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 »