October Weather in Palo Alto, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

In Palo Alto, October unveils a delightful climate characterized by moderate temperatures and a gentle touch of precipitation. The month experiences a maximum temperature reaching a pleasant 33°C (92°F), while the average hovers around 17°C (63°F), creating a welcoming atmosphere for outdoor activities. With a minimum temperature of 7°C (45°F), the evenings invite a light sweater. Rain is seldom, with only 24 mm (0.9 in) falling on a mere single day, and the humidity level remains comfortable at 62%, making it an ideal time to explore this vibrant region.

October Temperature in Palo Alto

In October, Palo Alto experiences a delightful transition into fall, characterized by a minimum temperature of around 7°C (45°F) and a comfortable average of 17°C (63°F). As the month progresses, daytime highs can reach up to 33°C (92°F), showcasing a pleasant warmth reminiscent of late summer. This combination results in mild evenings ideal for outdoor activities and social gatherings. Compared to the warmer months of September and August, October offers a more temperate climate, making it an inviting time to explore the region's parks and scenic beauty while enjoying the vibrant autumn foliage. The gradual cooling also sets the stage for the upcoming winter season, as Palo Alto transitions gracefully from the high heat of summer to the refreshing chill of November.

October Weather in Palo Alto: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates October temperature patterns in Palo Alto, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec525354565863636565625652
Data source: Temperature data for Palo Alto generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

October Precipitation in Palo Alto

In Palo Alto, October marks a transition into the wetter fall season, although it remains relatively dry compared to the winter months. With 24 mm (0.9 in) of precipitation falling over just one day, this month serves as a gentle reminder of the rain to come, especially after the dry summer. The pattern of fluctuating rainfall is evident, as previous months like June and July recorded zero precipitation, while October’s single rain event offers a glimpse of relief from the extended dry spell. As the region moves into November, the average rainfall nearly doubles to 47 mm (1.9 in), setting the stage for a more consistent wet winter ahead. This gradual increase in precipitation illustrates a significant shift in Palo Alto's climate, highlighting the unique seasonal variations experienced throughout the year.

October Precipitation Trends in Palo Alto

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Palo Alto, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec1051008633242012244788
Data source: Precipitation data for October generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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October Humidity in Palo Alto

In Palo Alto, October marks a notable shift in humidity levels as the summer months wane. Following the driest period of the year in July and August, where humidity levels dipped to their lowest at 54% and 58%, October sees a moderate increase to 62%. This rise heralds a transition towards the wetter months ahead, as the climate prepares for the return of autumn rains. Compared to the earlier year, October's humidity is a pleasant interlude before the more humid winter months settle in. It's a time when the air begins to feel a little more crisp, inviting residents to enjoy the outdoors while still savoring the lingering warmth of late summer.

October Average Humidity in Palo Alto

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Palo Alto, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec82%84%82%78%71%64%59%54%55%62%78%80%
Data source: Humidity data for October generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

October UV Index in Palo Alto

As October unfolds in Palo Alto, the UV Index stands at 7, denoting a high exposure category with a burn time of 25 minutes. This month marks a gradual decline from the intense summer months, where UV levels peaked at 11 in June and July. Despite the cooling tempers of fall, UV radiation remains significant, reminding residents to stay sun-smart. Compared to earlier months, the October Index suggests a notable decrease yet still calls for vigilance as we transition to the lower winter values seen in November and December. Embrace the season's beauty while staying protected under the sun! For more detailed information, check out Palo Alto UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Palo Alto for October

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Palo Alto 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3589101111109743
Data source: Palo Alto 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 Palo Alto

In Palo Alto, October brings a delightful transition into the depths of autumn, showcasing 276 hours of sunshine. This month marks a slight decline from the summer peak, where June and July basked in an impressive 355 and 349 hours respectively. As the days grow shorter, the warmth of the sun lingers, offering a beautiful curtain call to the vibrant summer months. Notably, October's sunlight still outshines the chilly November figures, suggesting a gradual retreat into cooler climates while still holding onto the golden hues of late summer. This trend reflects a serene balance, inviting both residents and visitors to enjoy the outdoors before the winter solstice brings its shorter days.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Palo Alto: October Highlighted

The October sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Palo Alto 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec151h216h263h296h341h355h349h320h299h276h225h194h
Data source: Palo Alto October Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Palo Alto During October

In Palo Alto, October offers a 53% chance of sunny weather, marking a pleasant transition into the fall season. While this likelihood is slightly lower than the sunny heights of May and August, it still remains favorable compared to the winter months ahead. Notably, October sits comfortably in the middle of the yearly spectrum, where the percentage of sunny days fluctuates from 39% in January to 62% in May. As the warm summer days gradually give way to cooler temperatures, the weather in October provides ample opportunities to enjoy the outdoors under a mix of sun and mild conditions, making it an ideal month for autumn activities.

Percentage of Sunny Days in October in Palo Alto

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Palo Alto 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 Palo Alto experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec39%55%58%45%62%57%48%61%58%53%46%35%
Data source: Palo Alto October chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Palo Alto in October

As October rolls in, Palo Alto experiences a gentle decline in daylight, offering 11 hours of sunshine—a pleasant transition that hints at the approaching winter months. This shift follows a summer peak of 14 hours during June, July, and August, slowly tapering as the days grow shorter. The trend highlights a rhythmic pattern in daylight duration, starting with 9 hours in January, gradually increasing to a welcoming 14 hours by mid-year, before retreating back to 10 hours in November and continuing the cycle into winter. This gradual ebb and flow of daylight not only shapes the daily routines of Palo Alto residents but also enhances the beauty of the changing seasons.

Average Daylight Hours in Palo Alto for October

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Palo Alto throughout the year, with October highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 54m10h 49m11h 59m13h 11m14h 11m14h 41m14h 25m13h 31m12h 22m11h 10m10h 8m9h 36m
Data source: Palo Alto daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

October Winds in Palo Alto

As October sweeps into Palo Alto, the air carries a gentle whisper of change with an average wind speed of 2.4 m/s (5 mph). This slight uptick from September's calm (2.0 m/s) marks a subtle shift in the seasonal breeze, echoing a trend of fluctuating winds throughout the year. From the robust gusts of May reaching 3.0 m/s to July's more tranquil 2.3 m/s, the winds tend to ebb and flow as autumn approaches. Notably, October's winds pave the way for a gradual descent into winter, where speeds typically drop, culminating in November's stillness at 1.8 m/s. In this serene coastal climate, each month's wind tells a story, weaving a tapestry of seasonal transitions and tranquil moments.

Average October Wind Speed in Palo Alto

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Palo Alto, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.22.52.62.63.02.72.32.12.02.4 m/s1.82.4
Data source: Palo Alto October wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How October Weather in Palo Alto Compares to Other Months

The weather in Palo Alto 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 Palo Alto and find detailed weather information for every month.

In October, the weather is generally warmer, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C (45°F) to a maximum of 33°C (92°F), allowing for comfortable outdoor activities under an average humidity of 62%. Precipitation is minimal, averaging just 24 mm (0.9 in) over the month, often with only one day of rain. In contrast, January is cooler, featuring a temperature range of 2°C (36°F) to 24°C (75°F), with an average temperature of 11°C (52°F). The humidity rises to 82%, and rainfall is significantly higher, totaling approximately 105 mm (4.1 in) spread over seven days. For a more detailed look, check out Palo Alto weather in January.

October presents a much warmer climate compared to February, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C (45°F) to a maximum of 33°C (92°F). In contrast, February's temperatures are cooler, with a minimum of 2°C (37°F) and a maximum of 24°C (76°F). Precipitation levels also differ significantly: October experiences just 24 mm (0.9 in) over a single day, while February sees a substantial increase with 100 mm (3.9 in) spread across eight days. Additionally, the humidity is notably higher in February at 84%, compared to October's 62%. For more detailed insights, you can check Palo Alto weather in February.

When comparing the weather in October to that in March, several notable differences emerge. October typically showcases warmer conditions with average temperatures reaching 17°C (63°F) and maximums peaking at 33°C (92°F), while March sees cooler averages of 12°C (54°F) and max temperatures of 25°C (78°F). Precipitation levels also differ significantly; October experiences minimal rain with only 24 mm (0.9 in) over just one day, whereas March is much wetter, receiving 86 mm (3.4 in) across 11 days. Additionally, humidity levels are higher in March at 82%, compared to October's 62%. For more detailed insights on March weather, you can check out Palo Alto weather in March.

In comparing the weather between October and April, October tends to be warmer with temperatures averaging around 17°C (63°F) and occasionally reaching highs of 33°C (92°F). In contrast, April experiences cooler average temperatures of 13°C (57°F), with maximums around 30°C (87°F). Additionally, October sees relatively low precipitation, with only 24 mm (0.9 in) over just one day, while April is wetter, receiving 33 mm (1.3 in) spread across five days. The humidity levels also differ, with October at 62% compared to April's higher 78%, making April feel a bit more humid. For more detailed insights into April's climate, you can visit Palo Alto weather in April.

October and May present contrasting yet mild weather patterns. In October, temperatures can range from a minimum of 7°C (45°F) to a maximum of 33°C (92°F), boasting an average of 17°C (63°F). This month features relatively low precipitation with only 24 mm (0.9 in) falling over just one day and humidity levels hovering around 62%. In comparison, May shows a slightly narrower temperature range, with minimums at 8°C (46°F) and maximums reaching 29°C (84°F), averaging 15°C (59°F). While May also sees 24 mm (0.9 in) of precipitation, it occurs over two days, and it experiences higher humidity at 71%. For more detailed insights, check out the Palo Alto weather in May.

In comparing the weather between October and June, both months showcase similar average temperatures, hovering around 17°C (63°F). However, October experiences a wider temperature range, with minimums reaching 7°C (45°F) and maximums soaring up to 33°C (92°F), while June maintains slightly higher minimums at 10°C (49°F) and maximums peaking at 35°C (96°F). Precipitation levels are notably lower in June, with just 2 mm (0.1 in) and no rainy days, compared to October's 24 mm (0.9 in) over a single rainy day. Humidity levels are fairly comparable, with October at 62% and June slightly higher at 64%. For more detailed insights, you can check Palo Alto weather in June.

When comparing the weather in October and July, October exhibits a wider temperature range, with minimums of 7°C (45°F) and maximums reaching 33°C (92°F), while July maintains warmer minimums of 11°C (53°F) and maximums of 29°C (84°F). Surprisingly, despite experiencing more volatility, October has only one day of precipitation totaling 24 mm (0.9 in), whereas July remains completely dry with no recorded rainfall. Additionally, humidity levels are slightly higher in October at 62% compared to July's 58%. For a detailed look at July weather, visit Palo Alto weather in July.

When comparing the weather between October and August, October tends to be cooler overall, with morning temperatures dipping to a minimum of 7°C (45°F) compared to August's milder minimum of 12°C (54°F). The average temperatures are fairly similar, with October averaging 17°C (63°F) while August remains slightly warmer at 18°C (65°F). However, August experiences higher maximum temperatures, reaching up to 35°C (96°F), whereas October’s peak is 33°C (92°F). Notably, October sees a bit of precipitation with an average of 24 mm (0.9 in) over just one day, while August remains completely dry with no recorded precipitation. Furthermore, October has higher humidity levels at 62%, compared to August’s 54%. For a more detailed look at August's weather, you can visit Palo Alto weather in August.

In comparing the weather between September and October, October tends to be slightly cooler, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C (45°F) to a maximum of 33°C (92°F), compared to September's warmer temperatures, which range from 10°C (50°F) to a high of 39°C (103°F). Additionally, October experiences a bit more precipitation, with 24 mm (0.9 in) occurring over just one day, while September recorded only 2 mm (0.1 in) with no rainy days at all. Humidity also sees a slight rise in October at 62% compared to September's 55%. For more details on September's weather, you can check Palo Alto weather in September.

October and November exhibit a notable shift in weather patterns. October typically experiences warmer temperatures, with averages around 17°C (63°F) and maximums reaching up to 33°C (92°F). In contrast, November sees a drop in temperatures, with an average of 13°C (56°F) and maximums peaking at 27°C (80°F). Additionally, November is wetter, receiving 47 mm (1.9 in) of precipitation over five days compared to October's 24 mm (0.9 in) over just one day. Humidity also increases in November, rising to 78% from October's 62%. For more specific details, you can check out Palo Alto weather in November.

In October, temperatures in the region can vary significantly, with lows around 7°C (45°F) and highs reaching up to 33°C (92°F), offering a more summer-like feel with an average temperature of 17°C (63°F). The month sees relatively low precipitation, with just 24 mm (0.9 in) over approximately one day, and humidity levels at 62%. In contrast, December brings a noticeable drop in temperature, with minimums of 3°C (37°F) and an average of 11°C (52°F), peaking at 22°C (72°F). This month is much wetter, with 88 mm (3.5 in) of rainfall spread over nine days, and higher humidity at 80%. For more detailed insights, check out Palo Alto weather in December.

Compare Palo Alto's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From October Weather in Palo Alto

As October unfolds in Palo Alto, residents experience a distinct shift in weather compared to the summer months, characterized by milder temperatures and significantly lower humidity levels. With an average temperature around 17°C (63°F), the days are pleasantly warm, often peaking at 33°C (92°F), while nighttime brings a refreshing coolness that dips to about 7°C (45°F). This month typically witnesses minimal rain, featuring just one day of precipitation, which is a welcome reprieve after the sometimes sweltering summer. Overall, October offers a unique blend of comfort with its moderate climate, inviting both outdoor activities and cozy evenings. For more detailed insights on the weather patterns throughout the year, visit Palo Alto Climate.