Last updated: February 24, 2025
Experience the stunning October weather of Yosemite Valley, where temperatures range from a crisp -10°C (15°F) at night to a delightful 24°C (75°F) during the day. With an average temperature of 7°C (44°F), visitors can enjoy the vibrant autumn foliage under mostly clear skies. Although the month brings 43 mm (1.7 in) of precipitation over just 3 days, the refreshing moisture enhances the breathtaking scenery, while humidity levels hover around 59%. This perfect blend of warmth and occasional showers makes October an ideal time to explore the natural wonders of Yosemite Valley.
As autumn envelops Yosemite Valley, October brings a refreshing shift in temperatures, showcasing a gradual descent from the heat of summer. With minimum temperatures around -10°C (15°F), the crispness of the air heralds the season's change. The average temperature hovers around 7°C (44°F), offering a comfortable coolness perfect for exploring the valley's stunning fall foliage. Days can still be pleasantly mild, peaking at 24°C (75°F), allowing visitors to enjoy the breathtaking scenery under the warm autumn sun. This transitional month marks a definitive move away from the warmer months, creating a beautiful balance that invites adventurers to experience Yosemite's splendor in a quieter, more serene atmosphere.
In Yosemite Valley, October marks a noticeable shift in precipitation patterns, with 43 mm (1.7 in) of rainfall over just 3 days. This modest amount is a prelude to the wetter months ahead, as the valley transitions from the dry summer months of July and August, which only received 24 mm (0.9 in) and 17 mm (0.7 in) respectively. Following October, the precipitation increasingly intensifies, nearly doubling in November to 98 mm (3.9 in). The precipitation trend reflects the valley's climatic rhythm, where autumn brings a gradual uptick in moisture, setting the stage for the heavy snows of winter and highlighting the valley's stunning seasonal transformations.
As October arrives in Yosemite Valley, the humidity begins to rise again, settling at a comfortable 59%. This marks a noticeable shift from the summer months, where humidity levels dipped to their lowest points, such as 30% in August and 36% in July. The transition from the dry, warm summer to the cooler autumn is evident, as October's humidity contrasts sharply with the preceding months. Although it remains lower than the winter peaks, which generally hover around 82% to 85%, October provides a refreshing respite that enhances the stunning fall foliage. The gradual increase from a notably dry August and September, where humidity levels were at their annual lows, underscores the dynamic climate of Yosemite Valley as it prepares for the wetter months ahead.
In Yosemite Valley, October marks a transition into milder conditions, as the UV Index drops to 7, categorizing the exposure risk as high with a burn time of 25 minutes. This reduction follows a summer of extreme UV levels, peaking at 12 in June and July, where just 10 minutes of exposure could result in burns. As autumn sets in, the UV Index decreases significantly compared to the earlier months, aligning more closely with the values seen in early spring. This trend highlights the importance of remaining vigilant about sun protection even during fall, especially when engaging in outdoor activities. For more detailed information, visit Yosemite Valley UV Index.
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As October settles in Yosemite Valley, the landscape basks in a generous 293 hours of sunshine, a lovely decline from the summer peak but still vibrant enough to warm the crisp autumn air. The month marks a transition, where the sunlight gradually recedes from the summer highs of 392 hours in July and 388 hours in June, allowing the golden hues of fall foliage to shine. While the hours of sunlight decrease compared to the preceding months, they remain significantly higher than the winter months, hinting at a cozy yet lively autumn. This gentle slide into cooler weather fosters a serene ambiance, inviting both adventurers and nature lovers to enjoy the breathtaking views and dynamic colors that define October in this iconic valley.
As autumn settles over Yosemite Valley, the likelihood of sunny weather in October stands at 62%, marking a notable shift from the high sunshine rates of the summer months. Following the peak sunshine of August at 92% and September at 89%, October witnesses a gentle decline in clear skies, hinting at the transition towards winter. Despite this dip, the October forecast still offers a fair chance for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy the breathtaking scenery bathed in golden hues. With October's sunshine probability slightly improving upon the cloudier months of November and December, it remains an ideal time for visitors to bask in the beauty of this iconic national park.
In October, Yosemite Valley experiences a shift in daylight duration, offering around 11 hours of sunlight as the month progresses. This marks a gradual decline from the summer months, where visitors enjoyed the longest days of 14 hours in June, July, and August. As autumn settles in, the transition becomes more pronounced, with daylight diminishing from 12 hours in September to 11 in October, hinting at the approaching winter months. This pattern reflects a natural ebb and flow, inviting nature enthusiasts to embrace the rich tapestry of fall colors in the park, all while experiencing the increasingly brisk days that herald the chill of winter.
As October unfolds in Yosemite Valley, the average wind speed settles at a gentle 2.0 m/s (5 mph), mirroring the steady breeze felt throughout the previous months. This consistent wind pattern reflects a transition from the warmer summer months of August and September, which also maintained a brisk 2.0 m/s, to the cooler autumn air that heralds the coming winter. Interestingly, while January and December see a slight uptick in wind speeds, reaching 2.1 m/s and 2.2 m/s respectively, October's calmness serves as a serene midpoint in the seasonal shift. The persistent 2.0 m/s speed offers a tranquil backdrop to the stunning fall foliage, making October a particularly enchanting time to experience the beauty of Yosemite Valley.
The weather in Yosemite Valley 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 Yosemite Valley and find detailed weather information for every month.
In comparing October and January weather, October offers a more temperate climate with average temperatures around 7°C (44°F) and a maximum of 24°C (75°F), while January sees much colder conditions with average temperatures dropping to -3°C (27°F) and a maximum of 11°C (51°F). Precipitation differs significantly as well; October experiences only 43 mm (1.7 in) across about 3 days, whereas January has a substantial increase in rainfall at 227 mm (9.0 in) over 9 days. Additionally, January is notably more humid, with levels around 82%, compared to October's 59%. For more detailed information on January weather, you can check Yosemite Valley weather in January.
October and February exhibit stark contrasts in weather patterns. October typically features a minimum temperature of -10°C (15°F) and an average of 7°C (44°F), peaking at a comfortable 24°C (75°F). With only 43 mm (1.7 in) of precipitation over about three days, the month generally has lower humidity levels at 59%. In contrast, February is much colder, with minimum temperatures dropping to -21°C (-5°F) and an average of -3°C (27°F). The maximum temperature only reaches 13°C (56°F), while precipitation soars to 226 mm (8.9 in) over 11 days, resulting in a higher humidity level of 85%. For more insights, check out Yosemite Valley weather in February.
October and March present quite contrasting weather conditions. October enjoys milder temperatures, with an average of 7°C (44°F) and maximum highs reaching up to 24°C (75°F), while March struggles with colder averages of -2°C (29°F) and minimums dropping to -17°C (1°F). In terms of precipitation, October sees relatively light rain, totaling 43 mm (1.7 in) over just three days, whereas March is notably wetter, accumulating 209 mm (8.2 in) and experiencing rainfall on 13 days. Additionally, March boasts higher humidity levels at 80%, compared to October’s 59%. For more specific details on March weather, visit Yosemite Valley weather in March.
In comparing the weather of October and April, notable differences emerge in temperature and precipitation. October typically features a broader temperature range, with minimums around -10°C (15°F) and maximums reaching up to 24°C (75°F), averaging at 7°C (44°F). This month experiences relatively low precipitation levels, averaging 43 mm (1.7 in) over about 3 days, with a humidity of 59%. In contrast, April presents a cooler climate, with minimum temperatures dropping to -18°C (0°F) and maximums peaking at 16°C (60°F), yielding an average of just 2°C (36°F). However, April is considerably wetter, receiving a total of 102 mm (4.0 in) of precipitation across approximately 8 days, and a higher humidity level of 72%. For more specific details about weather conditions, check out Yosemite Valley weather in April.
October and May present contrasting weather patterns, despite sharing similar maximum temperatures of 24°C (75°F). October typically showcases a broader temperature range, with minimums of -10°C (15°F) and an average of 7°C (44°F), while May dips slightly lower with minimum temperatures reaching -13°C (9°F) and an average of 6°C (43°F). Precipitation is more prevalent in May, totaling 68 mm (2.7 in) across 11 days, compared to October's 43 mm (1.7 in) over just 3 days. Humidity levels are slightly higher in October, at 59%, while May hovers around 58%. For those interested in a more detailed exploration of May weather, check out Yosemite Valley weather in May.
October and June showcase distinct weather patterns, highlighting the transition from fall to summer. In October, temperatures range from a chilly -10°C (15°F) at night to a comfortable 24°C (75°F) during the day, with an average of 7°C (44°F). The month sees an average precipitation of 43 mm (1.7 in) over just 3 days, resulting in a humidity level of 59%. In contrast, June delivers milder conditions with lows of -5°C (24°F) and highs reaching 27°C (81°F), averaging 13°C (55°F). Rainfall is lighter, totaling 20 mm (0.8 in) over 5 days, and the humidity is lower at 49%. For a detailed overview, check out Yosemite Valley weather in June.
The weather in October and July presents a striking contrast. October features a wider temperature range, with lows dropping to -10°C (15°F) and a maximum of 24°C (75°F), averaging around 7°C (44°F). In comparison, July boasts milder temperatures, with a minimum of 3°C (37°F), an average of 17°C (63°F), and highs reaching up to 29°C (85°F). Additionally, October experiences more precipitation, with 43 mm (1.7 in) over just 3 days, while July sees a lighter 24 mm (0.9 in) spread across 6 days, contributing to its lower humidity levels of 36%, compared to October's 59%. For more details on July weather, you can visit Yosemite Valley weather in July.
In comparing October and August weather, October presents cooler temperatures with a notable minimum of -10°C (15°F) and an average of 7°C (44°F), while August enjoys milder conditions with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 4°C (39°F) to an average of 16°C (62°F). The maximum temperature in October peaks at 24°C (75°F), in contrast to August's higher maximum of 29°C (84°F), making August generally warmer overall. Additionally, October experiences more precipitation, measuring 43 mm (1.7 in) over just 3 days, compared to August's 17 mm (0.7 in) spread across 5 days. The humidity is also higher in October at 59%, whereas August features a lower humidity level of 30%. For more detailed information, you can check Yosemite Valley weather in August.
In comparing the weather between September and October, we observe a notable drop in average temperatures: October sees a minimum of -10°C (15°F) and an average of 7°C (44°F), while September has milder conditions with a minimum of -8°C (18°F) and an average of 13°C (55°F). The maximum temperature also decreases, from 28°C (83°F) in September to 24°C (75°F) in October. Furthermore, October experiences more precipitation, totaling 43 mm (1.7 in) over 3 days, compared to September's 17 mm (0.7 in) over 4 days. The humidity increases slightly in October to 59%, compared to September's 42%. For more details on September weather, you can visit Yosemite Valley weather in September.
October and November exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. In October, temperatures range from a minimum of -10°C (15°F) to a maximum of 24°C (75°F), with an average of 7°C (44°F). Precipitation is relatively low, with 43 mm (1.7 in) falling over just 3 days, and the humidity averages around 59%. In contrast, November brings a significant drop in temperatures, with a minimum of -20°C (-4°F) and an average of 2°C (36°F). The month sees increased precipitation, totaling 98 mm (3.9 in) over 6 days, and higher humidity levels at 78%. For more details on November weather conditions, check out Yosemite Valley weather in November.
October and December present strikingly different weather conditions. In October, temperatures can vary widely, with a minimum of -10°C (15°F) and a maximum reaching up to 24°C (75°F), averaging around 7°C (44°F). The month typically experiences lower precipitation, approximately 43 mm (1.7 in) over just 3 days, alongside a moderate humidity level of 59%. In contrast, December brings colder temperatures, with a minimum of -17°C (1°F) and a maximum of only 12°C (55°F), leading to a much colder average of -3°C (27°F). This month is also much wetter, receiving around 160 mm (6.3 in) of precipitation spread across 10 days, coupled with a higher humidity of 79%. For more detail, you can check out Yosemite Valley weather in December.
As October unfolds in Yosemite Valley, visitors can expect a delightful transition from the warm embrace of summer to the crispness of fall. With daytime temperatures being pleasantly mild and evenings dipping into cooler territory, this month showcases a unique blend of warmth and chill that sets it apart from the sweltering summer months. The occasional rain, with a manageable amount spread over just a few days, adds a refreshing touch to the atmosphere, enhancing the abundance of autumn foliage. As the humidity hovers around a comfortable 59%, October offers a refreshing yet inviting environment perfect for exploration. For those interested in a deeper dive into the seasonal changes, detailed insights can be found in the comprehensive resource on Yosemite Valley Climate.