Yearly & Monthly weather - New Bedford, MA

The climate of New Bedford
The best time to visit New Bedford
The worst time to visit New Bedford
Spring weather in New Bedford
Summer weather in New Bedford
Autumn weather in New Bedford
Winter weather in New Bedford
Weather in January
Weather in February
Weather in March
Weather in April
Weather in May
Weather in June
Weather in July
Weather in August
Weather in September
Weather in October
Weather in November
Weather in December
Frequently asked questions
Average temperature
Average pressure
Average wind speed
Average humidity
Average rainfall
Average rainfall days
Average snowfall
Average snowfall days
Average sea temperature
Average daylight
Average sunshine
Average sunshine days
Average UV index
Average cloud cover
Average visibility

Amazing stonework looking over at the white Breakwater Entrance Lighthouse in the New Bedford Harbor, Massachusetts

The climate of New Bedford

The weather of New Bedford, Massachusetts, USA displays a distinct Humid subtropical no dry season climate. As per the Köppen climate classification, it is coded as Cfa. Positioned in the north-eastern United States, the city experiences a blend of weathers year-round.

Throughout the year, New Bedford experiences a range of temperatures from 26.8°F (-2.9°C) to 78.4°F (25.8°C). Winter months tend to be bitterly cold with January seeing the lowest average temperatures of 26.8°F (-2.9°C). July, on the other hand, records the height of summer with temperatures averaging 78.4°F (25.8°C). Humidity remains fairly constant throughout the year, ranging between 74% and 80%. Rainfall reveals itself as a common weather attribute in the city, with rainfall days ranging from 8.2 to 13.4 days per month.

Snowfall, although common in the winter, tends to dissipate by April, with no significant snow showers recorded from late spring to early winter. Notably, February records the highest at 1.77" (45mm) of snow. Periods of daylight range from 9.2 hours in December to 15.2 hours during the longest days of June. The visibility in New Bedford remains uniformly high, amassing around six miles across all months.

Unique patterns emerge in terms of wind speeds, with gusts peaking at 18.3mph (29.5km/h) in winter and dropping to a low of 12.6mph (20.3km/h) during the height of summer. These patterns display New Bedford as a city exhibiting typical weather traits of North America’s east coast.

The best time to visit New Bedford

New Bedford, bathed in pleasant summer warmth, between June and August, is an ideal tourist destination. Average temperatures of 70.7°F (21.5°C) to 78.4°F (25.8°C) combined with six UV index enhance enjoyable outdoor experiences. Rainfall is moderate compared to other months, presenting the perfect opportunity to explore the city. The sea temperature reaches an optimal level, averaging from 58.6°F (14.8°C) to 68.4°F (20.2°C), ideal for beach activities.

The worst time to visit New Bedford

Winter months from December to February present the worst travel conditions. The chilling low temperatures range from 26.8°F (-2.9°C) to 38.3°F (3.5°C), while snowfall rates peak, deterring outdoor activities. The shorter daylight hours, from 9.2 to 10.6, further limit the tourist activities, rendering tourism in New Bedford unfavorable during winter.

Spring weather in New Bedford

Marked by a rise in temperatures, spring in New Bedford starts from March and tapers off by May. The temperatures fluctuate between 33.1°F (0.6°C) to 62.4°F (16.9°C), representing a shift from the chilling winters. The daylight hours increase from 12 to 14.5 across spring months, setting longer days. Despite increased rainfall from 1.38" (35mm) to 1.5" (38mm), the warming temperatures and continued rise in sea temperature from 38.6°F (3.7°C) to 50.4°F (10.2°C) signal the herald of the tourist season.

Summer weather in New Bedford

Summers in New Bedford, set between June and August, are characterized by the highest temperatures of the year, ranging from 70.7°F (21.5°C) to 78.4°F (25.8°C). The humidity hovers from 78% to 80%, lending a humid feel to the warm days. The sea temperature hits a high from 58.6°F (14.8°C) to 68.4°F (20.2°C), perfect for swimming. Long daylight hours from 14.5 hours to 14.8 hours provide ample time for outdoor activities.

Autumn weather in New Bedford

Running from September to November, Autumn sees a gradual drop in temperatures from 71.2°F (21.8°C) to 50.9°F (10.5°C). Despite shorter days ranging from 12.5 hours to 9.9 hours, New Bedford in Autumn offers moderate temperatures perfect for sightseeing. Humidity remains constant around 77%, while the sea temperature slides from 65.8°F (18.8°C) to 53.2°F (11.8°C).

Winter weather in New Bedford

Winters in New Bedford, from December to February, experience short daylight hours and cold temperatures. The temperature dips from 42.4°F (5.8°C) to 26.8°F (-2.9°C), coupled with the highest snowfall rates of the year. January records frequent snowfall days at 6.5 days, while December sees 1.18" (30mm) of snow. Despite these conditions, visitors can still enjoy the quiet winter beauty this city has to offer.

Weather in January

Starting the year, January carries the cold wave of winter in New Bedford, Massachusetts. The city experiences the chilliest temperatures of the year, with average lows of 26.8°F (-2.9°C) and highs that only reach towards 36.3°F (2.4°C). Weather in January »

Weather in February

Despite occasional sunlight, February still embraces the winter season in New Bedford. Cold temperatures persist, albeit slightly raised from January’s extremes to average between 27.1°F (-2.7°C) and 38.3°F (3.5°C). Compared to January, somewhat less snowfall occurs but it's still a highlight of this month. Weather in February »

Weather in March

As the hints of spring approach in March, New Bedford experiences a warming trend. Compared to February, rainfall increases to 1.38" (35mm) and ice sheets start to melt. This is also the time when the city begins to shake off its snowfall, making way for the upcoming blooming season in New Bedford. Weather in March »

Weather in April

April marks a significant leap from winter into the initial phases of warmer temperatures in New Bedford. With the highest amount of rainfall for the year at 1.57" (40mm), it quite fits the saying "April showers bring May flowers". Weather in April »

Weather in May

May brings a clear heralding of spring to New Bedford, before transitioning into summer. The drastic increase in temperatures becomes evident, with highs soaring to 62.4°F (16.9°C). Many residents and tourists start to consider trips to the seaside, as the sea temperature begins to rise. Weather in May »

Weather in June

In June, New Bedford welcomes the summer season with open arms. There is a clear shift in the overall weather as the average temperatures peak between the yearly high of 70.7°F (21.5°C). It’s a time for outdoor activities and beach visits, thanks to the rising sea temperatures and average daylight hours reaching a record high of 15.2. Weather in June »

Weather in July

July arrives with the peak of summer, bringing the highest temperatures New Bedford sees all year, reaching an average high of 78.4°F (25.8°C). It’s the brightest month in terms of actual sunlight exposure, accompanied by a high UV index. Weather in July »

Weather in August

August showcases summer in full swing, continuing the elevated temperature trend from July with highs reaching 78.3°F (25.7°C). This month typically means longer days, barbecues, and a score of activities suitable for warm weather. Weather in August »

Weather in September

September marks the subtle arrival of fall in New Bedford. Temperatures begin to drop, with average highs lowering to a more moderate 71.2°F (21.8°C). The decreasing temperatures signal the transition from summer to fall, bringing an assortment of beautiful leaf colors across the city. Weather in September »

Weather in October

October brings a more apparent onset of the fall season in New Bedford, with a marked reduction in temperatures, now ranging between 51.3°F (10.7°C) and 61.9°F (16.6°C). The fall foliage and approaching chill in the air, bring about an undeniable charm to the city. Weather in October »

Weather in November

November observes a significant drop in temperatures as New Bedford begins to brace for the upcoming winter. It’s the period when the city witnesses the first sign of snowfall, adding a dusting of white to the drifting fall leaves. Weather in November »

Weather in December

December welcomes winter in full force to New Bedford. Fetching winter temperatures range from 33.3°F (0.7°C) to 42.4°F (5.8°C). It’s a time when the city is often dressed in its full winter attire, accompanied by snowfall. Weather in December »

Updated: Jun 4, 2024
Published by: Weather U.S. | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate

Frequently asked questions

What time of the year is the coldest?

New Bedford's January weather, marked by an average high temperature of 36.3°F (2.4°C) and an average low temperature of 26.8°F (-2.9°C), is the coldest in the year.

How much does it rain?

In New Bedford, during the entire year, the rain falls for 133.2 days and collects up to 17.2" (437mm) of precipitation.

When does it snow?

January through April, November and December are months with snowfall.

How many days does it snow?

In New Bedford, during the entire year, snow falls for 21.4 days and aggregates up to 5.87" (149mm) of snow.

When is the lowest UV index in New Bedford?

January through March, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 2, are months with the lowest UV index.

When does it snow the most in New Bedford?

The month with the most snowfall is February, when snow falls for 5.8 days and typically aggregates up to 1.77" (45mm) of snow.

What month is the ocean coldest?

The month with the coldest seawater is February, with an average ocean temperature of 38.1°F (3.4°C).

What is the month with the least sunshine?

With an average of 4.8h of sunshine, February has the least sunshine of the year.

What are the least humid months in New Bedford?

The months with the lowest humidity are March, April and November, with an average relative humidity of 74%.

When is Daylight Saving Time (DST)?

On Sunday, March 10. 2024, at 2:00 am, Daylight Saving Time starts, and the time zone changes from EST to EDT. Daylight Saving Time ends Sunday, November 3. 2024, at 2:00 am, and the time zone reverts from EDT to EST.

When it does not snow?

In New Bedford, snow does not fall in May through October.

What is the most humid month?

June and July, with an average relative humidity of 80%, are most humid months in New Bedford.

When are the longest days in New Bedford?

The month with the longest days is June, with an average of 15h and 6min of daylight.

What is the month with the highest UV index?

The months with the highest UV index are June through August, with an average maximum UV index of 6.

What month is the hottest?

July, recognised by an average high temperature of 78.4°F (25.8°C) and a low of 66.4°F (19.1°C), is New Bedford's warmest month.

What is the month with the warmest ocean?

With an average ocean temperature of 68.5°F (20.3°C), August is the month with the warmest seawater.

What month has the most sunshine?

August has the most sunshine of the year, with an average of 10.6h of sunshine.

What is the driest month?

September is the month with the least rainfall. Rain falls for 10.5 days and accumulates 1.06" (27mm) of precipitation.

What is the rainiest month?

The month with the most rainfall is October, when the rain falls for 11.1 days and typically aggregates up to 1.93" (49mm) of precipitation.

What is the month with the shortest days?

December has the shortest days of the year, with an average of 9h and 12min of daylight.

Average temperature
New Bedford, MA

Average high temperature in January:
36.3°F
Average high temperature in February:
38.3°F
Average high temperature in March:
43.5°F
Average high temperature in April:
53.2°F
Average high temperature in May:
62.4°F
Average high temperature in June:
70.7°F

Average high temperature in July:
78.4°F
Average high temperature in August:
78.3°F
Average high temperature in September:
71.2°F
Average high temperature in October:
61.9°F
Average high temperature in November:
50.9°F
Average high temperature in December:
42.4°F

The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (78.4°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (36.3°F).

Average low temperature in January:
26.8°F
Average low temperature in February:
27.1°F
Average low temperature in March:
33.1°F
Average low temperature in April:
41.9°F
Average low temperature in May:
50.7°F
Average low temperature in June:
58.1°F

Average low temperature in July:
66.4°F
Average low temperature in August:
65.8°F
Average low temperature in September:
59.7°F
Average low temperature in October:
51.3°F
Average low temperature in November:
41°F
Average low temperature in December:
33.3°F

The month with the highest average low temperature is July (66.4°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (26.8°F).

Average pressure
New Bedford, MA

The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is November (30.07"Hg).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is June (29.93"Hg).

Average wind speed
New Bedford, MA

The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is January (11.9mph).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is August (8mph).

Average humidity
New Bedford, MA

The months with the highest relative humidity are June and July (80%).
The months with the lowest relative humidity are March, April and November (74%).

Average rainfall
New Bedford, MA

The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is October (1.93").
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is September (1.06").

Average rainfall days
New Bedford, MA

Average rainfall days in January:
8.2 days
Average rainfall days in February:
8.3 days
Average rainfall days in March:
11.4 days
Average rainfall days in April:
13 days
Average rainfall days in May:
13.3 days
Average rainfall days in June:
13.2 days

Average rainfall days in July:
13.4 days
Average rainfall days in August:
12.1 days
Average rainfall days in September:
10.5 days
Average rainfall days in October:
11.1 days
Average rainfall days in November:
9.2 days
Average rainfall days in December:
9.5 days

The month with the highest number of rainy days is July (13.4 days).
The month with the least rainy days is January (8.2 days).

Average snowfall
New Bedford, MA

The month with the highest snowfall is February (1.77").
The months with the least snowfall are May, June, July, August, September and October (0").

Average snowfall days
New Bedford, MA

Average snowfall days in January:
6.5 days
Average snowfall days in February:
5.8 days
Average snowfall days in March:
4.4 days
Average snowfall days in April:
0.7 days
Average snowfall days in May:
0.2 days
Average snowfall days in June:
0 days

Average snowfall days in July:
0 days
Average snowfall days in August:
0 days
Average snowfall days in September:
0 days
Average snowfall days in October:
0 days
Average snowfall days in November:
0.6 days
Average snowfall days in December:
3.2 days

The month with the highest number of snowfall days is January (6.5 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are June, July, August, September and October (0 days).

Average sea temperature
New Bedford, MA

Average sea temperature in January:
41.3°F
Average sea temperature in February:
38.2°F
Average sea temperature in March:
38.6°F
Average sea temperature in April:
44°F
Average sea temperature in May:
50.4°F
Average sea temperature in June:
58.6°F

Average sea temperature in July:
66.2°F
Average sea temperature in August:
68.4°F
Average sea temperature in September:
65.8°F
Average sea temperature in October:
60.4°F
Average sea temperature in November:
53.2°F
Average sea temperature in December:
46.9°F

The best month for swimming (with the highest average sea temperature) is August (68.4°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average sea temperature) is February (38.2°F).

Average daylight / Average sunshine
New Bedford, MA

Average daylight in January:
9h and 4min
Average daylight in February:
10h and 4min
Average daylight in March:
12h and 0min
Average daylight in April:
13h and 2min
Average daylight in May:
14h and 3min
Average daylight in June:
15h and 1min

Average daylight in July:
14h and 5min
Average daylight in August:
13h and 5min
Average daylight in September:
12h and 3min
Average daylight in October:
11h and 1min
Average daylight in November:
9h and 5min
Average daylight in December:
9h and 1min

The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 15h and 6min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 9h and 12min).

Average sunshine in January:
5h and 1min
Average sunshine in February:
4h and 5min
Average sunshine in March:
6h and 0min
Average sunshine in April:
8h and 2min
Average sunshine in May:
8h and 3min
Average sunshine in June:
9h and 2min

Average sunshine in July:
10h and 2min
Average sunshine in August:
10h and 4min
Average sunshine in September:
8h and 4min
Average sunshine in October:
6h and 2min
Average sunshine in November:
5h and 2min
Average sunshine in December:
4h and 5min

The month with the most sunshine is August (Average sunshine: 10h and 36min).
The month with the least sunshine is February (Average sunshine: 4h and 48min).

Average sunshine days
New Bedford, MA

Average sunshine days in January:
17 days
Average sunshine days in February:
15.7 days
Average sunshine days in March:
16.8 days
Average sunshine days in April:
14.4 days
Average sunshine days in May:
15.6 days
Average sunshine days in June:
15.3 days

Average sunshine days in July:
14.9 days
Average sunshine days in August:
16.1 days
Average sunshine days in September:
16.7 days
Average sunshine days in October:
17.5 days
Average sunshine days in November:
18.3 days
Average sunshine days in December:
18.3 days

The months with the most sunshine days are November and December (18.3 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is April (14.4 days).

Average UV index
New Bedford, MA

The months with the highest UV index are June, July and August (UV index 6).
The months with the lowest UV index are January, February, March, November and December (UV index 2).

Average cloud cover
New Bedford, MA

The month with the most cloud cover is March (Cloud cover 49).
The month with the least cloud cover is August (Cloud cover 28).

Average visibility
New Bedford, MA

The months with the highest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (6mi).
The months with the lowest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (6mi).

Climate and monthly weather forecastNew Bedford, MA

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