Climate and monthly weather forecast
Dunkirk, NY

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The Dunkirk Lighthouse, New York, standing alone in this vast field amid trees, with the light at the top, overlooking the dark Lake Eerie
The Dunkirk Lighthouse, New York, standing alone in this vast field amid trees, with the light at the top, overlooking the dark Lake Eerie

The climate of Dunkirk

Dunkirk, New York, US, experiences a Humid continental climate, bearing no dry seasons and warm summers, according to the Köppen climate classification. This typifies a Dfb predominate climate, influenced by its geographical position on the Southern shores of Lake Erie, which guides the changing seasons and weather events.

Throughout the year, Dunkirk's weather shifts with every seasonal transition. High temperatures in the heart of winter average between 29.7°F (-1.3°C) in January to 31.3°F (-0.4°C) in February, and then rise modestly to reach 48.4°F (9.1°C) by the spring month of April. Sunlit summer days from June to August offer respite with the mercury surging to a congenial range from 67.6°F (19.8°C) to 74.8°F (23.8°C). As autumn rolls in, the temperature starts plummeting, going down to a chilly 36.5°F (2.5°C) in December.

In terms of rainfall, an average of 2.4" (61mm) in January increases steadily to peak at 3.23" (82mm) in the month of April and May. July and August present a slight dip, but monsoons continue to be a persistent presence with 3.07" (78mm) of precipitation in July. A marginally drier spell is observed in September with 2.05" (52mm) of rainfall, which once more escalates toward the end of the year.

The meteorological conditions of Dunkirk are unique due to the high humidity levels that persist all year round, settling above the 77% mark throughout. Snowfall is witnessed from December to March, reaching a high of 5.98" (152mm) in February.

The best time to visit Dunkirk

An analysis of the annual weather conditions suggests that summer, particularly between June to August, would make for a pleasant visit to Dunkirk. Temperature highs are comfortably placed between 67.6°F (19.8°C) and 74.8°F (23.8°C), coupled with a reasonably lower rainfall. During this season, daylight is abundant, averaging around 14.9 to 15.3 hours, giving tourists plenty of time to explore the attractions that the city has to offer.

The worst time to visit Dunkirk

Winter months, specifically from December to February, are relatively harsher in Dunkirk and might not be ideal for tours. The temperature ranges from a low of 21.2°F (-6°C) to a high of 31.3°F (-0.4°C). Additionally, during this period, the city experiences frequent snowfall accompanied by low daylight hours, between 9.1 to 10.6 on average, and might limit outdoor activities for visitors.

Spring weather in Dunkirk

Spring in Dunkirk, from March through May, sees a substantial rise in temperature from the winter lows, averaging between 38.5°F (3.6°C) to 59.5°F (15.3°C). The daylight hours gradually increase and reach up to 14.6 hours by May. Despite higher rainfall during the spring months, it's accompanied by an increase in sunshine, offering almost 7.3 hours of bright daylight in April.

Summer weather in Dunkirk

The summer season in Dunkirk brings in warm and pleasant weather. From June through August, the high temperatures oscillate between 67.6°F (19.8°C) to 74.8°F (23.8°C) making it comfortable to enjoy outdoor activities. Humidity still maintains a steady range but is balanced by increased sunshine hours, climbing up to 10.3 hours in July.

Autumn weather in Dunkirk

Autumn, from September through November, witnesses temperature highs ranging from 69.3°F (20.7°C) to 45.5°F (7.5°C). It's the onset of chilly winds, but the sunshine persists, providing around 8.9 hours of daylight until September. Rainfall, however, begins to increase, in October, causing damper conditions.

Winter weather in Dunkirk

December through February marks the winter season in Dunkirk when the mercury plummets dramatically. High temperatures range from 29.7°F (-1.3°C) in January down to 36.5°F (2.5°C) in December. The city experiences significant snowfall, and daylight becomes more scarce with only about 9.1 hours in December. Winter winds range from 13.9mph (22.4km/h) to 14.4mph (23.2km/h), making Dunkirk a winter wonderland.

Weather in January

January in Dunkirk, New York, foretells of a cold and snowy start to the year. This month accounts for the highest snowfall, with 4.33" (110mm) coating the landscape, as well as boasting the strongest maximum wind speeds at 15.3mph (24.6km/h). Weather in January »

Weather in February

February continues the winter vibe started by January but offers slightly increased daylight hours. The increase in sunshine hours to 2.9 hours gives Dunkirk's weather a slightly brighter disposition. There's an increase of 1.65" (42mm) in snowfall, totaling to 5.98" (152mm). Weather in February »

Weather in March

As Dunkirk gets into March, there's a gradual increase in temperatures, as the region transitions from winter to spring. The weather exhibits fewer snowy days, now standing at 9.4. Longer daylight hours become apparent offering 12 hours, improving the mood for outdoor activities. Weather in March »

Weather in April

April showcases noticeable changes in Dunkirk’s weather trends. The snow almost completely disappears, giving way to 3.23" (82mm) of rainfall. The month becomes the harbinger of spring in its full extent, with longer daylight hours brightening up the sky for 13.4 hours. Weather in April »

Weather in May

Dunkirk gains a new weather rhythm come May. The shift in temperatures continues its upwards trend, yet May remains relatively cool. The fresh spring remains active with nature simultaneously flourishing under 3.23" (82mm) of precipitation. Weather in May »

Weather in June

June carries forth a significant shift in Dunkirk’s weather. The temperatures escalate to a mild summer heat, yet humidity stays consistent. Dunkirk experiences 15.3 daylight hours, the longest throughout the year. It also marks the transition to the summer season with an increased UV index. Weather in June »

Weather in July

July comes armed with the highest temperatures, reaching 74.8°F (23.8°C). It’s the warmest month in Dunkirk, bringing about the peak of the summer season. Clearer skies become dominant, as the percentage of cloud coverage drops to its lowest. Weather in July »

Weather in August

August maintains similar temperature trends to July, keeping Dunkirk in the grasp of summer. The climate remains fairly hot, although rainfall heightens marginally to 3.03" (77mm), providing momentary respite. The sunny weather continues to rid the sky of clouds, maintaining a clear view and increasing daylight hours. Weather in August »

Weather in September

September invites the advent of the autumn season in Dunkirk. The decline in temperature becomes noticeable, albeit gradual. The precipitation reduces to 2.05" (52mm), marking a relatively dry month. The extended daylight hours begin to shorten, indicating the forthcoming winter. Weather in September »

Weather in October

October further pronounces the ongoing shift in Dunkirk's weather, transitioning deeper into autumn. The weather asserts its volatility with significant rainfall of 3.19" (81mm). The UV index stays low, and daylight hours decline, aligning with the changing season. Weather in October »

Weather in November

The arrival of November in Dunkirk takes the region a step closer to winter. The temperatures respond accordingly, dipping to a low of 36.9°F (2.7°C). Remarkably, snowfall reappears, ushering in the start of winter with 3.07" (78mm) of snow. Weather in November »

Weather in December

December firmly situates Dunkirk in the midst of winter. The temperature drops further to a cool 36.5°F (2.5°C), establishing a chilly environment. Snowfall enhances, laying down 3.23" (82mm) of snow, creating a classic winter view. Weather in December »
Updated: Feb 13, 2024
Published by: Weather U.S. | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate

Frequently asked questions

What part of the year is the coldest in Dunkirk?

January is the month when Dunkirk sees the average lowest temperatures, with a high of 29.7°F (-1.3°C) and a low of 21.2°F (-6°C).

How many days does it rain in Dunkirk?

In Dunkirk, New York, during the entire year, the rain falls for 171.9 days and collects up to 33.43" (849mm) of precipitation.

When does it snow in Dunkirk?

January through May, October through December are months with snowfall.

How many days does it snow in Dunkirk?

Throughout the year, in Dunkirk, there are 61.7 snowfall days, and 20.67" (525mm) of snow is accumulated.

What is the month with the least sunshine in Dunkirk?

January has the least sunshine of the year, with an average of 2.4h of sunshine.

What are the months with the lowest UV index in Dunkirk?

January and December, with an average maximum UV index of 1, are months with the lowest UV index in Dunkirk.

What is the most humid month in Dunkirk?

The most humid month is February, with an average relative humidity of 85%.

When does it snow the most in Dunkirk?

February is the month with the most snowfall. Snow falls for 14.2 days and accumulates 5.98" (152mm) of snow.

When is Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Dunkirk?

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.

What is the wettest month in Dunkirk?

The wettest months are April and May, with an average 3.23" (82mm) of rainfall.

When it does not snow in Dunkirk?

In Dunkirk, New York, snow does not fall in June through September.

When are the longest days in Dunkirk?

June has the longest days of the year, with an average of 15h and 12min of daylight.

What time of the year is the hottest in Dunkirk?

In Dunkirk, July records the average highest temperatures, peaking at 74.8°F (23.8°C) and reaching a low of 64.2°F (17.9°C).

What is the month with the highest UV index in Dunkirk?

The month with the highest UV index in Dunkirk, New York, is July, with an average maximum UV index of 6.

What month has the most sunshine in Dunkirk?

August has the most sunshine of the year in Dunkirk, New York, with an average of 10.4h of sunshine.

What are the least humid months in Dunkirk?

September through November, with an average relative humidity of 77%, are the least humid months in Dunkirk, New York.

What is the driest month in Dunkirk?

September is the month with the least rainfall in Dunkirk, New York. Rain falls for 14.3 days and accumulates 2.05" (52mm) of precipitation.

What is the month with the shortest days in Dunkirk?

The month with the shortest days in Dunkirk, New York, is December, with an average of 9h and 6min of daylight.

Average temperature
Dunkirk, NY

Average temperature - Dunkirk, NY

The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (74.8°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (29.7°F).

The month with the highest average low temperature is July (64.2°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (21.2°F).

Average pressure
Dunkirk, NY

Average pressure - Dunkirk, NY

The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is November (30.1"Hg).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is June (29.93"Hg).

Average wind speed
Dunkirk, NY

Average wind speed - Dunkirk, NY

The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is January (14.4mph).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is July (8.3mph).

Average humidity
Dunkirk, NY

Average humidity - Dunkirk, NY

The month with the highest relative humidity is February (85%).
The months with the lowest relative humidity are September, October and November (77%).

Average rainfall
Dunkirk, NY

Average rainfall - Dunkirk, NY

The wettest months (with the highest rainfall) are April and May (3.23").
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is September (2.05").

Average rainfall days
Dunkirk, NY

Average rainfall days - Dunkirk, NY

The month with the highest number of rainy days is October (19.3 days).
The month with the least rainy days is February (8 days).

Average snowfall
Dunkirk, NY

Average snowfall - Dunkirk, NY

The month with the highest snowfall is February (5.98").
The months with the least snowfall are June, July, August and September (0").

Average snowfall days
Dunkirk, NY

Average snowfall days - Dunkirk, NY

The month with the highest number of snowfall days is January (15.6 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are June, July, August and September (0 days).

Average daylight / Average sunshine
Dunkirk, NY

Average daylight / Average sunshine - Dunkirk, NY

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

The month with the most sunshine is August (Average sunshine: 10h and 24min).
The month with the least sunshine is January (Average sunshine: 2h and 24min).

Average sunshine days
Dunkirk, NY

Average sunshine days - Dunkirk, NY

The month with the most sunshine days is September (14 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is January (6.2 days).

Average visibility
Dunkirk, NY

Average visibility - Dunkirk, NY

The months with the highest visibility are March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October and November (6mi).
The month with the lowest visibility is January (4mi).

Dunkirk, New York, USA

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