Last updated: March 17, 2025
October in Durham, United Kingdom showcases a fascinating blend of crisp autumn air and fluctuating temperatures, with a maximum of 21°C (70°F) and an average of 11°C (51°F), plunging to a brisk minimum of 1°C (34°F). This month is characterized by moderate rainfall, accumulating 83 mm (3.3 in) over approximately 14 days, contributing to a humid environment with an average relative humidity of 89%. As the landscape transforms into vibrant hues, October invites both locals and visitors to embrace the season while staying prepared for its unpredictable weather.
In October, Durham, United Kingdom, transitions into the cooler embrace of autumn, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a maximum of 21°C (70°F). This month showcases a mild average temperature of 11°C (51°F), marking a notable drop from the warmer months of late summer. As October unfolds, days grow shorter and crisper, inviting the vibrant hues of fall foliage. The gentle decline from September's warmer averages signals a gradual shift, as residents and visitors alike prepare for the chill of winter just around the corner. With pleasant daytime temperatures ideal for walking and outdoor activities, October in Durham captures the delicate balance between lingering warmth and the onset of winter's chill.
In October, Durham experiences a notable shift in precipitation, with the month recording 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain across 14 days. This increase marks a significant rise compared to the preceding months, particularly September's 65 mm (2.6 in), indicating the onset of more frequent autumnal weather. October's rain not only outpaces the annual average for earlier months but also aligns with the wetter conditions typical of late fall. As the days grow shorter and the chill of winter sets in, residents can expect a lush landscape but should prepare for the occasional damp day, embodying the true essence of the British autumn.
As October rolls into Durham, the monthly humidity levels rise back to 89%, mirroring the peaks observed in January and November. This trend reveals a notable shift from the late summer months, where humidity dipped to its annual low of 82% in August. Following a brief September climb to 87%, October's return to higher humidity levels signals the onset of the wetter autumn season. While the year starts with consistently high humidity, beginning at 89% in January before fluctuating downwards in spring and summer, October's humidity suggests a transition back to the damp, chillier conditions characteristic of the fall months. Overall, Durham experiences a cyclical pattern, with humidity levels often rising as the year draws to a close, emphasizing its maritime climate.
As October arrives in Durham, the UV Index settles at a moderate level of 3, reminding residents that while sun exposure is not as intense as in the summer months, caution is still advisable. Typically, burn time is around 30 minutes, requiring a mindful approach to outdoor activities. This slight dip from September's 5 indicates a transition towards the cooler months, following the high values seen in June and July when the index peaked at 8. Overall, as autumn unfolds, the lower UV levels reflect a broader trend of decreasing exposure, making it essential to stay informed about local conditions. For more detailed insights, check the Durham UV Index.
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October in Durham, United Kingdom, brings a delightful respite with 235 hours of sunlight, marking a significant transition as the days begin to shorten. Following the vibrant summer months that witness the peak of 406 hours in July, October enjoys a gentle decline in sunshine, yet still offers more light than the colder months ahead. The shift from September’s 306 hours signals the onset of autumn, allowing residents to savor the crisp air and changing leaves while still basking in a generous amount of daylight. As the year transitions towards winter, October stands out, inviting both locals and visitors alike to embrace these warm, sun-soaked days before the darker months descend.
In Durham, October typically experiences a 22% chance of sunny weather, making it one of the less bright months of the year. As the seasons transition from summer to autumn, this decline in sunny days is consistent with the monthly trends observed throughout the year. Notably, while April and May boast the highest chances of sunshine, October trails behind with a percentage similar to those in the colder months of January and February. This shift indicates that the vibrant hues of autumn foliage often come complemented by overcast skies, inviting cozy indoor activities as the days shorten. Overall, while October's sunny moments may be limited, the beauty of the season still shines through in other ways.
In October, Durham, United Kingdom, experiences a noticeable shift in daylight duration, averaging around 10 hours. This marks a transition from the long, sun-filled days of summer, where June boasts the maximum at 17 hours, to the shorter daylight hours characteristic of winter months. As autumn unfolds, daylight begins to taper off, following the peak of 16 hours in May and the lingering light of September's 12 hours. With November bringing even less light at 8 hours, October serves as a vital bridge, allowing residents to savor the crisp, golden-hued days before the creeping darkness of winter settles in.
As October settles over Durham, the winds begin to pick up, averaging 5.2 m/s (12 mph)—a noticeable increase from the summer lull and reflecting a shift in the season. This month's wind speed is only slightly below the breezy November average of 5.1 m/s (11 mph), suggesting that autumn's arrival is marked by a resurgence of invigorating gusts. In contrast to the calmer summer months, where winds dwindled to around 2.8 m/s (6 mph) in July, October's gusty breath sets the stage for the crispness of fall. With winds still higher than those in the spring months, the invigorating October breeze invites residents to embrace the changing landscape, making it a perfect time for long walks under the fluttering leaves.
The weather in Durham changes throughout the year, offering a unique experience in each season. Below is a month-by-month comparison of October's weather with other months, highlighting differences in temperature, precipitation, and other key factors. Click on each section to discover seasonal trends in Durham and find detailed weather information for every month.
October and January exhibit distinct differences in weather patterns. October typically features milder temperatures, with a minimum of 1°C (34°F) and an average of 11°C (51°F), reaching a maximum of 21°C (70°F). The month is also characterized by higher precipitation, averaging 83 mm (3.3 in) over approximately 14 rainy days. In contrast, January is colder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -4°C (25°F) to an average of 5°C (41°F) and a maximum of 14°C (57°F). While January experiences less precipitation at around 51 mm (2.0 in) over about 10 days, the humidity remains consistent at 89%. For a deeper insight into the specifics of January weather, you can explore Durham weather in January.
When comparing October and February weather, October tends to be milder, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a maximum of 21°C (70°F). In contrast, February is colder, featuring average temperatures from a minimum of -6°C (21°F) to a maximum of 17°C (63°F). Precipitation levels are relatively similar, with October experiencing 83 mm (3.3 in) over 14 days, while February sees slightly less at 76 mm (3.0 in) over 15 days. Additionally, both months exhibit high humidity, with October at 89% and February at 87%. For more detailed information, you can check Durham weather in February.
When comparing the weather in October and March, we see distinct differences in temperature and precipitation patterns. October tends to be milder with average temperatures ranging from 1°C (34°F) to 21°C (70°F), while March is cooler, with temperatures ranging from -5°C (24°F) to 18°C (65°F). Precipitation is slightly higher in October, with 83 mm (3.3 in) over 14 days compared to March's 64 mm (2.5 in) over 12 days. Although both months have high humidity levels—89% in October and 85% in March—the chill of March often makes it feel much colder. For a detailed look at March weather, you can visit Durham weather in March.
When comparing the weather in October and April, October tends to be milder overall, with average temperatures ranging from 1°C (34°F) to a maximum of 21°C (70°F). In contrast, April can experience colder minimum temperatures, occasionally dipping to -2°C (29°F), although it can also reach a similar maximum of 23°C (74°F). Precipitation is generally higher in October, with around 83 mm (3.3 in) over 14 days compared to 35 mm (1.4 in) across just 7 days in April. Humidity levels are slightly higher in October at 89%, while April maintains a comfortable 84%. For more details on April weather, check out Durham weather in April.
When comparing the weather in October and May, we see distinct differences in temperature and precipitation. In October, the temperatures range from a chilly 1°C (34°F) at night to a pleasant 21°C (70°F) during the day, while May offers slightly warmer conditions with a minimum of 0°C (32°F) and a maximum of 24°C (76°F). Although both months have similar average temperatures of 11°C (51°F in October and 11°C (53°F) in May), May tends to be drier with only 56 mm (2.2 in) of precipitation over 13 days compared to October's 83 mm (3.3 in) across 14 days. Humidity levels are also a bit lower in May at 83%, compared to a much more humid 89% in October. For more details, you can check out Durham weather in May.
When comparing the weather in October and June, we can see notable differences in both temperature and precipitation. October experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 1°C (34°F), an average of 11°C (51°F), and a maximum of 21°C (70°F), making it feel much chillier than June, which has milder conditions with a minimum of 5°C (42°F), an average of 14°C (58°F), and a maximum of 27°C (81°F). While both months have similar precipitation levels—October at 83 mm (3.3 in) over 14 days and June at 80 mm (3.2 in) over 11 days—October tends to feel wetter, with higher humidity at 89% compared to June's 85%. For a more detailed look at what to expect, check out Durham weather in June.
October and July exhibit stark differences in weather patterns. In October, temperatures range from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a maximum of 21°C (70°F), with an average of 11°C (51°F). This month experiences higher humidity at 89% and is characterized by more frequent precipitation, totaling 83 mm (3.3 in) over approximately 14 days. In contrast, July showcases milder temperatures, starting from a minimum of 7°C (46°F) and peaking at a comfortable 30°C (86°F), with an average of 16°C (62°F). July is slightly drier, with total precipitation reaching 77 mm (3.0 in) across 13 days and a lower humidity of 83%. For more details on July's climate, you can check Durham weather in July.
In comparing the weather of October and August, August tends to be significantly warmer, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C (46°F) to a maximum of 28°C (82°F), while October presents cooler conditions, with temperatures ranging from 1°C (34°F) to 21°C (70°F). Additionally, October experiences a higher average humidity of 89% compared to 82% in August, contributing to a brisker atmosphere. Both months see a similar amount of precipitation at around 80-83 mm; however, October has slightly more rainy days, averaging 14 days compared to August's 15 days. For more detailed information, you can check Durham weather in August.
In comparing the weather between September and October, October tends to be significantly cooler, with average temperatures dropping from September's comfortable highs of 27°C (80°F) to a maximum of just 21°C (70°F). The minimum temperature in October also decreases to 1°C (34°F), contrasting with September's milder low of 4°C (39°F). Additionally, October experiences more precipitation, with 83 mm (3.3 in) falling over 14 days compared to September's 65 mm (2.6 in) over 12 days. Humidity is slightly higher in October at 89%, compared to 87% in September. For more detailed insights, you can check out Durham weather in September.
October and November exhibit distinct weather patterns as autumn deepens. In October, temperatures range from a chilly 1°C (34°F) at night to a mild 21°C (70°F) during the day, with an average of 11°C (51°F). The month sees a fair amount of precipitation, totaling 83 mm (3.3 in) over 14 days, along with high humidity at 89%. In contrast, November ushers in cooler conditions with nighttime lows dipping to -2°C (28°F) and daytime highs peaking at 16°C (61°F), averaging 7°C (46°F). Although it experiences less rainfall at 62 mm (2.5 in) over the same number of days, humidity slightly increases to 90%. For a more detailed look at November conditions, you can check Durham weather in November.
In October, the weather is generally milder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a pleasant maximum of 21°C (70°F) and an average of 11°C (51°F). October experiences higher precipitation with 83 mm (3.3 in) over 14 days, accompanied by high humidity at 89%. In contrast, December sees a drop in temperatures, with a minimum of -5°C (23°F) and an average of 5°C (42°F), peaking at 13°C (56°F). While December has slightly less rainfall at 71 mm (2.8 in) over 13 days, the humidity remains similar at 88%. For further insights on December conditions, visit Durham weather in December.
As October unfolds in Durham, the transition into autumn brings a noticeable shift in weather patterns compared to the preceding months. Daytime temperatures start to cool, with an average hovering around a brisk 11°C, while chilly evenings dip to as low as 1°C. The month is marked by frequent rain, occurring on about half the days, contributing to a substantial precipitation total that creates a distinctly damp atmosphere with high humidity levels. This blend of cooler temperatures and increased rainfall makes October a time to embrace layers and prepare for the cozy indoor days ahead. To learn more about the overall climate in this charming region, visit Durham Climate.