
Considering Duke University weather as you plan your move to Durham? This humid subtropical climate offers mild winters with average highs of 51°F (11°C) and lows around 32°F (0°C), transitioning to warm, humid summers peaking at 90°F (32°C) highs and 70°F (21°C) lows. Annual precipitation averages 46 inches (117 cm), spread across thunderstorms in summer and occasional winter ice. Weather in Durham influences campus life at Duke University, from outdoor research to event scheduling. Environmental factors like moderate air quality (AQI 40-60) and low natural hazard risks enhance liveability, rated highly for comfort. Discover how Durham weather supports academic focus, with university resources for preparedness. Parents and job seekers appreciate the balanced climate for family life and career growth. Explore higher-ed-jobs at Duke University and beyond while assessing these conditions. AcademicJobs.com provides insights to help you decide, including links to academic jobs in Durham, North Carolina, and the United States.
Durham weather features four distinct seasons, with comfortable springs and falls ideal for Duke University outdoor activities. Summers bring humidity and highs of 88-92°F (31-33°C), while winters rarely drop below freezing, averaging 3-5 snowy days yearly. Extremes include 105°F (41°C) heat and 0°F (-18°C) colds. Precipitation totals 46 inches annually, with July's 4.5 inches (11 cm) peak. These patterns affect daily commutes and campus events, but Duke's infrastructure handles them well. For broader context, check academic opportunities in Durham.
At Duke University, seasonal shifts demand preparation. Spring (March-May) sees 60-75°F (16-24°C) with blooming dogwoods 🌳, but pollen impacts allergies. Summer humidity requires AC, adding utility costs. Fall offers crisp 50-70°F (10-21°C) for tailgates. Winter brings occasional ice, prompting class delays.
Mild 55-75°F (13-24°C), low precip. Minimal clothing costs; light jackets suffice. Safety high, no special equipment.
Summer: 80-90°F (27-32°C), humid. Winter: 40-50°F (4-10°C), ice risks. Budget $200/year utilities; boots, de-icer needed.
Duke policies include weather alerts via DukeApps. Link to higher-ed-career-advice for relocation tips.
Durham sits at 400 ft (122 m) elevation in the Piedmont geology, with rolling hills and no volcanic activity. Air quality averages moderate (AQI 45), affected by traffic and pollen; PM2.5 levels 8-10 µg/m³. Duke University supports health via free flu shots and green initiatives. Durham air quality rarely exceeds unhealthy levels, aiding respiratory health for faculty and students. Explore Rate My Professor for Duke insights.
Durham faces low-moderate risks: tropical storms/floods (e.g., Hurricane Florence), thunderstorms, rare tornadoes (1-2/year regionally), and ice storms. Droughts occasional, wildfires minimal.
| Hazard | Frequency | Duke Safety Measures |
|---|---|---|
| Floods | Occasional (hurricanes) | Evacuation plans, alerts |
| Ice Storms | 1-2/year | Campus closures, sanders |
| Tornadoes | Rare | Shelters, sirens |
Duke's emergency site details protocols. See university salaries for cost context.
Durham scores well for Duke University affiliates, balancing mild weather with urban amenities. Ratings reflect student/faculty feedback on comfort impacting studies and work.
These boost productivity; check professor salaries.
Expect $150-300/year extra: summer AC utilities, winter gear ($100 boots/jackets), flood insurance optional. Essentials: umbrella, rain boots, fans/AC units, de-icer. Duke reimburses some via wellness. Budget via higher-ed-jobs/faculty salary insights.
Humid summers exacerbate allergies; winters pose slip risks. Pollen high in spring affects focus. Duke offers health services, shuttles for rain. Campus life thrives with trails. Environment at Duke University supports wellness. Link to clinical-research-jobs.
Prepare via higher-ed-career-advice.
Students praise Durham weather for mild temps aiding study sessions outdoors, though humidity challenges runs. Many note pollen impacting focus, but campus AC helps. Reviews highlight low hazards allowing worry-free living. Many students discuss how the local climate impacts focus and productivity; read their detailed experiences alongside professor reviews on Rate My Professor at Duke University. Feedback on Rate My Professor ties environment to academic success. Explore Rate My Professor for Duke University insights.
Pair with higher-ed-jobs at Duke or administration-jobs.