Considering the College of Southern Maryland weather as you plan your studies or career in La Plata? This community college location offers a mild humid subtropical climate ideal for campus life, with comfortable temperatures averaging 59°F (15°C) annually. Summers bring warm highs around 88°F (31°C) with humidity, while winters stay mild at 47°F (8°C) highs and occasional light snow of about 14 inches per year. Precipitation totals 44 inches yearly, mostly rain, influencing outdoor activities and commuting. Environmental factors like good air quality and low altitude enhance liveability, though hazards such as floods from the nearby Potomac River and tropical storms require awareness. Our ratings highlight strong comfort and safety, helping students, faculty, staff, parents, and job seekers decide. Explore higher ed jobs at College of Southern Maryland and beyond on AcademicJobs.com while preparing for La Plata's environment.
Weather Overview in La Plata
La Plata experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Annual highs average 68°F (20°C), lows 46°F (8°C). Summers (June-August) peak at 88°F (31°C) with high humidity, ideal for outdoor studying but requiring hydration. Winters (December-February) average 47°F (8°C) highs and 28°F (-2°C) lows, with rare deep freezes. Spring and fall offer pleasant 60-75°F (16-24°C) days. Extremes include a record high of 106°F (41°C) and low of -7°F (-22°C). Precipitation is even, with 44 inches rain and 14 inches snow yearly, impacting campus events. Check academic jobs in La Plata or Maryland university jobs for opportunities in this comfortable setting.
Seasonal Weather Patterns at College of Southern Maryland
Seasonal shifts at College of Southern Maryland affect attire, utilities, and schedules. Spring brings blooming pollen and rain (11 inches), with temps 55-72°F (13-22°C); prepare allergy meds. Summer humidity demands AC, adding $100-200/month to bills, highs 88°F (31°C). Fall cools to 75°F (24°C), perfect for tailgates. Winter snow closes roads occasionally, with policies for remote classes. Safety gear like salt for walks is essential. Extra costs: $300/year clothing, $150 utilities.
Winter ❄️
28-47°F (-2-8°C), 12 inches snow. Coats, boots needed.
Summer ☀️
68-88°F (20-31°C), humid. Shorts, fans/AC.
Spring 🌸
45-70°F (7-21°C), rainy. Light jackets, umbrellas.
Fall 🍂
50-75°F (10-24°C), crisp. Sweaters ideal.
Environmental Factors in La Plata
At 194 feet elevation on the coastal plain, La Plata has stable geology with no volcanic activity. Air quality is excellent, average AQI 40 (good), thanks to green spaces. Low pollution supports health for commuters and athletes. College of Southern Maryland promotes sustainability with recycling. Impacts: Minimal respiratory issues, enhancing focus. Compare with United States academic jobs.
Natural Hazards and Safety at College of Southern Maryland
Risks include river floods, hurricanes (1-2/decade), winter storms, rare tornadoes. No wildfires or droughts common. University has emergency alerts, evacuation to high ground, and drills. Frequency: Floods yearly minor, severe storms 5/year.
| Hazard | Frequency | Safety Measures |
|---|---|---|
| Floods | Moderate | Alerts, sandbags |
| Hurricanes | Low | Evac plans |
| Winter Storms | Annual | Closures |
Liveability and Comfort Ratings for La Plata
La Plata scores high for College of Southern Maryland affiliates, balancing mild weather and safety.
High ratings mean low disruption; read student views on Rate My Professor at College of Southern Maryland. Job seekers value this in professor jobs.
Costs and Equipment for Weather in La Plata
Mild climate keeps costs low: $200-400/year clothing (raincoats, gloves), $100-300 utilities (heating/AC). Insurance covers storms. Essentials: Umbrella, winter boots, dehumidifier. Budget via university salaries data on AcademicJobs.com.
Health and Living Conditions at College of Southern Maryland
Good air reduces allergies; humidity aids skin but pollen spikes spring. Campus shuttles handle rain. Enhances productivity. University wellness center supports. Links to clinical research jobs.
Resources for Weather Preparedness in La Plata
- National Weather Service alerts for storms.
- College of Southern Maryland emergency app.
- Local radar apps like Weather Underground.
- County flood maps. 🌤️
Pair with faculty jobs.
Student Perspectives on La Plata Environment
Students at College of Southern Maryland often praise the mild weather in La Plata for boosting outdoor study sessions and campus events, though summer humidity and winter rains challenge commutes. Many discuss how the local climate impacts focus and productivity, noting clean La Plata air quality helps concentration during exams. Feedback highlights low natural hazards La Plata allows worry-free living, with rare disruptions. Read their detailed experiences alongside professor reviews on Rate My Professor at College of Southern Maryland. Environment at College of Southern Maryland supports active lifestyles, per reviews. For more, explore Rate My Professor.
Job seekers, check higher ed jobs at College of Southern Maryland or community college jobs. Career tips at higher ed career advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
☀️What is the average weather in La Plata?
La Plata averages 59°F (15°C) yearly, with mild summers at 88°F (31°C) and winters at 47°F (8°C). Rain 44 inches, snow 14 inches. See academic jobs in La Plata.
🌫️How does pollution affect life at College of Southern Maryland?
Low pollution (AQI 40) minimally impacts health; good for campus activities. Students note clear air aids focus. Check Rate My Professor at College of Southern Maryland.
⚠️What natural hazards are common in La Plata?
Floods, hurricanes, winter storms occasional. College protocols ensure safety. Learn more at higher ed career advice on AcademicJobs.com.
🏙️What is the liveability rating for La Plata?
4.5/5 overall: Comfortable temps, good air, low risks. Great for College of Southern Maryland life. Related data at university salaries.
💰What extra costs come with La Plata weather?
$200-400 clothing, $150 utilities yearly. Mild climate keeps low. Explore higher ed jobs at College of Southern Maryland.
🌳Is La Plata air quality good for students?
Yes, excellent AQI supports health. Rate My Professor mentions benefits.
❄️How does College of Southern Maryland handle snow?
Closures and remote options. Check community college jobs.
