Tuscaloosa, Alabama Weather by Month
Located in the west-central part of Alabama, Tuscaloosa is a vibrant city known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and dynamic community. Affiliated with the United States, Tuscaloosa is the fifth-largest city in Alabama, offering a blend of Southern charm, academic excellence, and natural beauty. Spanning approximately 71 square miles, Tuscaloosa is home to the University of Alabama, one of the state’s flagship institutions known for its prestigious academic programs and storied athletics. The city’s population reflects its diverse demographics, with residents hailing from various backgrounds and contributing to its vibrant social fabric. Among its major landmarks, Tuscaloosa boasts the historic Capitol Park, which commemorates the city’s role as the former state capital, and the Tuscaloosa Riverwalk, a scenic pathway along the Black Warrior River offering picturesque views and recreational opportunities. Additionally, the city’s downtown area features a thriving arts and entertainment scene, with galleries, theaters, and music venues attracting locals and visitors alike.
Climate and Weather Overview
Tuscaloosa experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot, humid summers and mild winters. Located inland, the city is less influenced by coastal weather patterns compared to cities on the coast. Summers are long and hot, with temperatures often reaching into the 90s Fahrenheit (32-37°C) and high humidity levels adding to the discomfort. Winters are mild, with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing, and occasional snowfall is possible but rare. Spring and fall bring pleasant temperatures, making them ideal seasons to explore outdoor activities in Tuscaloosa.
Month | Average Temperature (°F) | Precipitation (inches) | Sunny Days |
---|---|---|---|
January | 51 | 4.7 | 5 |
February | 55 | 5.1 | 6 |
March | 62 | 5.9 | 7 |
April | 70 | 4.8 | 8 |
May | 78 | 4.3 | 9 |
June | 86 | 4.6 | 10 |
July | 90 | 4.8 | 11 |
August | 89 | 4.6 | 10 |
September | 84 | 4.0 | 9 |
October | 74 | 3.5 | 8 |
November | 64 | 4.5 | 6 |
December | 55 | 4.7 | 5 |
January
January in Tuscaloosa brings cool temperatures, with average highs around 51°F (10.6°C) and lows dropping to 32°F (0°C). Precipitation is moderate, with an average of 4.7 inches for the month. While snow is rare, occasional flurries may occur, creating a picturesque winter landscape. Outdoor activities such as hiking at Lake Lurleen State Park or exploring the Tuscaloosa Riverwalk are still enjoyable with proper attire. Indoor activities include visiting museums such as the Alabama Museum of Natural History or attending performances at the Bama Theatre.
February
February continues the cool temperatures of winter in Tuscaloosa, with average highs of 55°F (12.8°C) and lows of 35°F (1.7°C). Precipitation levels remain similar to January, with occasional rain showers. Despite the cooler weather, there are still plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy in Tuscaloosa during February. Visitors can take a stroll through the Arboretum or visit the Tuscaloosa Amphitheater for live music events. Indoor activities include exploring the Paul W. Bryant Museum or attending basketball games at the Coleman Coliseum.
March
March marks the transition to milder weather in Tuscaloosa, with temperatures ranging from highs of 62°F (16.7°C) to lows of 42°F (5.6°C). Precipitation increases slightly, with an average of 5.9 inches for the month. As spring blooms begin to appear, outdoor activities become more popular in Tuscaloosa. Visitors can explore the University of Alabama Arboretum, go birdwatching at Lake Tuscaloosa, or enjoy a picnic at Hurricane Creek Park. March is also a great time to explore the city’s historic districts, such as the Capitol Park or the Drish House, and enjoy the architecture and charm of the area. Indoor activities include visiting art galleries such as the Dinah Washington Cultural Arts Center or attending performances at the Tuscaloosa Symphony Orchestra.
April
April brings pleasant spring weather to Tuscaloosa, with temperatures averaging highs of 70°F (21.1°C) and lows of 51°F (10.6°C). Precipitation decreases, with an average of 4.8 inches for the month, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. Visitors can explore the Tuscaloosa Riverwalk, go kayaking on the Black Warrior River, or take a bike ride along the Tuscaloosa Greenway. April is also a great time to experience the city’s cultural events, with many festivals celebrating music, food, and art taking place throughout the month. Indoor activities include visiting museums such as the Mildred Westervelt Warner Transportation Museum or attending performances at the Tuscaloosa Amphitheater.
May
May in Tuscaloosa brings warm spring weather, with temperatures averaging highs of 78°F (25.6°C) and lows of 60°F (15.6°C). Precipitation decreases further, with an average of 4.3 inches for the month. As the weather continues to warm up, outdoor activities become even more popular in Tuscaloosa. Visitors can take a hike at Lake Lurleen State Park, go fishing on Lake Tuscaloosa, or enjoy a picnic at Snow Hinton Park. May is also a great time to explore the city’s historic neighborhoods, such as the Battle-Friedman House or the Jemison-Van de Graaff Mansion, and enjoy the architecture and charm of the area. Indoor activities include visiting art galleries such as the Harrison Galleries or attending performances at the Tuscaloosa Amphitheater.
June
June brings the onset of summer in Tuscaloosa, with temperatures averaging highs of 86°F (30°C) and lows of 68°F (20°C). Precipitation increases slightly, with an average of 4.6 inches for the month, often in the form of afternoon thunderstorms. Despite the rain, outdoor activities are still popular in Tuscaloosa during June. Visitors can explore the Tuscaloosa Riverwalk, go paddleboarding on the Black Warrior River, or take a boat tour of Lake Lurleen. June is also a great time to experience the city’s culinary scene, with many restaurants offering outdoor dining options. Indoor activities include visiting museums such as the Paul W. Bryant Museum or attending performances at the Tuscaloosa Amphitheater.
July
July is characterized by hot and humid weather in Tuscaloosa, with temperatures averaging highs of 90°F (32.2°C) and lows of 71°F (21.7°C). Precipitation remains high, with an average of 4.8 inches for the month, often accompanied by frequent thunderstorms. Despite the heat, outdoor activities are still popular in Tuscaloosa during July. Visitors can visit Lake Lurleen State Park for swimming and picnicking, go tubing on the Black Warrior River, or enjoy a round of golf at Ol’ Colony Golf Complex. July is also a great time to experience the city’s cultural events, with many festivals celebrating music, food, and art taking place throughout the month. Indoor activities include visiting museums such as the Alabama Museum of Natural History or attending performances at the Tuscaloosa Amphitheater.
August
August continues to be hot and humid in Tuscaloosa, with temperatures averaging highs of 89°F (31.7°C) and lows of 71°F (21.7°C). Precipitation remains high, with an average of 4.6 inches for the month, often in the form of afternoon showers and thunderstorms. Despite the rain, outdoor activities are still popular in Tuscaloosa during August. Visitors can explore the Tuscaloosa Riverwalk, go fishing on the Black Warrior River, or take a bike ride along the Tuscaloosa Greenway. August is also a great time to experience the city’s culinary scene, with many restaurants offering outdoor dining options. Indoor activities include visiting museums such as the Mildred Westervelt Warner Transportation Museum or attending performances at the Tuscaloosa Amphitheater.
September
September brings relief from the summer heat in Tuscaloosa, with temperatures averaging highs of 84°F (28.9°C) and lows of 61°F (16.1°C). Precipitation decreases slightly, with an average of 4.0 inches for the month, but afternoon thunderstorms are still common. As the weather begins to cool down, outdoor activities become more popular in Tuscaloosa. Visitors can take a hike at Lake Lurleen State Park, go birdwatching at the Tuscaloosa Riverwalk, or enjoy a picnic at Hurricane Creek Park. September is also a great time to explore the city’s historic districts, such as Capitol Park or the Drish House, and enjoy the architecture and charm of the area. Indoor activities include visiting art galleries such as the Dinah Washington Cultural Arts Center or attending performances at the Tuscaloosa Symphony Orchestra.
October
October offers pleasant weather in Tuscaloosa, with temperatures averaging highs of 74°F (23.3°C) and lows of 48°F (8.9°C). Precipitation decreases further, with an average of 3.5 inches for the month, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. Visitors can explore the University of Alabama Arboretum, go hiking at Lake Lurleen State Park, or take a scenic drive along the Black Warrior River. October is also a great time to experience the city’s cultural events, with many festivals celebrating music, food, and art taking place throughout the month. Indoor activities include visiting museums such as the Paul W. Bryant Museum or attending performances at the Bama Theatre.
November
November brings cooler temperatures to Tuscaloosa, with highs averaging around 64°F (17.8°C) and lows of 38°F (3.3°C). Precipitation remains moderate, with an average of 4.5 inches for the month. As fall foliage begins to appear, outdoor activities become popular in Tuscaloosa. Visitors can take a bike ride along the Tuscaloosa Riverwalk, go birdwatching at Lake Lurleen State Park, or enjoy a picnic at Snow Hinton Park. November is also a great time to explore the city’s historic neighborhoods, such as the Battle-Friedman House or the Jemison-Van de Graaff Mansion, and enjoy the architecture and charm of the area. Indoor activities include visiting art galleries such as the Harrison Galleries or attending performances at the Tuscaloosa Amphitheater.
December
December in Tuscaloosa is mild and pleasant, with temperatures averaging highs of 55°F (12.8°C) and lows of 35°F (1.7°C). Precipitation remains moderate, with an average of 4.7 inches for the month. As the holiday season approaches, outdoor activities become less popular in Tuscaloosa. Visitors can explore the city’s holiday lights at Capitol Park, go ice skating at the Tuscaloosa Ice Skating Rink, or enjoy a carriage ride through downtown Tuscaloosa. December is also a great time to explore the city’s historic districts, such as the Drish House or the Battle-Friedman House, and enjoy the festive decorations and holiday spirit. Indoor activities include visiting museums such as the Alabama Museum of Natural History or attending holiday performances at the Bama Theatre.