjoys a relatively steady amount of rain throughout the year, supporting lush vegetation.
- Sunshine Variability: Light is longest in July‑August (up to 7–8 hrs/day) and shortest in January–February (around 3 hrs/day). The bright summer days are great for recreational fishing and water sports.
FAQ
Q1: Is Guntersville prone to thunderstorms?
A1: Yes, especially from March through August; keep an eye on late‑summer fronts for potential flash flooding.
Q2: When is the best time to visit for fishing?
A2: Late spring (April‑May) and early fall (September‑October) are ideal; water temperatures are moderate and fish are active.
Q3: Can I drive in heavy rain during the summer?
A3: Light to moderate rain is common, but heavy thunderstorms can create slick roads; exercise caution and reduce speed.
Q4: What is the average annual rainfall in Guntersville?
A4: Approximately 51 inches per year, fairly evenly spread but peaking in early summer.
Q5: Do I need an umbrella year‑round?
A5: A lightweight umbrella or rain jacket is useful from spring through early fall; winters are generally drier.
Resources
- NOAA Climate Data Online (C‑D) – Guntersville – Monthly climate summaries and historical data.
- American Meteorological Society – Weather Guide for Alabama – Detailed regional weather patterns.
- Bureau of Land Management – Lakes & River Recreation – Information on Guntersville Lake activities and safety.
- National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration – Thunderstorm Alerts – Real‑time storm monitoring for Alabama.
- Alabama Tourism Board – Weather & Events Calendar – Seasonal highlights to plan travel around local festivals.
Whether you’re a long‑time resident or a curious visitor, knowing Guntersville’s monthly climate will help you make the most of the city’s scenic riverfront, parks, and recreational opportunities. Stay prepared, enjoy the sunshine, and embrace the season that suits you best.
