What is the general climate of pennsylvania?

Answer 1

Pennsylvania is generally in a humid continental climate zone, but with large variations around the state.

Northwest Pennsylvania has harsh winters with cold temperatures and lots of cloudiness and snow due to the proximity to Lake Erie. The snow belt extends through Erie PA up into central and western NY. Pittsburgh has winters that are cold, extremely cloudy and moderately snowy. Central PA in the mountains, through State College, also has very cold winters with lots of cloudiness and relatively heavy snowfall. Winters in southeast PA near Philly are cold but considerably less snowy than the rest of the state. There are more sunny days in the southeast, as this region is not affected by cloudiness from Lake Erie.

Spring in PA tends to be cold and rainy in March and April. May brings better weather with mild temperatures and a bit more sunshine.

Summer in PA tends to be quite pleasant in the northern, central and western parts of the state. Pittsburgh and State College have very nice summers, with many days that are pleasantly warm without being uncomfortably hot. The southeast near Philly occasionally gets quite hot and humid, but there are also many pleasant days interspersed in between hot spells.

Falls are generally delightful in Pennsylvania, especially in the early months. September and October bring lots of perfect sunny days and mild temperatures, with beautiful fall foliage. Leaves turn brilliant colors in October. Unfortunately this pleasant weather is short lived, as November brings more cloudiness and the return of cold winter winds.

Highest: 111 degrees F.

Lowest: 42 degrees below zero F.

And, it depends on what region.
Very sunny and hot and sunny.

Answer 2

The general climate of Pennsylvania varies according to area and altitude. Summers are usually long, hot and humid. Autumn is usually moderate and pleasant. Winters are usually cold and snowy.

Answer 3

Due to it's varied geography, Pennsylvania has a diverse climate. Summers in Pennsylvania are humid, while winters can be extremely cold. Summer high temperatures reach the mid to high 80s while winter lows are in the teens. Mountainous areas tend to receive significantly more precipitation than lower areas.

Answer 4

Pennsylvania's climate during Colonial times was very similar to its climate today, though perhaps a little colder. See the related question for a description of the current climate.

Answer 5

Nearly all of it is in the humid continental climate zone.