Long Beach weather, known for its pleasant year-round temperatures and Mediterranean climate, draws visitors and residents alike to its beautiful coastline. The city’s proximity to the Pacific Ocean plays a significant role in moderating temperatures, creating a comfortable environment for outdoor activities and a relaxed lifestyle.
Long Beach experiences mild winters with occasional rainfall and warm, sunny summers. The city enjoys a consistent breeze from the ocean, keeping temperatures from becoming too extreme. While the summers are typically dry, the region receives most of its precipitation during the winter months.
Overview of Long Beach Weather
Long Beach, California, enjoys a Mediterranean climate, characterized by warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The city’s location on the Pacific coast, combined with the influence of the California Current and Santa Ana winds, creates a unique microclimate with distinct seasonal variations.
Average Temperature, Humidity, and Precipitation
Long Beach experiences an average annual temperature of 63°F (17°C). The hottest month is August, with an average high of 78°F (26°C), while the coldest month is January, with an average low of 49°F (9°C). The humidity levels are generally moderate, averaging around 65%.
Long Beach receives an average of 15 inches (38 cm) of rainfall annually, with most of it occurring between November and March.
Seasonal Variations in Weather Patterns
Long Beach’s weather patterns vary significantly throughout the year. Summers are typically warm, sunny, and dry, with occasional heat waves. Fall brings cooler temperatures, with a transition from warm days to cool nights. Winter is characterized by mild temperatures and frequent rainfall.
Spring is a time of transition, with temperatures gradually warming and flowers blooming.
Monthly Weather Breakdown
Here is a breakdown of the average weather conditions for each month in Long Beach:
| Month | Average High Temperature (°F) | Average Low Temperature (°F) | Average Precipitation (inches) |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 62 | 49 | 3.5 |
| February | 64 | 51 | 3.0 |
| March | 66 | 53 | 2.5 |
| April | 69 | 56 | 1.5 |
| May | 72 | 59 | 0.5 |
| June | 75 | 62 | 0.1 |
| July | 78 | 65 | 0.0 |
| August | 78 | 66 | 0.0 |
| September | 76 | 64 | 0.1 |
| October | 72 | 59 | 0.5 |
| November | 67 | 54 | 2.0 |
| December | 64 | 51 | 3.0 |
Factors Influencing Long Beach Weather
Several factors contribute to Long Beach’s unique weather patterns:
The Pacific Ocean
The Pacific Ocean has a significant influence on Long Beach’s climate, moderating temperatures and providing a source of moisture. The ocean’s proximity helps to keep temperatures cool in the summer and warm in the winter. The ocean also contributes to the formation of marine layer fog, which is common in the summer months.
Santa Ana Winds
The Santa Ana winds, which are strong, dry winds that originate in the Mojave Desert, can sometimes affect Long Beach. These winds can bring hot, dry air to the region, increasing the risk of wildfires. They can also create strong gusts, which can affect outdoor activities.
California Current
The California Current is a cold ocean current that flows southward along the Pacific coast. This current helps to moderate temperatures along the coast, keeping them cooler than they would be otherwise. The California Current also influences the amount of rainfall received in the region, bringing more moisture to the coast.
Seasonal Weather Highlights
Here’s a closer look at the weather characteristics of each season in Long Beach:
Summer
Long Beach summers are warm, sunny, and dry. Average temperatures range from the mid-70s to the low 80s (°F), with occasional heat waves. Humidity levels are moderate, and the marine layer fog can sometimes roll in during the morning hours.
The summer months are ideal for outdoor activities such as swimming, surfing, and hiking.
Fall, Long beach weather
Fall in Long Beach is a time of transition, with temperatures gradually cooling from warm days to cool nights. Average temperatures range from the mid-60s to the low 70s (°F). The days are still sunny, but the nights can become chilly.
Rainfall begins to increase in the fall, with occasional showers and storms. Fall is a beautiful time to visit Long Beach, as the trees change color and the air becomes crisp.
Winter
Long Beach winters are mild and wet. Average temperatures range from the mid-50s to the low 60s (°F). Rainfall is frequent, with most of the annual precipitation occurring during this season. Occasional storms can bring heavy rain and strong winds.
Winter is a great time to enjoy the city’s museums, theaters, and other indoor attractions.
Spring
Spring in Long Beach is a time of renewal, with temperatures gradually warming from cool to warm. Average temperatures range from the mid-60s to the low 70s (°F). The days are sunny and the nights are mild. Rainfall decreases as the season progresses, and flowers begin to bloom.
Spring is a beautiful time to visit Long Beach, as the city comes alive with color and energy.
Weather Extremes
While Long Beach’s climate is generally mild, it is not immune to extreme weather events.
Record High and Low Temperatures
The record high temperature for Long Beach is 105°F (41°C), recorded in 1931. The record low temperature is 32°F (0°C), recorded in 1932.
Extreme Weather Events
Long Beach can experience heat waves, droughts, and storms. Heat waves can occur during the summer months, bringing dangerously high temperatures. Droughts can occur during periods of below-average rainfall, leading to water shortages. Storms can bring heavy rain, strong winds, and even flooding.
Historical Weather Records and Notable Events
Long Beach has experienced a number of notable weather events throughout its history. In 1938, a powerful storm struck the city, causing significant damage. In 1992, a major earthquake struck Southern California, causing damage to buildings and infrastructure in Long Beach.
In 2017, a series of heavy rainstorms caused widespread flooding in the city.
Weather Resources
There are a number of reliable resources available for obtaining real-time weather information for Long Beach:
Websites and Apps
- National Weather Service (NWS): https://www.weather.gov/
- AccuWeather: https://www.accuweather.com/
- The Weather Channel: https://weather.com/
Weather Forecasts and Alerts
The NWS provides detailed weather forecasts and alerts for Long Beach, including hourly, daily, and extended forecasts, as well as severe weather warnings and watches. You can also sign up for email or text alerts to receive notifications about upcoming weather events.
Conclusive Thoughts: Long Beach Weather
Understanding Long Beach weather is key to planning a memorable visit or enjoying life in this vibrant coastal city. From its mild winters to its sunny summers, Long Beach offers a diverse range of weather experiences. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, cultural events, or simply a relaxing beach day, Long Beach’s climate provides the perfect backdrop for your endeavors.