The climate of Montauk
Nestled in the state of
New York,
Montauk features a marine west coast climate, also recognized as a warm summer climate under the Köppen climate classification (Cfb). Immersed in this climatic zone, Montauk experiences mild temperatures all year round, with substantial amounts of rainfall and very few extreme temperature variations.
Mercury readings in Montauk range from a low of 31.1°F (-0.5°C) in the colder months to a high of 74.8°F (23.8°C) in the warmer season. The humidity remains relatively stable, oscillating mostly around 74% to 83%. There is an observable pattern in rainfall levels, with
December recording the highest amount, approximately 4.02" (102mm), and
September showing the least at around 1.77" (45mm).
A unique feature of Montauk is the distinctive fluctuation in daylight hours, peaking at 15.1 hours in the longest summer days and dwindling down to 9.3 hours during the depth of winter. Sea temperatures swing between 37.9°F (3.3°C) and 70.3°F (21.3°C), indicating a sizable variation to be aware of, particularly for those planning water-related activities.
Wind speed is another variable to consider, with wind speeds peaking at 16.3mph (26.2km/h). The wind gust speed remains relatively high throughout the year, reaching up to 23.1mph (37.2km/h), which might be of interest for wind-related sports enthusiasts.
The best time to visit Montauk
From a climatic perspective, the best time to visit
Montauk can be during the warmer months from
June to
August. During this period, the average high temperature ranges from 66.6°F (19.2°C) to the tranquility of 74.8°F (23.8°C). Tourism attractions remain open, and outdoor activities are in full swing.
With 15.1 hours of daylight, June offers the most extended daylight span, providing ample time to explore Montauk's beauty. Moreover, sea temperatures reach up to 70.3°F (21.3°C) in August, making it an exceptional time for water-based activities. Humidity remains relatively high, and rainfall is moderate with an average of around 2.6" (66mm) falling across 13.5 to 15.7 days, providing a nice balance of clear and refreshing days.
The worst time to visit Montauk
From a climatic point of view,
January and
February present challenging times for a visit to
Montauk. During these months, the temperature drops to 31.1°F (-0.5°C) to 31.5°F (-0.3°C), making it the coldest period. Moreover, the daylight hours lie on the lower side, just over 9 to 10 hours daily.
Around 1.61" (41mm) of snow might fall in January, which could disturb outdoor activities and travel. Sea temperatures are icy cold, reaching a low of 37.9°F (3.3°C) in February, which is not suitable for water activities. The wind speed is also at the higher side, recording an average of 16.3mph (26.2km/h) to 16.7mph (26.9km/h), which might make the outdoor environment seem even colder.
Spring weather in Montauk
Spring offers a sweeping transition in weather from the chill of winter to the warmth of summer in
Montauk.
March,
April, and
May observe a significant rise in temperature from 38.8°F (3.8°C) at the beginning of spring to 57.7°F (14.3°C) at the end of May.
Rainfall is observed to be high during this season with an average of 3.73" (95mm) from March to May. Snowfall becomes less common as spring progresses, decreasing from 2.24" (57mm) in March to nil by May. The increase in daylight hours is gradual during this season, starting with 12 hours in March, extending to 14.5 hours by May.
Summer weather in Montauk
Summers in
Montauk bring warm temperatures stretching from 61.7°F (16.5°C) to a peak of 74.8°F (23.8°C) between
June and
August. Summer days are also the longest, offering up to 15.1 daylight hours in June, perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Perhaps the most inviting is the comfortable sea temperature, which rises to a warm 70.3°F (21.3°C) in August. Despite being the warmest season, summer is not the wettest; on average, rainfall measures between 2.6" (66mm) and 2.68" (68mm), spread across 13.5 to 15.7 days.
Autumn weather in Montauk
Autumn in
Montauk is marked by a gradual decrease in temperature from 69.6°F (20.9°C) in
September to 52.5°F (11.4°C) by
November. Autumn witnesses a higher level of rainfall with
October recording the highest of 3.58" (91mm) for the year.
Daylight hours in autumn gradually decrease from an ample 12.5 hours in September to just 9.9 hours in November. The sea temperature follows a similar downward trend from a warm 67.6°F (19.8°C) in September to a cooler 55.2°F (12.9°C) by November.
Winter weather in Montauk
Winter in
Montauk brings frigid temperatures and shorter daylight hours. From
December to
February, temperatures range from 31.1°F (-0.5°C) to 39.2°F (4°C), with February being the coldest month. Snowfall is seen mainly in
January, accumulating to around 1.61" (41mm).
Daylight hours are at their annual low, averaging around 9 to 10 hours per day. The sea temperature nosedives to 37.9°F (3.3°C) in February, presenting chilly conditions for water-related activities. Despite the cold, Montauk's winter can be an attractive period for those who enjoy quieter and peaceful surroundings.
Weather in January
The weather in
Montauk during
January is cold and somewhat damp. Highs of 38.8°F (3.8°C) and lows averaging 31.1°F (-0.5°C) make it a chill start to the year in this
New York City district. Despite the frigid conditions, precipitation is not extreme, with both rain and snowfall typical of this winter month.
Weather in January »Weather in February
February sustains
January's cold trend, though exhibiting a slight increase in temperatures. Records show a peak temperature of 39.2°F (4°C) and a relatively low of 31.5°F (-0.3°C). Even with the leap in temperature, February weather still feels frosty in
Montauk.
Weather in February » Weather in March
Then
March ushers in a breath of warmth with an average high of 42.6°F (5.9°C), providing a noticeable relief from the rigors of winter. While this rise may seem minimal, it signifies the transition from wintry cold to a less harsh climatic condition in
Montauk.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April presents an even more pronounced increase in temperature, with highs rising to a comfortable 49.5°F (9.7°C). This upturn typifies the advancement towards warmer weather, making
Montauk more hospitable for outdoor activities.
Weather in April » Weather in May
In
May, temperatures reach a pleasant high of 57.7°F (14.3°C), confirming the arrival of spring. This month's weather creates an appealing ambiance that encourages outdoor enjoyment and exploration of
Montauk's abundant beauty. Showers are less frequent in May than in
April, and there is absolutely no snowfall, highly suggestive of the imminent summer.
Weather in May »Weather in June
June brings anticipations of summer with average high temperatures of 66.6°F (19.2°C). This end of spring welcomes long beach days, fishing trips, and other outdoor pastimes in
Montauk. The increased sunlight duration compared to
May does not only provide more time for activities but also contributes to the prevailing joyful summertime mood.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July stands out as the warmest month in
Montauk,
New York, with highs soaring to 74.5°F (23.6°C). This marked increase in temperature validates the peak of summer, complete with beach games, barbecues, and water sports. Despite the warmth, the heightened average sea temperature of 68°F (20°C) provides a delightful dip for locals and visitors.
Weather in July » Weather in August
In
August, there's hardly a letup in temperatures from
July, as maximum temperatures reach a high of 74.8°F (23.8°C).
Montauk's weather remains predominantly sunny, resultantly melting any lingering clouds away. The combined warmth of the sun and increased sea temperatures contribute to numerous beach activities dominating this month.
Weather in August »Weather in September
September marks the departure of the peak summer season, with temperatures falling to a high of 69.6°F (20.9°C) from
August. Despite this drop, the weather in
Montauk remains favorable for outdoor activities. The decline in temperature signifies the start of autumn, with the environment making a gradual shift.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October registers a more noticeable drop in temperature, averaging highs of 61.7°F (16.5°C). It is a distinct embrace of autumn, which typically means less beach time but more moments to enjoy the stunning fall foliage in
Montauk.
Weather in October » Weather in November
November brings
Montauk closer to winter, with the temperature dipping considerably to a high of 52.5°F (11.4°C). The beginning of this month carries the remnants of autumn, but as the days progress, the weather clears the way for winter's entrance.
Weather in November » Weather in December
December declares the arrival of winter, with temperature highs dropping to 45°F (7.2°C).
Montauk becomes noticeably quieter as most outdoor activities yield to the cold. Snowfall presents itself yet again towards the end of December, ushering in the festive season's white touch.
Weather in December »