
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill weather offers a mild humid subtropical climate ideal for campus life in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. With average annual temperatures around 60°F (16°C), hot summers reaching 89°F (32°C), and mild winters at 51°F (11°C) highs, the environment supports outdoor activities year-round. However, frequent rainfall averaging 47 inches annually and occasional tropical storms influence daily routines. Environmental factors like good air quality and low pollution enhance liveability, though hazards such as flooding from hurricanes require preparedness. Ratings highlight strong comfort and safety, making it appealing for students and faculty. Parents and job seekers considering Academic Jobs in Chapel Hill, Academic Jobs in North Carolina, or Academic Jobs in United States will find this overview valuable. Discover how the higher-ed-jobs at UNC align with this climate by exploring openings tailored for educators and researchers.
Chapel Hill weather features mild conditions with four distinct seasons. Annual highs average 71°F (22°C), lows 49°F (9°C), and precipitation totals 46.9 inches, distributed evenly. Summers are warm and humid, winters rarely dip below freezing, with snowfall around 4.5 inches yearly. Extremes include a record high of 104°F (40°C) and low of -2°F (-19°C). These patterns affect campus events at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, promoting outdoor studying but requiring rain gear. For more on Chapel Hill environment, check related location insights.
Temperatures rise from 52°F (11°C) to 73°F (23°C), with 3.5 inches rain. Pollen peaks, but blooming campuses boost morale. UNC adjusts outdoor classes.
Hot and humid, highs 89°F (32°C), lows 68°F (20°C), 4.5 inches rain monthly. AC units essential; utilities rise $50-100/month. Hydration key for athletes.
Comfortable 73°F (23°C) to 52°F (11°C), 3 inches rain. Football season thrives; light jackets needed for evenings.
Mild highs 51°F (11°C), lows 30°F (-1°C), occasional ice. Snow rare; campus rarely closes. Winter coats ($100-200) advised.
Safety includes UNC weather alerts; equipment like umbrellas ($20) and boots ($50) add costs. Link to higher-ed-career-advice for relocation tips.
At 512 feet elevation in the Piedmont geology, Chapel Hill has stable terrain, no volcanoes. Air quality excels with AQI averaging 40 (good), low pollution from urban greenery. PM2.5 levels below national averages support health for UNC faculty and students. University sustainability initiatives reduce campus emissions.
| Hazard | Frequency | UNC Protocols |
|---|---|---|
| Flooding (Hurricanes) | Occasional (e.g., Florence 2018) | Evacuation plans, alerts |
| Ice Storms | 1-2/year | Campus closures, salting |
| Tornadoes | Rare | Shelters, sirens |
| Droughts | Infrequent | Water conservation |
Low fire risk due to humidity. Visit Rate My Professor for student safety experiences at UNC.
Extra costs: Rain gear $50-100, winter clothing $150-300, higher summer utilities $75/month. Insurance for floods ~$100/year add-on. Essentials: Umbrellas, waterproof boots, fans/AC. Budget for these when relocating for higher-ed-jobs/faculty at UNC.
Mild weather minimizes respiratory issues, but humidity aids allergies. Good air quality supports active campus life; bike paths thrive. Transportation: Rain delays buses, but walkability high. UNC health services offer pollen alerts. Impacts studies positively for most.
Students at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill often praise the mild weather in Chapel Hill for enhancing focus during mild falls and springs, though summer humidity and winter rains challenge commutes. Many discuss how the local climate impacts productivity and outdoor study sessions; read their detailed experiences alongside professor reviews on Rate My Professor. Feedback highlights clean air quality Chapel Hill and low natural hazards Chapel Hill as boosts to liveability Chapel Hill. Job seekers note environment University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill supports work-life balance.
Explore higher-ed-jobs, professor-jobs, and research-jobs at UNC. Check Rate My Professor for UNC insights and the-university-rankings.