January-March
Palm Springs is wettest in January and February, but average rainfall for these months is still less than 1.5 inches per month. Temperatures in January are usually right around 70 degrees Fahrenheit, climbing to an average of 75 in February and 80 in March. It can get pretty chilly at night, as low as the mid-50s.
April-June
April, May and June are three of the prettiest months in Palm Springs, and are also three of the driest, with rainfall at less than .1 inches per month. April is still really pleasant, with daytime temperatures in the high 80s. Things start to really warm up in May (average temperature: 95) and downright hot in June (average temperature: 104). Because Palm Springs is in the desert, expect temperatures to drop up to 30 degrees at night.
July-September
You'll find great deals and super hot weather in Palm Springs this time of year. July (108 degrees) and August (107 degrees) are traditionally the two hottest months of the year and while it's a dry heat, the sun can still be quite punishing. Nighttime temperatures are usually in the 70s.
October-December
While October is still pretty warm--the average temperature is 91 degrees--it is quite bearable, as there is little humidity and close to no rainfall (.11 inches average). November and December are really comfortable months in Palm Springs, with daytime temperatures in the 70s. Bring a jacket or sweater, though, because nights can get downright cold--as low as 40 degrees.
Record Temperatures
The record high in Palm Springs is 123 degrees and the only three months you don't risk breaking the 100-degree mark are December, January and February. On the downside, it's been as cold as 19 degrees in January.
Wind
The air in Palm Springs is quite clean, as it is buffered from the smog of the Los Angeles basin by a mountain range. It's also clean because it's often quite windy due to the narrow space between two mountain ranges to the west. The high, prevailing winds are trapped and swept into the valley floor. Winds can reach 60 miles per hour and because Palm Springs is in a desert, there may be sand storms. These occurrences are infrequent, but they do happen.
What to Wear
When packing for Palm Springs, remember that you'll want to layer your clothes, so pack accordingly. Because of the wild temperature swings from night to day, you may start a morning round of golf wearing a sweater and windbreaker, but will be ready for short sleeves by the turn. Also make sure to pack a golf umbrella, particularly in the winter.
About The Author
J.D. Chi is a professional journalist who has covered sports for more than 20 years at newspapers all over the United States. She has covered major golf tournaments and the NFL as well as travel and health topics. Chi received her Bachelor of Arts in professional writing from Carnegie Mellon University and is working toward a master's degree in journalism.
