Last updated: January 18, 2025
Maine, located in the northeastern United States, predominantly experiences a Dfb climate according to the Köppen-Geiger classification, characterized as a humid continental climate. This region is marked by significant temperature fluctuations throughout the year, with winter lows dipping to a chilling -33°C (-28°F) in January, while summer peaks can soar to a blistering 37°C (99°F) in June. The annual average temperature hovers around 8°C (46°F), reflecting the state’s distinct seasonal variations that contribute to its unique ecological and geographical features.
Maine's temperature patterns showcase distinct seasonal variations that reflect the state’s humid continental climate. Winters are characterized by severe cold, with January recording minimum temperatures plummeting to -33°C (-28°F) and an average of -5°C (23°F), while February continues the trend with slightly milder lows of -29°C (-20°F). As spring approaches, March sees a gradual warming, transitioning to milder temperatures by April, where averages rise to 6°C (43°F) and maximums reach 30°C (86°F). The summer months, particularly June and July, bring the hottest conditions, with maxima soaring up to 37°C (99°F), ensuring a stark contrast to the frosty winter periods. As autumn sets in, temperatures begin to cool again, with October and November registering average temperatures of 10°C (51°F) and 3°C (38°F), respectively. Overall, Maine's climate encapsulates a dynamic range from frigid winters to warm summers, illustrating the dramatic shifts experienced throughout the year.
Portland, Bar Harbor, and Kennebunkport offer distinct weather patterns across the year. In Portland, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -19°C (-2°F) in January to a pleasant maximum of 28°C (83°F) in June, as detailed in the monthly temperature in Portland. Bar Harbor experiences a slightly colder minimum of -23°C (-8°F) in January but reaches a warmer peak of 30°C (86°F) in July, as outlined in the monthly temperature in Bar Harbor. Meanwhile, Kennebunkport faces similar cold winters with a minimum of -19°C (-1°F) in January and sees its warmest month in July with temperatures soaring to 31°C (88°F), according to the monthly temperature in Kennebunkport. These variations highlight the diverse climate across these coastal Maine destinations.
Maine experiences a varied precipitation pattern throughout the year, with April typically recording the highest monthly total of 126 mm (5.0 in). Winter months such as January and February see similar precipitation levels of 89 mm (3.5 in) and 88 mm (3.5 in), respectively. As spring progresses, precipitation remains steady in May at 89 mm (3.5 in), while the summer months of June and July average 80 mm (3.2 in) and 109 mm (4.3 in), highlighting a slightly increased likelihood of rainfall during this period.
Seasonal trends indicate that precipitation is fairly distributed, with fall months like October and November also experiencing significant rainfall totals of 127 mm (5.0 in) and 116 mm (4.6 in), respectively. Throughout the year, the average number of rainy days ranges from 7 days in September to a peak of 12 days in April, demonstrating that while precipitation levels vary, Maine remains consistently wet, helping to sustain its lush landscapes and diverse ecosystems.
In Maine, sunshine duration exhibits a clear seasonal progression, with hours of sunlight increasing steadily as the year unfolds. Starting from a modest 140 hours in January, the state experiences a gradual rise in daylight. By March, sunshine hours rise significantly to 251 hours, marking the onset of spring. April continues this upward trend with 234 hours, but it is during late spring and summer that Maine truly basks in sunlight. May witnesses 286 hours, and June reaches an impressive 321 hours, setting the stage for even more radiant months ahead. July and August peak with 324 hours and 327 hours, respectively, offering the longest days of the year, contributing to vibrant outdoor activities and abundant natural beauty.
As summer fades into fall, there's a noticeable decline in sunshine as daylight diminishes. September records 281 hours of sunshine, a gradual reduction from the summer peak, followed by a sharper drop to 207 hours in October. The darker months of late fall, particularly November’s 178 hours and December’s 168 hours, illustrate a stark contrast to the sunlit warmth of summer, as daylight becomes more fleeting. This ebb and flow of sunshine throughout the year not only shapes the local climate but also impacts the seasonal activities and lifestyle of Maine's residents, enhancing the appreciation for the vibrant summers and the cozy, reflective winter months.
In Maine, the UV Index (UVI) reflects a clear seasonal variation, indicating the intensity of ultraviolet radiation and its potential risk for skin damage. During the winter months, from January to March, UVI levels remain relatively low, starting at 3 in January and peaking at 6 in March as daylight increases. This gradual rise signifies the transition towards spring, where stronger sunlight begins to emerge, culminating in a marked increase as the months progress.
As summer arrives, Maine experiences its highest UV Index values, with June reaching 10, the peak for the year, followed closely by May and July at 9. This elevated UVI emphasizes the importance of sun protection during outdoor activities in the warmer months. As autumn sets in, the UVI diminishes, dropping to 7 in September and further to 5 in October, before returning to low levels of 3 in November and 2 in December. These trends underscore the necessity for increased sun safety awareness during the sunnier months, while also highlighting the lower UV exposure typical of the winter season.
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In Maine, daylight duration showcases a pronounced seasonal rhythm, with hours of daylight gradually increasing from winter through summer. In January, residents experience only 9 hours of daylight, which extends to 10 hours in February as the days begin to lengthen. The transition into spring further enhances sunlight exposure, culminating in 11 hours of daylight in March and reaching 13 hours by April. As May arrives, the days become even longer, averaging 14 hours and culminating in June with a peak of 15 hours, where long days inspire a vibrant outdoor lifestyle.
However, as summer fades into fall, daylight hours begin to recede, dropping back to 15 hours in July, leveling off at 13 hours in August before falling to 12 hours in September. The decline continues sharply into autumn, with daylight shrinking to 10 hours in October and reducing to 9 hours in November. Finally, December ends the year with the least daylight at just 8 hours, reflecting the stark contrast between the bright summer months and the shorter, darker days of winter. This cyclical pattern of daylight duration profoundly influences Maine's seasonal activities and lifestyle, creating a dynamic relationship with the changing seasons.
Bar Harbor, located in the United States, experiences a diverse climate throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from frigid in winter to mild and warm during summer. January sees average temperatures around -4°C (25°F) with minimums dropping to -23°C (-8°F), while July enjoys averages of 19°C (67°F) and peaks at 30°C (86°F). Precipitation is relatively consistent, with the wettest months being November and December, receiving 130 mm (5.1 in) and 138 mm (5.4 in) of rainfall, respectively. Sunshine varies significantly, with summer months like July and August receiving over 318 hours, tapering off to 141 hours in January. For a comprehensive overview, visit Bar Harbor climate.
Boothbay, United States experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year. Winters are cold, with January and February seeing average temperatures around -4°C (26°F) and -3°C (27°F) respectively, while summer months like July and August warm up with averages around 21°C (71°F). Precipitation is fairly consistent, with October receiving the highest rainfall at 128 mm (5.1 in) and June the lowest at 61 mm (2.4 in). Sunshine hours peak in summer, reaching up to 336 hours in August, but decrease significantly in the winter months. For more detailed climate information, visit the Boothbay climate page.
Boothbay Harbor, located in the United States, experiences a diverse climate throughout the year, characterized by cold winters and mild summers. Winter months see temperatures dropping as low as -17°C (2°F) in January, with an average around -1°C (31°F), while summer temperatures peak at 25°C (78°F) in July and August. Precipitation varies, with drier months in June and August, receiving 71 mm (2.8 in) each, compared to wetter periods in April and October, which see up to 139 mm (5.5 in) and 150 mm (5.9 in), respectively. Sunshine hours increase significantly during the summer, reaching a maximum of 341 hours in August. For more detailed weather patterns and climate data, visit the Boothbay Harbor climate page.
Bridgton, located in the United States, experiences a diverse climate with notable temperature ranges and varying precipitation throughout the year. Winters are cold, with temperatures plunging to as low as -28°C (-19°F) in January, while summers can reach highs of 35°C (95°F) in June and July. Precipitation is relatively evenly distributed, averaging around 81 mm (3.2 in) in January and peaking at 136 mm (5.4 in) in July. Sunshine hours increase significantly in the summer, with a peak in August at 332 hours, contrasting with the shorter, gloomier days of December, which offer just 171 sunshine hours. For more detailed information, visit the Bridgton climate page.
Camden, United States, experiences cold winters with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -18°C (0°F) in January to a maximum of 10°C (51°F). As the year progresses, temperatures gradually rise, peaking in July and August with averages around 18°C (65°F) and maintaining mild conditions through September. Precipitation varies, with April and October recording the highest rainfall of 169 mm (6.7 in and 6.6 in, respectively), while the region enjoys substantial sunshine, particularly in the summer months with over 319 hours in both June and July. Winter and autumn months receive less sunlight, particularly in January with just 145 hours. For more information on Camden's climate, visit the Camden climate page.
Cape Neddick experiences a diverse climate throughout the year with cold winters and warm summers. In January, temperatures can drop to extremes of -19°C (-1°F) while in July, the mercury rises to a pleasant high of 31°C (88°F). Precipitation is fairly evenly distributed, with wetter months such as October seeing as much as 152 mm (6.0 in) of rain. Sunshine is abundant, particularly during summer months, with July and August boasting 335 hours of sunshine each. For more detailed climate information, visit the Cape Neddick climate page.
Deer Isle in the United States experiences a diverse climate throughout the year, characterized by cold winters and milder summers. January and February are the coldest months with temperatures dropping to as low as -17°C (2°F), while the warmest period occurs in July and August, with average highs reaching about 22°C (72°F) and 23°C (73°F), respectively. Precipitation peaks during April and December, with 157 mm (6.2 in) and 155 mm (6.1 in) respectively, whereas the summer months witness some of the lowest rainfall, around 86-92 mm (3.4-3.6 in). Sunshine is abundant in the summer, especially in August with 325 hours, offering a bright contrast to the shorter days and 143 hours of sunshine in January. For more detailed information, visit the Deer Isle climate.
Freeport, United States, experiences a diverse climate with cold winters and warm summers. Temperature lows can drop to -18°C (0°F) in January, while July sees maximums reaching 27°C (80°F). The region receives its highest rainfall in October at 170 mm (6.7 in), contrasting with drier summer months like August, which gets 73 mm (2.9 in). Sunshine peaks in July and August with 336 and 339 hours respectively, offering ample daylight during these warm months. To explore more detailed climate patterns, check the Freeport climate.
Kennebunk, United States, experiences a diverse climate, with cold winters and warm summers. Winter temperatures can drop to a minimum of -21°C (-6°F) in January, while summer highs reach up to 35°C (95°F) in June. Precipitation varies throughout the year, peaking in October at 128 mm (5.0 in) and reaching the lowest in August with 65 mm (2.5 in). The area enjoys the most sunshine in summer, particularly in August with 336 hours, contrasting with lower sunshine in winter months like January, which sees only 148 hours. For more detailed climate data, visit Kennebunk climate.
Kennebunkport experiences cold winters with January temperatures ranging from -19°C (-1°F) to 14°C (57°F) and significant precipitation, averaging 87 mm (3.4 in). Summers are mild and pleasant, especially in July, when temperatures range from 15°C (58°F) to 31°C (88°F) with 110 mm (4.3 in) of rainfall and abundant sunshine at 335 hours. The shoulder months like April and October see increased rainfall, peaking at 145 mm (5.7 in) and 152 mm (6.0 in), respectively. Despite varying temperatures, the town enjoys a good amount of sunshine throughout the year, particularly from May to August. For more detailed information, visit the Kennebunkport climate page.
Lincolnville, located in the United States, experiences a varied climate with cold winters and warm summers. In winter, temperatures can drop to as low as -18°C (0°F), with December and January being the coldest months, accompanied by significant precipitation of over 100 mm. As spring approaches, temperatures gradually rise, reaching a peak in summer with averages around 17°C (63°F) in July. Sunshine is abundant during summer, with July and August receiving the most, at 319 and 328 hours respectively. The region sees high precipitation again in the fall, particularly in October, which along with changing temperatures signifies the onset of cooler months. For more detailed climate data, visit the Lincolnville climate page.
Ogunquit, United States experiences a distinct four-season climate with cold winters and warm summers. Winter months, particularly January and February, are characterized by frigid temperatures with minimums reaching as low as -19°C (-1°F), while summers witness warmer days reaching highs of 31°C (88°F) in July. Precipitation is substantial year-round, averaging 115 mm (4.5 in) in November and peaking in October with 152 mm (6.0 in). The town receives abundant sunshine, especially from June to August, with up to 335 hours of sunlight per month. For more detailed climate data, visit the Ogunquit climate.
Old Orchard Beach experiences a varied climate with cold winters and warm summers. During winter, average temperatures range from -2°C (28°F) in January to 2°C (35°F) in March, with these months seeing precipitation levels from 80 mm (3.2 in) to 122 mm (4.8 in). Summers are more temperate, with average temperatures peaking in July and August at 22°C (72°F), while experiencing less frequent rainfall, particularly in August with just 65 mm (2.5 in). The beach receives substantial sunshine, particularly in the summer, with July and August offering over 330 hours of sunlight each. For more information, visit the Old Orchard Beach climate.
Portland, United States, experiences a varied climate with cold winters and warm summers. Winters can be quite chilly, with average temperatures hovering around -2°C (28°F) in January and February, while summers tend to be mild, peaking with average highs around 28°C (83°F) in July and August. Precipitation is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with April and October seeing notable spikes of 149 mm (5.9 in) and 163 mm (6.4 in) respectively. Sunshine hours increase significantly in the summer months, reaching a high of 336 hours in August. For more details, visit the Portland climate page.
Rockland, United States, experiences a diverse climate throughout the year, characterized by cold winters and mild summers. January marks the coldest month, with temperatures ranging from -17°C (1°F) to 11°C (51°F), paired with 106 mm (4.2 in) of precipitation. Conversely, July and August see the warmest temperatures, between 12°C (54°F) and 23°C (74°F), with ample sunshine of 327 and 335 hours, respectively. The region is prone to varying precipitation, peaking in April at 151 mm (5.9 in), while maintaining a generally sunny disposition in summer months. For more detailed information, please visit the Rockland climate page.
Rockport, United States experiences a varied climate throughout the year, with cold winters and warmer summers. Temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -18°C (0°F) in January and December to a warm maximum of 25°C (77°F) in June and July. Precipitation is consistently present, peaking in months like April and October with over 160 mm (6.3 in), while June records the least at 87 mm (3.4 in). Sunshine hours also vary, with the sunniest months being June, July, and August, each receiving over 300 hours of sunlight. For more detailed information about the climate in Rockport, please visit Rockport climate.
York Beach, located in the United States, experiences a diverse climate with temperatures ranging from a chilly -19°C (-1°F) in January to a warm 31°C (88°F) in July. Winter months are notably cold with January and February having average temperatures close to freezing, while July and August are the warmest months with averages around 21°C (70°F). Precipitation is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, peaking in October with 152 mm (6.0 in) while August receives the least at 61 mm (2.4 in). Sunshine varies, with the summer months of June through August enjoying over 330 hours of sunshine each, contrasting with the shorter days of December which has only 173 hours. For more detailed climate information, you can visit the York Beach climate.
York Harbor, located along the coast in the United States, experiences a diverse climate defined by cold winters and warm summers. Winter temperatures can plunge to as low as -21°C (-6°F) in January and December, paired with moderate precipitation of around 77 to 130 mm and limited sunshine hours ranging from 150 to 176. Summers are significantly warmer, with July averages reaching 22°C (72°F) and maximums peaking at 36°C (97°F), accompanied by more precipitation—especially in July and October at 131 and 132 mm, respectively—and increased sunshine, peaking at 337 hours in August. The transition months of April and October display more moderate temperatures and varying precipitation, showcasing the changeable nature of the region's climate. For more detailed information, refer to the York Harbor climate.
In conclusion, Maine's climate is marked by its distinct seasonal variations, characterized by fluctuating temperatures, diverse precipitation patterns, and notable shifts in sunshine and daylight duration. As the state transitions from the harsh cold of winter to the warmth of summer, citizens experience a dramatic increase in both sunlight hours and UV exposure, culminating in vibrant outdoor activities during the long summer days. However, as autumn approaches, daylight diminishes, and the colder months settle in with shorter days and reduced sunlight. This dynamic interplay of climatic factors not only shapes the ecological landscape of Maine but also significantly influences the rhythms of daily life for its residents, fostering a unique appreciation for the cyclical nature of the seasons.