Weather in Lakeland: Climate, Seasons, and Average Monthly Temperature

Right between Tampa and Orlando, Lakeland, Florida, is home of the annual Sun N' Fun Fly-in and the largest collection of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture, making it a great place for history and art lovers alike. The weather in Lakeland is often nearly perfect. Whether strolling the Promenade at Lake Mirror Park or taking in a Tigers' home spring training game, you'll find the Central Florida city's average high temperature of 85 degrees Fahrenheit and its average low of 63 degrees Fahrenheit comfortable.

Of course, there are always extremes when it comes to the weather. The highest recorded temperature in Lakeland was 105 degrees Fahrenheit in 1985, and the lowest recorded temperature was a very chilly and freezing 27 degrees Fahrenheit in 2008. On average, Lakeland's warmest month is July and coolest month is January, while July gets the most rain on average.

If you're wondering what to pack for your getaway or vacation, the best advice is to check the current weather forecast and pack appropriate clothing for temperatures and your planned activities. Do bring along a bathing suit since most hotel swimming pools are heated and sunbathing is hardly ever out of the question.

Fast Climate Facts

• Warmest Month: July, average 84 degrees Fahrenheit (29 degrees Celsius)
• Coldest Month: January, average 62.5 degrees Fahrenheit (17 degrees Celsius)
• Wettest Month: July, 7.5 inches

Hurricane Season in Lakeland

The Atlantic Hurricane Season begins June 1 and runs through November 30. Lakeland was affected by Hurricane Irma in 2017, but before that, had not seen an active hurricane since 2004. If you visit during hurricane season, check with your hotel and travel provider about your options in case a hurricane affects your trip. Travel insurance isn't a bad option either.

Spring in Lakeland

Temperatures warm up quite quickly in Lakeland so by mid-April, you can expect plenty of heat and humidity to match. Spring months received moderate rainfall, but not typically enough to affect your trip. March is the windiest month, with breezes averaging 7.5 miles per hour.

What to pack: On most days, shorts and light blouses or shirts will be plenty. You can also bring a light sweatshirt or jacket, just in case the evening temperatures drop below 60 degrees Fahrenheit, as is common in March and early April.

Average Temperatures and Rainfall by Month

March: 82 F (27 C) / 56 F (13 C), 3.4 inches

April: 86 F (30 C) / 60 F (16 C), 2.1 inches

May: 91 F (33 C) / 67 F (19 C), 3.8 inches

Summer in Lakeland

Summers in Lakeland are hot, wet, and muggy. Temperatures are regularly above 90 degrees Fahrenheit, and can sometimes creep above 100. Nights are slightly cooler. Summer is also the rainiest season, with June, July, and August all receiving more than seven inches of rain. If you are traveling to Lakeland during the summer months, frequent afternoon thunderstorms may affect any outdoor plans you may have. It is important to note that those storms often produce dangerous lightning that poses a serious risk of injury or death unless you take the appropriate steps to protect yourself.

What to pack: Bring lightweight, breathable pieces of clothing, preferably those that are made from moisture-wicking materials. Linen and cotton are good choices. Don't forget sunscreen and insect repellant.

Average Temperatures and Rainfall by Month

June: 94 F (34 C) / 72 F (22 C), 7 inches

July: 95 F (35 C) / 73 F (23 C), 7.5 inches

August: 94 F (34 C) / 74 F (23 C), 7.3 inches

Fall in Lakeland

Fall temperatures are still reasonably warm, especially in September, but as temperatures drop, the weather becomes much more pleasant. There is always a slight risk of hurricanes during the fall, but overall, this is a nice season to visit with few crowds.

What to pack: Early in the fall, you'll want to pack the light layers of clothes you'd bring for summer, but as temperatures drop into October and November, you'll want to add a jacket or sweatshirt for the cooler evenings.

Average Temperatures and Rainfall by Month

September: 92 F (33 C) / 73 F (23 C), 6.3 inches

October: 87 F (31 C) / 66 F (19 C), 2.3 inches

November: 80 F (27 C) / 59 F (15 C), 2.1 inches

Winter in Lakeland

Lakeland never gets extremely cold, making it a great winter destination. It also receives minimal rain during the winter months and no snow. Precipitation falls on two days out of the month on average. Days are clear, with temperatures usually above 70 degrees Fahrenheit and dropping down into the 50s at night.

What to pack: Jeans and T-shirts are comfortable day-time attire in Lakeland, especially given the season's relative lack of humidity. Pack a sweater or two along with a light jacket to account for the evening's temperature decreases.

Average Temperatures and Rainfall by Month

December: 75 F (24 C) / 53 F (12 C), 2.1 inches

January: 74 F (23 C) / 51 F (11 C), 2.4 inches

February: 76 F (24 C) / 52 F (11 C), 2.7 inches