Last updated: February 24, 2025
October in Fort Collins, United States, showcases a striking range of weather conditions that can be both invigorating and unpredictable. With maximum temperatures reaching up to 29°C (84°F) and average temperatures around 9°C (49°F), the month retains some warmth before the chill of winter sets in. However, the mercury can drop significantly, plunging to a minimum of -16°C (3°F) on colder nights. This month also sees 36 mm (1.4 in) of precipitation over seven days, contributing to a relatively humid atmosphere with 72% humidity levels. As autumn foliage reaches its peak, October offers a dynamic blend of sun and showers, attracting both locals and visitors to experience the vibrant seasonal changes.
October in Fort Collins brings a distinct transition in temperatures, marking the shift from the mild warmth of early fall to the crisp coolness of late autumn. With daily minimums dipping to -16°C (3°F) and an average of 9°C (49°F), the chill becomes more palpable, especially as nights grow longer. Daytime highs can still reach a pleasant 29°C (84°F), creating a sharp contrast that invites both sweater-clad strolls and lingering afternoons under the sunshine. This month showcases the region's dramatic temperature swings, as summer warmth begins to fade, heralding the approach of the colder months ahead. Embracing these changes is part of the charm of Fort Collins, where vibrant foliage accompanies the onset of brisker days.
In October, Fort Collins experiences a notable shift in precipitation, with an average of 36 mm (1.4 in) falling over seven days. This marks a slight increase compared to September's total and reflects the transition into the wetter autumn season. The precipitation levels in October, while lower than the peak seen in May, help sustain the vibrant fall foliage and contribute to the region's overall water supply. This pattern indicates that while the intensity of summer storms wanes, the consistent, albeit moderate, rainfall in October sets the stage for the cooler months ahead.
In October, Fort Collins experiences a noticeable shift in humidity, with levels averaging around 72%. This marks a decline from the more humid summer months, where levels dipped to as low as 62% in July, reflecting the transition towards the cooler fall season. As autumn approaches, humidity begins to rise again, echoing the patterns seen in early spring when levels were a higher 75% in March. Although October's humidity is relatively moderate, it serves as a precursor to the wetter months ahead, with November jumping back up to 79% and December reaching a peak of 85%. Overall, the data illustrates a seasonal rhythm, transitioning from the dry warmth of summer to the moister conditions that define winter in this vibrant Colorado city.
As October arrives in Fort Collins, the UV Index stands at 6, reflecting a high exposure category with a burn time of 25 minutes. This drop from the extreme levels experienced during the summer months suggests that while the sun's intensity is less severe than in June and July, caution is still warranted when spending time outdoors. Compared to September's 9, it marks a significant decrease, signaling the approach of cooler weather and shorter days. However, UV rays can still pose risks, so it's essential to stay informed, particularly if you're planning outdoor activities. For more detailed insights, check out the comprehensive data available at Fort Collins UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
As October arrives in Fort Collins, the city begins to cool down, yet it still basks in a respectable 272 hours of sunshine. This marks a notable decline from the sun-drenched summer months, with July and June boasting peak hours at 382 and 374 hours, respectively. Despite this decrease, October stands strong as a transition month, showcasing a vibrant tapestry of fall colors illuminated by sunlight. The sunlight starts to wane in comparison to the lush, bright days of May and June, yet it remains just above the cozy November average of 248 hours. As the days grow shorter and the leaves turn, Fort Collins embraces the gentle warmth of autumn sunshine, preparing for the colder months ahead.
As October unfolds in Fort Collins, the likelihood of sunny weather soars to an impressive 65%, making it one of the standout months for sunshine in the region. This trend continues from an exceptionally bright September, which boasts a sunny chance of 69%. Observing the yearly pattern, it’s evident that the summer months consistently offer higher probabilities of sunshine, with July and August leading at 62% and 66%, respectively. However, unlike many locales that see a drastic drop in sun exposure as fall settles in, Fort Collins maintains a commendable level of brightness into October, providing a perfect backdrop for outdoor activities as the autumn foliage begins to color the landscape. The month bridges the warmth of summer with the cooler embrace of winter, making sunny October days a cherished gift in this picturesque town.
As October unfolds in Fort Collins, daylight begins to take a step back, offering about 11 hours of sun each day. This marks a subtle decline following the sun-drenched months of summer, where June reaches its peak with 15 hours of daylight. As autumn progresses, the trend reveals a gradual shortening of days, dipping from the vibrant 14 hours in May to a crisp 11 hours by October. This transition emphasizes the shift towards winter, where daylight is noticeably less, reminding residents to savor the golden hues of fall before they retreat to the 9 hours that December brings. The changing patterns of daylight not only reflect the seasons but also invite a chance to embrace the cozy spirit of autumn.
As October arrives in Fort Collins, the wind subtly picks up, averaging 2.5 m/s (6 mph), which is a slight increase from the gentle breezes of the previous months. This seasonal shift marks a transition, as the winds generally remain consistent throughout the year, typically hovering around 2.4 m/s (5 mph). Notably, the month of April experiences the highest average, leading into the summer with a peak of 2.7 m/s, but October's average indicates a return to a moderate flow as autumn settles in. These gentle winds offer a refreshing backdrop to the vibrant fall foliage, making October not just a month of change but also a canvas of natural beauty where the crisp air meets the stunning colors of the season.
The weather in Fort Collins 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 Fort Collins and find detailed weather information for every month.
In comparing the weather of October and January, October features a much wider range of temperatures, with lows reaching -16°C (3°F) and highs soaring up to 29°C (84°F), resulting in an average temperature of 9°C (49°F). In contrast, January is significantly colder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -26°C (-14°F) to a maximum of 17°C (62°F), averaging around -1°C (30°F). October generally sees more precipitation, with 36 mm (1.4 in) over 7 days, compared to January's 17 mm (0.7 in) across only 4 days. Additionally, January has a higher humidity level at 84%, while October's humidity sits at 72%. For a more detailed look at January weather in Fort Collins, visit Fort Collins weather in January.
In comparing the weather between October and February, notable differences emerge. October experiences a wider temperature range, with minimums of -16°C (3°F) and maximums reaching as high as 29°C (84°F), resulting in an average temperature of 9°C (49°F). It also sees a moderate level of precipitation totaling 36 mm (1.4 in) over 7 days at a humidity of 72%. In contrast, February is much colder, with a minimum of -25°C (-13°F) and a maximum of 24°C (75°F), leading to an average temperature of -2°C (29°F). The month receives less precipitation, totaling 23 mm (0.9 in) across 6 days and a higher humidity level of 85%. For a more detailed look at the February climate in Fort Collins, you can visit Fort Collins weather in February.
October and March present distinctly different weather patterns. In October, temperatures vary from a minimum of -16°C (3°F) to a maximum of 29°C (84°F), with an average of 9°C (49°F) and a total precipitation of 36 mm (1.4 in) over approximately 7 days. In contrast, March sees colder temperatures, ranging from a low of -21°C (-5°F) to a high of 26°C (79°F), with an average of 4°C (40°F) and higher precipitation at 53 mm (2.1 in) over about 9 days. Humidity levels are comparable but slightly higher in March at 75%, compared to 72% in October. For detailed insights on March weather patterns, visit Fort Collins weather in March.
When comparing the weather in October and April, we notice a subtle yet significant shift in conditions. October experiences a wider temperature range, with minimums dropping to -16°C (3°F) and maximums peaking at 29°C (84°F), while April's temperatures are slightly milder, ranging from -13°C (9°F) to a similar maximum of 29°C (85°F). Precipitation is greater in April, with 53 mm (2.1 in) over 10 days, compared to October's 36 mm (1.4 in) across 7 days. Additionally, October's higher humidity at 72% contrasts with April’s more moderate 67%. For more details about the weather specifics in April, you can check out this link: Fort Collins weather in April.
In comparing the weather between October and May, there are notable differences in temperatures and precipitation levels. October experiences a wider temperature range, with minimums dipping as low as -16°C (3°F) and maximums reaching 29°C (84°F), while May's temperatures are milder, ranging from a minimum of -3°C (27°F) to a maximum of 31°C (88°F). Precipitation is significantly higher in May, totaling 116 mm (4.6 in) over 14 days compared to October's 36 mm (1.4 in) over 7 days. Additionally, the average humidity in October sits at 72%, slightly higher than May's 67%. For those looking for specific details on May's weather, you can refer to Fort Collins weather in May.
When comparing October and June weather, notable differences can be observed. October tends to have cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -16°C (3°F) and an average of 9°C (49°F), while June enjoys warmer conditions, boasting a minimum of 5°C (41°F) and an average of 20°C (68°F). The maximum temperature in June can reach as high as 38°C (100°F), significantly higher than October's peak of 29°C (84°F). Additionally, while October sees about 36 mm (1.4 in) of precipitation over 7 days, June experiences a slightly higher amount of precipitation at 40 mm (1.6 in) over 8 days. Humidity levels are fairly similar, with October at 72% and June at 68%. For more details on June's weather patterns, you can check Fort Collins weather in June.
October weather presents a notable contrast to July's warmth. While July boasts an average temperature of 23°C (74°F), with maximum highs reaching up to 37°C (99°F) and less humidity at 62%, October's temperatures drop significantly, averaging around 9°C (49°F) and peaking at a cooler 29°C (84°F). Additionally, October experiences slightly more precipitation over seven days, totaling 36 mm (1.4 in), compared to July's 30 mm (1.2 in) over six days. For a closer look at July's climate specifics, you can check Fort Collins weather in July.
In contrast to August's warmer temperatures, which see a minimum of 10°C (50°F) and a maximum of 36°C (98°F) with an average of 22°C (72°F), October presents much cooler conditions. The minimum temperature in October can drop to -16°C (3°F), with an average of 9°C (49°F) and a maximum reaching 29°C (84°F). While both months experience similar levels of precipitation—36 mm (1.4 in) in October and 37 mm (1.5 in) in August—October has slightly more rainy days, with seven days of precipitation compared to six in August. Additionally, October's humidity level is higher at 72%, compared to August's 63%. For more detailed insights on August weather, you can check Fort Collins weather in August.
In comparing the weather of October and September, October sees a greater temperature range, with a minimum of -16°C (3°F) and a maximum of 29°C (84°F), while September offers milder conditions, with a minimum of -1°C (31°F) and a maximum of 37°C (99°F). Though October experiences slightly more precipitation, totaling 36 mm (1.4 in) over 7 days, compared to September’s 26 mm (1.0 in) over 4 days, it also brings higher humidity levels at 72% versus September’s 63%. Overall, October presents a more varied climate, transitioning into cooler temperatures, while September maintains warmer days and less moisture. For more details on September weather, visit Fort Collins weather in September.
In October, temperatures in the region typically range from a minimum of -16°C (3°F) to a maximum of 29°C (84°F), with an average temperature of 9°C (49°F). The month sees about 36 mm (1.4 in) of precipitation over approximately 7 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 72%. In contrast, November experiences slightly milder temperatures, with minimums around -15°C (6°F) and maximums reaching up to 25°C (77°F). The average temperature drops to 4°C (40°F), and precipitation decreases to 21 mm (0.8 in) over just 5 days, while humidity rises to 79%. For more detailed information on the weather in Fort Collins during November, you can check this link: Fort Collins weather in November.
In October, temperatures range from a chilly -16°C (3°F) to a warm 29°C (84°F), with an average of 9°C (49°F), reflecting a significant variation as the month transitions to winter. The month sees a moderate amount of precipitation at 36 mm (1.4 in) over approximately 7 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 72%.
In contrast, December brings cooler conditions with temperatures ranging from -16°C (3°F) to a milder maximum of 22°C (72°F), resulting in a lower average of 1°C (33°F). Precipitation in December is less, totaling 16 mm (0.6 in) but occurs over just 3 days, and the humidity rises to 85%, creating a damp chill in the air. For a deeper understanding of December's weather, check out Fort Collins weather in December.
As October unfolds in Fort Collins, the weather offers a striking contrast to the preceding months. With temperatures shifting considerably, residents can experience warm afternoons followed by chilly evenings, making layering essential for comfort. The city sees a moderate amount of rainfall, contributing to higher humidity levels, which can feel unusual compared to the drier summer months. This transitional period not only reveals the beauty of autumn foliage but also sets the stage for the winter chill ahead. For a deeper dive into how these shifts impact the local climate throughout the year, visit Fort Collins Climate.