Discover Stephens College weather in Columbia, Missouri, where a humid subtropical climate offers distinct four seasons that shape campus life for students, faculty, staff, parents, and job seekers. Summers bring warm temperatures averaging 89°F (32°C) highs with high humidity, ideal for outdoor activities but requiring hydration and sun protection. Winters feature cold snaps with highs around 42°F (6°C) and lows dipping to 24°F (-4°C), occasional snow of about 17 inches annually, and ice storms that can disrupt travel. Spring and fall provide mild transitions with blooming landscapes and comfortable 60-75°F (16-24°C) days, perfect for studying outdoors. Annual precipitation totals 43 inches, mostly from thunderstorms. Environmental factors like good air quality and low altitude around 850 feet enhance liveability, though tornado risks and flooding from the Missouri River nearby demand preparedness. Ratings highlight strong comfort and safety, influencing costs for winter gear and utilities. Explore higher-ed-jobs at Stephens College to plan your move confidently with insights from Academic Jobs in United States, Academic Jobs in Missouri, and Academic Jobs in Columbia.
Columbia experiences a humid subtropical climate with hot, humid summers and cold, wet winters. Average annual temperature is 56°F (13°C), with July highs at 89°F (32°C) and January lows at 24°F (-4°C). Precipitation averages 43 inches yearly, peaking in spring and summer via thunderstorms. Snowfall totals 17 inches, mainly January-February. Extremes include 113°F (45°C) heat in 1936 and -26°F (-32°C) cold in 1899. These patterns affect daily life at Stephens College, from humid study sessions to snowy campus walks, influencing attendance and events. Faculty and students adapt with indoor facilities. Check higher-ed-career-advice for tips on thriving here.
Stephens College aligns campus operations with Missouri's seasons. Spring (March-May): 60-75°F (16-24°C), rainy with 12 inches precip; pollen alerts issued. Summer (June-August): 80-90°F (27-32°C), humid, occasional heat waves; AC-equipped dorms prevent discomfort. Fall (September-November): Crisp 50-70°F (10-21°C), foliage peaks. Winter (December-February): 30-45°F (-1-7°C), 17 inches snow, ice storms; classes may shift online per policy.
Temps 60-90°F (16-32°C). Extra costs: $200/year AC utilities, summer clothing. Safety: Thunderstorm alerts via app.
Temps 30-70°F (-1-21°C). Costs: $300 winter gear, boots, coats. Equipment: Insulated jackets, snow tires recommended.
University provides gear loans; link to university salaries for budgeting.
At 850 feet elevation on rolling Ozark foothills, Columbia has stable geology with no volcanic activity. Air quality is excellent, average AQI 40 (good), thanks to green spaces and winds dispersing pollutants. Low PM2.5 levels support health for Stephens College residents. Occasional ozone in summer, but university monitors and offers indoor air purifiers in labs. 🌳 These factors boost campus wellness programs.
Columbia faces tornadoes (1-2/year nearby), flooding from creeks, severe thunderstorms, and winter ice storms. Droughts rare; wildfires minimal. Stephens College has robust protocols: Sirens, email alerts, shelters in basements. Evacuation plans for floods via Missouri River basin. Annual drills ensure safety.
| Hazard | Frequency | University Measures |
|---|---|---|
| Tornadoes | Occasional | Shelters, alerts |
| Floods | Rare | Evacuation routes |
| Ice Storms | Winterly | Remote classes |
Low overall risk; see Rate My Professor for student safety experiences at Stephens College.
Columbia scores high for liveability, aiding focus at Stephens College. Ratings reflect data on comfort for studies and work.
Strong air and safety ratings support health; moderate precip affects outdoor plans. Job seekers value this for family moves—explore higher-ed-jobs.
Budget $400-600 yearly: Winter coats ($150), boots ($100), umbrellas ($20), higher utilities ($200). Summer AC spikes bills. Insurance covers storm damage. Stephens aids with gear swaps. Link to free-resume-template for career funding.
Mild climate reduces respiratory issues, but humidity worsens allergies; campus clinic provides care. Transportation: Buses halt in snow; biking ideal in fall. Vibrant campus life thrives year-round. Read Rate My Professor at Stephens College for wellness insights.
Prep via higher-ed-career-advice.
Students at Stephens College appreciate the four-season variety, noting mild falls enhance outdoor study groups, though humid summers challenge focus in non-AC spaces. Winters bring cozy library vibes but occasional ice disrupts commutes. Many discuss how the local climate impacts productivity and health; read their detailed experiences alongside professor reviews on Rate My Professor at Stephens College. Air quality supports active lifestyles, boosting campus spirit. Faculty echo comfort for research outdoors. Rate My Professor reveals how environment shapes Stephens life.
Considering a role? View higher-ed-jobs at Stephens College and professor-salaries.
