Laramie, Wyoming Climate Summary • Climate Type
Continental
• Average Annual Temperature
39.1°F (4°C)
• Average Annual High Temperature
53.6°F (12°C)
• Average Annual Low Temperature
24.6°F (-4°C)
• Average Annual Snowfall
44.6 inches (113 cm)
• Average Annual Rain
11.4 inches (29 cm)
• Wettest Month
May (2.2 inches or 5.6 cm)
• Driest Month
August (0.6 inches or 1.5 cm)
• Coldest Month
January (19.2°F or -7°C)
• Warmest Month
July (66.9°F or 19°C)
Climate Overview
Laramie, Wyoming has a continental climate, characterized by large seasonal temperature variations. Winters are cold and dry, with average temperatures below freezing. Summers are warm and dry, with average temperatures in the 60s and 70s Fahrenheit. Spring and fall are mild, with average temperatures in the 40s and 50s Fahrenheit.
Laramie receives an average of 11.4 inches of rain and 44.6 inches of snow per year. The majority of precipitation falls during the spring and summer months. The city is prone to occasional thunderstorms, especially during the summer months.
Climate Trends
• Increasing Average Temperature
The average annual temperature in Laramie has increased by about 2°F (1°C) since the late 19th century. This trend is expected to continue in the future, with average temperatures projected to increase by an additional 2-4°F (1-2°C) by the end of the century.
• Decreasing Snowfall
The average annual snowpack in Laramie has decreased by about 20% since the late 19th century. This trend is expected to continue in the future, with average snowpack projected to decrease by an additional 10-20% by the end of the century.
• More Extreme Weather Events
Laramie is experiencing more extreme weather events, such as heat waves, droughts, and floods. These events are expected to become more frequent and severe in the future due to climate change.
Climate Impacts
• Water Resources
The decreasing snowpack and increasing temperatures are impacting water resources in Laramie. The city is experiencing more droughts and water shortages, and the quality of water is also declining.
• Agriculture
The changing climate is also impacting agriculture in Laramie. The shorter growing season and more extreme weather events are making it more difficult for farmers to grow crops.
• Human Health
The changing climate is also having a negative impact on human health in Laramie. The increase in extreme heat events is leading to more heat-related illnesses and deaths. The increase in air pollution is also leading to more respiratory problems.
Adaptation and Mitigation Strategies
The City of Laramie is taking steps to adapt to and mitigate the impacts of climate change. These strategies include:
• Improving Water Efficiency
The city is working to reduce water use by implementing water conservation measures and investing in water-efficient infrastructure.
• Promoting Renewable Energy
The city is promoting the use of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power.
• Improving Air Quality
The city is working to improve air quality by reducing emissions from vehicles and industrial sources.
• Preparing for Extreme Weather Events
The city is developing plans to prepare for and respond to extreme weather events, such as heat waves, droughts, and floods.
These strategies are helping Laramie to adapt to and mitigate the impacts of climate change. However, more needs to be done to address the challenges posed by climate change.