Last updated: February 24, 2025
October at the United States Air Force Academy presents a captivating transition into autumn, characterized by a maximum temperature of 28°C (82°F) and a notable average of 7°C (45°F). The month can experience a stark chill, with minima dropping to -22°C (-8°F), highlighting the region's dynamic climate. Rainfall is observed over approximately 7 days, accumulating to 38 mm (1.5 in), while an average humidity of 77% adds a crispness to the air, underscoring the splendid, shifting scenery of this high-altitude locale. The interplay of temperatures and moisture provides a unique backdrop for the vibrant autumn foliage and outdoor activities typical of this time of year.
October brings a distinct chill to the United States Air Force Academy, marking a transition into the heart of autumn. As the month unfolds, temperatures range from a brisk -22°C (-8°F) at night to a comfortable 28°C (82°F) during the day, allowing for a pleasant mix of cool mornings and mild afternoons. The average temperature settles around 7°C (45°F), providing a refreshing backdrop for cadets as they engage in outdoor training and activities. Notably, this month showcases a significant drop from the warm September highs of 33°C (91°F), emphasizing the gradual descent into winter. As the days grow shorter and the leaves turn vibrant shades, October's climate encourages both reflection and rejuvenation at the Academy.
In October, the Air Force Academy experiences a moderate shift in precipitation, with 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain over 7 days. This month marks a subtle decline from the wetter summer months, reflecting an overall transition towards drier conditions as winter approaches. The precipitation levels are visibly lower than the peak seen in May and July, which recorded 86 mm (3.4 in) and 85 mm (3.3 in) respectively. Yet, October's rain is still significant when compared to the preceding months, such as September, where only 36 mm (1.4 in) fell over just 5 days. As the leaves change color and temperatures cool, the sporadic rainfall provides a refreshing contrast to the crisp fall air, setting the stage for the winter months ahead.
October at the Air Force Academy experiences a slightly elevated humidity level of 77%, which reflects a trend of overall moisture retention as the year progresses. After a gradual decrease in humidity from April's 62% to September's 79%, October marks a subtle rebound. This increase in moisture aligns with the summer's culmination, where August leads the pack at 80%. As the Academy transitions into the cooler months, humidity levels typically stabilize, with November and December dipping to 74% and 80%, respectively. The data suggests a pattern of fluctuating humidity throughout the year, with October serving as a pivotal point where the summer's humidity lingers before yielding to the drier winter months.
In October, the UV Index at the Air Force Academy reflects a notable shift from the peak summer months, registering at 7 with a high exposure category. This indicates a level of caution with a burn time of just 25 minutes for unprotected skin. Compared to the extreme conditions of the preceding months, where indices soared up to 12, October presents a more moderate but still significant risk. This transition illustrates a trend toward decreasing UV intensity as the year progresses, yet highlights the importance of continued sun protection during outdoor activities. For more detailed information, visit Air Force Academy UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
As October arrives at the Air Force Academy, the sunlight begins to wane, bringing a noticeable shift to the season. With 274 hours of sunshine, October marks a significant dip from the peak of 372 hours enjoyed in July. This decrease reflects a gradual decline that has unfolded since the sunniest months of summer, as daylight yields to the shorter, cooler days of autumn. Despite the decrease, October still shines brighter than the earlier winter months, such as January and February, which each bask in just 189 and 242 hours of sunlight, respectively. The mix of crisp air and golden leaves, coupled with the lingering warmth of the sun, creates a beautiful backdrop for both study and outdoor activities, reminding everyone that even as days shorten, there is still plenty of light to enjoy.
In October, the Air Force Academy enjoys an impressive 71% chance of sunny weather, making it one of the sunniest months of the year. This trend reflects a gradual increase in sunlight as the year progresses, peaking after the summer months. Compared to earlier months, such as May (41%) and June (52%), October stands out as a prime time for clear skies and outdoor activities. As fall transitions into winter, the likelihood of sunny days decreases only slightly, with November still holding a respectable 65% chance. This consistent exposure to bright, sunny days in October not only enhances the beauty of the fall foliage but also creates an inviting atmosphere for both residents and visitors alike.
As October arrives at the Air Force Academy in the United States, daylight begins to wane, offering approximately 11 hours of light—a slight decrease from the 12 hours enjoyed in September. This trend of diminishing daylight continues into the colder months, as the sun sets earlier, signaling the approach of winter. The summer months of June, July, and August bask in abundant light, with 14 hours each, creating a noticeable contrast to the shorter days that follow. As the academy gears up for fall activities, the gradual transition serves as a reminder of the cyclical nature of seasons, where longer daylight hours in spring and summer give way to the crisp, shadowed days of autumn.
In October, the winds at the Air Force Academy pick up slightly, averaging 2.6 m/s (6 mph), mirroring the breezy conditions often seen in the spring and early winter months. As the year unfolds, the average wind speed shows a gentle oscillation, with January through July holding steady at 2.3 to 2.8 m/s, creating a calm atmosphere ideal for outdoor training. Notably, October's winds hint at a shift towards a more dynamic fall season, as they are notably stronger than the preceding months—this aligns with a subtle increase seen in both March and April. Following October, a slight dip occurs again in November, marking a return to the more serene conditions of the earlier months. Overall, the air remains deceptively tranquil, concealing the seasonal transitions that set the backdrop for life at the Academy.
The weather in Air Force Academy 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 Air Force Academy and find detailed weather information for every month.
When comparing the weather in October and January, it's clear that October experiences a wider range of temperatures, with a minimum of -22°C (-8°F), an average of 7°C (45°F), and a maximum of 28°C (82°F). This month also sees more precipitation, averaging 38 mm (1.5 in) over about 7 days, and a higher humidity level of 77%. In contrast, January is significantly colder, featuring a minimum temperature of -27°C (-16°F), an average of -3°C (26°F), and a maximum of 16°C (61°F). Precipitation is less frequent in January, totaling just 15 mm (0.6 in) across only 3 days, with humidity lower at 74%. For more detailed weather information, you can check Air Force Academy weather in January.
In October, the weather showcases a wider temperature range with a minimum of -22°C (-8°F), an average of 7°C (45°F), and a maximum of 28°C (82°F), making it a month of transition into cooler autumn climates. The precipitation level is higher at 38 mm (1.5 in) over seven days, coupled with a humidity of 77%, creating a damp, crisp atmosphere. In contrast, February tends to be consistently colder, with a minimum of -31°C (-24°F), an average of -4°C (25°F), and a maximum of 21°C (70°F). February experiences less precipitation at 24 mm (0.9 in) also over seven days, accompanied by slightly lower humidity levels of 75%. For more detailed insights, you can visit Air Force Academy weather in February.
In comparing the weather of October and March, October tends to be milder overall with an average temperature of 7°C (45°F), while March's average is cooler at 2°C (35°F). Both months experience similar minimum temperatures, with October reaching -22°C (-8°F) and March dipping slightly lower to -24°C (-11°F). Precipitation levels are higher in March, with 55 mm (2.2 in) falling over about 7 days compared to October's 38 mm (1.5 in). Additionally, humidity is notably higher in October at 77%, whereas it is more comfortable at 66% in March. For a closer look at weather specifics, check out the Air Force Academy weather in March.
When comparing the weather in October and April, it's evident that both months experience a range of temperatures, though they differ slightly in their averages and extremes. October sees a minimum temperature of -22°C (-8°F) and an average of 7°C (45°F), with a maximum reaching 28°C (82°F), while April's temperatures range from a minimum of -18°C (0°F) to an average of 6°C (42°F), peaking at 27°C (80°F). Precipitation levels are slightly higher in April at 47 mm (1.9 in) over 11 days, compared to October's 38 mm (1.5 in) across 7 days. Additionally, April enjoys lower humidity at 62% compared to October's 77%. For a detailed look at weather patterns, you can visit Air Force Academy weather in April.
October and May present distinct weather patterns, showcasing the transitioning seasons. In October, temperatures can range from a chilly -22°C (-8°F) to a warm 28°C (82°F), with an average of 7°C (45°F). The month experiences about 38 mm (1.5 in) of precipitation over roughly 7 days, accompanied by a relatively high humidity of 77%. In contrast, May boasts milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from -8°C (19°F) to a maximum of 30°C (86°F) and an average of 11°C (52°F). However, it is significantly wetter, with 86 mm (3.4 in) of rainfall across approximately 14 days, and a slightly lower humidity of 74%. For more details on May weather, you can check this link: Air Force Academy weather in May.
October and June offer contrasting weather experiences. In June, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of 1°C (35°F) to a warm maximum of 35°C (96°F), with an average of 18°C (64°F), accompanied by approximately 44 mm (1.8 in) of precipitation over 10 days and a humidity level of 76%. In contrast, October sees a broader temperature variation, with a minimum of -22°C (-8°F) and a maximum of 28°C (82°F), but an average more moderate at 7°C (45°F). The month receives about 38 mm (1.5 in) of precipitation over 7 days with slightly higher humidity at 77%. For more details on June weather, check out Air Force Academy weather in June.
When comparing the weather in October and July, distinct contrasts emerge. October experiences a wide range of temperatures, with a minimum of -22°C (-8°F) and a maximum reaching 28°C (82°F), leading to an average of 7°C (45°F). In contrast, July boasts much milder conditions with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 8°C (46°F) to a maximum of 35°C (94°F), yielding an average of 20°C (68°F). Precipitation is also more frequent in July, with 85 mm (3.3 in) falling over 16 days, compared to October’s 38 mm (1.5 in) over just 7 days. Humidity levels are quite similar, with October sitting at 77% and July at 75%. For more detailed insights about July weather specifically, you can visit Air Force Academy weather in July.
In comparing the weather between October and August, a notable contrast emerges. October features a wider temperature range, with minimums dropping to -22°C (-8°F) and maximums reaching 28°C (82°F), resulting in an average of 7°C (45°F). In contrast, August enjoys milder temperatures, with a minimum of 6°C (43°F), an average of 19°C (67°F), and a maximum of 32°C (91°F). Precipitation is also more frequent in August, occurring over 11 days, while October sees rain on only 7 days, with a total precipitation of 38 mm (1.5 in) compared to August's 53 mm (2.1 in). Humidity levels remain relatively high in both months, with October at 77% and August slightly higher at 80%. For a closer look at the weather during this time, you can visit Air Force Academy weather in August.
In comparing the weather of October to September, October experiences a wider range of temperatures, with a minimum of -22°C (-8°F) and a maximum of 28°C (82°F), resulting in an average temperature of 7°C (45°F). In contrast, September features milder temperatures, ranging from a minimum of -4°C (26°F) to a maximum of 33°C (91°F), leading to a significantly warmer average of 16°C (61°F). Both months showcase similar precipitation levels, with October receiving 38 mm (1.5 in) over 7 days and September slightly less at 36 mm (1.4 in) over 5 days. Humidity levels are fairly comparable as well, with October at 77% and September slightly higher at 79%. For more detailed insights on September weather specifics, you can refer to Air Force Academy weather in September.
October and November exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. In October, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -22°C (-8°F) to a comfortable maximum of 28°C (82°F), with an average of 7°C (45°F). The month sees approximately 38 mm (1.5 in) of precipitation over 7 days and maintains a humidity level of 77%. Conversely, November experiences a slightly cooler average temperature of 2°C (36°F) and a lower maximum of 23°C (73°F), while still having a minimum of -22°C (-8°F). Precipitation decreases to 20 mm (0.8 in) over just 4 days, and humidity drops slightly to 74%. For more details, visit Air Force Academy weather in November.
In October, temperatures can vary widely, ranging from a chilling -22°C (-8°F) at night to a warm 28°C (82°F) during the day, with an average of 7°C (45°F). The month typically sees about 38 mm (1.5 inches) of precipitation over approximately 7 days, and humidity levels hover around 77%. In contrast, December experiences consistently colder temperatures, with a minimum of -23°C (-9°F) and a maximum of only 20°C (68°F), leading to an average of -2°C (29°F). Precipitation drops significantly to just 11 mm (0.4 inches) over about 3 days, and humidity rises slightly to 80%. For more detailed weather patterns during this month, check out Air Force Academy weather in December.
As October arrives at the Air Force Academy, the weather begins to shift noticeably, transitioning from the lingering warmth of summer to the brisk embrace of autumn. The month typically showcases a remarkable range in temperatures, where sunny days can peak around 28°C (82°F) while nights can plummet to a chilly -22°C (-8°F). This dynamic fluctuation is complemented by a noticeable increase in humidity, averaging around 77%, and moderate rainfall, which adds a refreshing touch to the dry air. Compared to the drier summer months, October presents a more variable climate, inviting both residents and visitors to enjoy the beautiful fall foliage while preparing for the colder days ahead. For a deeper understanding of the annual conditions, visit Air Force Academy Climate.