Discover Southern Illinois University weather and environmental conditions in Carbondale, Illinois, a key factor for students, faculty, and job seekers considering life at SIU. Nestled in southern Illinois at about 410 feet elevation, Carbondale features a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons: hot, humid summers averaging 88°F (31°C) highs, mild falls, chilly winters with 43°F (6°C) highs and around 14 inches of snow, and warm springs. Annual precipitation totals about 46 inches, influencing campus activities and outdoor research. While academic jobs in Carbondale thrive in this setting, potential job seekers should note occasional severe weather impacts on commute and costs. Environmental factors like good air quality (average AQI 40) and low pollution support healthy living, though tornadoes and floods pose risks. Liveability ratings highlight comfort for studies, with resources on Rate My Professor at Southern Illinois University sharing student insights. Explore higher ed jobs at SIU while preparing for the local climate. AcademicJobs.com provides tools like higher ed career advice to ease your transition. Check academic jobs in United States and Illinois university jobs for more opportunities.
Carbondale's weather offers mild conditions ideal for campus life at Southern Illinois University. Average annual temperatures range from 32°F (0°C) in January to 88°F (31°C) in July, with comfortable spring and fall months supporting outdoor events. Precipitation averages 46 inches yearly, mostly rain, with 14 inches of snow in winter. Extremes include record highs of 109°F (43°C) and lows of -19°F (-28°C). These patterns affect daily routines, from humid summers requiring hydration to icy winters impacting travel. For those eyeing faculty jobs, understanding weather in Carbondale aids planning. Links to Carbondale academic jobs and broader university jobs help connect climate insights to career moves.
At Southern Illinois University, seasonal shifts shape campus life. Summers (June-August) bring highs of 88°F (31°C) and high humidity, often needing AC; winters (December-February) see 43°F (6°C) highs, 20°F (-7°C) lows, and snow, prompting utility spikes. Spring and fall offer 60-75°F (16-24°C) ideals for studies.
Hot and humid; extra costs for AC ($100-200/month). Safety: Sunscreen, hydration.
Cold with ice; boots, coats ($300+). SIU closes for severe storms.
Mild rain; umbrellas needed. Pollen affects allergies.
Comfortable; light jackets. Peak foliage enhances campus.
These patterns influence adjunct professor jobs schedules. Students share tips on Rate My Professor.
Carbondale sits at 410 ft elevation on flat glacial plains near Shawnee Hills, with no volcanic activity. Air quality is good (AQI 30-50 yearly average), low PM2.5 levels support health for SIU faculty and students. Geology features stable limestone bedrock, minimal earthquakes. Pollution is low due to rural surroundings, though traffic adds occasional spikes. SIU promotes sustainability with green initiatives. For research jobs, clean air aids outdoor work. Insights from Rate My Professor at Southern Illinois University note positive living impacts.
Carbondale faces tornadoes (1-2/year in county), floods from Big Muddy River, severe thunderstorms, and rare ice storms. No wildfires or earthquakes common.
| Hazard | Risk Level | SIU Measures |
|---|---|---|
| Tornadoes | Moderate | Sirens, basements, alerts via SalukiNet |
| Floods | Low-Moderate | Evacuation plans, sandbags |
| Thunderstorms | High Frequency | Indoor shelters, power backups |
| Ice Storms | Occasional | Road closures, heating aid |
SIU's emergency protocols ensure safety. Job seekers can review higher ed career advice for relocation prep.
Ratings for Southern Illinois University location based on climate data:
High ratings enhance faculty productivity; students on Rate My Professor praise balance for campus life. Links to professor salaries contextualize costs.
Expect $200-400 yearly for winter gear (coats, boots), $150+ summer AC, higher utilities ($250/month winter). Insurance may rise for flood zones. Essentials: Rain jackets, sturdy shoes, de-icer. Budget for these aids postdoc jobs planning. AcademicJobs.com's free resume template helps secure positions covering extras.
Humid summers increase allergies/mosquitoes; winter cold raises flu risks—SIU Health Services provides vaccines. Good air quality minimizes respiratory issues. Campus transport adapts with shuttles during storms. Environment supports active lifestyles, enhancing studies. Faculty note productivity in mild weather on Rate My Professor at Southern Illinois University. Explore clinical research jobs here.
Prep ensures smooth transition for lecturer jobs.
Students at Southern Illinois University often highlight how Carbondale's humid subtropical climate influences daily focus and outdoor activities. Many appreciate mild falls for tailgates but note humid summers challenging concentration without AC in dorms. Winters bring occasional snow days, extending study breaks, while spring floods rarely disrupt but teach preparedness. Reviews emphasize clean air aiding health during long library sessions, though tornado drills build resilience. Many students discuss how the local environment impacts productivity and campus enjoyment; read their detailed experiences alongside professor reviews on Rate My Professor at Southern Illinois University.
These insights pair well with higher ed jobs at SIU searches on AcademicJobs.com.
