23°F
Partly Sunny
Air Quality Index: 46 (Good)
Billings, MT experiences a semi-arid climate, characterized by dry conditions and significant temperature variations between seasons. This climate is typical for regions located in the rain shadow of mountain ranges, where moisture-laden air masses lose much of their precipitation before reaching the area.
In Billings, summer temperatures typically range from highs in the mid-80s to lows in the mid-50s Fahrenheit. Winters are cold, with average highs around the mid-30s and lows often dipping into the teens. Spring and fall are transitional periods with moderate temperatures, generally ranging from the 40s to the 70s.
Annual precipitation in Billings averages around 14 inches, with May and June being the wettest months, each receiving about 2 to 2.5 inches of rain. Snowfall is a notable feature of the winter months, with the city accumulating approximately 50 inches annually. The driest months are typically January and February, with limited rainfall.
Billings is not prone to extreme weather phenomena like hurricanes or tornadoes, but it does experience severe thunderstorms and occasional hail during the late spring and summer months. Wildfire risk can rise during particularly dry and hot periods in the summer.
The city's climate is influenced by its location at an elevation of approximately 3,100 feet and its proximity to the Rocky Mountains. These geographical features contribute to the variability in weather patterns and the semi-arid conditions that define the region.