Dallas Weather, Rainfall, Snowfall, Seasonal Climate Characteristics - Dallas - 1

Dallas is located in northern Texas, straddling the boundary between a humid subtropical climate and a semi-arid climate.

While there are four seasons, summers are long and hot, and winters are relatively short and mild. Those who have immigrated from Korea may initially be surprised by the summer heat and the unpredictable weather in spring and fall in Dallas. Let's take a closer look at the weather characteristics of Dallas by season.

The summer in Dallas showcases the true nature of Texas weather. From June to September, daytime temperatures frequently reach between 95 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit (35 to 38 degrees Celsius). The average high temperature in July is around 96 degrees Fahrenheit (36 degrees Celsius), with the perceived temperature feeling even higher. On days with high humidity, the heat can feel particularly oppressive.

There are also several days during the summer when temperatures exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius), making outdoor activities more suitable in the early morning or after sunset. Those who move to Dallas often feel that living without air conditioning is impossible after experiencing their first summer.

Winters are relatively mild but can vary greatly. The average low temperature in January hovers around 35 degrees Fahrenheit (about 2 degrees Celsius), with few days dropping below freezing. However, when Arctic air masses move down from Arkansas or Oklahoma, temperatures can suddenly plummet below freezing, a phenomenon known as a Blue Norther.

There are instances where temperatures drop more than 20 degrees in just a few hours, highlighting the unpredictability of Texas weather. In February 2021, an unprecedented winter storm (Winter Storm Uri) caused widespread power outages and pipe bursts across Texas, including Dallas.

The annual rainfall in Dallas is about 37 inches (940 mm), which is close to the national average. Precipitation is not concentrated in any specific season but is distributed throughout the year, with a tendency for slightly more rain in spring (April to May) and fall (October to November). Severe thunderstorms and tornadoes can occur in spring, so caution is advised.

Located at the southern end of Tornado Alley, northern Texas sees tornado warnings issued frequently each spring. It is advisable to set up alerts on local news or weather apps.

The average annual snowfall in Dallas is about 1 to 3 inches (2.5 to 7.6 cm), which is very low. Snowy days are rare, and when it does snow, it often melts quickly. However, occasional ice storms can occur, causing roads to become icy and paralyzing the entire city of Dallas.

Due to a lack of snow removal infrastructure in Texas, even a small amount of ice can lead to school and institution closures, and residents are advised to stay indoors.

Spring and fall are pleasant seasons with great weather for outdoor activities, making them the best times to enjoy the outdoors in Dallas.