Memphis has a humid subtropical climate, and experiences four distinct seasons with cold winters and hot summers. Spring and autumn can be varied and unpredictable and severe weather, like thunderstorms and strong winds, is possible during these transitory seasons. Summers are very humid thanks to moisture encroaching from the Gulf of Mexico, and while the temperature rarely reaches great heights; it tends to feel hotter than it is. Summer temperatures average between 70°F (21°C) and 92°F (33°C). Winters, by contrast, can be fairly cold with temperatures averaging between 32°F (0°C) and 52°F (11°C). Memphis averages 3.8 inches (9.7cm) of snow a year. There is plenty of rain to keep the region green, most falling in thunderstorms.