I’ll help you create a blog post about the weather in Goldendale, Washington. I’ll use the WebSearch tool to gather some accurate information first. Based on the search results, I’ll craft the blog post about the weather in Goldendale, Washington:
Nestled in the heart of Washington State, Goldendale offers a unique and fascinating climate that captures the essence of the Pacific Northwest’s diverse weather patterns. Situated at an elevation of 1,637 feet, this charming city experiences a distinctive continental Mediterranean climate that brings dramatic seasonal variations and breathtaking meteorological transformations throughout the year.
Seasonal Temperature Dynamics
Goldendale’s temperature range is truly remarkable, spanning from a chilly 24°F in winter to a warm 85°F in summer. The city experiences four distinct seasons, each bringing its own unique atmospheric character:
- Summer (June to September): Characterized by warm, dry, and mostly clear skies with temperatures frequently reaching above 75°F
- Winter (November to February): Cold, snowy, and predominantly cloudy with temperatures often dropping below freezing
- Spring and Autumn: Transitional periods with moderate temperatures and changing weather patterns
Precipitation and Snowfall Patterns
The precipitation profile of Goldendale is quite interesting. The city receives an average of 15-16.5 inches of rainfall annually, which is significantly less than the national average of 38 inches. Snowfall is also a notable feature, with an average of 32 inches per year.
| Month | Average Precipitation (inches) | Average Snowfall (inches) |
|---|---|---|
| December | 3.18 | 10 |
| January | 2.75 | 10.2 |
| July | 0.12 | 0 |
Cloud Cover and Sunshine
One of the most fascinating aspects of Goldendale’s weather is its dramatic variation in cloud cover. The city experiences extreme seasonal changes in sky conditions:
- July is the clearest month, with the sky being clear or partly cloudy 79% of the time
- January is the cloudiest month, with overcast or mostly cloudy skies 68% of the time
- The clearer part of the year lasts approximately 4 months, from June to October
Extreme Weather Considerations
Goldendale’s unique geographical location creates some interesting weather phenomena:
- Summer thunderstorms occur intermittently, particularly in July and August
- Lightning-caused range and forest fires are common during the dry summer months
- Chinook winds from the Pacific Ocean can make spring and summer quite blustery
The city experiences approximately 22 days annually with temperatures over 90°F and 138 days where nighttime temperatures fall below freezing. The humidity remains low throughout the year, which can lead to dry skin and eyes for some residents.
For those planning to visit or move to Goldendale, the most pleasant months are June, July, August, and September. During this period, the weather is warm, dry, and mostly clear, offering ideal conditions for outdoor activities and exploration.
What is the best time to visit Goldendale?
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The best time to visit is from early July to mid-August when temperatures are warm and the skies are mostly clear.
How much snow does Goldendale get?
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Goldendale averages about 32 inches of snow per year, with most snowfall occurring in December and January.
Is Goldendale’s climate typical of Washington State?
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Goldendale has a unique continental Mediterranean climate that differs from western Washington, with more extreme temperature variations and less rainfall.