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New Hanover County Climate

New Hanover County, North Carolina

NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 Climate Normals
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec63.6°AVG °F

Avg Annual Temp

63.6°F

Annual Precip

62.9"

Annual Snowfall

0.6"

Extreme Heat Days

52

days >= 90°F/yr

Monthly Temperature

54.4°F avgJFMAMJJASOND

Precipitation Calendar

Dry
Wet= snowfall
3.9"
3.6"
4.0"
3.4"
4.7"
5.7"
7.7"
8.2"
9.2"
4.9"
3.8"
3.9"
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Growing Season & Gardening

USDA Hardiness Zone

8b

Minimum winter temperature range for plant survival

Growing Degree Days

5,598

Excellent for heat-loving crops

Last spring frost (32°F): 03/20
First fall frost (32°F): 11/15

Seasonal Overview

Comfort ZoneSpring54°71°12.0"Summer78°81°21.6"Fall55°75°17.9"Winter46°49°11.4"20°40°60°80°100°

National Comparison

Warmer than 83% of US counties
Wetter than 97% of US counties
More seasonal variation than 16% of US counties

7-Day Outlook

Forecast

Current Conditions

Air Quality

Safety

Weather Alerts

Climate Advisory: New Hanover County

Climate Verdict

New Hanover County has a warm, averaging 63.6°F year-round, very wet conditions receiving 62.9 inches of precipitation annually, occasional hot days — 51.800000000000004 per year above 90°F, light snow averaging 0.6 inches per year. This climate profile shapes everything from energy costs to outdoor recreation opportunities.

Seasonal Breakdown

Winters are mild, with January temperatures averaging 45.8°F. summers are hot, with July averaging 81.1°F. The 35°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

New Hanover County is 4.3°F warmer than the North Carolina statewide average of 59.3°F, it is also noticeably wetter, receiving 11.3 inches more precipitation than the state average.

Climate Profile

About New Hanover County Weather

A Hot Coastal Exception to National Norms

New Hanover's annual average of 63.6°F is roughly 10 degrees higher than the national median. This maritime climate is defined by high humidity and significant annual rainfall.

One of North Carolina’s Warmest Counties

New Hanover sits far above the state average of 59.3°F, ranking it among the warmest locations in North Carolina. Its coastal position keeps winters much milder than the inland state average.

Warmer and Wetter Than Onslow Neighbors

The county is nearly two degrees warmer than neighboring Onslow County on average. It also receives 62.9 inches of rain, significantly outpacing the state average of 51.5 inches.

Tropical Summers and Virtually No Snow

July averages a sweltering 81.1°F, and the county sees 52 days of extreme heat annually. Snow is almost non-existent, with a yearly average of just 0.6 inches.

Manage High Humidity and Frequent Rain

Residents must plan for 62.9 inches of annual rain with reliable drainage and moisture control. Air conditioning is a necessity for the 52 days of 90-degree heat.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average temperature in New Hanover County?
The average annual temperature in New Hanover County, NC is 63.6°F, based on NOAA 30-year climate normals (1991-2020).
How much rain does New Hanover County get?
New Hanover County receives an average of 62.9 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 New Hanover County?
Yes, New Hanover County receives an average of 0.6 inches of snowfall per year according to NOAA climate normals.
How hot does New Hanover County get in summer?
The average summer temperature (June-August) in New Hanover County is 79.5°F. The county experiences an average of 52 days per year above 90°F.
How cold are winters in New Hanover County?
The average winter temperature (December-February) in New Hanover County is 47.6°F. January, typically the coldest month, averages 45.8°F.

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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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