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Chatham County Climate

Chatham County, North Carolina

NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 Climate Normals
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec59.4°AVG °F

Avg Annual Temp

59.4°F

Annual Precip

45.9"

Annual Snowfall

1.5"

Extreme Heat Days

35

days >= 90°F/yr

Monthly Temperature

54.4°F avgJFMAMJJASOND

Precipitation Calendar

Dry
Wet= snowfall
3.9"
3.2"
4.2"
3.9"
3.6"
3.7"
3.8"
4.0"
5.0"
3.4"
3.5"
3.6"
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Growing Season & Gardening

USDA Hardiness Zone

8a

Minimum winter temperature range for plant survival

Growing Degree Days

4,563

Excellent for heat-loving crops

Last spring frost (32°F): 03/31
First fall frost (32°F): 11/04

Seasonal Overview

Comfort ZoneSpring50°67°11.7"Summer75°79°11.6"Fall50°71°11.9"Winter40°43°10.7"20°40°60°80°100°

National Comparison

Warmer than 69% of US counties
Wetter than 61% of US counties
More seasonal variation than 29% of US counties

7-Day Outlook

Forecast

Current Conditions

Air Quality

Safety

Weather Alerts

Climate Advisory: Chatham County

Climate Verdict

Chatham County has a mild, with an average annual temperature of 59.4°F, moderately wet with 45.9 inches of annual precipitation, occasional hot days — 34.7 per year above 90°F, light snow averaging 1.5 inches per year. This climate profile shapes everything from energy costs to outdoor recreation opportunities.

Seasonal Breakdown

Winters are mild, with January temperatures averaging 40.0°F. summers are warm — July averages 78.6°F. The 39°F seasonal variation provides noticeable but manageable change.

Outdoor & Gardening Guidance

The moderate temperatures support hiking, cycling, and camping comfortably in spring, summer, and fall.

Regional Context

Chatham County closely matches the North Carolina statewide average temperature of 59.3°F, it is also noticeably drier, receiving 5.7 inches less precipitation than the state average.

Climate Profile

About Chatham County Weather

A Warm and Sun-Drenched Interior

Chatham County averages 59.4°F, placing it well above the national median temperature. This humid subtropical climate sees 45.9 inches of rain, which is lower than many of its coastal state neighbors.

The State's Climate Benchmark

Chatham's 59.4°F average is nearly identical to the North Carolina state average of 59.3°F. It serves as a representative example of the typical North Carolina weather experience.

Typical Triangle Area Conditions

Chatham shares a similar profile with its neighbors in the Research Triangle, averaging 35 days of extreme heat. It is slightly warmer than Catawba to the west but avoids the extreme humidity found further east.

Hot July, Very Little Snow

Summer peaks in July with an average of 78.6°F, while January stays above freezing at 40.0°F. Snow is rare in this part of the state, with only 1.5 inches falling annually on average.

Focus on Summer Cooling

With 35 days over 90°F, efficient cooling is the priority for local homeowners. Winter gear can remain light, as snow rarely impacts travel or requires heavy equipment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average temperature in Chatham County?
The average annual temperature in Chatham County, NC is 59.4°F, based on NOAA 30-year climate normals (1991-2020).
How much rain does Chatham County get?
Chatham County receives an average of 45.9 inches of precipitation per year, including both rain and meltwater from snow. This is based on NOAA 30-year climate normals.
Does it snow in Chatham County?
Yes, Chatham County receives an average of 1.5 inches of snowfall per year according to NOAA climate normals.
How hot does Chatham County get in summer?
The average summer temperature (June-August) in Chatham County is 76.8°F. The county experiences an average of 35 days per year above 90°F.
How cold are winters in Chatham County?
The average winter temperature (December-February) in Chatham County is 42.1°F. January, typically the coldest month, averages 40.0°F.

Track your own weather in Chatham County

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Data sources: NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI), U.S. Climate Normals 1991-2020. Forecast and alert data from National Weather Service API. Air quality data from Open-Meteo.

Climate normals are 30-year averages of weather variables. Station data is aggregated to county level. Forecasts and alerts are fetched live and may change frequently. Data is informational only — not a substitute for official National Weather Service forecasts or emergency weather warnings.

By Evan Brooks, Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
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