GITNUX REPORT 2024

Top 10 Most Humid Places in the US Revealed by Data

Discover the most humid places in the US and how high humidity impacts health and infrastructure.

Author: Jannik Lindner

First published: 7/17/2024

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The US experiences an average of 20 more days per year with high humidity compared to the 1980s

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Climate models predict a 12-22% increase in humidity levels in the US by 2100

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Rising temperatures are expected to increase humidity levels in the Midwest by up to 30% by 2050

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The frequency of extreme humidity events in the US is projected to double by 2060

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Sea level rise is expected to increase humidity levels in coastal areas by 5-10% by 2050

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High humidity can increase cooling costs by up to 25%

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Humid conditions can lead to increased maintenance costs for buildings and infrastructure

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High humidity can reduce worker productivity by up to 24%

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Humid environments can increase the cost of food storage and preservation

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The HVAC industry in humid regions of the US is valued at over $100 billion

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The highest dew point ever recorded in the US was 95°F in Appleton, Wisconsin

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In July 1995, Chicago experienced a heat wave with dew points reaching 82°F

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During Hurricane Harvey in 2017, Houston recorded dew points as high as 81°F

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In August 2020, Iowa experienced dew points of 84°F during a derecho event

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New Orleans experienced dew points of 83°F during Hurricane Katrina in 2005

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High humidity can increase the risk of heat-related illnesses

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Humid environments can exacerbate respiratory conditions like asthma

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High humidity can lead to increased mold growth in homes

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Humid conditions can worsen allergies and sinus problems

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Excessive humidity can cause dehydration due to increased sweating

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The US Gulf Coast experiences an average of 25-30 days per year with heat index values above 105°F

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Phoenix, Arizona has the highest average daily maximum heat index in the US at 111°F

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Miami, Florida experiences an average of 133 days per year with a heat index above 90°F

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The heat index can be up to 15°F higher than the actual air temperature in humid conditions

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New Orleans, Louisiana has an average of 85 days per year with a heat index above 100°F

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Corpus Christi, Texas experiences an average of 107 days per year with a heat index above 95°F

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The US National Weather Service issues heat advisories when the heat index is expected to reach 105°F

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Houston, Texas has an average of 99 days per year with a heat index above 95°F

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Tampa, Florida experiences an average of 97 days per year with a heat index above 90°F

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Charleston, South Carolina has an average of 89 days per year with a heat index above 90°F

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Atlanta, Georgia experiences an average of 82 days per year with a heat index above 90°F

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Washington D.C. has an average of 45 days per year with a heat index above 90°F

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St. Louis, Missouri experiences an average of 63 days per year with a heat index above 90°F

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Chicago, Illinois has an average of 31 days per year with a heat index above 90°F

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The US Gulf Coast experiences an average of 100-120 days per year with dew points above 70°F

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The Midwest United States can experience dew points above 80°F during summer heat waves

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Coastal areas tend to have higher humidity levels than inland regions

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Humidity levels in the US are generally higher in summer months

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The desert Southwest experiences the lowest average humidity levels in the US

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Relative humidity above 60% can promote mold growth

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The ideal indoor relative humidity range is between 30% and 50%

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Dehumidifiers can remove up to 50 pints of moisture from the air per day

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Proper ventilation can help control indoor humidity levels

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Air conditioning systems typically remove 30-40% of indoor air moisture

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Brownsville, Texas has the highest number of muggy days per year at 233

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Key West, Florida experiences 233 muggy days per year

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Miami, Florida has 227 muggy days annually

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Corpus Christi, Texas experiences 223 muggy days per year

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Victoria, Texas has 221 muggy days annually

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The Gulf Coast region is known for its high humidity levels

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The Southeast United States experiences high humidity due to proximity to warm water bodies

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The Great Lakes region can have high humidity levels, especially in summer

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The Pacific Northwest has high humidity due to its marine climate

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The Mississippi River Valley experiences high humidity levels

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New Orleans, Louisiana has an average relative humidity of 75.9%

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Jacksonville, Florida experiences an average relative humidity of 75.5%

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Houston, Texas has an average relative humidity of 75.0%

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Orlando, Florida experiences an average relative humidity of 74.5%

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Tampa, Florida has an average relative humidity of 74.0%

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Miami, Florida experiences an average relative humidity of 73.2%

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Seattle, Washington has an average relative humidity of 72.7%

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Portland, Oregon experiences an average relative humidity of 71.9%

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Buffalo, New York has an average relative humidity of 71.7%

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Rochester, New York experiences an average relative humidity of 71.4%

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Summary

  • New Orleans, Louisiana has an average relative humidity of 75.9%
  • Jacksonville, Florida experiences an average relative humidity of 75.5%
  • Houston, Texas has an average relative humidity of 75.0%
  • Orlando, Florida experiences an average relative humidity of 74.5%
  • Tampa, Florida has an average relative humidity of 74.0%
  • Miami, Florida experiences an average relative humidity of 73.2%
  • Seattle, Washington has an average relative humidity of 72.7%
  • Portland, Oregon experiences an average relative humidity of 71.9%
  • Buffalo, New York has an average relative humidity of 71.7%
  • Rochester, New York experiences an average relative humidity of 71.4%
  • The Gulf Coast region is known for its high humidity levels
  • The Southeast United States experiences high humidity due to proximity to warm water bodies
  • The Great Lakes region can have high humidity levels, especially in summer
  • The Pacific Northwest has high humidity due to its marine climate
  • The Mississippi River Valley experiences high humidity levels

Step right up, folks, and get ready to sweat it out in the sizzling spotlight of Americas most humid haunts! From the sweltering streets of New Orleans, Louisiana, where the air practically drips with a relative humidity of 75.9%, to the muggy marshes of Miami, Florida, where mold growth and melting makeup are all par for the course, this round-up of the most moisture-laden locales in the US will have you reaching for the nearest dehumidifier faster than you can say is it raining, or is that just sweat?. Lets dive deep into the steamy statistics and discover why high humidity isnt just a sticky situation—its a way of life in these clammy corners of the country.

Climate Change Impact

  • The US experiences an average of 20 more days per year with high humidity compared to the 1980s
  • Climate models predict a 12-22% increase in humidity levels in the US by 2100
  • Rising temperatures are expected to increase humidity levels in the Midwest by up to 30% by 2050
  • The frequency of extreme humidity events in the US is projected to double by 2060
  • Sea level rise is expected to increase humidity levels in coastal areas by 5-10% by 2050

Interpretation

As the air becomes heavier with moisture, Americans are greeted with more than just bad hair days. The increasing humidity levels across the country are not just a threat to our comfort, but also to our health and the environment. With projections of more sticky days, extreme humidity events, and coastal areas feeling the squeeze, perhaps it's time we all invest in a good dehumidifier and some extra-strength antiperspirant. After all, it's not just our hair that's at risk of frizzing out from these steamy statistics.

Economic Impacts

  • High humidity can increase cooling costs by up to 25%
  • Humid conditions can lead to increased maintenance costs for buildings and infrastructure
  • High humidity can reduce worker productivity by up to 24%
  • Humid environments can increase the cost of food storage and preservation
  • The HVAC industry in humid regions of the US is valued at over $100 billion

Interpretation

The Most Humid Places in the US statistics paint a picture of steamy repercussions beyond just frizzy hair and sticky skin. While high humidity levels can certainly put a strain on our cooling systems and wallets, they also have a sneaky way of creeping into our productivity and stomachs. From wilted workers to soggy storage, the muggy conditions can make us sweat in more ways than one. It seems the real MVPs in these regions are the HVAC industry, raking in over $100 billion to keep us cool, dry, and focused in the face of the ultimate moisture menace.

Extreme Humidity Events

  • The highest dew point ever recorded in the US was 95°F in Appleton, Wisconsin
  • In July 1995, Chicago experienced a heat wave with dew points reaching 82°F
  • During Hurricane Harvey in 2017, Houston recorded dew points as high as 81°F
  • In August 2020, Iowa experienced dew points of 84°F during a derecho event
  • New Orleans experienced dew points of 83°F during Hurricane Katrina in 2005

Interpretation

It seems that when it comes to humidity, these cities aren't just breaking records, they're setting the bar at sauna levels. From the sizzling summers in Chicago to the steamy aftermath of hurricanes in Houston and New Orleans, these places have truly experienced some tropical dew points that could make even a cactus break a sweat. It's clear that when Mother Nature decides to turn up the humidity dial, these cities are left feeling like they're living inside a giant terrarium. Stay cool, folks.

Health Impacts

  • High humidity can increase the risk of heat-related illnesses
  • Humid environments can exacerbate respiratory conditions like asthma
  • High humidity can lead to increased mold growth in homes
  • Humid conditions can worsen allergies and sinus problems
  • Excessive humidity can cause dehydration due to increased sweating

Interpretation

These statistics remind us that while everyone loves a tropical vacation, living in a high-humidity area is no day at the beach. Not only does the sticky air make you feel like you're swimming through soup, but it also turns your home into a breeding ground for mold faster than you can say "ventilation system." Plus, good luck trying to keep your sinuses happy when the air is as moist as a rainforest. It's like your body is trapped in a never-ending sauna, sweating out all your precious fluids faster than you can say "hydration." So, next time you find yourself in one of the most humid places in the US, keep a bottle of water handy and thank your lucky stars if you can still manage to breathe without sounding like Darth Vader with a summer cold.

Heat Index

  • The US Gulf Coast experiences an average of 25-30 days per year with heat index values above 105°F
  • Phoenix, Arizona has the highest average daily maximum heat index in the US at 111°F
  • Miami, Florida experiences an average of 133 days per year with a heat index above 90°F
  • The heat index can be up to 15°F higher than the actual air temperature in humid conditions
  • New Orleans, Louisiana has an average of 85 days per year with a heat index above 100°F
  • Corpus Christi, Texas experiences an average of 107 days per year with a heat index above 95°F
  • The US National Weather Service issues heat advisories when the heat index is expected to reach 105°F
  • Houston, Texas has an average of 99 days per year with a heat index above 95°F
  • Tampa, Florida experiences an average of 97 days per year with a heat index above 90°F
  • Charleston, South Carolina has an average of 89 days per year with a heat index above 90°F
  • Atlanta, Georgia experiences an average of 82 days per year with a heat index above 90°F
  • Washington D.C. has an average of 45 days per year with a heat index above 90°F
  • St. Louis, Missouri experiences an average of 63 days per year with a heat index above 90°F
  • Chicago, Illinois has an average of 31 days per year with a heat index above 90°F

Interpretation

As temperatures rise across the US, residents in these steamy locales are learning that 'hot and humid' is not just a weather forecast – it's a lifestyle. From sweating through shirt after shirt in Phoenix to feeling like you've stepped into a sauna in Miami, the battle against the heat index is real. Whether you're melting away in New Orleans or sweltering in Corpus Christi, it's clear that these cities are not just hot spots on a map, but also on your skin. So, grab a cold drink, crank up the AC, and brace yourself for the annual heat wave – because it's all fun and games until you're stuck in Houston with a heat index higher than your IQ.

Humidity Patterns

  • The US Gulf Coast experiences an average of 100-120 days per year with dew points above 70°F
  • The Midwest United States can experience dew points above 80°F during summer heat waves
  • Coastal areas tend to have higher humidity levels than inland regions
  • Humidity levels in the US are generally higher in summer months
  • The desert Southwest experiences the lowest average humidity levels in the US

Interpretation

The US seems to have a diverse range of humidity personalities, from the sultry Gulf Coast to the sweltering Midwest, perhaps making sweating a national pastime. It's no surprise that coastal areas are the prima donnas of humidity, flaunting their dew points like the latest fashion trends. Meanwhile, the desert Southwest is the envy of the country, maintaining its cool composure even in the face of scorching temperatures. As summer approaches, brace yourselves for a humidity rollercoaster ride, where the only constant is the inevitable frizz.

Indoor Humidity Control

  • Relative humidity above 60% can promote mold growth
  • The ideal indoor relative humidity range is between 30% and 50%
  • Dehumidifiers can remove up to 50 pints of moisture from the air per day
  • Proper ventilation can help control indoor humidity levels
  • Air conditioning systems typically remove 30-40% of indoor air moisture

Interpretation

As the Most Humid Places In The US statistics show, navigating the fine line between cozy humidity and potential mold breeding grounds is no easy feat. With relative humidity above 60% serving as a welcoming committee for mold spores, it's clear that maintaining an indoor humidity range between 30% and 50% is the Goldilocks zone we should all aspire to achieve. Thankfully, the trusty dehumidifier stands at the ready to suck up to 50 pints of excess moisture per day, while proper ventilation and the cool embrace of air conditioning help keep indoor humidity levels in check. Remember, in the battle against mold, a dry wit is no match for a dry interior – so keep those dehumidifiers humming and your mold woes at bay!

Muggy Days

  • Brownsville, Texas has the highest number of muggy days per year at 233
  • Key West, Florida experiences 233 muggy days per year
  • Miami, Florida has 227 muggy days annually
  • Corpus Christi, Texas experiences 223 muggy days per year
  • Victoria, Texas has 221 muggy days annually

Interpretation

In a lineup of the most humid places in the US, these cities seem to be in a tight competition to see who can make the most out of a bad hair day. With a staggering number of muggy days each year, residents of Brownsville, Key West, Miami, Corpus Christi, and Victoria must have a surplus of frizzy hair and a definite disdain for anything resembling a sleek hairstyle. One might wonder if the local weather forecast includes a daily reminder to embrace the humidity and just accept the inevitable fate of perpetual frizz. Let's hope these cities have a booming hair care industry to cater to the never-ending battle against the elements.

Regional Humidity

  • The Gulf Coast region is known for its high humidity levels
  • The Southeast United States experiences high humidity due to proximity to warm water bodies
  • The Great Lakes region can have high humidity levels, especially in summer
  • The Pacific Northwest has high humidity due to its marine climate
  • The Mississippi River Valley experiences high humidity levels

Interpretation

A closer look at the Most Humid Places In The US statistics reveals a correlation between sweaty brows and beautiful scenery. From the sultry Gulf Coast to the steamy Southeast, and the misty Great Lakes to the damp Pacific Northwest, it seems that high humidity levels go hand in hand with lush landscapes and vibrant ecosystems. So next time you find yourself in a humidity-induced frizzy hair crisis, just remember, you’re probably surrounded by some seriously gorgeous nature.

Top Humid Cities

  • New Orleans, Louisiana has an average relative humidity of 75.9%
  • Jacksonville, Florida experiences an average relative humidity of 75.5%
  • Houston, Texas has an average relative humidity of 75.0%
  • Orlando, Florida experiences an average relative humidity of 74.5%
  • Tampa, Florida has an average relative humidity of 74.0%
  • Miami, Florida experiences an average relative humidity of 73.2%
  • Seattle, Washington has an average relative humidity of 72.7%
  • Portland, Oregon experiences an average relative humidity of 71.9%
  • Buffalo, New York has an average relative humidity of 71.7%
  • Rochester, New York experiences an average relative humidity of 71.4%

Interpretation

In the battle of the sweat-inducing titans across the United States, it seems the Deep South takes the crown for the most humid locales. From the sultry streets of New Orleans to the sticky shores of Miami, these cities boast humidity levels higher than a diva's backstage demands. Meanwhile, up in the Pacific Northwest, Seattle and Portland may have their coffee and hipsters, but they sure don't have high humidity to match. So, next time you're reaching for that extra deodorant swipe, just be grateful you're not strolling down Bourbon Street in August.

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