Baltimore Weather

As is typical of most cities on the east coast of the US, rainfall is abundant, and is spread quite evenly throughout the year, with each month getting an average of 3 to 4 inches of precipitation. Summers are a good time to visit, but they can be quite humid and hot.

In the wintertime, there is some snowfall, with an average of about 20 inches. In the northern and western suburbs, snowfall amounts are greater; from 24 to 36 inches annually. Freezing rain is also likely during the winter in Baltimore, but major ice storms are rare. The weather is not all that predictable though and it’s possible for it to become unseasonably warm in the winter.

Baltimore climate

Overall, the climate is less extreme here than in cities lying farther inland. Its location between the Appalachian Mountains and the Delmarva Peninsula protects Baltimore from extreme conditions and contributes to its relatively temperate climate. The mountains protect the city from the harsh winds and freezing winter temperatures that come from the north, and the Delmarva Peninsula protects it from tropical storms that travel up the Atlantic coast.

July is normally the hottest month, with an average high of 33°C and an average low of 23°C. January is the coldest month, with an average high of 7°C and an average low of -2°C.

Best times to visit

Spring and autumn are ideal times to visit Baltimore. Most visitors come during the summer months, when the weather is suitable for activities on and around the water, but the crowds – particularly at the Inner Harbour – can be overwhelming. Spring brings horse racing to Baltimore, with the running of the Preakness Stakes being a very festive occasion. In addition, there are many point-to-point and steeplechases held as well. Early May is the best time to visit Sherwood Gardens, as you’ll see thousands of azaleas, tulips and trees in blossom at that time. 

During the summer, most historical buildings and museums are open for longer to ensure that the crowds of visitors aren’t disappointed. Baltimore's Inner Harbour is usually jammed with tourists during the high season, and on sunny days, you’ll find visitors from all over the world on the promenade along the waterfront. Autumn brings more comfortable temperatures as well as spectacular foliage colours, especially in the Catoctin Mountains, west of the city. It’s a particularly good time for hiking and cycling.

Average Temperature (°C)

30 22 15 8 0

Jan 1.6

Feb 2.9

Mar 8.1

Apr 13.6

May 19.3

Jun 24.4

Jul 26.8

Aug 25.9

Sep 22.0

Oct 15.5

Nov 9.7

Dec 4.0

Rainfall (mm)

110 82 55 28 0

Jan 79.6

Feb 77.4

Mar 103.9

Apr 83.4

May 99.7

Jun 91.2

Jul 96.6

Aug 109.9

Sep 91.9

Oct 74.0

Nov 89.1

Dec 93.5