Discover the Hottest Temperature Ever Recorded in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania has a rich history, cultural diversity, and a range of attractions, making it a popular destination for residents, students, and tourists. It’s the home of Independence Hall, where the founders debated and adopted the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution. Before visiting the city, it’s essential to know what weather and climate patterns are like in the town of the liberty bell. In this article, you will discover the hottest temperature ever recorded in Pennsylvania history and the climate and weather patterns Pennsylvania experiences.

Hottest Temperature Ever Recorded in Pennsylvania History

A long time ago, between July 9th and July 10th, 1936, temperatures reached a record-breaking 111 degrees in Phoenixville, Pennsylvania, making it the hottest temperature ever recorded, and no day has ranked that close since. Historians call this era the Dust Bowl years in the United States, when a heat wave swept through the United States, causing more than five thousand deaths. 

Coldest Temperatures Ever Recorded in Pennsylvania History

The coldest temperature ever recorded in Pennsylvania happened in January 1904 in Mckean County, where the temperature dipped to -42 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Pennsylvania Climate 

People frequently mistake weather and climate as the same thing, despite their distinctiveness. Weather pertains to the immediate atmospheric conditions, while climate refers to the long-term characteristics of the atmosphere.

The climate in Pennsylvania can vary significantly from region to region due to the state’s diverse geographical features. Generally, the climate is considered humid continental, meaning it experiences four distinct seasons. Pennsylvania experiences hot and humid summers, with daytime temperatures often soaring into the high 80s and 90s. Conversely, winters in the state are characterized by cold conditions and regular snowfall, averaging around 38 inches per year. Some areas in the state receive over 100 inches. August, June, and September are the most pleasant months in Pennsylvania, while January and February are the least comfortable months.

Summers 

Summers in Pennsylvania are typically hot and humid. Average temperatures range from the high 70s to the low 90s. Thunderstorms are common during this time of year, especially in the afternoon and evening. There are 179 sunny days per year in Pennsylvania. The US average is 205. The July high is around 83 degrees.

Winters 

Winters in Pennsylvania are cold and snowy, particularly in the northern and western parts of the state. Average temperatures range from the mid-20s to mid-40s with significant snowfall. The January low is 19 degrees. 

Spring 

Spring brings milder temperatures to the keystone state, with average highs ranging from the 50s to the 70s. This is a transition period with increasing rainfall and occasional thunderstorms. The blossoming of flowers and trees marks the season.

Autumn 

Autumn in Pennsylvania is known for its beautiful foliage as the leaves change colors. Temperatures finally cool down after a relatively hot summer to average highs ranging from the 60s to the 70s. Fall is a drier season compared to the others. 

Wildlife 

Pennsylvania mammals include black bears, elk, red foxes, and white-tailed deer. Golden eagles, peregrine falcons, and redheaded woodpeckers overhead, with reptiles like the eastern spiny softshell turtles, northern coal skinks, and venomous eastern Massasauga rattlesnakes creep and slither on land. 

Forests cover Pennsylvania with various growing trees, including the eastern white pine, red maple, sycamore, and eastern hemlock (the state tree). Wild bergamot, wild bleeding heart, black-eyed Susan, and Penngift Crownvetch are among the state’s many wildflowers.

Fun Facts about Pennsylvania 

1. Pennsylvania played a crucial role in the founding of the United States. The Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution were drafted and signed in Philadelphia, making it the birthplace of American democracy. 
2. The largest city, Philadelphia, has iconic landmarks like the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
3. Pennsylvania is known as the chocolate capital of the US. The Hershey Company, headquartered in Hershey, Pennsylvania, is one of the world’s largest and most famous chocolate manufacturers. 
4. Pennsylvania is a combination of Latin words that together mean Penn’s woods. William Penn created the name to honor his father. 
5. Pennsylvania is one of the top states for coal mining. It also has the largest reserve of anthracite coal (a tough, pure variety) in the nation.
6. The state is known for handmade pretzels, initially brought by German settlers, whoopie pies, and Philly cheesesteaks. 
7. Washington Crossing State Park is where George Washington led his troops across the Delaware River and sprang a successful sneak attack during the Revolutionary War.
8. The state’s many famous folks include James Buchanan, America’s fifteenth president; impressionist painter Mary Cassatt; flag maker Betsy Ross; author Louisa Alcott; and pioneer Daniel Boone.  

The photo featured at the top of this post is © iStock.com/Milos Subasic