The climate of Salem
Situated in one of the the temperate zones,
Salem,
New Hampshire, USA, experiences a distinct variety in climate over the course of a year. It falls under the Dfb Köppen climate classification, which denotes a humid continental climate with no dry season and warm summers.
Temperature fluctuates noticeably throughout the year with monthly average highs ranging from 32.2°F (0.1°C) to 81.7°F (27.6°C) and lows from 20.3°F (-6.5°C) to 63°F (17.2°C). A guidepost for the seasons, it can tip the scale from quite cold in winter to moderately warm in summer. Relative humidity remains relatively steady throughout the year, varying from values of 71% to 79%.
Rainfall in Salem is well distributed throughout the year with monthly averages between 1.3" (33mm) and 2.87" (73mm). However, the number of rainy days varies significantly from a low of 7.6 to a high of 15.9. Snowfall is mainly experienced in the colder months with
January and
February receiving 3.46" (88mm) and 5.87" (149mm) respectively. Snowy days range between 0 in the warmer months to 8.5 in winter.
The best time to visit Salem
The optimal period to visit
Salem differs based on individual preferences. For those who enjoy mild temperatures and more sunshine, the months between
May and
September would be ideal. During this time, the average high temperatures vary from 66°F (18.9°C) to 81.7°F (27.6°C), and average low temperatures range from 48.7°F (9.3°C) to 63°F (17.2°C).
Sunshine hours are also at their peak, with the city enjoying between 8.6 hours and 10.6 hours of sunshine per day. Furthermore, relative humidity decreases slightly, providing a more comfortable atmosphere for outdoor activities.
The worst time to visit Salem
Visitors who prefer to avoid colder temperatures and snowfall might find the months from
December to
February less appealing. During these months, average high temperatures are between 32.2°F (0.1°C) and 42.1°F (5.6°C) and lows between 20.3°F (-6.5°C) and 28.6°F (-1.9°C). Snowfall reaches its peak, with 3.46" (88mm) in December and 5.87" (149mm) in February. Consequently, these months have the highest number of snowy days, with 8.5 days in
January and 7.7 days in February.
Spring weather in Salem
Spring in
Salem ushers in warmer temperatures after the cold winter months. From
March to
May, the average high temperatures increase from 42.1°F (5.6°C) to 66°F (18.9°C), and lows rise from 28.6°F (-1.9°C) to 48.7°F (9.3°C). Rainfall also sees an uptick, ranging from 2.56" (65mm) in March to 1.97" (50mm) in May.
Summer weather in Salem
Summer in
Salem, from
June to
August, is characterized by the warmest temperatures of the year. Average high temperatures vary from 73.9°F (23.3°C) to 81.7°F (27.6°C), and lows range between 56.1°F (13.4°C) and 63°F (17.2°C). Despite the warm temperatures, rainfall remains moderate, from 1.97" (50mm) in June to 1.69" (43mm) in August.
Autumn weather in Salem
Autumn sees a gradual dip in temperatures. From
September to
November, the average highs drop from 72.3°F (22.4°C) to 48.2°F (9°C), and lows decrease from 55.8°F (13.2°C) to 35.4°F (1.9°C). Rainfall surges to 2.83" (72mm) in
October — the highest in the year.
Winter weather in Salem
Winter brings with it the coldest days of the year. The average high temperatures from
December to
February fall between 32.2°F (0.1°C) and 42.1°F (5.6°C), and lows plummet to between 20.3°F (-6.5°C) and 28.6°F (-1.9°C). Snowfall is prevalent, particularly in December and February with 3.46" (88mm) and 5.87" (149mm), respectively.
Weather in January
January in
Salem,
New Hampshire initiates the year with abundant cloud cover and a fair share of snowfall, comprising a snowfall of 3.46" (88mm) across 8.5 days. The cold winter weather fosters the formation of snow rather than rain, providing a striking contrast to the hot, rain-filled summers in the region.
Weather in January » Weather in February
February sees a continuation of the winter season in
Salem, featuring a slight increase in snowfall to 5.87" (149mm) over 7.7 days compared to the preceding month. The crisp winter air is often filled with the soft fluttering of snowflakes, attracting winter sports enthusiasts and lovers of serene landscapes.
Weather in February » Weather in March
In
March,
Salem experiences an increase in average high temperatures to 42.1°F (5.6°C) and a decrease in snowfall to 4.29" (109mm), signifying the first signs of the coming spring. This mix of winter chill and emerging spring warmth creates a unique climate during this month.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April in
Salem brings significant changes, with a substantial temperature hike to 54.7°F (12.6°C) and a decreased snowfall to 1.69" (43mm). A respite from the chilly weather of the preceding months, this transition provides a refreshing change for the residents.
Weather in April » Weather in May
Salem in
May experiences a spring climate characterized by warmer temperatures and a further reduction in snowfall to just 0.16" (4mm). With the decline in winter’s influence, spring flowers bloom, creating scenic beauty throughout the city.
Weather in May » Weather in June
June brings the first taste of summer to
Salem,
New Hampshire, with temperatures peaking at an average high of 73.9°F (23.3°C) and no incidence of snowfall. This onset of the summertime encourages outdoor exploration and participation in water-related activities, especially with the sea temperature rising to 57.1°F (13.9°C).
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July is the warmest month in
Salem, with the highest average temperature of the year at 81.7°F (27.6°C), and also experiences no snowfall. The hot weather is typically complemented by a relaxed outdoor lifestyle and a diverse array of summer-specific activities and events.
Weather in July » Weather in August
In
August,
Salem's weather remains summery, featuring high temperatures around 79.9°F (26.6°C) and negligible snowfall. Bask in the late-summer sunshine which permeates the city, despite occasional rainy spells. August offers the perfect climate for beach activities as the sea temperature ascends to a warm 66.4°F (19.1°C).
Weather in August »Weather in September
September in
Salem witnesses a slight drop in average high temperatures to 72.3°F (22.4°C) and an absence of snowfall. The commencement of fall ushers in a cooling trend, but the pleasant weather invites continued outdoor activities.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October introduces a more noticeable shift towards cooler weather, with an even further decline in temperatures in
Salem than in previous months. As fall deepens, the foliage reaches its peak color, transforming the city into a picturesque scene popular with photographers and nature enthusiasts.
Weather in October » Weather in November
November in
Salem marks the start of colder weather, with temperatures dropping down considerably from the previous month. With heavy overcast skies becoming more frequent, the shift toward winter is tangible. As the leaves fall, trees gradually lose their foliage, reflecting the changing seasons.
Weather in November » Weather in December
In
December,
Salem’s weather grows colder still, with temperatures falling to an average low of 27.3°F (-2.6°C) and snowfall increasing to 4.49" (114mm). As the city gets ready for the Christmas festivities, snow is often a common sight, enveloping Salem in a winter wonderland.
Weather in December »