What April feels like in Detroit
April is mid-spring in Detroit. Daytime feels cool and fresh rather than cold. Evenings bring a clear drop in temperature, and nights are cold. Damp air makes the cold feel rawer than the numbers alone suggest.
Rain in Detroit in April
It is a changeable month: rain comes about one day in 3, with dry spells in between. A rainy day brings about 7.5 mm (0.3 in) on average — steady rain rather than a passing shower. Across the year Detroit averages about 7.4 mm per rainy day, so April is typical. April is Detroit's wettest month of the year.
Daylight and sunshine in April
On 15 April the sun rises at about 6:53 am and sets around 8:12 pm local time, giving 13 h 19 min of daylight. Since mid-March the day has gained 1 h 28 min. Measured sunshine covers about 68% of the daylight — there are plenty of bright spells.
How April compares to the rest of the year
In Detroit's temperature order, April sits as the 6th coolest month. Compared with March, afternoons are 6.3°C (11.3°F) warmer, with 20 mm more rain. Temperatures keep climbing into May. By May, typical highs are 20.2°C (68.4°F).
Who April suits
- Sightseeing: a good fit — daytime temperatures are fine for walking around.
- Parks & outdoor: less ideal — too cool to sit outside for long.
Tips for visiting Detroit in April
Versatile Layers
Days are noticeably warmer than nights — layers you can add or remove.
Rain Protection
A compact umbrella and a light waterproof jacket.
Warm Layers
Insulated layers and warm shoes for the cold hours.
Sunglasses
Plenty of sun, so bring sunglasses and a cap.
Quick questions
How warm is Detroit in April?
Afternoons average 13.4°C (56.1°F) and nights about 4°C (39.2°F) — cool by most people's standards. It is the 6th coolest month of the year.
Does it rain a lot in Detroit in April?
Quite a lot — 90 mm spread over about 12 days.
What should I wear in Detroit in April?
Pack versatile layers, rain protection, warm layers and sunglasses. Add a layer for after dark.
Is April or May better for visiting Detroit?
May, clearly: it ranks #4 of 12 among Detroit's months, against #7 for the other. May is warmer.