If you’re planning to come to Baton Rouge, also known as the Red Stick, which is ALSO Louisiana’s capital city, understanding Baton Rouge weather is critical for being properly prepared for your visit. From sweltering summers to temperature-swinging winters, the city’s humid subtropical climate presents unique challenges and considerations for both visitors and residents alike.
Check out the National Weather Services’ current radar for Baton Rouge:
Press the ▶ button to activate the radar. Paying attention to the weather radar is a hobby for many Red Stick folks.
Humidity in Baton Rouge Determines Everything About the Weather
Baton Rouge’s weather can be summed up in a few words: hot, humid, wet, and usually… not great. Even winter, which typically is considered “mild” compared to other winter climates can become icy; the feel of the cold can be piercing because of (you guessed it) the humidity. Located just 80 miles from the Gulf of America, the city experiences a humid subtropical climate (our official Kӧppen climate classification) that brings year-round moisture and warmth.
Water, bayous, swamps, and marshlands are all abundant in Baton Rouge, and when combined with heat, contribute to the frequently muggy conditions. Throughout the year, it is typical for the humidity percentage to range between 70% to 80% (ugh.)
If you have never experienced humid conditions like those of Baton Rouge, you should know that humidity intensifies the feeling of temperature, regardless of the thermometer. In other words, humidity makes the hot days feel hotter and the cold days feel colder.
Baton Rouge Has a Long Summer; Some Winter; Not Much Spring or Fall
Regardless of what the calendar says, you can count on Baton Rouge experiencing a long summer (generally May to October are hot and humid, peaking in July and August); a week or two of fall conditions; winter kicks in during November, December, January; February is up for grabs (will it be hot? Cold? A whiplash between the two?); March and April can offer a semblance of Spring.
We’ve already covered the humidity, but it should also be mentioned that it frequently rains in Baton Rouge, too. The average annual rainfall for Baton Rouge tops 60 inches per year. (141 cm)
Let’s dive into the Baton Rouge seasons a little more in depth.
Baton Rouge Summer Averages Highs of 90 with 85% Humidity
Let’s be honest: summer in Baton Rouge is not for the faint of heart. Daily high temperatures consistently hover between 90-95°F (32-35°C), with humidity levels frequently exceeding 85%. These conditions combine to create heat index values that can make it feel like 100-110°F (38-43°C) on many days. Morning temperatures rarely dip below 75°F (24°C), offering little relief from the heat.
The high humidity means two things: your hair will likely frizz, and you’ll want to plan indoor activities during peak afternoon hours. Local tip: keep an umbrella handy, as thunderstorms are common, often appearing with little warning.
When do these conditions exist? May; June; July; August; September
Baton Rouge Fall Comes in Mid-October
Blink and you’ll miss it, but Fall brings the first hint of relief from summer’s oppressive heat. October and November are generally considered pleasant months in Baton Rouge, with average highs dropping to the mid-70s to low 80s°F (24-28°C) and humidity levels becoming more bearable. Morning temperatures can dip into the refreshing 50s°F (10-15°C), making this the perfect time for outdoor activities.
When do these conditions exist? October (often mid-October) and the first part of November
Baton Rouge Winters are Mild and Wet
Winters in Baton Rouge are mild by national standards but can be surprisingly chilly for a Southern city thanks to the humidity. Average high temperatures range from 60-65°F (15-18°C), while lows can occasionally drop into the 30s°F (1-4°C). While snow is rare, occurring only once every few years, it does happen, including record “sneaux fall” in 2025. Winter rain is common, with the city averaging about 5 inches of rainfall per winter month.
When do these conditions exist? November, December, January. Watch out for wild temperature changes in February.
January and February are also Mardi Gras season in Baton Rouge. Get our Ultimate Baton Rouge Mardi Gras Guide here and our Baton Rouge Mardi Gras Parade Guide here.
Baton Rouge “Sorta” Has a Spring
Spring in Baton Rouge is a double-edged sword. The azaleas, camellias, and magnolias are bursting in bloom, creating Baton Rouge’s prettiest time, but this is also peak rainy season. Temperatures climb quickly, with highs ranging from the mid-70s in March to the mid-80s by May. Humidity levels also begin their upward climb, making late spring feel more like early summer.
When do these conditions exist? March and April. In our opinion, when it comes to Baton Rouge, May is really the start to summer.
Does Baton Rouge Have Hurricanes?
Living in or visiting Baton Rouge means being prepared for extreme weather events, particularly during hurricane season (June 1 – November 30.) The city’s location makes it susceptible to storms coming off the Gulf, and often catches the “tail end” of other storms making landfall along the Gulf Coast. In recent years, Hurricane Gustav and Hurricane Ida both had significant impact on Baton Rouge.
Notable historical Baton Rouge weather events include:
– Hurricane Gustav (2008): Caused widespread power outages and significant tree damage
– The Great Flood of 2016: Between 20 – 30 inches of rain fell in Baton Rouge in the span of three days, causing catastrophic flooding (for comparison, Los Angeles has an annual rainfall of 14 inches)
– Hurricane Ida (2021): While not taking a direct hit, the city experienced significant wind damage and power outages
While Hurricane Katrina (2005) had a significant natural disaster impact on New Orleans, Baton Rouge escaped much of the weather of that fateful storm. However, there were ensuing social and cultural impacts on Baton Rouge from Hurricane Katrina with many Baton Rougeans citing Hurricane Katrina being a turning point event for the Red Stick.
Tornadoes, while less common than in other parts of the South, can occur. Pay attention to National Weather Service phone alerts and take cover if instructed to. If the sky appears green or if you hear something that sounds like a freight train in the heavens: take shelter.
Locals will tell you: if a hurricane evacuation order comes through, heed the advice. Finally, no discussion of hurricanes or extreme weather is complete without saying: never, never EVER drive through standing water. Don’t do it!
Baton Rouge Weather Tips
When planning a trip to Baton Rouge, consider these weather-related tips:
1. The most comfortable months for outdoor activities are October and November
2. Early spring (March-April) offers pleasant temperatures but comes with frequent rainy weather
3. If visiting during summer, plan indoor activities for afternoon hours
4. Always have a rain contingency plan, regardless of season
5. Even in hotter weather, plan on layers if you are transitioning from air-conditioned interiors to hot outdoors. Baton Rouge will blast the AC
6. In hot weather, make sure to stay hydrated (with water; cocktails don’t count)
7. Check hurricane forecasts if visiting between June and November
Lagniappe: a few extra Baton Rouge weather resources. We like Josh Eachus, PhD, meteorologist (and rescue dog supporter. Dr. Josh on IG.) Check out WeatherWorld to see Baton Rouge weather averages broken down by month here. Red Stick Ready is the city’s resource for natural disasters.
Conclusion
Are you surprised by how hot and humid Baton Rouge is? While Baton Rouge’s weather presents certain challenges, understanding what to expect can help you prepare, endure, and eventually adapt. The city’s cultural attractions, vibrant food scene, and Southern hospitality can make up for its meteorological quirks. Just remember to pack accordingly: lightweight, breathable clothing for the warm months, a reliable umbrella, and perhaps most importantly, a sense of humor about the weather’s predictable paucity. Yes, Baton Rouge is gonna be muggy, but it’s our muggy.
