The climate of Northampton
Northampton,
Massachusetts, situated in the United States, is characterized by its Humid Continental climate. This region experiences no dry season, and summers are warm, complimenting the Köppen climate classification of Dfb. As per the climatological data, the weather in Northampton undergoes a significant transformation throughout the year.
Analysis of the weather parameters reveals that the temperature reaches peak summertime highs of about 81.7°F (27.6°C) and retreats to its minimum wintertime lows of 18°F (-7.8°C). This substantial variation accommodates both the comfortable warmth of the summer and the frosty grip of the winter. The daylight span also oscillates between 9.1 hours in
December and 15.2 hours during
June, further underlining the extent of the seasonable weather shift.
Northampton's climate exhibits additional distinct patterns. A pronounced decrease in snowfall from 1.73" (44mm) in
January to zero in June suggests the winter's end. Likewise, the variation in humidity, ranging from 72% to 82%, reflects seasonal changes. It is worth noting the substantial amount of rainfall during
October, amounting to 1.61" (41mm) across approximately 11.7 days, which surpasses any other month.
The best time to visit Northampton
For travelers planning a visit to
Northampton and keen to make the most of the fine weather, summertime is particularly inviting. From
June to
August, the region basks in average high temperatures between 75.2°F (24°C) to 81.7°F (27.6°C). The amount of sunshine also plateaus at around 10.3 hours per day, assuring a vibrant ambiance, ideal for outdoor pursuits. Combined with the lowest annual pressure fluctuations of around 29.92" (760mm) in June, these months provide the most stable and pleasant weather conditions.
The worst time to visit Northampton
Conversely, the winter months of
December through
February pose several challenges for visitors. During this period, temperatures plummet to lows of 18°F (-7.8°C) to 18.7°F (-7.4°C), with a winter apex barely reaching 33.4°F (0.8°C). Coupled with abundant snowfall of up to 1.85" (47mm) in February, and reduced daylight hours dwindling to 9.1 hours in December, these conditions can be harsh for outdoor activities. Potential visitors who are not keen on braving icy outdoor conditions should avoid this period.
Spring weather in Northampton
Spring in
Northampton commences in
March and lasts until
May, marked by a gradual transition from the chill of winter to the warmth of summer. During these months, daily high temperatures climb slowly from 41.7°F (5.4°C) in March to 67.6°F (19.8°C) by the close of May. Concurrently, snowfall continually decreases from 1.06" (27mm) in March to a negligible 0.08" (2mm) in May. Rainfall also varies slightly, from 0.98" (25mm) in March to 1.38" (35mm) in May, spread across 11-13.9 days.
Summer weather in Northampton
June through
August make up the summer period in
Northampton. This season promises high temperatures, peaking at 81.7°F (27.6°C) in
July. No snowfall occurs during these months, supplanted by increased rainfall amounts—peaking at 1.46" (37mm) in both June and July. Yet, these heavy rainfalls do not overshadow the abundant sunshine, with light filling the city for an impressive 15.2 hours in June, easing slightly to 14.9 hours in July.
Autumn weather in Northampton
Autumn in
Northampton ushers in the transition from balmy summer highs to the colder winter climate.
September to
November are characterized by temperatures gradually falling from a high of 72°F (22.2°C) in September to a lower 46.9°F (8.3°C) by November. Corresponding with this decrease in temperature, daylight hours decrease from 12.5 hours in September to 9.8 hours in November.
Winter weather in Northampton
Winters in
Northampton, encompassing
December through
February, unveil the harshest weather conditions. Temperatures range from lows of 18°F (-7.8°C) in
January to slightly higher 36°F (2.2°C) in December. Coupled with snowfall peaking at 1.85" (47mm) in February and the shortest daylight duration of 9.1 hours in December, these factors converge to form decidedly less hospitable conditions during these winter months.
Weather in January
Northampton,
Massachusetts welcomes the New Year under a blanket of snow with
January being one of the coldest months. In terms of temperature, January sees lows of 18°F (-7.8°C) and highs of 30.4°F (-0.9°C). The chill in the air is exacerbated by an average wind speed of 8mph (12.9km/h), turning the streets into wind tunnels.
Weather in January » Weather in February
Much like
January,
February continues to be in the grip of winter in
Northampton. The slight increase in temperature from lows of 18.7°F (-7.4°C) to highs of 33.4°F (0.8°C) indicate the slow, incoming arrival of spring. This month sees the highest snowfall of the year at 1.85" (47mm), turning the city into a winter wonderland.
Weather in February »Weather in March
As per the data,
Northampton witnesses a drastic temperature rise in
March with values ranging from 27°F (-2.8°C) to 41.7°F (5.4°C). Winter begins to recede, and the early signs of spring start to appear in the city. The melting snow gives way to scattered showers, keeping the humidity in check.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
With spring in full bloom,
April brings a significant temperature shift, with the mercury ranging from 37.2°F (2.9°C) to 55°F (12.8°C). Natural beauty starts to manifest itself as the greenery is revived by the annual spring rain.
Weather in April »Weather in May
May is characterized by warmer climate and fewer clouds, as summer begins to make its presence felt in
Northampton. The temperature swings between the mild Zone of 47.5°F (8.6°C) and the quite warm temperature of 67.6°F (19.8°C).
Weather in May » Weather in June
June marks the true arrival of summer in
Northampton, with the highest recorded daylight hours of approximately 15.2. The city sees increased outdoor activities with temperatures between a cozy 54.3°F (12.4°C) and a sunny 75.2°F (24°C).
Weather in June »
Weather in July
Northampton,
Massachusetts experiences the hottest month of the year in
July, with temperatures soaring from 60.8°F (16°C) and peaking at 81.7°F (27.6°C). It's a time when the city is busting with summer activities as everyone soaks up the sun.
Weather in July » Weather in August
August continues the trend of warmth in
Northampton, with temperatures that range from 59°F (15°C) to 79.3°F (26.3°C). While there's a slight drop in temperature from
July, the summer heat still looms large. August is characterized by late-summer events, open-air concerts, and bustling farmers' markets.
Weather in August » Weather in September
September provides a smooth transition from the sweltering summer to pleasant fall with temperatures swinging from 52.7°F (11.5°C) to 72°F (22.2°C). The city of
Northampton begins to showcase its fall colors, attracting numerous visitors.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
Fall sets in fully by
October, bringing the temperature range to between 43.7°F (6.5°C) and 58.8°F (14.9°C) in
Northampton. October is characterized by vibrant fall foliage and enriching cultural events. Rainfall is a bit erratic during this period, enhancing the freshness of the city.
Weather in October »Weather in November
November brings colder winds to
Northampton, marking the transition to winter. The drop in temperature from 33.1°F (0.6°C) to 46.9°F (8.3°C) calls for heavier clothing as Northampton heads into the holiday season. Leaves fall and the cityscape transforms, preparing itself for the impending snowfall.
Weather in November » Weather in December
Winter announces its arrival in
December when
Northampton sees temperatures between 24.8°F (-4°C) and 36°F (2.2°C). Festive spirit fills the air as snow carpets the city, creating a picturesque winter scene. Despite the chill, the city glows with holiday decorations and bustling markets.
Weather in December »