United States of America Weather, climate and geography

Given its vast size and varied geography, the United States experiences a wide range of climates, from tropical to arctic, and just about everything in between. Travellers should always check regional forecasts before visiting, as weather conditions can differ dramatically depending on location and season.

The Northeast (e.g. New York, Boston) has cold, snowy winters and warm, humid summers, while the Southeast (e.g. Florida, Georgia) is more subtropical, with mild winters and hot, humid summers, often with afternoon thunderstorms. Hurricane season affects coastal areas from June to November, particularly along the Gulf Coast and Southeast.

The Midwest (e.g. Chicago, Minneapolis) experiences hot summers and freezing winters, often with snowstorms and cold snaps. The Great Plains can be windy and are known for tornado activity, especially in spring and early summer.

The Southwest (e.g. Arizona, Nevada) is hot and dry, with desert climates and intense summer heat, while the West Coast (e.g. California) offers mild, wet winters and dry, sunny summers, particularly in Southern California.

The Pacific Northwest (e.g. Seattle, Portland) has a temperate marine climate, with wet, cool winters and dry, pleasant summers. In contrast, Alaska features subarctic and arctic conditions, with long, cold winters and short, mild summers. Hawai‘i enjoys a tropical climate year-round, with warm temperatures and two main seasons—dry (April to October) and wet (November to March).