Average Annual Rainy Days

Birmingham receives an average of about 100 days of rain per year. This can be considered a moderate frequency of rainfall compared to other cities in Alabama. Rain mainly falls in spring and fall, while summer is characterized by sudden downpours due to thunderstorms. Winter tends to be relatively dry, but rain can occasionally occur with cold snaps.

Average Monthly Precipitation

The average monthly precipitation in Birmingham varies greatly by season. The average precipitation for each month is as follows:

• January: About 4.0 inches of rain.
• February: About 4.2 inches of rain.
• March: About 5.5 inches of rain.
• April: About 5.2 inches of rain.
• May: About 5.8 inches of rain.
• June: About 6.5 inches of rain.
• July: About 6.7 inches of rain.
• August: About 6.3 inches of rain.
• September: About 5.9 inches of rain.
• October: About 5.0 inches of rain.
• November: About 4.5 inches of rain.
• December: About 4.1 inches of rain.

Main Features:

• Spring (March to May): Spring is a time of rapid increase in rainfall. Particularly in May, strong thunderstorms often occur as a precursor to summer rains.

• Summer (June to August): Summer records the highest rainfall in Birmingham. Due to high temperatures and humidity, sudden downpours from hurricanes or tropical storms frequently occur.

• Fall (September to November): Fall also sees significant rainfall, but it tends to become drier over time. Particularly in September, rainfall may increase due to the influence of hurricane season.

• Winter (December to February): Winter is relatively dry, with lower rainfall amounts. However, rain can occasionally occur with cold snaps.

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Record Rainfall: The highest recorded rainfall in Birmingham was 15.89 inches (about 403mm) during the Tropical Storm Claudette that occurred from August 19 to 20, 1979. This rainfall resulted from a concentrated downpour over a short period, causing severe flooding throughout the city.

Birmingham also experiences some climate variations within Alabama. The main regional climate characteristics are as follows:

• Central Birmingham: Primarily a humid subtropical climate, with frequent rain throughout the year. High humidity and temperatures in summer lead to a high discomfort index.

• Highlands: Some elevated areas maintain relatively cool temperatures even in summer, and colder weather can be experienced in winter. Snowfall is rare in these areas.