Alto, a charming town located in the heart of East Texas, embodies the quintessential Southern hospitality and natural beauty that define the region. Located in Cherokee County, Alto is surrounded by lush pine forests, rolling hills, and pristine lakes, offering residents and visitors a serene escape into nature. With a population of approximately 1,200 residents, Alto maintains a close-knit community atmosphere while providing easy access to nearby cities such as Tyler and Nacogdoches. The town’s rich history, scenic landscapes, and welcoming spirit make it a hidden gem for those seeking a relaxed pace of life and authentic Texas experience.
Climate and Weather Overview
Alto experiences a humid subtropical climate characterized by hot, humid summers and mild winters. Understanding the climate and weather patterns of Alto is essential for residents and visitors to plan outdoor activities and adapt to seasonal changes.
Monthly Weather Statistics
To provide a comprehensive overview of the weather in Alto, let’s examine the average temperature, precipitation, and number of sunny days for each month of the year.
| Month | Average Temperature (°F) | Precipitation (inches) | Sunny Days |
| January | 55°F | 4.16 inches | 11 days |
| February | 59°F | 3.80 inches | 11 days |
| March | 66°F | 4.36 inches | 13 days |
| April | 73°F | 3.60 inches | 13 days |
| May | 80°F | 4.70 inches | 15 days |
| June | 87°F | 4.29 inches | 14 days |
| July | 91°F | 2.69 inches | 14 days |
| August | 91°F | 2.97 inches | 13 days |
| September | 85°F | 4.25 inches | 11 days |
| October | 76°F | 4.53 inches | 10 days |
| November | 66°F | 4.52 inches | 10 days |
| December | 58°F | 4.64 inches | 10 days |
Weather by Month
January
January brings cool temperatures to Alto, with an average of 55°F. Precipitation levels are relatively high, with an average of 4.16 inches of rainfall. January is ideal for cozy indoor activities such as visiting local museums, exploring historical sites, and enjoying hearty Southern cuisine at restaurants. Visitors can also take scenic drives through the countryside to admire the winter landscapes and participate in birdwatching and wildlife viewing opportunities.
February
February sees similar temperatures to January, with averages around 59°F. Precipitation levels remain high, with an average of 3.80 inches of rainfall. February is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts to explore hiking trails, go fishing at nearby lakes and rivers, and embark on birdwatching expeditions in the surrounding wilderness areas. Visitors can also attend cultural events, art exhibits, and live music performances showcasing the vibrant local arts scene.
March
March brings milder temperatures to Alto, with averages around 66°F. Precipitation levels continue to be high, with an average of 4.36 inches of rainfall. March is ideal for springtime activities such as picnicking in local parks, attending outdoor festivals, and participating in gardening workshops to prepare for the growing season. Visitors can also explore scenic drives, visit botanical gardens, and take nature walks to witness the blooming wildflowers and emerging wildlife.
April
April sees a significant increase in temperatures in Alto, with averages around 73°F. Precipitation levels decrease slightly, with an average of 3.60 inches of rainfall. April is perfect for outdoor recreation such as camping, hiking, and horseback riding in the picturesque countryside. Visitors can also enjoy fishing, boating, and kayaking on nearby lakes and rivers, or take leisurely strolls through local nature reserves and wildlife refuges.
May
May brings warmer temperatures to Alto, with averages around 80°F. Precipitation levels rise again, with an average of 4.70 inches of rainfall. May is ideal for exploring outdoor attractions such as botanical gardens, arboretums, and nature trails bursting with spring blooms and vibrant foliage. Visitors can also enjoy water-based activities such as swimming, tubing, and paddleboarding on local waterways, or attend outdoor concerts and farmers’ markets showcasing local talent and produce.
June
June marks the beginning of summer in Alto, with temperatures averaging around 87°F. Precipitation levels remain moderate, with an average of 4.29 inches of rainfall. June is perfect for enjoying outdoor adventures such as camping, fishing, and boating at nearby lakes and reservoirs. Visitors can also cool off with swimming and water sports, or explore scenic drives and hiking trails in the surrounding national forests and state parks.
July
July is the hottest month in Alto, with temperatures averaging around 91°F. Precipitation levels decrease, with an average of 2.69 inches of rainfall. July is ideal for water-based activities such as tubing, kayaking, and canoeing on local rivers and streams. Visitors can also beat the heat by visiting splash pads, water parks, and swimming pools, or enjoying ice-cold treats at local ice cream parlors and snow cone stands.
August
August sees similar temperatures to July, with averages around 91°F. Precipitation levels increase slightly, with an average of 2.97 inches of rainfall. August is perfect for exploring indoor attractions such as museums, art galleries, and historic sites, or attending cultural events and performances showcasing the town’s heritage and traditions. Visitors can also escape the summer heat by indulging in spa treatments, shopping excursions, and dining experiences at local restaurants.
September
September brings cooler temperatures to Alto, with averages around 85°F. Precipitation levels remain moderate, with an average of 4.25 inches of rainfall. September is ideal for outdoor recreation such as hiking, biking, and horseback riding in the scenic countryside. Visitors can also enjoy birdwatching, wildlife photography, and nature walks in local parks and wildlife refuges, or participate in harvest festivals and agricultural fairs celebrating the fall season.
October
October marks the arrival of fall in Alto, with temperatures averaging around 76°F. Precipitation levels rise again, with an average of 4.53 inches of rainfall. October is perfect for leaf-peeping drives, pumpkin patches, and corn mazes in the scenic countryside. Visitors can also enjoy outdoor activities such as apple picking, hayrides, and fall foliage tours, or attend Halloween-themed events and haunted attractions for spooky seasonal fun.
November
November brings cooler temperatures to Alto, with averages around 66°F. Precipitation levels remain moderate, with an average of 4.52 inches of rainfall. November is ideal for enjoying the last of the fall foliage, hiking, and birdwatching in local parks and nature reserves. Visitors can also prepare for the upcoming holiday season by attending craft fairs, artisan markets, and Thanksgiving celebrations featuring local crafts, foods, and entertainment.
December
December ushers in the winter season in Alto, with temperatures averaging around 58°F. Precipitation levels remain moderate, with an average of 4.64 inches of rainfall. December is perfect for holiday shopping, festive events, and seasonal activities such as Christmas tree lighting ceremonies, holiday concerts, and visits with Santa Claus. Visitors can also enjoy outdoor ice skating, sleigh rides, and holiday light displays, or cozy up indoors with hot cocoa and holiday movies for a festive winter retreat.
Natural Disasters
While Alto enjoys a relatively mild climate throughout the year, the region is susceptible to occasional natural disasters such as severe thunderstorms, tornadoes, and flash floods, particularly during the spring and summer months. Residents and visitors should stay informed about weather forecasts and heed any warnings issued by local authorities to ensure their safety during severe weather events.
Recommended Activities
Regardless of the season, Alto offers a diverse range of indoor and outdoor activities for residents and visitors to enjoy. From exploring scenic landscapes and outdoor recreation to attending local festivals and cultural events, there’s something for everyone to experience in this charming East Texas town. Whether you’re seeking adventure in the great outdoors or relaxation amid natural beauty, Alto provides the perfect backdrop for memorable experiences and meaningful connections.