October Weather in Lerwick, United Kingdom

Last updated: March 17, 2025

In October, Lerwick, United Kingdom, experiences a temperate climate characterized by maximum temperatures reaching 14°C (57°F) and an average of 10°C (51°F), making it a cool yet inviting month. As the days shorten and autumn settles in, the minimum temperatures can drop to 5°C (42°F). Rain is a frequent visitor, with precipitation totaling 146 mm (5.8 in) across 23 rainy days, contributing to the island's lush greenery. The air is filled with a notable humidity level of 87%, enhancing the crispness of the fall atmosphere.

October Temperature in Lerwick

October in Lerwick, United Kingdom, marks a subtle transition as autumn deepens, with temperatures reflecting a mild yet crisp climate. The month begins with minimum temperatures around 5°C (42°F) and reaches an average of 10°C (51°F), peaking at a comfortable 14°C (57°F). This shift represents a slight drop from the warmer days of summer, yet remains relatively mild compared to the colder winter months ahead. The gradual cooling trend is indicative of Lerwick’s maritime climate, offering a balance of refreshing chill without plunging into harsh cold, making October an ideal time for enjoying the stunning natural beauty of the Shetland Islands.

October Weather in Lerwick: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates October temperature patterns in Lerwick, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec444343434651545553504745
Data source: Temperature data for Lerwick generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred temperature unit
The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

October Precipitation in Lerwick

In October, Lerwick experiences a notable surge in precipitation, with an average of 146 mm (5.8 in), marking it as the month with the highest rainfall of the year. This abundance is reflected in the 23 wet days, highlighting a shift towards the wetter season as autumn deepens. The increase in precipitation compared to September's already significant 115 mm (4.5 in) illustrates a clear trend of intensifying wet conditions as the year draws to a close. This pattern is part of a broader trend observed in Lerwick, where the months from September to December consistently showcase elevated rainfall levels, emphasizing the region's characteristic dampness during the autumn months.

October Precipitation Trends in Lerwick

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Lerwick, with values for each month alongside October's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the amount of precipitation, providing insights into how October's conditions compare to those of other months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec96981035147547074115146133137
Data source: Precipitation data for October generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

October Humidity in Lerwick

As October rolls in Lerwick, the humidity reaches a notable 87%, maintaining the elevated levels established in the previous months. This month aligns closely with the slightly less humid September, reflecting a trend of continuity where autumn sustains the high moisture content in the air. Throughout the summer, humidity peaked in July at 89%, but as temperatures cool, the humidity remains relatively steady. Overall, October’s climatic conditions indicate a shift towards the end of the year but with little alteration in moisture, showcasing Lerwick's characteristic dampness that persists even as winter approaches.

October Average Humidity in Lerwick

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Lerwick, with October's data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, allowing you to see how October's humidity levels compare to other months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec79%79%81%82%84%84%89%87%87%87%85%78%
Data source: Humidity data for October generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

October UV Index in Lerwick

In October, Lerwick, United Kingdom, experiences a low UV Index of 2, marking a gradual decline as autumn settles in. This month typically offers a burn time of 45 minutes, similar to earlier months of the year like January and February, where the UV levels remain minimal. The trend observed throughout the year indicates that as we move from the summer months with higher UV Index readings—peaking at 7 in June—the exposure risk significantly diminishes by October. Thus, while it's important to be mindful of sun protection throughout the year, October provides a reprieve with lower UV exposure risks. For more insights on UV Index trends, visit Lerwick UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Lerwick for October

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Lerwick in October, representing the highest UV radiation level. The UVI measures the intensity of ultraviolet radiation from the sun, indicating the potential risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec112457654211
Data source: Lerwick October UVI data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

October Sunshine in Lerwick

As October unfolds in Lerwick, the crisp autumn air complements the 202 hours of sunshine, providing a beautiful balance before the winter months descend. This figure reflects a noticeable decline from the sunniest summer months, particularly July's peak with 430 hours. However, compared to the dismal 89 hours of November, October shines brightly, marking a transition from the vibrant days of late summer to the early onset of winter gloom. The progression from 415 hours in May and a stable 376 hours in August to 285 hours in September shows a steady diminishing of daylight, yet October still offers a comforting respite with ample sunlight, encouraging residents to savor the season before daylight dwindles further.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Lerwick: October Highlighted

The October sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Lerwick experiences direct sunlight during the month of October, excluding cloudy or obstructed periods. This chart compares the sunshine duration of October with the other months of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec50h127h192h335h415h420h430h376h285h202h89h58h
Data source: Lerwick October Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Lerwick During October

In Lerwick, United Kingdom, the likelihood of enjoying sunny weather in October stands at a modest 22%, a figure that reflects a slight uptick from the summer months where the sunshine chances dip significantly. Notably, this is part of a broader trend characterized by fluctuating sunshine probabilities throughout the year. After experiencing a peak in January and February, which hover around 32-33%, the chances plummet during the heart of the summer months before gradually climbing again in the autumn. This pattern suggests that while October may not guarantee bright skies, it does offer a more favorable forecast compared to the grey and damp September days, hinting at fleeting chances for sun amidst the encroaching winter gloom.

Percentage of Sunny Days in October in Lerwick

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Lerwick throughout the year, with October highlighted. It highlights the variation in sunshine across each month and provides an overview of the typical frequency of sunny days, offering insights into how often Lerwick experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec32%33%18%33%22%31%18%14%14%22%20%20%
Data source: Lerwick October chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Lerwick in October

As October arrives in Lerwick, United Kingdom, the length of daylight begins to taper off, offering approximately 10 hours of sunshine. This marks a notable shift from the vibrant days of summer, where daylight peaked at a generous 18 hours in June. Following the gradual decline through September, October's daylight duration continues the trend towards shorter days, reminiscent of the transitional months that lead into winter. As the year progresses, it becomes increasingly evident that natural rhythms govern the change in light, signaling the onset of cozy evenings and the beautiful interplay of shadows cast by the autumn sun.

Average Daylight Hours in Lerwick for October

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Lerwick throughout the year, with October highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec6h 46m9h 8m11h 51m14h 38m17h 14m18h 44m17h 55m15h 30m12h 47m10h 2m7h 27m5h 57m
Data source: Lerwick daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

October Winds in Lerwick

As October arrives in Lerwick, the wind begins to pick up again, with average speeds reaching 9.4 m/s (21 mph). This marks a notable rise from the milder summer months, where average winds dipped as low as 5.3 m/s (12 mph) in July. Following a brief lull in late spring and summer, the winds start to stir, gently hinting at the approaching winter. Compared to September’s winds of 7.6 m/s (17 mph), October ushers in a more dynamic atmosphere, leading into November’s brisk average of 10.7 m/s (24 mph)—the strongest of the year. This trend illustrates the cyclical nature of Lerwick’s weather, where the transition from the calmer summer to the invigorating autumn brings with it a refreshing gust that invigorates the island's rugged landscape.

Average October Wind Speed in Lerwick

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Lerwick, with values for each month shown alongside October's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It illustrates the average wind speed, offering insights into how October's wind conditions compare to the rest of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec8.810.19.38.76.46.45.35.97.69.4 m/s10.79.2
Data source: Lerwick October wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How October Weather in Lerwick Compares to Other Months

The weather in Lerwick 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 Lerwick and find detailed weather information for every month.

In comparing the weather of October and January, October generally experiences slightly warmer temperatures, with averages around 10°C (51°F) and a maximum of 14°C (57°F), compared to January's average of 6°C (44°F) and maximum of 11°C (52°F). Precipitation is more frequent in October, with 146 mm (5.8 in) falling over 23 days, whereas January sees less rainfall, totaling 96 mm (3.8 in) over 18 days. Additionally, October maintains a higher humidity level at 87%, while January's humidity decreases to 79%. For more detailed insights, you can check out Lerwick weather in January.

When comparing the weather in October and February, it’s apparent that October tends to be slightly warmer and wetter. October sees temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C (42°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F), with an average temperature of 10°C (51°F). In contrast, February is cooler, with temperatures ranging from 0°C (33°F) to a maximum of 10°C (51°F) and an average of 6°C (43°F). Additionally, October experiences more precipitation, accumulating around 146 mm (5.8 in) over 23 days, compared to February's 97 mm (3.8 in) over 19 days. The humidity levels also reflect this difference, with October's humidity at 87% versus February's 79%. For more specific information about February weather, check out Lerwick weather in February.

In comparing October and March weather, October tends to be milder with average temperatures around 10°C (51°F), peaking at a maximum of 14°C (57°F), while March sees cooler conditions, with an average of 6°C (43°F) and a high of only 9°C (49°F). Precipitation is more pronounced in October, with 146 mm (5.8 in) over 23 days compared to March's 103 mm (4.1 in) across 20 days. Additionally, humidity levels remain slightly higher in October at 87%, versus 81% in March, indicating a more damp and chillier environment as the seasons transition. For more detailed information, you can visit Lerwick weather in March.

When comparing October and April weather, October is generally cooler and wetter than April. In October, temperatures range from a minimum of 5°C (42°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F), with an average of 10°C (51°F), accompanied by significant rainfall of 146 mm (5.8 in) over approximately 23 days. In contrast, April sees a lower temperature range, with a minimum of 0°C (31°F), an average of 6°C (44°F), and a maximum of 10°C (51°F). Precipitation in April is much lighter at 51 mm (2.0 in), falling over about 13 days. Humidity levels are higher in October at 87% compared to 82% in April, giving October a more damp and chilly feel. For further details, you can check out Lerwick weather in April.

October weather tends to be cooler and wetter compared to May. With average temperatures ranging from a low of 5°C (42°F) to a high of 14°C (57°F), October presents a chilly atmosphere, while May averages between 2°C (36°F) and 12°C (54°F). Precipitation is significantly higher in October, with 146 mm (5.8 in) spread over 23 days, compared to May's more manageable 47 mm (1.8 in) over just 13 days. Humidity levels also peak in October at 87%, slightly higher than May's 84%. For a deeper look at May's climate, you can check Lerwick weather in May.

When comparing the weather in October and June, both months exhibit similar average temperatures, hovering around 10°C (51°F). However, October brings cooler minimum temperatures of 5°C (42°F) and slightly milder maximums of 14°C (57°F), while June starts a bit warmer at a minimum of 6°C (44°F) and reaches a maximum of 14°C (58°F). Precipitation is significantly higher in October, with 146 mm (5.8 in) spread over 23 rainy days, compared to only 53 mm (2.1 in) over 12 days in June. The humidity levels are also comparable, with October at 87% and June slightly lower at 84%. For more detailed insights, you can check Lerwick weather in June.

Comparing the weather in October and July reveals some notable differences. In October, temperatures range from a chilly 5°C (42°F) to a max of 14°C (57°F), with an average of 10°C (51°F). The month is characterized by high precipitation, averaging 146 mm (5.8 in) over 23 days, and a humidity level of 87%. In contrast, July offers milder temperatures, with a minimum of 8°C (48°F) and a maximum of 17°C (63°F), averaging 12°C (54°F). This month experiences significantly less rainfall, totaling 69 mm (2.7 in) across just 12 days, while humidity is slightly higher at 89%. For more specific details on weather conditions in July, check this link: Lerwick weather in July.

When comparing the weather in October and August, October tends to be cooler and wetter. The average temperatures in October range from a minimum of 5°C (42°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F), while August sees slightly milder temperatures, with minimums of 10°C (50°F) and maximums of 15°C (60°F). Additionally, October experiences significantly more precipitation, totaling 146 mm (5.8 in) over 23 days compared to August's 74 mm (2.9 in) across 15 days. Both months share a similar humidity level of 87%. For a detailed look at August's weather, visit Lerwick weather in August.

In comparing the weather of October and September, October experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 5°C (42°F) and an average of 10°C (51°F), compared to September's cooler minimum of 8°C (46°F) and average of 12°C (54°F). The maximum temperature in October reaches 14°C (57°F), slightly lower than September's maximum of 15°C (59°F). Additionally, October sees increased precipitation, with 146 mm (5.8 in) over 23 days, compared to 115 mm (4.5 in) across 18 days in September. Both months maintain a high humidity level of 87%. For more detailed weather insights, refer to Lerwick weather in September.

In October, temperatures range from a minimum of 5°C (42°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F), with an average of 10°C (51°F), while November sees a slight drop, with temperatures ranging from 3°C (38°F) to 12°C (54°F) and an average of 8°C (47°F). Both months experience similar precipitation levels, with October receiving 146 mm (5.8 in) and November just a bit less at 133 mm (5.2 in), both spread across approximately 23 days. Humidity remains fairly high in both months, at 87% in October and slightly lower at 85% in November. For more detailed insights, you can check Lerwick weather in November.

October and December both bring cool and damp weather, but there are some notable differences. In October, temperatures generally range from a minimum of 5°C (42°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F), with an average of 10°C (51°F). The month experiences relatively high precipitation levels, totaling 146 mm (5.8 in) across 23 days, accompanied by 87% humidity.

In contrast, December features slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 3°C (37°F) and a maximum of 11°C (52°F), averaging around 7°C (45°F). Despite having a lower total precipitation of 137 mm (5.4 in), December sees rain on 25 days, although the humidity is notably lower at 78%. For more specific insights into the weather patterns, you can check Lerwick weather in December.

Compare Lerwick's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From October Weather in Lerwick

As October unfolds in Lerwick, the weather takes on a distinctly cooler and wetter character compared to the preceding months. With temperatures averaging around 10°C, residents and visitors alike experience a significant drop that invites cozy attire and warm beverages. The month is also marked by high humidity levels, often reaching 87%, and frequent rain, with nearly three-quarters of the days receiving precipitation. This shift not only transforms the landscape into a picturesque autumn scene but also underscores the region's maritime climate. For a deeper dive into Lerwick’s weather patterns throughout the year, visit Lerwick Climate.