Pennsylvania Climate and Weather

Like all other US States lying in the continental zone, Pennsylvania's climate varies according to area and altitude, and though the state experiences the four seasons, each can vary in temperature depending on location. Summers, in general, tend to be long, hot and humid, particularly in the southeast. The mountainous areas are likely to be cooler and although humid, they are usually less so. Autumns are usually moderate and pleasant (a good time to travel to Pennsylvania), while winters are cold with snow, especially in the mountains. The area around Lake Erie usually experiences cooler temperatures, with the lake regulating the change of seasons. July tends to be the state's warmest month, and although temperatures can reach over 90°F (32°C) in the southeast and southwestern areas (near Pittsburgh), average temperatures are usually about 80°F (27°C). January is the coldest time of year, with temperatures dropping to about 23° F (-5°C). Tornadoes and floods can occur.