The climate of Shelby
Geographically,
Shelby,
Montana sits at the crossroads of the Great Plains, earning it a Köppen climate classification of BSk, denoting a mid-latitude steppe climate. Characteristically, this subtype of dry climate shows noticeable variations in weather parameters throughout the year.
As for the temperature, it varies across the year in Shelby. In the coldest month,
January, the daily high temperature averages 28.8°F (-1.8°C) with its companionship dropping to an average of 16°F (-8.9°C). At the height of summer, in
July, temperatures climb to an average daily high of 80.8°F (27.1°C) and an average nightly low of 57.4°F (14.1°C).
Precipitation presents itself quite differently across the year, with both rainfall and snowfall contributing to the yearly accumulation. The most pronounced rainfall occurs in
June with a total of 2.01" (51mm) over approximately 11.8 days. Unlike the rain, snow makes its most notable presence during
February, with an accumulation of 4.17" (106mm) happening across roughly 10.3 days.
Correspondingly, the relative humidity varies month-to-month, with January experiencing the highest levels at 80% and
August seeing the lowest at 40%. Another parameter to take into account is daylight duration, which ranges from approximately 8.4 hours in the depths of
December to around 16.1 hours during the lengthy June days.
The best time to visit Shelby
Potential visitors seeking the warmest and sunniest weather could find
June,
July, and
August to be the ideal months to visit
Shelby,
Montana. Not only does the mercury rise to a comfortable average of between 71.2°F (21.8°C) to 80.8°F (27.1°C) in these months, but those wanting longer days will appreciate the sunlight duration, extending to between 15.3 to 16.1 hours per day.
The worst time to visit Shelby
Conversely, the chilly months of
December,
January, and
February may potentially prove challenging for visitors unaccustomed to colder, snowier conditions. With a high of 28.9°F (-1.7°C) registered in February and a chilly lower average of 15.4°F (-9.2°C) in January, it is wise to bundle up. Additionally, the sunlight duration dips to between 8.4 to 10.2 hours, presenting shorter days and longer nights.
Spring weather in Shelby
Spring envelopes
Shelby from
March to
May, with temperatures warming significantly from an average high of 40.8°F (4.9°C) in March to 62.4°F (16.9°C) by the end of May. Corresponding nighttime temperatures display a similar warming trend, with a low of 25.9°F (-3.4°C) in March to a milder 44.4°F (6.9°C) by May.
Summer weather in Shelby
Summer in
Shelby, commencing in
June and ending in
August, is characterized by its warmest and sunniest conditions. Temperatures reach their peak at an average high of 80.8°F (27.1°C) in
July while the nights cool down to a comfortable average low of 57.4°F (14.1°C).
Autumn weather in Shelby
Autumn approaches
Shelby between
September and
November, bringing about a marked cooling. September's average high begins at 68.9°F (20.5°C), cooling to 39.4°F (4.1°C) by November. Correspondingly, nighttime temperatures decrease from an average of 50.7°F (10.4°C) in September to colder average lows of 25.2°F (-3.8°C) by November.
Winter weather in Shelby
Winter, ushered in during
December and stretching to
February, is witness to the coldest temperatures of the year in
Shelby. The daytime temperatures hover between 27.7°F (-2.4°C) and 28.9°F (-1.7°C) while the nightly lows reach down between 15.4°F (-9.2°C) and 16°F (-8.9°C).
Weather in January
January is known for being one of the coldest months in
Shelby,
Montana. Residents can expect a high temperature of 28.8°F (-1.8°C) on average and a low temperature dip to 16°F (-8.9°C). Along with the chilly temperatures, snowfall is a regular feature, adding a winter wonderland charm to the cityscape.
Weather in January » Weather in February
As winter continues in
February, the temperatures in
Shelby,
Montana slightly rise and snowfall increases, reaching a height of 4.17" (106mm). Despite the increase in snowfall, February sees a decrease in the number of snowfall days from 10.3 to 9.4 compared to
January.
Weather in February »Weather in March
With the approach of spring,
March brings milder weather conditions to
Shelby,
Montana. The average temperatures start to rise and daylight hours increase, signifying winter's departure and spring's arrival. Despite occasional snowfall, the number of rainfall days increases from 3.1 to 7 compared to
February.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April signifies the full arrival of spring in
Shelby,
Montana, accompanied by a considerable increase in rainfall at 1.1" (28mm). As the remnants of winter fade away, city residents enjoy an increase in daylight hours and a decrease in snowfall.
Weather in April » Weather in May
May ushers in the warmth in
Shelby,
Montana with an average high temperature of 62.4°F (16.9°C). The weather sharply transitions from the rain showers of
April, welcoming the beauty of spring in full bloom. Rainfall slightly increases during this time and the lengthening days offer more sunshine.
Weather in May » Weather in June
June in
Shelby,
Montana, is the threshold of summer, with an average high temperature of 71.2°F (21.8°C). With increased daylight hours and longer spells of sunshine, it is the perfect time for picnics, barbecues, and pool parties.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July is the peak of summer in
Shelby,
Montana, and the city basks under the warm sunlight. With an average high temperature of 80.8°F (27.1°C), it stands as the warmest month of the year. In contrast to the winter months, cloud coverage is minimal, and rain or snow is quite rare, providing plenty of opportunities for long, sunny days.
Weather in July » Weather in August
August in
Shelby,
Montana, sees a slight dip in high temperatures from
July, but the weather remains relatively warm at 79.9°F (26.6°C) on average. The summer heat persists, but relief arrives in the form of late afternoon rain showers.
Weather in August » Weather in September
A noticeable transition from summer to autumn occurs in
September in
Shelby,
Montana. The high temperatures drop significantly to an average of 68.9°F (20.5°C) and the lush summer greenery begins to give way to vibrant autumn hues.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October in
Shelby,
Montana, is predominantly characterized by its cool temperatures and cloudy weather. This month sees a significant decrease in temperature, with highs reaching 53.1°F (11.7°C) on average. Although the mercury falls, the vibrantly colored autumn leaves continue to hold sway, creating a picturesque setting.
Weather in October » Weather in November
November brings further drops in temperature in
Shelby,
Montana, with average highs reaching 39.4°F (4.1°C). The city begins to prepare for winter as the first snowflakes start to fall towards the end of the month. The daylight hours are gradually reduced and the twilight descends early.
Weather in November » Weather in December
As the year comes to a close,
December signifies the onset of winter in
Shelby,
Montana. Low temperatures average around 15.4°F (-9.2°C), bringing harsh cold and regular snowfall. The shorter daylight hours and frequent snowfall of 2.28" (58mm) set the stage for a white Christmas.
Weather in December »