The climate of Sunapee
Sunapee,
New Hampshire, USA features a prevailing humid continental climate with no dry season but a warm summer. This categorizes it within the Köppen climate classification Dfb. There is a significant disparity in temperatures from the hottest months to the coldest months of the year, alongside moderate humidity levels.
Over the year, temperatures can fluctuate from a chilly 13.3°F (-10.4°C) in
January to a relatively warm 78.8°F (26°C) in
July. Humidity remains fairly stable throughout the year, ranging from 75% in
April to 86% in January and
February. Rainfall varies slightly, with a maximum of 3.39" (86mm) in
October compared to a minimum of 2.05" (52mm) in
September. Sunapee also experiences a generous amount of snowfall, particularly in January and February with totals of 8.62" (219mm) and 11.18" (284mm) respectively.
January witnesses most days with snowfall at 13.3, with February following closely at 14.3 days. Daylight hours increase from 9.4 hours in January to 15.4 hours in
June, before reducing again towards the end of the year. Sunshine hours also follow this pattern, with a peak of 10.1 hours in
August. Peak wind gusts are experienced in January and
December at 12.3mph (19.8km/h) and 11.5mph (18.5km/h) respectively.
The best time to visit Sunapee
The best time to visit
Sunapee largely depends on the preferred activities of the visitor. For those seeking warmth and more daylight hours, the months of
June,
July, and
August serve as the perfect option. During these months, the temperatures range from 64.9°F (18.3°C) to 78.8°F (26°C), presenting an excellent time frame for outdoor activities. Additionally, daylight hours peak at 15.4 hours in June allowing ample time for exploration. August witnesses a maximum of 10.1 sunshine hours, making these summer months ideal for a Sunapee visit.
The worst time to visit Sunapee
If uncomfortable with snowy conditions and low temperatures, the months of
December,
January, and
February might not be the best time for a visit. During this period, the city gets enveloped by snowfall, with totals of 7.32" (186mm) in December and 8.62" (219mm) in January. Temperatures also experience a dip, ranging between 13.3°F (-10.4°C) to 31.6°F (-0.2°C), and wind gusts peak to 11.5mph (18.5km/h) in December. These conditions may not be suitable for those unaccustomed to harsh winter weather.
Spring weather in Sunapee
In
Sunapee, the spring season falls within the months of
March,
April, and
May. These months witness an increase in temperature from a mild 37°F (2.8°C) in March to a warmer 64.9°F (18.3°C) in May. The period sees a gradual reduction in snowfall, finally ceasing in May. Additionally, sunshine hours rise steadily from 5.2 hours in March to 8.2 hours in May. March enjoys the most rainfall during this season with 2.72" (69mm).
Summer weather in Sunapee
Summer in
Sunapee features warm temperatures, ample daylight hours and plenty of sunshine. Stretching from
June through
August, temperatures during these sunny months fluctuate between 72°F (22.2°C) to 78.8°F (26°C). Rainfall during summer months varies from 2.68" (68mm) in June to a slightly lesser 2.09" (53mm) in August. Overall, summer provides favorable weather conditions for all sorts of outdoor activities.
Autumn weather in Sunapee
September,
October, and
November mark the arrival of autumn in
Sunapee. These months observe a gradual cooling in temperatures, starting from 68.9°F (20.5°C) in September and sliding down to 42.6°F (5.9°C) in November. Rainfall sees a slight increase, peaking at 3.39" (86mm) in October. This season also witnesses a drop in sunshine hours, down to 5.4 hours in October.
Winter weather in Sunapee
Winter in
Sunapee runs from
December through
February. These months experience low temperatures, starting from a chilly 31.6°F (-0.2°C) in December to an even colder 13.3°F (-10.4°C) in
January. Snowfall increases during this season, with February witnessing maximum snowfall at 11.18" (284mm). The early dark evenings with daylight hours going down to 9.4 hours in December coupled with the sub-zero temperatures, make winters in Sunapee truly frosty.
Weather in January
January is the month where winter holds a firm grip over
Sunapee,
New Hampshire. The average high temperature barely reaches the freezing point at 25.9°F (-3.4°C) and the nighttime low often plunges to a chilly 13.3°F (-10.4°C).
Weather in January » Weather in February
In
February,
Sunapee experiences a continuity of winter's icy touch with only a slight rise in temperatures. There is even more snowfall with 11.18" (284mm) falling over 14.3 days. Residents often find themselves wrapped up as the weather remains comfortably within the range of winter jackets and mittens.
Weather in February »Weather in March
As
March begins, glimpses of spring can be felt in
Sunapee with temperatures showing a noticeable upward trend. Perhaps the most significant change in this transition to spring is the decline of snowfall to 7.09" (180mm) over the span of 12.7 days.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
By
April, spring in
Sunapee is in full swing. The most significant weather shift can be seen in the decrease of snowfall from 3.5" (89mm) at the start of the month to virtually none by the end of it. Buds on trees start to appear and locals dust off their lighter clothing items.
Weather in April »Weather in May
May signifies the arrival of warmer weather in
Sunapee. The temperature escalates, making the weather pleasantly warm with an average high of 64.9°F (18.3°C). As the last traces of snow melt away, green landscapes return in this period of renewal.
Weather in May » Weather in June
Weather in
June signifies the onset of summer in
Sunapee. Days are markedly longer with increased hours of sunshine, making them perfect for outdoor activities. There is a rise in humidity, hinting at a warm, slightly muggy summer ahead.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July is the warmest month in
Sunapee, with temperatures peaking at an average high of 78.8°F (26°C). With no snowfall and balmy days, summer is in full swing at this point in the year. Residents and visitors enjoy the warm, sunny days and an array of outdoor activities.
Weather in July » Weather in August
As
August arrives in
Sunapee, the summer heat continues, but with a slight decrease from
July's peak. The precipitation decreases, leading to drier conditions which are characteristic of late summer. The town basks under the warmth of the Sunapee sun, inviting outdoor explorations and water activities.
Weather in August »Weather in September
The weather in
September marks the beginning of autumn in
Sunapee. A notable drop in temperature begins, and green landscapes start showing splashes of dazzling fall colors. While the weather remains relatively warm during the day, there is an unmistakable crispness in the air.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October ushers in the autumn season in full swing in
Sunapee. The weather is characterized by cool temperatures and an increase in rainfall, amounting to 3.39" (86mm) for the month. The town takes on vibrant hues of red, orange, and gold as leaves change color.
Weather in October » Weather in November
In
November,
Sunapee starts transitioning into winter once more. There is a noticeable dip in temperatures and an initial snowfall of 4.09" (104mm). The hues of autumn start to fade, preparing the town for a wintry landscape. The decrease in daylight hours gives a clear indication of the changing seasons.
Weather in November »Weather in December
December marks the onset of winter in
Sunapee. Freezing temperatures return and snowfall increases to 7.32" (186mm). The town takes on a festive charm as snow blankets the streets and rooftops. Despite the cold weather, December carries a jovial mood with holiday decorations and a spirit of celebration.
Weather in December »