Before moving to Texas, I often heard, "It's really hot there."

Having lived in Plano, I can say that while this is not entirely wrong, it is only half true.

Summer is indeed very hot, but spring and fall are surprisingly pleasant, and winter is not as harsh as in northern regions.

However, it's good to know that Texas weather is more variable than just the heat.

Plano has a humid subtropical climate. Year-round temperatures generally range from 35°F (about 2°C) to 96°F (about 36°C).

The hottest period is from June to September, with August seeing average high temperatures around 95°F (35°C). With humidity added, the feels-like temperature can exceed 104°F (40°C) on some days. In the afternoon, the sun is very strong, so locals tend to reduce outdoor activities during lunch hours.

Winters are relatively mild. From December to February, average temperatures range from 39°F to 59°F (4-15°C), and most people do not need heavy winter coats. However, Texas winters can be unpredictable. It can be 15°C one day and drop below freezing the next.

The February 2021 Texas cold snap is still a vivid memory for many. The record cold and power outages led to hundreds of fatalities, and millions of households experienced significant disruptions to electricity and water supply.

Since then, residents of North Texas have developed a habit of keeping emergency food and water supplies during winter.

Annual rainfall is about 41 inches (approximately 1,040 mm), which is similar to or slightly above the U.S. average. May is particularly the month with the most rain.

It rains about 80 days a year, while clear days are around 229, which is more than the U.S. average.

Snow is rare. The average annual snowfall is only about 1 inch (2-3 cm), so you might see significant snow only once every 2-3 years.

However, what you need to be more cautious about in Plano is heavy rain and hail rather than snow. Strong thunderstorms often occur in spring, and hail the size of golf balls can fall. There are many cases where car roofs get dented or windshields break, so many people prefer to park their cars in garages or covered parking during spring. This is also why people check for hail damage coverage when getting car insurance.

Tornadoes are also a concern. While Plano does not experience tornado damage every year, the DFW area is one of the most tornado-prone regions in the U.S. The most dangerous time is between March and May, which is why residents check the weather immediately when a Tornado Watch or Tornado Warning is issued. Fortunately, modern weather radar and alert systems are well-equipped, giving most people time to prepare in advance.

Heavy rain is also something to watch out for. There can be instances of a lot of rain falling in a short time, causing low roads or creek areas to flood quickly. Places that usually look like shallow streams can flood within hours, which is why you often see the safety phrase "Turn Around, Don't Drown" in the area.

That said, there's no need to worry excessively about the weather in Plano. In spring, wildflowers bloom, and in fall, the humidity is low, making it the best season for outdoor activities. Golfing, hiking, and park walks can be enjoyed in most seasons.

Ultimately, the weather in Plano is more accurately described as 'fast-changing' rather than 'always hot.' If you prepare for summer heat, spring storms, and the occasional cold snap, the rest of the time, it's a city with plenty of sunshine and great opportunities for outdoor living, which is my honest assessment from personal experience.