We know the question on your mind, Madisonians — when’s it going to get hot? Thanks to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Climate Prediction Center, we know what temperatures and precipitation trends to expect in our city for June, July, and August.
While exact weather conditions typically can’t be predicted more than a week in advance, here’s a seasonal outlook to help you prepare for what summer will bring.
Reminder: The first day of summer is Thursday, June 20.
Expect a warmer summer in 2024, Madison. | Map via NOAA
🌡️ Temperature
Think hot. This summer, Madison has a 33-40% chance of temperatures being higher than normal.
🌨️ Precipitation
Expect about average precipitation. Madison has a 50% chance of seeing average amounts of rainfall this summer.
☀️ Drought
Drought conditions are expected to improve this season.
Over the moon with June
June’s average temperatures fluctuate between a low of 59° and a high of 79°, but expect to see more of those near-80° days this year.
If you want more heat, we have some good news: The average high rises in both July and August. Pro tip: June has an average daily maximum UV index of 5, so don’t slack on the sunscreen.
July will edify
In July, the average high and low temps are between 82° and 63°. We’re expected to get maybe seven days of rain, so plan for plenty of clear days (perfect for a zoo day or kayaking).
August is a summer must
Summer lovers, get ready for one of the most delightful months of the year in Madison. With an average of 24 sunny days, there will be plenty of opportunities to relax at Memorial Union Terrace, visit one of Madison’s 270+ parks, or visit the Dane County Farmers’ Market (just get there early).
Make the most of the sunny days
There’s no shortage of things to do in Madison this summer. Here are just a few events our team is eyeing.
Festival Foods Lights the Isthmus | Saturday, June 29 | 6-10 p.m. | Breese Stevens Field, 917 E. Mifflin St. | $13-$95 | There will be live music, food, beverages, games, and, of course, a fireworks extravaganza.
La Fête de Marquette | Thursday, July 11-Sunday, July 14 | Times vary | McPike Park, 202 S. Ingersoll St. | Free | City Editor Jonathan’s favorite festival in Madison, the festival explodes with music you might hear down in NOLA, including performances by Hurray for the Riff Raff, Cimafunk, and David Hecht & The Who Dat.
Sun Prairie Sweet Corn Festival | Wednesday, Aug. 14-Sunday, Aug. 18 | Times vary | Angell Park, 200 Park St., Sun Prairie | Free | There are 80 tons of sweet corn at this festival (no, that’s not a typo). Come for a parade, family fun, a carnival, and lots of corn.
