Mississippi’s climate is defined by its position in the southeastern United States, falling entirely within the Humid Subtropical classification (Köppen Cfa). The state’s low elevation and proximity to the warm Gulf of Mexico are the primary factors driving its climate patterns. Warm, moist air circulating from the Gulf causes persistent semi-tropical conditions throughout much of the year.
Seasonal Temperature Patterns
Mississippi experiences long, hot summers and brief, mild winters. Summer temperatures are high, with average daily maximums in July reaching around 93 degrees Fahrenheit in the north. Along the Gulf Coast, the maritime influence provides a slight cooling effect, where July highs average closer to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Temperatures frequently exceed 90 degrees for over 100 days a year in the interior, and temperatures above 100 degrees Fahrenheit also occur.
The winter season is mild, with the state rarely experiencing extended periods of below-freezing temperatures. Average daily maximum temperatures in January hover around 50 degrees Fahrenheit in the north, and near 61 degrees Fahrenheit along the coast. Freezing temperatures occur every winter, but cold spells are short-lived, lasting only three or four days. The ground rarely freezes, and measurable snow or sleet is an infrequent event.
High Humidity and Annual Precipitation
Mississippi’s climate is characterized by significant moisture, making it one of the wettest states in the nation. Average annual precipitation ranges from around 50 inches in the north to 65 inches along the coast. Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, though the wettest period often occurs during the winter and spring months.
Prevailing southerly winds from the Gulf of Mexico draw warm, moist air over the state, resulting in high relative humidity. This moisture combines with high temperatures to create the oppressive feeling of summer heat. During warmer months, dew point temperatures routinely sit in the upper 70s Fahrenheit, making the air feel “muggy” and uncomfortable. Although the state receives abundant rainfall, dry spells can occur, particularly during the summer.
Severe Weather Risks
Mississippi faces severe weather risks due to its location where warm, moist air meets continental air masses. The state is vulnerable to tropical cyclones and hurricanes, especially along its Gulf Coast shoreline. These events bring the hazards of powerful winds, torrential rainfall, and dangerous storm surges.
The state is susceptible to tornadoes, being part of a region sometimes referred to as “Dixie Alley.” Mississippi experiences an average of 30 to 45 tornadoes each year, most common during the spring months (March through May). A secondary tornado season can occur in November and December. Heavy annual rainfall and low-lying geography mean that flash flooding is a frequent risk, often occurring rapidly after excessive rainfall.