Mesa weather by month
Introduction to Mesa Weather
Mesa, Arizona, sits in the high desert at an elevation of about 2,300 feet. Its climate is classic for the Sonoran Desert—hot summers, mild winters, and most of the rainfall falling during the summer monsoon. If you’re planning a trip, a move, or just curious about what to expect each month, this guide breaks down Mesa’s weather calendar month‑by‑month so you can dress, plan activities, and stay comfortable all year round.
Seasonal Overview
- Winter (December – February): Cool and dry, with daytime highs barely touching 55 °F. Nights can drop into the low 30s. Snow is rare but the occasional dusting of the higher elevations can be seen in the surrounding mountains.
- Spring (March – May): Pleasant mornings and warming afternoons. Precipitation begins to pick up, especially in April, but the overall mood is sunny and mild.
- Summer (June – August): Hot and humid, with midday temperatures ranging from 100–115 °F. The monsoon season in July and August brings afternoon thunderstorms, heavier rainfall, and brief, intense heat waves.
- Fall (September – November): Cooling temperatures and reduced humidity. September can still feel like summer, while October and November become comfortable, ideal for outdoor adventures.
Mesa Weather by Month
| Month | Avg. High (°F) | Avg. Low (°F) | Avg. Precipitation (in) | Typical Weather Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 53 | 32 | 0.0 | Mostly clear, crisp mornings |
| February | 58 | 35 | 0.1 | Mild days, few rainy spells |
| March | 68 | 38 | 0.5 | Gradual warming, occasional showers |
| April | 78 | 45 | 0.5 | Sunny, early monsoon hints |
| May | 90 | 55 | 0.6 | Hot days, dry nights |
| June | 104 | 64 | 0.8 | Peak heat, monsoon approaching |
| July | 112 | 70 | 0.8 | Monsoon in full swing, afternoon storms |
| August | 110 | 69 | 0.8 | High humidity, frequent thunderstorms |
| September | 99 | 57 | 0.8 | Cooling, still summer-like heat |
| October | 82 | 46 | 0.2 | Pleasant days, mild evenings |
| November | 67 | 39 | 0.1 | Cool, drier, early winter feels |
| December | 54 | 33 | 0.05 | Clear, cool nights; rare precipitation |
Tip: If you’re visiting for outdoor sports, aim for March through May or September through November to enjoy comfortable temperatures and lower humidity.
Top 5 FAQs About Mesa Weather
1. What is Mesa’s hardest time of year for visiting?
Answer: July and August can be extremely hot—midday temperatures often exceed 110 °F—plus the monsoon brings heavy rainstorms and flash flooding.
2. How often does it rain in Mesa?
Answer: Precipitation is low overall, averaging around 3.5 in per year, with most rainfall occurring during the monsoon season (June to August).
3. Are there any frost or snow events in Mesa?
Answer: Snow is highly uncommon at Mesa’s elevation. The lowest recorded temperature is around 10 °F, and snow rarely, if ever, falls on city streets.
4. When is the best time to go hiking?
Answer: Late March to early May and September to early November offer mild temperatures, low humidity, and clear skies—ideal for hiking.
5. Do I need a rain jacket in summer?
Answer: Yes—especially in July and August during the monsoon, sudden thunderstorms can produce heavy rain and lightning. A lightweight, waterproof jacket is essential.
Resources
- NOAA National Weather Service – Phoenix & Surrounding Areas: https://www.weather.gov/phx/
- AccuWeather – Mesa, AZ: https://www.accuweather.com/en/us/mesa/az/85201/weather-forecast/35456
- Aeris Weather – Monthly Climate Data for Mesa: https://www.aerisweather.com/weather/climate/az/mesa/
- Arizona State University, Desert Research Institute: https://dri.arizona.edu/
- Local News Stations (e.g., NBC Arizona, FOX 5 Phoenix) for real‑time storm alerts and monsoon updates.
