The climate of Dorset
Nestled in the state of
Vermont in the northeastern United States,
Dorset experiences a Humid continental climate, no dry season, warm summer. This is classified under the Köppen climate classification as Dfb. The fluctuations of these climatological features throughout the year make Dorset quite unique.
Throughout the year, there is a variety of changes to witness in Dorset's weather. Average monthly high temperatures span a range from 24.4°F (-4.2°C) in the early winter month of
February to 77.7°F (25.4°C) during the peak of summer in
July. The atmospheric pressure is relatively stable throughout the year, with the maximum difference in monthly mean pressure being less than 0.15" (4mm), ranging from 29.92" (760mm) in
June to 30.08" (764mm) in
November.
Rainfall remains quite consistent over the months, only showing a slight peak in
May and
October with respective values of 3.58" (91mm) and 3.54" (90mm) of rain. On the other hand, snowfall is distinctly seasonal, with most of it falling between the months of
December to February at 12.56" (319mm), 14.29" (363mm), and 15.87" (403mm) respectively.
The relative humidity in Dorset is fairly high throughout the year, with a minimum of 77% in
April and May and a maximum of 88% in February. Conversely, the daylight duration fluctuates significantly, peaking at 15.3 hours in June and dipping to 9 hours in December. Dorset generally receives a moderate level of sunshine, with the duration ranging between 3.4 hours and 9.7 hours in December and July respectively.
The best time to visit Dorset
The best time to visit
Dorset depends heavily on what one seeks in their exploits. For tourists primarily interested in outdoor activities and warmer weather, the months from
June to
August would be ideal. During this period, the average temperature ranges from 64.2°F (17.9°C) to 77.7°F (25.4°C), and the hours of daylight are the longest throughout the year. The sunlight hours also peak, with 8.5 hours to 9.7 hours between June and
July. However, it's worth noting that these are also the months with the highest relative humidity, hovering around 79% to 80%.
The worst time to visit Dorset
If warm weather and sunshine are essential factors, the worst time to visit
Dorset would be the winter months from
November to
February. The average high temperature during this period drops quickly from 41°F (5°C) in November to a chilly 24.4°F (-4.2°C) in February, while the sunlight hours fall to their lowest of the year, from about 3.4 to 4.7 hours.
Spring weather in Dorset
Spring in
Dorset, which encompasses the months of
March,
April and
May, provides the much-awaited relief from the harsh winter. Temperatures start to warm up, from 36.5°F (2.5°C) in March to 64.2°F (17.9°C) in May, creating a pleasant atmosphere. Similarly, the daylight duration increases from 12 hours in March to 14.7 hours in May, providing ample daylight for outdoor activities.
Summer weather in Dorset
The summer season in
Dorset extends from
June until
August. This season is characterized by warm temperatures, with the monthly averages peaking at 77.7°F (25.4°C) in
July. Additionally, these months receive the longest duration of sunshine, with an average of 8.5 to 9.7 hours per day. The relative humidity during this period is also fairly high at 79%-80%.
Autumn weather in Dorset
Autumn, or fall as it is commonly referred to in the United States, takes place in
Dorset from
September through
November. During this period, temperatures cool down, with averages of 68.4°F (20.2°C) in September, 53.8°F (12.1°C) in
October, and 41°F (5°C) in November. The amount of daylight decreases, but still provides ample daylight hours, ranging from 11 hours to 12.5 hours.
Winter weather in Dorset
In
Dorset, winter extends from
December to
February. It is the coldest season with average temperatures ranging from 30.4°F (-0.9°C) to 24.4°F (-4.2°C). The daylight duration is the shortest of the year, varying between 9 and 9.7 hours daily. The snowfall during this season is quite high, with average values ranging from 11.06" (281mm) to 15.87" (403mm). This season could be an ideal time for visitors who enjoy winter sports and activities.
Weather in January
January starts the year with a blanket of crisp, often overcast, chilling weather in
Dorset,
Vermont, USA. This is typically the coldest month, with a high mercury reading of 24.4°F (-4.2°C) coupled with a piercing low at 12.4°F (-10.9°C).
Weather in January » Weather in February
In
Dorset,
February takes after
January in its chilly demeanor. However, it sees a slight increase in temperatures, subsequently melting the heavy snowfall of the previous month. February often provides a snapshot of winter beauty, with Dorset's landscapes blanketed in snow from 15.87" (403mm), the year's highest count.
Weather in February »Weather in March
March in
Dorset signals the beginning of welcome changes in the weather. As the town moves further from
February's grip, the gradually increase in temperatures hints at the arrival of spring. Although snow continues to cover the landscape, it slowly starts to give way to rainfall.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
In
Dorset,
April symbolizes the advent of spring in full bloom. The stark shift from snowfall to rainfall marks an end to the white winter canvas, replaced by vibrant hues of blooming flora. The hum of life can be heard across the town as the relative humidity dips to 77%, the joint lowest for the year.
Weather in April »Weather in May
May is
Dorset's entrance into summertime. The noticeable increase in temperature only disrupts the serenity of the month by a light downpour. 14.7 hours of daylight coupled with comfortably warm temperatures provide perfect conditions for outdoor recreational activities.
Weather in May » Weather in June
June in
Dorset is the harbinger of strikingly sunny days, boasting 15.3 hours of daylight, the longest of the year. The weather shifts remarkably towards the warmer spectrum, putting a halt to any rainfall onset. Although June doesn't have Dorset’s highest temperature, it is a standout in suitability for picnics and other outdoor ventures.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July in
Dorset is characterized by the season's highest temperatures, peaking at an average high of 77.7°F (25.4°C). This along with 15 hours of daylight makes it the epitome of summertime. The sultry weather paired with small bouts of rainfall makes it an ideal month for vacationing, swimming, camping, and barbecuing.
Weather in July » Weather in August
August weather in
Dorset exhibits typical summer behavior with warmth and sunshine prevalent throughout the month. However, August also experiences slight temperature drops from the peak of
July, signaling the upcoming shift towards fall.
Weather in August » Weather in September
September marks the arrival of fall in
Dorset with noticeable changes in weather and scenery. The dramatic transformation in landscapes from brilliant green to warm reds and oranges is a sight to behold. Temperatures start to decrease and daylight hours drop to 12.5, stretching the cool, pleasing evenings.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October weather in
Dorset becomes distinctly cooler, a stark reminder of the impending winter. As the fall foliage reaches its peak, the town is painted in varying shades of reds, oranges, and yellows. October also witnesses an increase in weather volatility, occasionally presenting a mixed bag of sunshine, rain, and even early snow.
Weather in October » Weather in November
In
Dorset,
November witnesses a rapid drop in temperature as winter starts creeping in. With the daylight hours dropping further to 9.7 hours, the sun makes a relatively brief appearance in the late morning only to set early in the afternoon.
Weather in November »Weather in December
December in
Dorset is characterized by the full onset of winter weather. With the shortest daylight hours at 9 hours and a low temperature average of 20.3°F (-6.5°C), it presents a typical winter atmosphere. Christmas preparation kindles joy all over the town, as white rooftops contrast with the warmth of the festive lights.
Weather in December »