The climate of Chatham
Predominantly falling under the Köppen climate classification of Cfa, the town of
Chatham,
Massachusetts, experiences a humid subtropical climate with no dry season. Geographically, the town is situated along the southeastern tip of Cape Cod and is therefore influenced notably by the Atlantic Ocean. The coastal climate manifests in the form of a comfortable year-round weather, frequent rainfall, and the absence of extremely high temperatures.
Throughout the year, Chatham is subjected to a range of temperatures and variations in its climatic pattern. The highest average monthly temperature reaches a maximum of 71.6°F (22°C) in the month of
July, while the lowest plummets down to 31.6°F (-0.2°C) in
January. Humidity levels remain fairly constant, hovering around the 74% to 85% range. The coastal town records noticeable rainfall every month, with
October being the month with the highest rainfall 2.83" (72mm), contrasting with
February, which records the least rainfall at 1.57" (40mm).
Snowfall, while not frequent, does occur in Chatham, specifically from January to
March, and also in
November. The town witnesses its maximum snowfall of 1.38" (35mm) in February. Additionally, wind speeds vary across the year with January and
December experiencing the maximum average wind speed of 18mph (29km/h) and the minimum speed of 11.4mph (18.3km/h) is measured in
August.
The best time to visit Chatham
Given the subtropical nature of its climate, the best time to visit
Chatham is typically during the summer months from
June to
August. During this period, the average temperatures hover between 63°F (17.2°C) to 71.6°F (22°C) and the daylight hours extend up to 14.8 hours in a day, ensuring pleasurable weather for outdoor activities. Also, the lessened probability of rainfall during these months compared to other parts of the year, make it ideal for various recreational activities.
The worst time to visit Chatham
The period from
December to
February could be considered less popular for visits due to the low temperatures that range from 31.6°F (-0.2°C) to 41°F (5°C) and reduced daylight hours at 9.2 to 10.6 hours a day. These factors may restrict outdoor activities. Additionally,
Chatham records its peak snowfall in inches during these months which might deter travelers seeking a milder climate.
Spring weather in Chatham
Springtime from
March through
May in
Chatham is characterized by a moderate rise in temperatures that range between 39°F (3.9°C) to 54.3°F (12.4°C). Rainfall tends to increase as the season progresses, with May recording 1.81" (46mm) of rain. Though snow recedes after March, the weather remains cautiously cool, ideal for visitors appreciating a still-cool but gradually warming atmosphere.
Summer weather in Chatham
Summer months from
June to
August offer the most inviting weather for visitors to
Chatham. During this period, average monthly high temperatures range from 63°F (17.2°C) to 71.6°F (22°C). This season also sees the longest daylight hours, extending up to 15.2 hours, along with bright sunshine ranging from 9.4 to 10.7 hours a day. Showers are also less frequent during the summer months, making this season perfect for outdoor activities.
Autumn weather in Chatham
Autumn in the span of
September to
November brings a slight drop in temperatures with an average range between 59.5°F (15.3°C) to 66.6°F (19.2°C). The average daylight hours start to decrease but remain ample, falling between 9.8 to 12.5 hours a day. Despite the lower temperature and daylight, this season is characterized by its color changing foliage, offering a beautiful landscape for visitors.
Winter weather in Chatham
The winter months from
December through to
February are marked by the lowest average temperatures, falling between 31.6°F (-0.2°C) to 41°F (5°C).
Chatham observes its lowest daylight hours, hovering between 9.2 to 10.6 hours a day during these winter months. The chances of snow are also significant during this season, offering a very different landscape for visitors keen on experiencing a coastal winter.
Weather in January
Chatham,
Massachusetts, in
January experiences cold conditions with the highest temperature rising to 39°F (3.9°C) and lowest falling to 31.6°F (-0.2°C). Snow is a common spectacle during this month, with snowfall days recorded typically being around six.
Weather in January » Weather in February
In
Chatham, the month of
February is akin to its predecessor, falling under the grasp of winter's coldness. This month, Chatham sees a minor rise in temperature from
January, with the lowest temperature recorded at 32°F (0°C).
Weather in February »Weather in March
March is yet another transition month in
Chatham, with a shift from the peak of winter towards the initial whispers of spring. The environment becomes warmer, as the highest monthly temperature subtly climbs to 41°F (5°C). This month is marked by considerable rainfall, making it one of the rainiest periods of the year with 1.85" (47mm) of rainfall.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April in
Chatham witnesses the onset of a wonderful spring season, with temperatures ascending, averaging approximately 46.9°F (8.3°C) as the monthly high. This month distinguishes itself from the comparatively rainier season of
March, with a marginal increase in rainfall to 2.05" (52mm).
Weather in April » Weather in May
May in
Chatham is a delightful month, as it transitions towards the eagerly awaited summer season. The highest point of temperature climbs to an average of 54.3°F (12.4°C), boosting the bloom of local flora and fauna. This month also signifies a slight decrease in rainfall than
April, marking a shift from the showery spring to a much drier summer.
Weather in May » Weather in June
Chatham's
June weather marks the onset of summer, characterized by warm temperatures and extended daylight hours. The temperature moves towards a balmy 63°F (17.2°C) as the highest average in the month underscoring the arrival of summer.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
Chatham's weather in
July is distinctively summery, with July standing as the hottest month of the year. The month's peak temperature emerges as 70.3°F (21.3°C), making it an ideal period for beach-goers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Weather in July » Weather in August
August in
Chatham continues the summer trend set by
July, with high temperatures and dry, sunny days. Temperatures range from a high of 71.6°F (22°C), the month's biggest temperature average. August is also characterized by a slight decrease in UV index from July, signaling shorter daylight hours as fall gradually starts to set in.
Weather in August » Weather in September
September in
Chatham represents the transition from the hot summer season to the cooler autumn months. The temperature begins to drop, with the month's maximum temperature averaging at a cooler 66.6°F (19.2°C). September stands out with its increase in rainfall to 1.85" (47mm), reflecting the shift into the autumn season.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October in
Chatham is emblematic of the full arrival of autumn, characterized by falling temperatures and vibrant fall colors. Although temperatures drop down from
September, weather in October stays rather comfortable with 59.5°F (15.3°C) as the highest average.
Weather in October » Weather in November
The eleventh month,
November, in
Chatham is marked by a distinct chill in the air, signaling the onset of the cold season. Temperatures take a deeper dive, with the highest average monthly temperature dropping to 51.3°F (10.7°C).
Weather in November »Weather in December
Chatham's
December concludes the year with the advent of winter. In this last month, temperatures plunge further with the highest average at 44.4°F (6.9°C), spelling out the arrival of the winter snowfall. The first flakes of snow begin to fall in December with an average snowfall of 0.67" (17mm) recorded for the month.
Weather in December »