Considering the University of Maryland at College Park weather? Nestled in College Park, Maryland, UMD experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons that influence campus life, studies, and outdoor activities. Summers bring hot, humid days averaging 89°F (32°C) highs with frequent thunderstorms, while winters feature cold snaps dipping to 27°F (-3°C) lows and about 17 inches (43 cm) of annual snowfall. Spring and fall offer mild, comfortable weather ideal for tailgating at Byrd Stadium or studying outdoors. Environmental factors like moderate air quality (average AQI 45) and low elevation (around 100 ft or 30 m) contribute to a liveable setting near Washington, D.C. However, occasional floods and nor'easters pose risks, prompting robust university safety protocols. Liveability ratings highlight strong comfort (4/5 stars) but note precipitation challenges (3/5). For job seekers eyeing faculty or staff roles, understanding weather in College Park helps plan for costs like winter gear ($200-400/year) and utilities. Explore higher-ed-jobs at UMD and prepare confidently with AcademicJobs.com resources, including professor insights via Rate My Professor.
College Park weather features average annual temperatures of 56°F (13°C), with highs reaching 89°F (32°C) in July and lows at 27°F (-3°C) in January. Precipitation totals 43 inches (109 cm) yearly, including 17 inches (43 cm) of snow. Humidity peaks in summer, often exceeding 70%, impacting comfort during outdoor events at University of Maryland at College Park. Extremes include record highs of 106°F (41°C) and lows of -9°F (-23°C). These patterns affect commuting on Route 1 and campus shuttles. For broader context, check Academic Jobs in United States, Maryland, or College Park.
Spring (March-May) brings 60-75°F (16-24°C) temps and blooming cherry blossoms, perfect for classes but with 10 inches (25 cm) rain. Summer (June-August) hits 80-90°F (27-32°C) with high humidity, prompting UMD's cooling centers. Fall (Sept-Nov) offers crisp 50-70°F (10-21°C) days ideal for football games. Winter (Dec-Feb) sees 30-45°F (-1-7°C) with ice storms; university delays classes via alerts. Extra costs: $150-300/year for coats/heaters. Safety gear includes salt for walks; UMD provides snow removal.
60-75°F (16-24°C), rainy. Pollen high.
80-90°F (27-32°C), humid. Thunderstorms frequent.
50-70°F (10-21°C), mild. Peak foliage.
30-45°F (-1-7°C), snowy. Nor'easters possible.
These patterns influence higher-ed-career-advice; read student views on Rate My Professor at UMD.
At 100 ft (30 m) elevation on the Atlantic Coastal Plain, College Park has stable geology with no volcanoes or quakes. Air quality is good (AQI 30-60), better than urban D.C., thanks to green spaces like Paint Branch Park. Pollution from traffic on I-495 raises PM2.5 occasionally, but UMD's sustainability initiatives include electric shuttles. Health impacts minimal for most; pollen allergies common in spring. Compare via Academic Jobs in College Park.
Low risk overall: floods from Anacostia River (every 5-10 years), winter storms, rare tornadoes (EF1 max). No wildfires or droughts. UMD's Emergency Operations Plan includes alerts via Terrapin Ready app, evacuation to high ground, and shelters in dorms.
| Hazard | Frequency | UMD Response |
|---|---|---|
| Floods | Occasional | Barriers, alerts |
| Snowstorms | Annual | Closures, plowing |
| Severe Thunderstorms | Summer | Sirens, indoor shelter |
Details in university-salaries context.
Ratings for environment at University of Maryland at College Park based on data: Students enjoy mild seasons but manage rain/snow.
Mild averages suit studies.
Rain/snow disrupts walks.
Generally clean, green campus helps.
Low risks, prepared protocols.
High for faculty; boosts productivity. See Rate My Professor for UMD experiences. Explore professor-salaries.
Budget $200-500/year: raincoats ($50), boots ($100), heaters/AC ($150 utilities spike). Insurance covers storm damage. UMD recommends umbrellas for rain, layers for variable temps. Ties to higher-ed-jobs/faculty planning.
Humidity aids skin but worsens allergies; snow causes slips—UMD Health Center treats. Transportation: Free Loop bus reliable in rain. Campus life thrives in fall; winters push indoor study. Resources via academic-calendar. Links to US academic jobs.
Prep aids research-jobs focus.
Many students at University of Maryland at College Park discuss how the local College Park climate impacts focus and productivity—summers motivate AC-equipped libraries, winters test resilience with blizzards closing routes. Reviews highlight appreciation for spring vibes enhancing group projects, though humidity frustrates runners. College Park air quality supports outdoor yoga, but floods occasionally cancel events. Read their detailed experiences alongside professor reviews on Rate My Professor. Faculty note mild weather aids recruitment; check higher-ed-jobs.
