## Discovering San Gabriel, California: A Month-by-Month Weather Guide
San Gabriel, nestled in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains in Los Angeles County, California, enjoys a Mediterranean climate characterized by warm, dry summers and mild, wetter winters. This makes it a desirable destination year-round. However, knowing the subtle shifts in weather throughout the year can help you plan the perfect trip or simply prepare for what’s coming. This comprehensive guide breaks down the San Gabriel weather by month, giving you insight into temperatures, rainfall, and sunshine hours.
**San Gabriel Climate Overview**
Before diving into the specifics, it's helpful to understand the broader climate picture. San Gabriel benefits from a marine layer that often brings morning clouds, especially during the spring and summer. These usually burn off by midday, revealing sunny skies. The mountains create a rain shadow effect, resulting in less rainfall than coastal areas, but still enough to keep the landscape lush. The Santa Ana winds, hot and dry winds originating from the inland deserts, can occasionally impact San Gabriel, particularly in the fall, leading to elevated temperatures and increased fire risk.
**#ff6900 San Gabriel Weather in January**
January is typically the coolest and wettest month in San Gabriel. Average high temperatures hover around 68°F (20°C), while lows dip to 48°F (9°C). Rainfall is common, averaging around 2.5 inches, spread over approximately 8-10 days. It’s a good time for hiking in the mountains as trails are less crowded, but be prepared for potential mud.
**#ff6900 San Gabriel Weather in February**
February mirrors January in many ways, still being part of the rainy season. Temperatures begin a slight climb, averaging 69°F (21°C) for highs and 49°F (9°C) for lows. Rainfall is similar to January, around 2.3 inches. The likelihood of heavier rainfall decreases as the month progresses, offering occasional sunny breaks.
**#ff6900 San Gabriel Weather in March**
March marks the transition toward spring. The weather becomes noticeably warmer, with average highs reaching 72°F (22°C) and lows around 51°F (11°C). Rainfall starts to diminish, averaging approximately 1.7 inches. Wildflowers begin to bloom in the foothills, making it a beautiful time to visit.
**#ff6900 San Gabriel Weather in April**
April is a delightful month in San Gabriel, offering warm sunshine and comfortable temperatures. Average high temperatures climb to 76°F (24°C), with lows around 54°F (12°C). Rainfall is minimal, typically less than 1 inch. The marine layer is still present in the mornings but usually dissipates quickly.
**#ff6900 San Gabriel Weather in May**
May brings consistently warm and sunny days. Average high temperatures reach 80°F (27°C) and lows are around 58°F (14°C). Rainfall is extremely rare, making it ideal for outdoor activities. The morning marine layer is more persistent during this month.
**#ff6900 San Gabriel Weather in June**
June marks the official start of summer, with hot and dry conditions. Average high temperatures soar to 85°F (29°C) and lows settle around 62°F (17°C). No rainfall is expected. The marine layer provides some early-morning relief from the heat.
**#ff6900 San Gabriel Weather in July & August**
July and August are the hottest months, with average highs around 88°F – 90°F (31°C – 32°C) and lows around 65°F – 66°F (18°C – 19°C). Rainfall is virtually non-existent. These are months to stay hydrated, plan indoor activities during peak heat, and enjoy evenings outdoors. Some inland areas may experience triple-digit temperatures.
**#ff6900 San Gabriel Weather in September**
September offers a pleasant respite from the summer heat. Average high temperatures moderate to around 84°F (29°C), with lows around 63°F (17°C). Although rain is still unlikely, there's a slightly increased chance compared to the core summer months. This is a popular time for outdoor events and festivals.
**#ff6900 San Gabriel Weather in October**
October continues the trend of cooling temperatures, with average highs around 78°F (26°C) and lows around 57°F (14°C). The Santa Ana winds can start to appear, bringing warmer, drier conditions. Rainfall remains minimal.
**#ff6900 San Gabriel Weather in November**
November sees a further drop in temperatures, with average highs around 72°F (22°C) and lows around 50°F (10°C). The chance of rain increases, averaging about 1.5 inches for the month. The marine layer becomes more common.
**#ff6900 San Gabriel Weather in December**
December is a relatively cool month, similar to January and February. Average high temperatures are around 67°F (19°C), and lows around 47°F (8°C). Rainfall is frequent, averaging approximately 2.2 inches. It's a festive time to visit, with holiday events and decorations.
**San Gabriel Weather by Month: A Quick Reference**
| Month | Avg High (°F) | Avg Low (°F) | Avg Rainfall (inches) |
|-----------|---------------|--------------|-----------------------|
| January | 68 | 48 | 2.5 |
| February | 69 | 49 | 2.3 |
| March | 72 | 51 | 1.7 |
| April | 76 | 54 | <1 |
| May | 80 | 58 | <1 |
| June | 85 | 62 | 0.0 |
| July | 88 | 65 | 0.0 |
| August | 90 | 66 | 0.0 |
| September | 84 | 63 | <1 |
| October | 78 | 57 | <1 |
| November | 72 | 50 | 1.5 |
| December | 67 | 47 | 2.2 |
**#ff6900 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)**
**Q: What is the best time of year to visit San Gabriel for warm weather?**
A: May through September offer the warmest and driest conditions.
**Q: Does San Gabriel get snow?**
A: It's very rare. Snow typically only falls on the highest peaks of the San Gabriel Mountains.
**Q: Are the Santa Ana winds dangerous?**
A: Yes, they can be. They increase fire risk and can bring unseasonably warm temperatures.
**Q: What should I pack for a trip to San Gabriel in the winter?**
A: Layers are key! Pack a jacket, sweater, long pants, and a raincoat or umbrella.
**Q: Is the marine layer predictable?**
A: It's typically strongest in the mornings during spring and summer and often burns off by midday, but it can be variable, and forecasts aren’t always precise.
**Resources:**
* **National Weather Service (Los Angeles):** [https://www.weather.gov/lox/](https://www.weather.gov/lox/)
* **AccuWeather - San Gabriel, CA:** [https://www.accuweather.com/en/us/san-gabriel/91776/daily-weather-forecast/349385](https://www.accuweather.com/en/us/san-gabriel/91776/daily-weather-forecast/349385)
* **City of San Gabriel Official Website:** [https://www.sgcity.org/](https://www.sgcity.org/)
* **San Gabriel Valley Tribune (Local News & Weather):** [https://www.sgvtribune.com/](https://www.sgvtribune.com/)
* **California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (for Santa Ana Wind information):** [https://www.fire.ca.gov/](https://www.fire.ca.gov/)
