Tempe weather by month
Discover how the desert city of Tempe feels each month. Whether you’re planning a visit, moving, or just curious about the local weather, this guide provides clear, month‑by‑month details, a handy climate table, and quick answers to the most frequently asked questions.
Tempe Weather by Month
| Month | Avg. High (°F) | Avg. Low (°F) | Avg. Precipitation (in) | Avg. Sunshine (hrs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 52 | 30 | 0.41 | 8.3 |
| February | 55 | 33 | 0.47 | 8.6 |
| March | 64 | 40 | 0.57 | 9.0 |
| April | 76 | 50 | 0.53 | 9.5 |
| May | 90 | 61 | 0.34 | 10.2 |
| June | 105 | 69 | 0.17 | 10.5 |
| July | 111 | 74 | 0.07 | 11.4 |
| August | 110 | 72 | 0.05 | 11.1 |
| September | 101 | 65 | 0.09 | 10.4 |
| October | 86 | 54 | 0.36 | 9.5 |
| November | 68 | 43 | 0.46 | 8.6 |
| December | 54 | 31 | 0.47 | 8.2 |
All temperatures are averages for the city of Tempe, Arizona.
January: Cool and Dry
- Average high: 52 °F
- Average low: 30 °F
- Typical humidity: 30‑35 %
- What to expect: Light mornings and evenings; very few sunny days. Ideal for hiking outdoor trails at cooler temperatures.
February: Mild and Brightening
- Average high: 55 °F
- Average low: 33 °F
- Sunshine: 8.6 hrs/day
- Why it matters: Early spring with longer days and a gradual rise in temperatures—perfect for beach visits and early sports.
March: Spring’s Flourish
- Average high: 64 °F
- Average low: 40 °F
- Rainfall: 0.57 in
- Highlights: Mild evenings, blooming desert flora, and festival season kickoff. Great for exploring downtown Tempe.
April: Warm and Sunny
- Average high: 76 °F
- Average low: 50 °F
- Sunshine: 9.5 hrs/day
- Considerations: Heat starts building; dress in light, breathable clothing for outdoor activities.
May: Heat Begins to Rise
- Average high: 90 °F
- Average low: 61 °F
- Humidity: 24 %
- Tips: Hydration is key. Sunset is a safe time for extended walks.
June: Peak Pre‑Summer Heat
- Average high: 105 °F
- Average low: 69 °F
- Sunrise/Sunset: 5:30 am / 7:30 pm
- Recommendations: Early morning exercise; stay indoors during midday.
July: Sun‑Saturated Summers
- Average high: 111 °F
- Average low: 74 °F
- Rainfall: 0.07 in
- Must‑do: Visit the Tempe Town Lake paddle‑boat, attend outdoor concerts, and use the air-conditioned college campus.
August: Still Hot, but Shorter Days
- Average high: 110 °F
- Average low: 72 °F
- Sunrise/Sunset: 5:39 am / 7:30 pm
- Practical tip: Evening events are ideal to escape the heat.
September: Cooling Down Gradually
- Average high: 101 °F
- Average low: 65 °F
- Rainfall: 0.09 in
- Opportunity: Great for water‑related recreation in Tempe Town Lake.
October: Autumn’s Early Chill
- Average high: 86 °F
- Average low: 54 °F
- Sunshine: 9.5 hrs/day
- Experience: Pleasant evening walks and the first night of the Arizona desert’s mild autumn.
November: Cooler, Pre‑Winter Climate
- Average high: 68 °F
- Average low: 43 °F
- Rainfall: 0.46 in
- Good for: Visiting museums, exploring local restaurants, and preparing for winter packing.
December: Mild Winter Days
- Average high: 54 °F
- Average low: 31 °F
- Sunrise/Sunset: 6:23 am / 6:08 pm
- Tip: Use the relaxed temperatures to enjoy the holiday lights around downtown Tempe.
FAQ – Tempe Weather
-
What’s the best time of year to visit Tempe?
Late spring (May) or early fall (September) offer warm temperatures without the extreme summer heat.
-
When does Tempe usually see rainfall?
The wet season runs from November through March, with March typically receiving the most precipitation.
-
Is it hot in Tempe during the night?
Even in summer, nights are cooler; average lows remain in the 70s°F (around 21‑26 °C).
-
How much sun does Tempe get annually?
Approximately 330–340 sunny days per year, averaging 8–10 hours of sunshine daily.
- Do I need special clothing for Tempe’s desert climate?
Light, breathable fabrics for day, plus a light jacket or sweater for evenings, especially in winter months.
Resources
- Weather.com – Tempe, AZ Weather Forecast
- National Weather Service – Phoenix / Tempe Region
- Arizona Department of Tourism – Climate Overview
- Tempe Public Library – Local Climate Data
- University of Arizona Climate Center