Climate trends at Philadelphia (1941–2025)
Philadelphia, a vibrant city with a population of over 5.6 million, has been experiencing significant climate changes over the decades. The data from the Philadelphia International Airport station, spanning from 1941 to 2025, reveals a warming trend that is concerning. Notably, the average temperature in the first decade of observations (1941–1951) was 12.62°C, while the last decade (2016–2025) shows an increase to 14.39°C, marking a delta of 1.77°C.
Trend Summary
From 1980 to 2025, Philadelphia has seen an approximate warming of 1.91°C. The average temperature for the recent decade (2016–2025) is 14.4°C, which is 0.57°C higher than the previous decade (2006–2015). This trend highlights a significant shift in climate patterns in the region.
Climate change impacts
As temperatures continue to rise, Philadelphia may face increased risks of heat waves and droughts, which can impact the health and well-being of its residents. These changes necessitate attention to sustainability and climate resilience strategies.
Comparison vs National Benchmark and Paris
When compared to the national average for the top 500 cities, which is 15.02°C (1991–2020), Philadelphia's average temperature of 14.42°C (2015–2024) is slightly below this benchmark. Additionally, Philadelphia's temperatures are 1.08°C warmer than those in Paris, indicating a notable regional difference.
Top-5 Warm Years
- 2024: 14.93°C
- 2012: 14.90°C
- 2023: 14.74°C
- 2016: 14.65°C
- 2021: 14.53°C
The record coldest temperature recorded in Philadelphia was 11.05°C in 1963, a stark contrast to the recent warm years.
For further details, you can access the raw data in CSV format or JSON format. Explore more about climate trends in your area by visiting our interactive map.