Comparable Schools'
Weather Grades:
Quick Stats
Average Precipitation
- Fall - 3.82 in.
- Spring - 4.23 in.
- Summer - 4.11 in.
- Winter - 3.86 in.
Average Temperature
- Fall - 60°F
- Spring - 59°F
- Summer - 77°F
- Winter - 41°F
College Prowler Take
The weather in Durham is a lot of things, but predictable is not one of them. On the whole, it’s very pleasant, but temperatures and conditions can swing from the high end of the scale to the low end with little warning. We’re kind of like Mother Nature’s little freak experiment. Bring your entire wardrobe! It’s very humid, which is an indicator of some unbearably hot days, and some long, long rainy weeks (and months) when many students start wondering what it would be like if Duke hadn’t put their drains on high ground and they could walk home without getting wet to the shins. Bring your galoshes! It also gets cold. There’s not always a lot of snow, but you will regret it if you don’t bring a nice, warm coat.
At Duke, you’re more likely to be concerned about heat stroke than frostbite, but be prepared for both (and everything in between). Remember, though, that in between the extremes, Duke has some days that are breathtakingly beautiful. Don’t forget your sunglasses and bathing suits!
Students Speak Out
Love your school more than free food? Hate your school more than term papers?
Somewhere in between? Show the world what YOU think of YOUR school:
Anonymous says:  |
The weather is moody in Durham....
The weather is moody in Durham. August, September, and April are sweltering. Every day in between is a toss-up between the most gorgeous and most miserable days ever. |
Anonymous says:  |
It’s North Carolina weather, which...
It’s North Carolina weather, which means it’s impossible to predict. It will get down to freezing in the winter, but not much lower, and not for long. Just as soon as you think it’s warming up, it makes you get out the sweaters again. Still, it’s nice for most of the time we’re at school. |
Anonymous says:  |
The weather from August to early...
The weather from August to early November is typical summer weather. After that, the weather becomes colder, with usually one snowfall. It starts to warm up during March. |
Anonymous says:  |
Weather here is seasonal but not...
Weather here is seasonal but not extreme. I personally like it very much. You get all four seasons, but the winter is tolerable to outside activities (not like Utah, New York, or Minnesota). |
Anonymous says:  |
Durham usually has wonderful...
Durham usually has wonderful weather. The winters can be pretty mild (although Mother Nature was a little off this year). There are times when you can break out your flip-flops as early as February. |
Write for Us!

College Prowler is actively seeking talented students to be "Contributing Authors," and assist with updating
the College Prowler guide to their school. This is a great opportunity for a student to gain internship experience, be a part of a nationally
recognized company, gain tremendous exposure, utilize new media techniques, and share advice with high school students about what life is
really like at your college. Read more >