Jefferson City lies in the geographical center of Missouri, extending east, south, and westward from a bluff on the Missouri River. The city spreads inland across finger-like ridges and valleys paralleling the river.
Like the rest of the state, Jefferson City is affected by cold air blowing down from Canada, warm, moist air from the Gulf of Mexico, and dry southwestern air. Spring is the rainy season. Snowfall averages 23.5 inches per year and snow is most prevalent from December through February. Like all of Missouri, Jefferson City lies in a region where tornadoes are a danger. Summers can be hot with temperatures sometimes reaching more than 100° F.
Area: 27.3 square miles (2000)
Elevation: 702 feet above sea level
Average Temperatures: January, 28.7° F; July, 77.9° F; annual average, 54.4° F
Average Annual Precipitation: 38.43 inches of rain; 23.5 inches of snow