Ithy - A Comprehensive Look at Roseburg, Oregon's Year-Round Climate

Roseburg, Oregon, nestled in the scenic Umpqua River Valley, experiences a fascinating climate often described as a Mediterranean warm summer climate (Köppen-Geiger classification: Csb). This means residents and visitors can expect mild, generally warm, and temperate conditions throughout the year, with distinct wet winters and dry, warm summers. As a lifelong resident or an astute observer, a weatherman would highlight the nuanced shifts in temperature and precipitation that define each season, making Roseburg an area with a unique weather pattern in the Pacific Northwest.

Key Climatic Highlights of Roseburg, Oregon

Mild and Temperate Overall: Roseburg's climate is characterized by its overall mildness, avoiding extreme temperatures year-round.
Distinct Wet Winters and Dry Summers: The city experiences a clear division between its rainier winter months and significantly drier, warmer summers.
Average Precipitation Slightly Below National Average: While perceived as rainy, Roseburg's average annual precipitation is often slightly less than the U.S. national average.

Unpacking Roseburg's Seasons

To truly understand Roseburg's weather, one must break it down by season. Each period of the year presents its own set of atmospheric conditions, influencing daily life and outdoor activities.

Spring: A Gradual Transition

Spring in Roseburg, typically from March to May, marks a gentle transition from the wetness of winter to the warmth of summer. Temperatures begin to rise steadily, moving away from the chilly winter lows. While still experiencing a fair number of wet days, the intensity and frequency of precipitation decrease compared to the peak winter months. Mornings can still be overcast or foggy, but skies tend to clear by late morning or midday, offering increasingly pleasant afternoons. This period sees an increase in daylight hours, preparing the region for its sunny summer stretch.

Willamette Valley in Spring near Roseburg, Oregon

The lush Willamette Valley, indicative of the vibrant spring scenery around Roseburg.

Summer: Warm, Dry, and Mostly Clear

The summer season in Roseburg, lasting approximately from late June to mid-September, is characterized by warm, dry, and predominantly clear conditions. This is the hottest time of the year, with average daily high temperatures often exceeding 79°F (26°C), and July and August typically seeing the warmest temperatures, sometimes reaching averages of 86°F (30°C). Precipitation is at its lowest during July, with minimal rainfall. Humidity levels remain comfortable, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. The days are long, with July experiencing the most daily hours of sunshine, averaging around 11.48 hours. It's a prime time for tourism and enjoying the natural beauty of the Umpqua Valley.

Umpqua River in Roseburg, Oregon during Summer

The Umpqua River under clear summer skies, a popular spot for recreation.

Autumn: Crisp Air and Changing Colors

Autumn, from September through November, is often cited as a favorite season by locals due to its picturesque qualities. Temperatures cool down significantly, leading to pleasant "sweater weather" days. The region's lush greenery transitions to vibrant fall colors, creating a beautiful landscape. While precipitation begins to increase as the season progresses, the early fall months still offer ample clear days. This period marks the beginning of the wetter season, which extends from October 18 to May 3, indicating a rising chance of rainy days. However, the mild temperatures and scenic beauty make it an appealing time for visits.

Winter: Cold, Wet, and Overcast

Roseburg's winters, typically from December to February, are described as very cold, wet, and often overcast. Average low temperatures in January can drop to around 33°F (1°C), with ambient temperatures rarely falling below 26°F (-3°C) or rising above 97°F (36°C) throughout the year. These months experience the most significant rainfall, with December often being the wettest month, averaging around 7.9 inches (201 mm) of precipitation. Snowfall is also observed, with February typically recording the most substantial amount at an average of 0.39 inches (10 mm). Despite the rain and cooler temperatures, the climate remains mild compared to many other parts of the United States, and days often see highs in the upper 40s to low 50s. January experiences the fewest daily sunshine hours, averaging around 4.87 hours.

Annual Climate Averages and Extremes

A statistical overview provides further insight into Roseburg's climatic patterns. The city's elevation, approximately 425 feet (130 meters) above sea level, also plays a role in its weather dynamics.

Temperature Trends

The mean annual temperature in Roseburg is around 54.1°F (12.3°C). Over the course of the year, temperatures generally fluctuate between a low of 36°F (2°C) and a high of 89°F (32°C). The hot season, with daily highs above 79°F (26°C), lasts for nearly three months from late June to late September. The coldest months are December and January, where average low temperatures can hover around 33-36°F (0-2°C) at night. The all-time recorded high for Roseburg was 114°F (45.6°C) on June 27, 2021.

Precipitation Patterns

Roseburg receives an average annual precipitation ranging from 28 to 36 inches (710 to 914 mm), which is slightly below or comparable to the national average of 38 inches per year. While the perception might be that it rains heavily, the total annual rainfall is not exceptionally high. However, the number of "wet days" is notable, with an average of 138 days per year experiencing measurable rainfall. The wettest season spans from October to early May. Snowfall is minimal but occurs, particularly in December, January, and February.

Below is a summary of key annual climate data for Roseburg:

Climate Metric	Average Value	Notes
Mean Annual Temperature	54.1°F (12.3°C)	Generally mild year-round
Average Annual Precipitation	28-36 inches (710-914 mm)	Primarily rain, slightly below national average
Average Rainy Days Per Year	~138 days	Winters are significantly wetter than summers
Hottest Month Average High	86°F (30°C) in July	Warm, dry summers
Coldest Month Average Low	33°F (1°C) in January	Cool, wet winters
Average Annual Sunshine Hours	2778.79 hours	July is the sunniest month

Climate Performance Radar

To further illustrate the distinct characteristics of Roseburg's climate across various parameters, consider the following radar chart. This chart provides an opinionated analysis of how different aspects of Roseburg's weather perform relative to each other throughout the year, offering a visual summary of its climatic strengths and weaknesses from a human comfort and activity perspective.

This radar chart visually represents how Roseburg's climate characteristics, such as the intensity of summer warmth and winter chill, rainfall patterns, and sunshine hours, compare to an idealized temperate climate profile. It highlights Roseburg's strong performance in summer warmth and humidity comfort, while also showing its relatively higher rainfall intensity during winters compared to an ideal. The annual precipitation, while not extreme, contributes to the "wet" perception, especially during the rainier months.

A Local's Perspective on Roseburg's Weather

For those considering a move or visit, a local perspective often fills in the gaps left by raw data. Anthony Beckham, a lifelong resident of Roseburg, emphasizes that while the city does receive rain year-round, it typically averages around 36 inches of precipitation per year, which is slightly above the national average of 30 inches. He notes that mornings can often be foggy or overcast, especially in cooler months, but skies frequently clear by late morning or midday, providing ample sunshine. This combination of mild temperatures and sunshine supports Roseburg's reputation as a "small-city paradise" in the Pacific Northwest, known for its temperate climate.

A comprehensive guide to Roseburg, Oregon's year-round weather, highlighting seasonal expectations.

This video provides an excellent visual and narrative account from a local resident, offering practical insights into what one can expect from Roseburg's weather throughout the year. It reinforces the idea of Roseburg having mild weather patterns, even during winter, with days often reaching the high 50s Fahrenheit.

Beyond the Numbers: Climate Classification

Roseburg's climate is classified as a Mediterranean warm summer climate (Csb) under the Köppen-Geiger system. This classification signifies a climate with dry, warm summers and mild, wet winters. This type of climate is characterized by average temperatures of the warmest month above 71.6°F (22°C), and at least four months with average temperatures above 50°F (10°C). Furthermore, it has a dry season in summer, with the driest summer month receiving less than 1.6 inches (40 mm) of precipitation and less than one-third of the wettest winter month's precipitation.

This classification distinguishes Roseburg from areas with more extreme temperature variations or uniform precipitation throughout the year, emphasizing its unique balance of seasons that contribute to its livability and natural beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the hottest month in Roseburg, Oregon?

August is typically the hottest month in Roseburg, with average temperatures around 67.5°F (19.7°C), while July also experiences high temperatures, averaging 86°F (30°C) for its daily high.

How much rain does Roseburg, Oregon, get annually?

Roseburg receives an average annual precipitation of 28 to 36 inches (710 to 914 mm). This is comparable to, or slightly less than, the U.S. national average.

Does it snow in Roseburg, Oregon?

Yes, Roseburg does experience snowfall, though it is generally minimal. February typically records the most substantial snowfall at an average of 0.39 inches (10mm).

What is the coldest month in Roseburg, Oregon?

January is generally the coldest month in Roseburg, with average low temperatures around 33°F (1°C).

What is the best time of year to visit Roseburg for warm weather activities?

Based on the tourism score, the best time of year to visit Roseburg for warm-weather activities is during the summer months, particularly July, August, and September, when the weather is warm, dry, and mostly clear.

Conclusion

In summary, a weatherman would describe Roseburg, Oregon's year-round weather as a mild and temperate Mediterranean warm summer climate. This means distinct seasons: wet and cool winters, and warm, dry, and clear summers. While precipitation is a consistent feature, especially in winter, the total annual rainfall is not excessive, and the city enjoys a good amount of sunshine throughout the year, particularly during its pleasant summer months. This balance creates a comfortable and appealing environment, contributing to Roseburg's reputation as a desirable location in the Pacific Northwest.