Last updated: March 17, 2025
In October, Kirkwall, United Kingdom, experiences a mild yet moist climate, where temperatures range from a maximum of 15°C (59°F) to a minimum of 5°C (42°F), yielding an average of 11°C (51°F). The month is characterized by frequent rain, accumulating roughly 163 mm (6.4 in) over 25 days of precipitation, and an elevated humidity level of 87%. This combination creates an atmosphere that is both refreshing and brisk, perfect for those who appreciate the beauty of the Orkney Islands in their autumnal splendor.
As October settles in Kirkwall, temperatures begin to shift, marking a transition into the cooler embrace of autumn. With a minimum temperature of 5°C (42°F), the month greets residents and visitors with a mild but crisp atmosphere. The average temperature hovers around 11°C (51°F), while daytime highs can reach up to 15°C (59°F), providing just enough warmth for outdoor adventures. This gradual cooling follows the relatively warmer months of summer and early autumn, illustrating a clear trend of declining temperatures as the year draws to a close. Expect the air to carry a refreshing bite, perfect for cozy sweaters and warm beverages as the vibrant fall foliage begins to grace the landscape.
October marks a significant shift in precipitation patterns for Kirkwall, United Kingdom, showcasing notable rainfall and increased dampness. With 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain falling over 25 days, it stands out as the wettest month of the year, surpassing September's 125 mm (4.9 in). This surge in precipitation is indicative of the transition into autumn, where the days grow shorter and the weather becomes more unpredictable. The increase not only highlights the change in seasons but also sets the stage for the wetter months ahead, reflecting a consistent trend of diminishing rainfall from April to August, followed by a sharp rise in the fall months. As October progresses, residents can expect the lush greenery and vibrant landscapes that often accompany this wetter climate, making it a distinctive month in Kirkwall's annual weather cycle.
In October, Kirkwall experiences a relative humidity of 87%, consistent with the high levels seen in the preceding month of September, which recorded 88%. Throughout the year, humidity levels fluctuate but tend to peak during the warmer summer months; notably, July boasts the highest averages at 87%. As autumn settles in, October maintains this elevated humidity, creating a damp atmosphere that can linger into the upcoming months. This trend indicates a shift to wetter conditions as the year progresses, with November expected to hold steady at 87% as well, reinforcing the idea that Kirkwall's climate brings moisture-rich air just as the landscape transforms with the changing seasons.
In October, Kirkwall experiences a UV Index of 3, indicating a moderate level of sun exposure. With a recommended burn time of 30 minutes, residents and visitors should remain mindful of their sun safety, especially during peak hours. This drop in UV intensity marks a shift from the higher levels in the summer months, with September's UV Index at 4, and highlights the gradual decline as winter approaches. Despite the cooler temperatures, it's essential to be aware of UV exposure during outdoor activities. For more detailed insights on UV levels throughout the year, visit Kirkwall UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
As October arrives in Kirkwall, the days are still graced with a respectable 209 hours of sunshine, although early autumn brings a noticeable decline compared to the sun-soaked summer months. Following the peak light of June at 428 hours, sunshine steadily wanes into September, which enjoys 288 hours. This pattern reflects a gentle transition, where the vibrant energy of summer gives way to the softer hues of fall. Despite this decrease, October still offers a generous share of daylight, ensuring that residents can relish the beauty of autumnal changes in their surroundings before the long winter months set in. The contrast between the abundant sunshine of summer and the more subdued light of October create a unique charm that defines this season in Kirkwall.
In October, the likelihood of sunny weather in Kirkwall, United Kingdom stands at 20%, placing it in the lower range of the year's monthly forecasts. This figure is consistent with the preceding months of September and November, both also at 20%, suggesting a gradual transition into a less sunny season as autumn deepens. Interestingly, the months leading up to October show a slightly more optimistic outlook, particularly in February with 36%, followed by a notable dip to 19% in March. Overall, the trend indicates that as the year progresses into the latter part of fall, the chances of basking in sunlight tend to diminish, creating an atmosphere more suited to the cozy embrace of cloudy days.
In October, Kirkwall enjoys around 10 hours of daylight, marking a gentle transition from the prolonged brightness of summer. This month's daylight hours begin to decline significantly from the summer peak, where June basked in an impressive 18 hours. As autumn settles in, the length of day decreases, following a gradual pattern established since the sparking dawn of spring. With daylight waning to 9 hours in February and a stark 6 hours by December, October showcases a pivotal shift. It sits comfortably between the vibrant summer months and the darker onset of winter, reflecting the symphony of seasonal change in this charming coastal town.
As October rolls into Kirkwall, the winds begin to pick up, with an average speed of 9.2 m/s (21 mph), marking a noticeable increase from the calmer summer months. After a gentle breeze in July and August that dips to around 5.1 m/s (11 mph), the winds start to strengthen as autumn settles in. This trend continues into November, where the wind reaches its peak at 10.8 m/s (24 mph), signaling the onset of winter's chill. While the summer months offer a gentle respite, October's gusty winds remind us of the dynamic and ever-changing nature of the Orkney Islands' coastal climate, setting the stage for the blustery days ahead.
The weather in Kirkwall 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 Kirkwall and find detailed weather information for every month.
October generally sees milder temperatures compared to January, with averages around 11°C (51°F) and maximums reaching 15°C (59°F), while January's temperatures average at 6°C (44°F) with a maximum of only 12°C (53°F). Additionally, October is wetter, experiencing significant rainfall of 163 mm (6.4 in) over 25 days, whereas January has less precipitation at 91 mm (3.6 in) over 16 days. Humidity levels are slightly higher in October at 87%, compared to January's 82%. For a more detailed comparison of January weather, you can visit Kirkwall weather in January.
When comparing the weather in October and February, October tends to be milder with an average temperature of 11°C (51°F) and a maximum of 15°C (59°F), while February is cooler, with an average of just 6°C (43°F). Precipitation is more prevalent in October, with 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain over 25 days, compared to February's 99 mm (3.9 in) over 18 days. Humidity levels are slightly higher in October at 87%, compared to 81% in February. For more detailed insights on February weather, you can check Kirkwall weather in February.
When comparing October and March, we see a significant difference in temperatures and overall weather conditions. October typically experiences milder temperatures, with a minimum of 5°C (42°F) and an average of 11°C (51°F), while March is cooler, with a minimum reaching -1°C (31°F) and an average of 6°C (43°F). Precipitation is more abundant in October, totaling 163 mm (6.4 in) over 25 days, compared to March's 104 mm (4.1 in) across 20 days. Additionally, humidity levels are slightly higher in October at 87%, in contrast to the 81% in March. This reflects the transition from fall to winter, highlighting how October is not only wetter but also more temperate than the chillier, drier conditions seen in March. For a more detailed look at March weather, you can check Kirkwall weather in March.
October and April present distinct weather patterns, with October generally being warmer and wetter than April. In October, temperatures range from a minimum of 5°C (42°F) to a maximum of 15°C (59°F) with an average of 11°C (51°F), while April sees cooler temperatures, starting at 0°C (32°F) and peaking at 11°C (53°F), maintaining an average of 7°C (44°F). Additionally, October experiences significantly more rainfall, with 163 mm (6.4 in) spread over 25 days, compared to April's 51 mm (2.0 in) over just 12 days. Despite this, both months have high humidity levels, with October at 87% and April slightly lower at 81%. For more detailed information on April weather conditions, you can check Kirkwall weather in April.
When comparing the weather in October and May, October tends to be cooler and wetter. October's temperatures range from a minimum of 5°C to a maximum of 15°C, with an average of 11°C. In contrast, May experiences slightly lower temperatures, with a minimum of 3°C and a maximum of 13°C, averaging 8°C. Precipitation levels also differ significantly; October receives 163 mm across 25 days, while May sees only 55 mm over 13 days. The humidity is slightly higher in October at 87% compared to May's 83%. For more detailed information, check out Kirkwall weather in May.
When comparing the weather in October and June, we see some notable differences. October generally has a wider range of temperatures, with a minimum of 5°C (42°F) and a maximum of 15°C (59°F), while June's temperatures are slightly higher, with a minimum of 7°C (45°F) and a maximum of 14°C (58°F). Precipitation is significantly higher in October, averaging 163 mm (6.4 in) over 25 days, compared to June’s 55 mm (2.2 in) over just 11 days. Additionally, October boasts a higher humidity level at 87%, while June is slightly drier at 84%. For more detailed information, you can check Kirkwall weather in June.
When comparing the weather in October to July, a noticeable temperature shift becomes apparent. October experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 5°C (42°F) and a maximum of 15°C (59°F), while July sees slightly warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 9°C (49°F) to a maximum of 17°C (63°F). Additionally, October is significantly wetter, receiving 163 mm (6.4 in) of precipitation over 25 days, compared to July's 70 mm (2.8 in) over just 13 days. Interestingly, both months share the same humidity level of 87%, adding a distinct dampness to October's cooler temperatures. For those looking for more details about July weather, you can refer to Kirkwall weather in July.
In comparing October and August weather, October is notably cooler, with average temperatures ranging from 5°C (42°F) to 15°C (59°F), compared to August’s more moderate range of 10°C (51°F) to 16°C (61°F). While both months experience high humidity, October has slightly higher levels at 87% compared to August’s 86%. Additionally, October sees significantly more precipitation, with 163 mm (6.4 in) over 25 days, in contrast to August's 72 mm (2.8 in) over 15 days, making October a wetter month overall. For more specific details about August weather in Kirkwall, you can check out Kirkwall weather in August.
In comparing the weather between September and October, October tends to be cooler, with minimum temperatures dropping to around 5°C (42°F) as opposed to September's minimum of 9°C (48°F). The average temperature in October is slightly lower at 11°C (51°F) compared to September's 12°C (54°F), while maximum temperatures are closely aligned, reaching 15°C (59°F) in October and 16°C (61°F) in September. Additionally, October sees a notable increase in precipitation, with 163 mm (6.4 in) recorded over 25 days, compared to 125 mm (4.9 in) over 19 days in September. Humidity levels remain high in both months, with October at 87% and September at 88%. For more detailed information on September weather, visit Kirkwall weather in September.
October and November present a notable shift in weather patterns. In October, temperatures range from a minimum of 5°C (42°F) to a maximum of 15°C (59°F), with an average temperature of 11°C (51°F). The month also sees significant rainfall, totaling 163 mm (6.4 in) over 25 days, while humidity remains constant at 87%. In comparison, November brings cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 3°C (38°F) and a maximum of 13°C (56°F), resulting in a lower average of 9°C (48°F). Precipitation decreases slightly to 136 mm (5.4 in) across 23 days, yet humidity continues at 87%. Overall, November feels cooler and slightly drier than October. For more details, check out Kirkwall weather in November.
October and December present distinct contrasts in weather patterns. In October, temperatures fluctuate more significantly, with a minimum of 5°C (42°F) and a maximum of 15°C (59°F), while December sees slightly cooler conditions, ranging from a minimum of 3°C (37°F) to a maximum of 11°C (52°F). Precipitation is notably higher in October, with 163 mm (6.4 in) over 25 days, compared to December's 111 mm (4.4 in) over 21 days. Additionally, October experiences higher humidity levels at 87%, while December's humidity is more moderate at 80%. For more detailed information, you can refer to Kirkwall weather in December.
As autumn settles in, October in Kirkwall unveils a distinct shift in weather, marked by a noticeable dip in temperatures and an uptick in moisture. The air feels cooler, often requiring an extra layer, while the clouds loom more frequently, casting a gray hue over the landscape. With nearly a full month of rain, residents and visitors alike can expect increased precipitation compared to the summer months, resulting in a lush, vibrant environment. Despite the chill, the high humidity adds a unique character to the air, making the rugged beauty of Kirkwall more enchanting. For a deeper understanding of seasonal transformations in this picturesque region, explore the detailed insights available at Kirkwall Climate.