# Riverside Weather: Your Month-by-Month Guide to California's Inland Empire
Riverside, California, nestled in the Inland Empire, boasts a Mediterranean climate characterized by warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. But “mild” and “warm” are relative! Knowing what to expect *each* month can make all the difference in planning your visit, or simply preparing for the seasons if you call Riverside home. This comprehensive guide breaks down the weather in Riverside by month, providing details on temperature, rainfall, and what activities are best suited for each time of year.
## **Understanding Riverside’s Climate**
Riverside experiences significantly warmer summers and cooler winters than coastal Southern California cities like Los Angeles or San Diego. This is due to its inland location and being sheltered by the surrounding mountains, creating a “rain shadow” effect. The Santa Ana winds, hot and dry winds that blow from the desert, can exacerbate warm temperatures during fall and winter. Expect plenty of sunshine year-round, averaging over 280 sunny days!
## **Spring in Riverside (March - May)**
Spring is arguably the most pleasant time to be in Riverside. Temperatures gradually rise, wildflowers bloom in nearby hills, and the air is fresh and inviting.
* **March:** The transition month. Average highs are in the low 60s (°F), with lows around 45°F. Expect moderate rainfall, with roughly 2 inches throughout the month. Perfect for hiking and exploring the outdoors as things green up.
* **April:** Warmer days and diminishing rainfall. Average highs reach the mid-70s (°F), and lows are in the upper 40s (°F). Rainfall averages around 0.75 inches. Great for festivals and outdoor dining.
* **May:** Full-fledged warmth arrives. Average highs climb into the low 80s (°F), with lows around 55°F. Rainfall is minimal, usually less than 0.5 inches. Ideal for water activities at Lake Mathews or boating on the Santa Ana River.
## **Summer in Riverside (June - August)**
Summers in Riverside are hot and dry. Temperatures can frequently exceed 90°F, and sometimes even 100°F. Air conditioning is a must!
* **June:** The heat starts building. Average highs are in the upper 80s to low 90s (°F), with lows in the mid-60s (°F). Virtually no rainfall. Long days perfect for evening events.
* **July:** The hottest month of the year. Average highs hit the mid-90s (°F), with lows around 68°F. No rainfall is typical. Focus on indoor activities or early morning/late evening outdoor pursuits.
* **August:** Similar to July, with consistent heat. Average highs remain in the mid-90s (°F), and lows in the upper 60s (°F). Rainfall is rare. Consider a day trip to the mountains for cooler temperatures.
## **Autumn in Riverside (September - November)**
Autumn provides a welcome respite from the summer heat, although it can still be quite warm, especially early in the season.
* **September:** Temperatures begin to cool, but remain warm. Average highs are in the low 90s (°F), with lows around 65°F. Minimal rainfall. Enjoy the last days of swimming or explore the citrus groves.
* **October:** Pleasant temperatures and beautiful fall foliage. Average highs are in the low 80s (°F), with lows in the upper 50s (°F). A slight increase in rainfall, around 0.75 inches. Great for outdoor concerts and farmers' markets.
* **November:** Cool and wet, marking the beginning of winter. Average highs reach the upper 60s (°F), with lows around 45°F. Rainfall increases to approximately 1.5 inches. Cozy weather for indoor activities and holiday preparations.
## **Winter in Riverside (December - February)**
Winters in Riverside are mild compared to many other parts of the country. While it rarely snows, temperatures can dip into the 30s (°F) at night.
* **December:** Coolest month, with average highs in the low 60s (°F) and lows around 40°F. Approximately 1.75 inches of rainfall. Festive atmosphere with holiday events.
* **January:** Similar to December, with a slight chance of Santa Ana winds bringing warmer temperatures. Average highs are in the low 60s (°F), with lows around 42°F. Rainfall averages around 2 inches.
* **February:** Temperatures start to rise again, signaling the approach of spring. Average highs reach the upper 60s (°F), with lows around 45°F. Rainfall is around 1.5 inches. A good time to visit the desert before it gets too hot.
## **Riverside Weather by Month: A Quick Reference**
| Month | Avg. High (°F) | Avg. Low (°F) | Avg. Rainfall (in) |
| ----------- | --------------- | -------------- | ------------------ |
| March | 63 | 45 | 2.0 |
| April | 75 | 49 | 0.75 |
| May | 82 | 55 | 0.5 |
| June | 92 | 65 | 0.1 |
| July | 95 | 68 | 0.0 |
| August | 94 | 68 | 0.0 |
| September | 90 | 65 | 0.2 |
| October | 81 | 57 | 0.75 |
| November | 67 | 45 | 1.5 |
| December | 61 | 40 | 1.75 |
| January | 62 | 42 | 2.0 |
| February | 67 | 45 | 1.5 |
## **Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)**
**Q: Does it ever snow in Riverside?**
A: Very rarely. Snowfall is extremely uncommon, though light flurries can sometimes occur in the nearby mountains.
**Q: What should I wear when visiting Riverside in the summer?**
A: Lightweight, breathable clothing, a hat, sunglasses, and plenty of sunscreen.
**Q: Are the Santa Ana winds dangerous?**
A: They can be. They bring very dry conditions, increasing wildfire risk, and can also cause respiratory irritation.
**Q: What’s the best time of year to hike in Riverside?**
A: Spring (March-May) and Fall (September-November) offer the most comfortable hiking conditions.
**Q: Is Riverside humid?**
A: No, Riverside has a dry climate, especially during the summer months.
## **Resources**
* **National Weather Service - Riverside:** [https://www.weather.gov/sgx/](https://www.weather.gov/sgx/)
* **AccuWeather - Riverside, CA:** [https://www.accuweather.com/en/us/riverside/92501/daily-weather-forecast/349279](https://www.accuweather.com/en/us/riverside/92501/daily-weather-forecast/349279)
* **U.S. Climate Data - Riverside, California:** [https://www.usclimatedata.com/climate/california/united-states/34239](https://www.usclimatedata.com/climate/california/united-states/34239)
* **Visit Riverside:** [https://www.visitriversideca.com/](https://www.visitriversideca.com/)
