Last updated: January 18, 2025
New Hampshire, situated in the northeastern United States, experiences a Dfb climate classification according to the Köppen-Geiger system, denoting a humid continental climate. Characterized by significant seasonal temperature variations, the state endures winter lows plummeting to a frigid -33°C (-28°F) in January, while summer highs can reach a sweltering 38°C (101°F) in July. The average annual temperature hovers around 9°C (48°F), highlighting the distinct seasonal shifts that define New Hampshire's climate landscape.
New Hampshire's temperature patterns reveal a striking seasonal contrast, characterized by frigid winters and warm summers. January and February serve as the coldest months, with minimum temperatures dropping to as low as -33°C (-28°F) and -30°C (-21°F), respectively, while average temperatures hover around -5°C (24°F) to -3°C (27°F). As spring approaches, March and April witness a gradual warm-up, with average temperatures rising to 0°C (33°F) and 7°C (44°F), culminating in maximums reaching 30°C (87°F) in April. The summer months of June through August peak with average highs of 22°C (71°F) to 38°C (100°F). Transitioning into fall, temperatures begin to drop again, exemplified by September's average of 17°C (63°F), before plummeting back into colder averages by November and December. This progression underscores the significant temperature shifts that define New Hampshire's seasonal climate.
The climate across New Hampshire varies with notable differences in temperature extremes. In Lincoln, the monthly temperature in Lincoln ranges from a chilly minimum of -29°C (-20°F) in January to a warm maximum of 33°C (92°F) in July. Meanwhile, Portsmouth experiences milder conditions, with monthly temperature in Portsmouth dropping to -19°C (-2°F) in January and reaching up to 31°C (88°F) in July. North Conway closely mirrors Lincoln’s climate, with a monthly temperature in North Conway also spanning from -28°C (-19°F) in January to 33°C (92°F) in July, reflecting the seasonal variations typical of the region.
Precipitation in New Hampshire exhibits a pronounced seasonal pattern, with winter months generally receiving substantial amounts of snowfall and rain. January and February receive 75 mm (3.0 in) and 86 mm (3.4 in) of precipitation, respectively, often falling as snow during the coldest period of the year. As the seasons transition towards spring, March maintains a similar pattern with 79 mm (3.1 in) of precipitation, while April sees a significant increase to 128 mm (5.0 in), reflecting the onset of spring rains. This trend continues into summer, with July recording the highest monthly total of 132 mm (5.2 in), as thunderstorms become more frequent.
As autumn sets in, precipitation patterns remain variable, with October experiencing another peak at 133 mm (5.2 in), coinciding with the transition of foliage. November and December contribute 106 mm (4.2 in) and 116 mm (4.6 in), respectively, indicating a return to wetter conditions as winter looms. The number of rainy days varies month by month, with an average of 11 days of precipitation spread throughout the year, showcasing New Hampshire's dynamic climate while highlighting its balance of wet and dry periods.
In New Hampshire, sunshine duration exhibits a clear seasonal rhythm, with daylight hours peaking during the summer months and dipping notably in winter. Starting with a modest 140 hours of sunshine in January, the state gradually sees an increase as winter begins to fade, with February recording 174 hours and March escalating further to 245 hours. The arrival of spring brings a vibrant uptick in sunshine, particularly in May, when residents can enjoy an impressive 276 hours. This upward trend continues as summer approaches, culminating in the peak sunshine months of July and August, which boast 326 hours and 331 hours, respectively, offering the longest days filled with light.
As summer transitions into fall, the amount of sunshine begins to decline, with September still holding onto a robust 283 hours before dropping to 205 hours in October. This downward trajectory continues into the colder months, ending the year with 181 hours in November and 166 hours in December. Overall, the data reflects a powerful seasonal contrast, with the vibrant sun-drenched days of summer starkly contrasting the limited sunlight hours of winter, underscoring New Hampshire's dynamic climate throughout the year.
The ultraviolet (UV) index in New Hampshire illustrates a distinct seasonal variation, reflecting the state’s changing sun exposure throughout the year. In the winter months, UV levels remain relatively low, with January and December recording UV indices of 3 and 2, respectively. As spring emerges, UV exposure begins to elevate, culminating in April with a notable increase to 8. May sees an even higher UV index of 9, marking the onset of sunnier weather, and signaling the importance of sun protection as outdoor activities increase.
Summer months bring the highest UV exposure, with June peaking at 10, making it crucial for residents to take precautions against skin damage. July and August maintain a UV index of 9, presenting continued risks for sunburn during outdoor activities. As the days shorten and autumn approaches, the UV index gradually declines, with September at 7 and October at 6. November sees a drop back to 3, demonstrating that while UV levels are lower than in peak summer, precautions remain advisable during sunny days.
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Daylight duration in New Hampshire showcases a pronounced seasonal shift, characterized by shorter days in winter and progressively longer days leading into summer. In January, residents can expect only 9 hours of daylight, which increases to 10 hours in February as the days slowly begin to lengthen. March marks a notable change with 11 hours of daylight, heralding the arrival of spring and continuing to rise to 13 hours by April. As May rolls in, daylight extends further to 14 hours, laying the groundwork for the longest days experienced in June with a full 15 hours of daylight.
Following the summer solstice, daylight duration begins its gradual retreat as July sees a slight decrease to 14 hours, followed by 13 hours in August. September continues this downward trend with 12 hours of daylight, while October drops to 10 hours and November decreases further to 9 hours. Finally, December concludes the year with the shortest amount of daylight at just 8 hours, creating a stark contrast to the summer months. This cyclical pattern emphasizes New Hampshire's dynamic daylight variations, profoundly influencing seasonal activities and lifestyles throughout the year.
Bethlehem, United States, experiences a significant temperature range throughout the year, with winter months like January and February seeing lows of -31°C (-23°F) and -27°C (-16°F), respectively, and a general ascent to warmer months where July peaks at 33°C (91°F). Precipitation is moderate, averaging between 69 mm (2.7 in) in September to a high of 140 mm (5.5 in) in October. Sunshine hours increase from a low of 111 hours in January to a peak of 322 hours in August, reflecting longer days and clearer skies in the summer months. The climate Bethlehem climate is characterized by cold, snowy winters and relatively mild, humid summers.
Conway, located in the United States, experiences a diverse climate with temperatures ranging from frigid winters, where January can dip as low as -29°C (-21°F), to warm summers, with July highs reaching up to 35°C (95°F). The area receives fairly consistent precipitation throughout the year, averaging around 86 mm (3.4 in) in January to 142 mm (5.6 in) in July. Sunshine varies significantly, peaking at 332 hours in August, providing ample daylight during the summer months. Conversely, the colder months see less sunshine, with December only offering 168 hours. For more detailed information about the climate in Conway, visit Conway climate.
Franconia, United States, experiences a significant range in temperatures throughout the year, with winter months like January and December reaching lows of -31°C (-23°F), while summer months such as July reach highs up to 33°C (91°F). The area receives substantial precipitation, particularly in April and October, with 125 mm (4.9 in) and 140 mm (5.5 in) respectively. Sunshine is most abundant from May to August, peaking in August at 322 hours. Overall, Franconia's climate is characterized by cold, snowy winters and warm, relatively wet summers. For more detailed information, you can visit Franconia climate.
Hampton, located in the United States, experiences a diverse climate with significant seasonal variations. Winters, from December through February, see low temperatures ranging from -19°C (-2°F) to 17°C (64°F) with moderate snowfall, averaging 98 mm of precipitation in February. As spring arrives, temperatures gradually rise, with April averaging 8°C (46°F) and encountering higher rainfall at 143 mm. Summers are warm, particularly in July and August, with average temperatures around 22°C (71°F) and peak sunshine of 337 hours in August. The fall season brings cooler temperatures and increased rainfall, with October reaching 142 mm. For more detailed information, visit the Hampton climate page.
Hampton Beach, United States, experiences a diverse climate with cold winters and warm summers. Temperatures range from a chilly average low of -19°C (-2°F) in January and December to a warm high of 31°C (88°F) in July and August. Monthly precipitation varies, peaking in April and October at 143 mm (5.6 in) and 142 mm (5.6 in), respectively, while sunlight hours are generous in summer, with July and August seeing around 335 hours. The cooler months see reduced sunshine, with January receiving only 150 hours. Learn more about the Hampton Beach climate.
Located in New Hampshire, Jackson experiences a diverse climate with cold winters and mild summers. January sees the lowest temperatures, ranging from -31°C to 11°C (-23°F to 51°F), while July brings milder conditions, with temperatures between 5°C and 32°C (42°F and 89°F). The area receives significant precipitation, peaking in July at 173 mm (6.8 in), and sunshine hours are abundant in the summer, with August enjoying 327 hours. With such notable seasonal changes, Jackson's climate is both dynamic and variable throughout the year. For more information, visit the Jackson climate page.
Lincoln, United States experiences a varied climate throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from an average high of 33°C (92°F) in July to -29°C (-20°F) in January. Precipitation is fairly consistent, with a notable peak in October at 143 mm (5.6 in) and the lowest in September at 71 mm (2.8 in). The city enjoys ample sunshine, especially during the summer months with July and August receiving over 320 hours each. Winters are colder with shorter daylight, reflected in the 126 sunshine hours recorded in January. For more detailed climate information, please visit the Lincoln climate page.
Meredith, located in the United States, experiences a broad range of temperatures throughout the year, with winter months seeing lows down to -28°C (-18°F) and summers peaking at 34°C (94°F). The area receives varying precipitation, with a notable increase during the spring and fall, reaching up to 145 mm (5.7 in) in July. Sunshine hours fluctuate, averaging the highest in August at 331 hours and the lowest in January at 140 hours. The seasonal climate variations significantly shape the environment and activities in Meredith. For more detailed information, you can explore the Meredith climate.
New Castle, United States, experiences a diverse climate with distinct seasonal variations. Winters are cold and can be harsh, especially in January and December, with temperatures dropping as low as -19°C (-2°F) and precipitation around 79 mm to 133 mm. Summers are pleasantly warm, with average temperatures peaking at 22°C (71°F) in July and August, accompanied by moderate rainfall of 71 mm to 123 mm. The transition months of spring and fall offer milder temperatures and varying amounts of rainfall, with April and October being the wettest months. Sunshine is abundant in the summer, with July and August receiving the most hours, while the winter months have fewer hours of sunlight. For more details on the area's climate, visit New Castle climate.
North Conway, United States, experiences a varied climate with cold winters and warm summers. January sees temperatures plunging to -28°C (-19°F) with an average of -8°C (18°F), while July peaks at 33°C (92°F) with an average of 20°C (68°F). Precipitation is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with the highest rainfall occurring in July at 158 mm (6.2 in) and a notable dry spell in September at 73 mm (2.9 in). Sunshine hours reach their zenith in August with 332 hours, providing ample daylight for outdoor activities. For more details, visit the North Conway climate.
Portsmouth, United States, experiences a varied climate with cold winters and warm summers. January is the coldest month with temperatures ranging from -19°C to 17°C and an average of 30°F, while July and August are the warmest, averaging 71°F and reaching maximums of 88°F. Precipitation peaks in April and October, with 143 mm and 142 mm respectively, whereas August records the least with 71 mm. Sunshine hours are highest in the summer months, with July and August enjoying over 330 hours, contrasting with the 150 hours seen in January. For more detailed climate information, visit the Portsmouth climate page.
Seabrook Beach experiences a diverse range of weather conditions throughout the year, marked by cold winters and warm summers. In the chill of January, temperatures can drop to -19°C (-2°F), while July sees summer warmth with averages of 22°C (71°F) and peaks at 31°C (88°F). The area receives a moderate amount of precipitation, with April and October having the highest levels at 143 mm (5.6 in) and 142 mm (5.6 in), respectively. Sunshine varies significantly, from December's 176 hours to August's generous 337 hours. For more details, see the Seabrook Beach climate.
Sunapee, located in the United States, experiences a diverse climate throughout the year with temperatures ranging from harsh winter lows of -30°C (-21°F) in January to peak summer highs of 35°C (96°F) in July. The region receives significant precipitation year-round, with October being the wettest month at 129 mm (5.1 in) and September the driest at 65 mm (2.6 in). Sunshine duration peaks in August with 333 hours, ensuring ample daylight during summer, while January sees the least with 136 hours. This variety in weather patterns makes Sunapee climate both challenging and appealing, offering unique seasonal experiences.
Wolfeboro experiences a diverse climate with cold winters and warm summers. During winter months like January and February, temperatures can plummet to lows around -25°C (-13°F), with average temperatures around -5°C (24°F), while precipitation hovers around 75-84 mm (2.9-3.3 in). Transitioning into spring, the climate gradually warms, reaching average highs around 26°C (79°F) in April, accompanied by increased rainfall of 128 mm (5.0 in). Summer months such as July boast the warmest temperatures with averages of 22°C (72°F) and highs up to 36°C (97°F), alongside abundant sunshine, peaking at 330 hours. For further details, refer to Wolfeboro climate.
Woodstock, United States experiences a diverse climate with cold winters and warm summers. Winter months, specifically January and February, see average temperatures dipping to approximately -8°C (18°F) and -6°C (21°F) respectively, accompanied by about 85-86 mm (3.4 in) of precipitation each month. By contrast, summer months like July and August enjoy warmer temperatures averaging 20°C (68°F) and 19°C (66°F), with precipitation levels ranging from 99 mm (3.9 in) to 135 mm (5.3 in). The area receives a substantial amount of sunshine, peaking in August at 328 hours, contributing to the region’s humid and varied climate. For more detailed climate information, visit the Woodstock climate page.
In conclusion, the climate of New Hampshire is defined by its distinct seasonal variations, heavily influencing temperature, precipitation, sunshine, UV index, and daylight duration throughout the year. With frigid winters that give way to vibrant springs and warm summers, the state's weather patterns showcase a remarkable range of conditions. The notable peaks in sunshine hours and UV exposure during summer months underscore the importance of sun safety, while the dramatic shifts in daylight duration highlight the unique charm of each season. Understanding these climatic patterns not only enriches the appreciation of New Hampshire's natural beauty but also informs residents and visitors alike about the precautions necessary to enjoy outdoor activities year-round.