# Susanville Weather: A Complete Guide to Conditions By Month
Susanville, California, nestled in the picturesque Lassen County, experiences a distinct four-season climate. Understanding the nuances of the weather throughout the year is crucial for planning any visit or outdoor activity. This guide provides a detailed overview of what to expect month-by-month, helping you prepare for everything from sunny summer hikes to snowy winter adventures.
## **Overview of Susanville’s Climate**
Susanville boasts a semi-arid climate characterized by warm, dry summers and cold, snowy winters. Its high elevation (around 4,600 feet) significantly influences temperature fluctuations. The area benefits from sunshine for much of the year, but be prepared for significant temperature swings, particularly between day and night. Proximity to the Sierra Nevada mountains means that weather patterns can change rapidly.
## **Spring in Susanville (March – May)**
Spring is a transitional season in Susanville. March can still bring significant snowfall, while May generally offers pleasantly mild temperatures. The landscape begins to awaken with wildflowers, making it a beautiful time for exploration.
* **March:** Average high of 48°F, low of 27°F. Expect considerable precipitation, primarily as snow.
* **April:** Average high of 56°F, low of 32°F. Snowfall decreases but is still possible. Wildflowers begin to bloom.
* **May:** Average high of 66°F, low of 40°F. Generally warm and sunny, with less rainfall. Perfect for hiking and outdoor activities as snow melts in lower elevations.
## **Summer in Susanville (June – August)**
Summers in Susanville are warm and dry, offering ideal conditions for enjoying the many lakes and outdoor attractions. Expect sunny days and cool evenings.
* **June:** Average high of 77°F, low of 48°F. Warm and sunny with minimal rainfall.
* **July:** Average high of 85°F, low of 53°F. The warmest month of the year. High-altitude sunshine is strong, so sun protection is essential.
* **August:** Average high of 83°F, low of 51°F. Similar to July, with warm days and cool nights. A great time to visit for water sports and exploring Lassen Volcanic National Park.
## **Autumn in Susanville (September – November)**
Fall brings a beautiful display of colors as the trees change, and the temperatures start to cool down. September can still be quite warm, but November typically sees the first significant snowfalls.
* **September:** Average high of 75°F, low of 44°F. Warm days and cool, crisp nights.
* **October:** Average high of 62°F, low of 34°F. Cooler temperatures and increasing chances of frost. Fall foliage is at its peak.
* **November:** Average high of 46°F, low of 26°F. Significant drop in temperature. Snowfall becomes more frequent.
## **Winter in Susanville (December – February)**
Winters in Susanville are cold and snowy. The region is a popular destination for snowmobiling, skiing, and other winter sports. Be prepared for road closures and challenging driving conditions.
* **December:** Average high of 38°F, low of 18°F. Cold and snowy, averaging the highest snowfall of the year.
* **January:** Average high of 37°F, low of 17°F. The coldest month with consistently below-freezing temperatures.
* **February:** Average high of 43°F, low of 20°F. Snowfall continues, but temperatures may start to rise slightly.
## Susanville Weather By Month - Table
| Month | Avg High (°F) | Avg Low (°F) | Precipitation (inches) | Typical Conditions |
|-----------|---------------|--------------|-------------------------|------------------------|
| March | 48 | 27 | 2.2 | Snow, transitioning to rain |
| April | 56 | 32 | 1.6 | Melting snow, wildflowers |
| May | 66 | 40 | 1.2 | Warm & Sunny, hiking |
| June | 77 | 48 | 0.8 | Warm & Dry |
| July | 85 | 53 | 0.6 | Hot & Sunny |
| August | 83 | 51 | 0.7 | Warm, Lake Activities |
| September | 75 | 44 | 0.9 | Pleasant, Cooling |
| October | 62 | 34 | 1.4 | Cool, Fall Foliage |
| November | 46 | 26 | 1.8 | Cold, First Snows |
| December | 38 | 18 | 3.1 | Very Cold & Snowy |
| January | 37 | 17 | 3.0 | Coldest Month, Snow |
| February | 43 | 20 | 2.5 | Cold & Snowy |
## **What to Pack for Susanville**
Regardless of the month, layering is key in Susanville. Here’s a general packing list:
* **Spring/Fall:** Light jacket, sweaters, long-sleeved shirts, comfortable pants, waterproof shoes, and sunglasses.
* **Summer:** Light clothing, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, a light jacket for cool evenings, and swimwear.
* **Winter:** Heavy winter coat, waterproof boots, gloves, hat, scarf, warm socks, and layers of clothing. A warm vehicle and emergency kit are also recommended.
## **Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)**
**Q: What is the snowiest month in Susanville?**
**A:** December is typically the snowiest month.
**Q: Is Susanville a good summer destination?**
**A:** Yes! Susanville offers warm, sunny weather ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and boating.
**Q: Are there often wildfires in Susanville during the summer?**
**A:** Lassen County, like much of California, can experience wildfire activity during the dry summer months. Check current fire conditions before traveling.
**Q: What is the average rainfall in Susanville?**
**A:** Susanville receives an average of around 20-25 inches of precipitation annually, most of which falls as snow.
**Q: How does the elevation affect the weather in Susanville?**
**A:** The higher elevation leads to cooler temperatures overall, and significant temperature differences between day and night.
## **Resources**
* **National Weather Service - Susanville:** [https://www.weather.gov/sto/](https://www.weather.gov/sto/)
* **Lassen Volcanic National Park Weather:** [https://www.nps.gov/lavo/planyourvisit/weather.htm](https://www.nps.gov/lavo/planyourvisit/weather.htm)
* **City of Susanville Official Website:** [https://cityofsusanville.com/](https://cityofsusanville.com/)
* **California Road Conditions:** [https://roads.dot.ca.gov/](https://roads.dot.ca.gov/)
* **Lassen County Air Quality:** [https://www.lassenair.com/](https://www.lassenair.com/)
