Scranton stands in a valley bordered by the ridges of the Allegheny Mountains; the Pocono Mountains are to the southeast. The mountains protect the city from high winds; they also influence the temperature and precipitation throughout the year. The climate is relatively cool in the summer with frequent showers; winter temperatures are not severe, but when snowstorms do occur they approach blizzard conditions.
Area: 25.2 square miles (2000)
Elevation: 754 feet above sea level
Average Temperatures: January, 25.5° F; August, 69.5° F; annual average, 49° F
Average Annual Precipitation: 38.8 inches of rain; 48.7 inches of snow