Climate and monthly weather forecast
Bellingham, WA

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Scenic landscape of hills and the sea in this small town in Bellingham, Washington
Scenic landscape of hills and the sea in this small town in Bellingham, Washington

The climate of Bellingham

Bellingham, Washington, USA, is primarily governed by a Marine west coast, warm summer - Cfb, according to the Köppen climate classification. This unique climate is influenced by its geographical location, nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the North Cascade mountain range. Observations reflect this blend of maritime and mountain environments in the climatological data sets.

Throughout the year, the weather in Bellingham consistently displays a balance of moisture and moderate temperatures. The high temperatures peak in July and August reaching up to 70.3°F (21.3°C), while the lowest temperatures, ranging from 34.9°F (1.6°C) to 35.8°F (2.1°C), come around in the coldest months, from December to February. Relative humidity levels are relatively high throughout the year, staying between 74% and 84% which indicates the region's maritime influence.

Rainfall in Bellingham is abundant and fairly well distributed throughout the year, with values peaking substantially between October and December with up to 2.64" (67mm) of precipitation. There is notably low rainfall from June to August, with bare minimum of 0.55" (14mm) in July. The area receives snowfall primarily in December, January, and February with maximum of 1.81" (46mm) in February, however, the occurrence of snowfall days is quite limited.

The best time to visit Bellingham

Examining the climatological data reveals that the most pleasant period to visit Bellingham would be from June to September. During these months, temperatures are warm, ranging from 61.3°F (16.3°C) to 70.3°F (21.3°C), and rainfall is at its lowest, especially from June to August. Furthermore, these months enjoy the longest daylight hours, from 14.3 hours in August to a maximum of 16.1 hours in June, offering longer hours to explore and enjoy outdoor activities.

The worst time to visit Bellingham

On the contrary, the period from November to February can be deemed less favorable for visits. In these months, temperatures drop down to lows of 35.8°F (2.1°C), rainfall increases to a peak of 2.64" (67mm), and snowfall is more likely, specifically from December to February. The daylight hours are also reduced to 8.4 hours to 9.2 hours, limiting outdoor exploration.

Spring weather in Bellingham

During the transitionary phase of March, April, and May, Bellingham experiences a gradual increase in temperature from 48°F (8.9°C) to 61.3°F (16.3°C). The quantity of rainfall decreases, ranging from 1.77" (45mm) to 1.54" (39mm). Moreover, daylight hours increase considerably from 11.9 hours to 15.3 hours, providing ample time for outdoor activities.

Summer weather in Bellingham

June, July, and August mark the arrival of summer in Bellingham. Temperatures are comfortably warm, peaking at 70.3°F (21.3°C). Rainfall is relatively scarce, dropping to a minimum of 0.55" (14mm) in July. However, humidity remains moderately high between 74% and 76%. Daylight hours peak at 16.1 in June.

Autumn weather in Bellingham

Autumn in Bellingham, defined by September, October, and November, experiences a dip in temperatures down to 47.3°F (8.5°C) by November. Rainfall increases gradually, starting from 1.57" (40mm) in September to a maximum of 2.64" (67mm) in November. The daylight slowly diminishes from 12.6 hours to 9.2 hours.

Winter weather in Bellingham

The winter months of December, January, and February see temperatures plunging to a minimum of 34.9°F (1.6°C). Rainfall is high, reaching up to 1.93" (49mm), and the occurrence of snowfall increases, averaging between 0.31" (8mm) and 1.81" (46mm). These months have the shortest daylight periods, with December having just 8.4 hours.

Weather in January

Wrapping up the old year and welcoming the new, January in Bellingham, Washington is dominated by moderate temperatures, frequent rain, snowfall, and predominant cloud cover. A gradual transition from the chill of winter, January carves a path towards relatively more substantial temperatures, backed by low-pressure systems and proximity to the Pacific. Weather in January »

Weather in February

February carries forward the theme set by its predecessor, maintaining relatively low temperatures, frequent precipitation, and substantial cloud coverage. However, a subtle transition starts to kick in with calmer wind conditions compared to January, promising the approach of spring in the air. Weather in February »

Weather in March

With the onset of spring, March in Bellingham starts to exhibit gradual warming as the city bids farewell to the vestiges of winter. The wind speed dwindles further, whilst daylight hours start to increase, amplifying the overall visibility. Weather in March »

Weather in April

April graces Bellingham with more hours of daylight, reduced rainfall, and a further shift towards accommodating temperatures. The relatively high-pressure trend coupled with consistent visibility imbues an air of predictability to the weather. Weather in April »

Weather in May

Stepping into summer, May in Bellingham brings about warmer days, moderate winds, and clear skies. Cloud cover starts to shrink, replacing overcast skies with a bluer atmosphere, favoring outdoor activities. A steady increase in sea temperature is noticed, along with a considerable drop in humidity embarked upon by the city. Weather in May »

Weather in June

June arrives in Bellingham as the harbinger of summer, teasing residents with longer days, diminished rainfall, and dipping relative humidity. The combination of measurable sunshine hours, warm temperatures, and a pleasant sea-breeze make outdoor ventures incredibly enjoyable. Weather in June »

Weather in July

July in Bellingham exemplifies the peak of summer with its warm days, minimal clouds, and noticeably reduced rainfall. Defined by its long daylight hours and comfortable temperature ranges, this month also experiences the maximum UV index of any month. Weather in July »

Weather in August

August continues the warm and sunny trend set by July, with high temperatures, low cloud cover, and almost negligible snowfall. With daylight persistence, Bellingham witnesses a sea temperature peak in this month. Humidity starts to rise again, causing a slight disruption in the notably dry and sunny weather pattern. Weather in August »

Weather in September

Signifying the onset of fall, September observes a noticeable shift in Bellingham's weather with reduction in sunshine hours and a transition towards increased precipitation and lower temperatures. The always scenic Bellingham transforms into an even more picturesque locale with the changing leaves. Weather in September »

Weather in October

October marks a period of transition from the mild weather of September to the typical cool and damp conditions characteristic of late fall in Bellingham. Substantial rainfall, significant temperature drops, and increased cloud coverage attribute a distinct fall feel to the city's weather. Weather in October »

Weather in November

November in Bellingham can be best depicted as a typical late fall month with damp weather, low temperatures, and the highest precipitation levels of the year. Overcast skies become a common sight, with the winter chill starting to set in, creeping closer to the upcoming wintry spell. Weather in November »

Weather in December

Closing the annual cycle, December in Bellingham returns to the cold temperatures, shortened daylight, and significant precipitation that define the Washington winter. Overcast skies, potent winds, and substantial snowfall create a true winter panorama around the city. Weather in December »
Updated: Feb 14, 2024
Published by: Weather U.S. | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate

Frequently asked questions

What is the most humid month in Bellingham?

With an average relative humidity of 84%, January is the most humid month.

How many days does it rain in Bellingham?

In Bellingham, Washington, during the entire year, the rain falls for 158 days and collects up to 18.7" (475mm) of precipitation.

When does it snow in Bellingham?

Months with snowfall in Bellingham are January through April, November and December.

How much does it snow in Bellingham?

In Bellingham, Washington, during the entire year, snow falls for 9.4 days and aggregates up to 4.65" (118mm) of snow.

What is the month with the least sunshine in Bellingham?

January and December, with an average of 4.2h of sunshine, are months with the least sunshine.

When is the lowest UV index in Bellingham?

January, February, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 2, are months with the lowest UV index.

What is the snowiest month in Bellingham?

The month with the most snowfall in Bellingham is February, when snow falls for 3.4 days and typically aggregates up to 1.81" (46mm) of snow.

What month is the ocean coldest in Bellingham?

The month with the coldest seawater in Bellingham is February, with an average ocean temperature of 44.4°F (6.9°C).

When is Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Bellingham?

On Sunday, March 10. 2024, at 2:00 am, Daylight Saving Time starts, and the time zone changes from PST to PDT. Daylight Saving Time ends Sunday, November 3. 2024, at 2:00 am, and the time zone reverts from PDT to PST.

When it does not snow in Bellingham?

May through October are months without snowfall in Bellingham.

When are the longest days in Bellingham?

With an average of 16h and 6min of daylight, June has the longest days of the year in Bellingham.

What part of the year is the hottest in Bellingham?

In Bellingham, Washington, the warmest period comes during July and August, when the average high-temperature touches 70.3°F (21.3°C).

What is the least humid month in Bellingham?

The least humid month in Bellingham, Washington, is July, with an average relative humidity of 74%.

What is the driest month in Bellingham?

July is the month with the least rainfall in Bellingham, Washington. Rain falls for 7.7 days and accumulates 0.55" (14mm) of precipitation.

What is the month with the most sunshine in Bellingham?

The months with the most sunshine in Bellingham, Washington, are July and August, with an average of 10.5h of sunshine.

When is the highest UV index in Bellingham?

The month with the highest UV index is July, with an average maximum UV index of 5.

What month is the ocean warmest in Bellingham?

August is the month with the warmest seawater, with an average ocean temperature of 53.2°F (11.8°C).

What is the wettest month in Bellingham?

The month with the most rainfall in Bellingham, Washington, is November, when the rain falls for 16.1 days and typically aggregates up to 2.64" (67mm) of precipitation.

What are the coldest months in Bellingham?

December, on average, is the coldest month, registering a high temperature of 41.9°F (5.5°C) and a low of 34.9°F (1.6°C).

What is the month with the shortest days in Bellingham?

With an average of 8h and 18min of daylight, December has the shortest days of the year.

Average temperature
Bellingham, WA

Average temperature - Bellingham, WA

The warmest months (with the highest average high temperature) are July and August (70.3°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is December (41.9°F).

The month with the highest average low temperature is August (53.2°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is December (34.9°F).

Average pressure
Bellingham, WA

Average pressure - Bellingham, WA

The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is January (30.08"Hg).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is March (30"Hg).

Average wind speed
Bellingham, WA

Average wind speed - Bellingham, WA

The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is November (6.2mph).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is August (3.7mph).

Average humidity
Bellingham, WA

Average humidity - Bellingham, WA

The month with the highest relative humidity is January (84%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is July (74%).

Average rainfall
Bellingham, WA

Average rainfall - Bellingham, WA

The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is November (2.64").
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is July (0.55").

Average rainfall days
Bellingham, WA

Average rainfall days - Bellingham, WA

The month with the highest number of rainy days is March (17.3 days).
The month with the least rainy days is August (7.1 days).

Average snowfall
Bellingham, WA

Average snowfall - Bellingham, WA

The month with the highest snowfall is February (1.81").
The months with the least snowfall are May, June, July, August, September and October (0").

Average snowfall days
Bellingham, WA

Average snowfall days - Bellingham, WA

The month with the highest number of snowfall days is February (3.4 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are May, June, July, August, September and October (0 days).

Average sea temperature
Bellingham, WA

Average sea temperature - Bellingham, WA

The best month for swimming (with the highest average sea temperature) is August (53.2°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average sea temperature) is February (44.5°F).

Average daylight / Average sunshine
Bellingham, WA

Average daylight / Average sunshine - Bellingham, WA

The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 16h and 6min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 8h and 18min).

The months with the most sunshine are July and August (Average sunshine: 10h and 30min).
The months with the least sunshine are January and December (Average sunshine: 4h and 12min).

Average sunshine days
Bellingham, WA

Average sunshine days - Bellingham, WA

The month with the most sunshine days is July (22.3 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is April (10.8 days).

Average UV index
Bellingham, WA

Average UV index - Bellingham, WA

The month with the highest UV index is July (UV index 5).
The months with the lowest UV index are January, February, November and December (UV index 2).

Average visibility
Bellingham, WA

Average visibility - Bellingham, WA

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

Bellingham, Washington, USA

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