Milwaukee has a humid continental climate, characterised by precipitation throughout the year, hot summers and cold, snowy winters. Summers (June to mid-September) are warm and pleasant, with temperatures averaging between 52°F (11°C) and 81°F (27°C). Summer receives frequent rain with an increased chance of thunderstorms, resulting in muggy conditions.Winters (December to early March) are quite cold, and snow is common and plentiful throughout the season. Average temperatures drop to between 16°F (-9°C) and 30°F (-1°C) in January. Due to its proximity to Lake Michigan, Milwaukee experiences lake-effect conditions, which increase snowfall. In the summer, areas along the lakeshore are often comparatively cooler than inland, and in the winter, they are slightly warmer.