October Weather in Duluth, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

October in Duluth, United States, showcases a dynamic shift in weather as the month progresses. With maximum temperatures reaching a pleasant 22°C (71°F), the average temperature settles at a cool 9°C (48°F), while the crisp air can plunge to a chilly minimum of -5°C (24°F). This transitional month experiences significant precipitation, averaging 153 mm (6.0 in) over 13 days, creating a lush landscape enriched by moisture. Coupled with a humidity level of 81%, October in Duluth offers a blend of cool, refreshing air and vivid autumn colors, making it an ideal time to explore the stunning natural beauty of the area.

October Temperature in Duluth

October in Duluth offers a striking transition as autumn settles in. With temperatures ranging from a chilly -5°C (24°F) as the nighttime low to a comfortable 22°C (71°F) at its peak, this month showcases the gradual shift from the warmth of September to the crispness of winter. The average temperature hovers around 9°C (48°F), marking a noticeable drop from the preceding months. This cooling trend is accompanied by a vibrant display of fall foliage, making October an enchanting time for outdoor activities. As daylight wanes and nights grow longer, Duluth embodies the beauty of the season while hinting at the colder months ahead.

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

The chart illustrates October temperature patterns in Duluth, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec141427354758666762483323
Data source: Temperature data for Duluth 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 Duluth

In October, Duluth experiences a significant increase in precipitation, with 153 mm (6.0 in) of rainfall accumulated over approximately 13 days. This marks a noticeable rise from the previous month, September, which recorded 119 mm (4.7 in) over 12 days. The trend illustrates a shift towards wetter conditions as autumn settles in, paving the way for the onset of winter. October’s precipitation not only stands out due to its volume but also highlights a seasonal transition, as the city's earlier months showcased comparatively lower rainfall, generally peaking in late summer. With the surge in October's rain, Duluth prepares for the cooler months ahead, where precipitation levels begin to taper off as winter approaches.

October Precipitation Trends in Duluth

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Duluth, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec253453749476961091191535267
Data source: Precipitation data for October generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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October Humidity in Duluth

As October arrives in Duluth, the air begins to shift, bringing a noticeable increase in humidity levels to 81%. This marks a moderate rise from the drier summer months, where July and August recorded about 70% humidity. After enjoying relatively comfortable conditions in late summer, residents experience a transition towards the dampness characteristic of the fall season. Humidity levels continue to trend upward as the year progresses, climbing to 87% in November and peaking at 93% in the winter months of January and February. This pattern highlights Duluth's seasonal rhythm, where crisp autumns give way to the chill of winter, all underscored by increasing moisture in the air.

October Average Humidity in Duluth

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Duluth, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec93%93%89%85%76%71%70%71%73%82%88%91%
Data source: Humidity data for October generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

October UV Index in Duluth

As October rolls into Duluth, the UV Index reflects a transition towards milder sun exposure, registering at 5—classified as moderate. This shift marks a decline from the peak summer months, where UV levels soared to 9 in both June and July, demanding vigilant sun protection with a burn time of just 15 minutes. Compared to the preceding months, October’s burn time increases to 30 minutes, aligning it with both March and November, which also feature moderate exposure categories with UV Index levels of 4 and 3, respectively. This trend suggests that while the sun's intensity is less daunting than during the summer's height, it is still important to stay aware of UV exposure as autumn unfolds. For detailed insights on UV patterns throughout the year, visit Duluth UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Duluth for October

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Duluth 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec234789987532
Data source: Duluth 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 Duluth

In October, Duluth experiences a notable shift as the vibrant hues of autumn cloak the landscape, bringing with it 188 hours of sunshine. This marks a decline from the summer's peak, particularly July's impressive 355 hours, yet remains a comfortable transition from the warmer months. As the city bids farewell to the abundant sunlight of summer, the hours are still significantly higher than the winter months, such as January with just 122 hours. The gradual decrease in daylight serves as a gentle reminder of the approaching winter, while still offering delightful days to enjoy the fall foliage and outdoor activities. Overall, October strikes a balance between the lingering warmth of summer and the anticipation of winter, creating a beautifully dynamic time in Duluth.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Duluth: October Highlighted

The October sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Duluth 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec122h194h239h239h297h349h355h308h248h188h156h143h
Data source: Duluth October Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Duluth During October

As October unfolds in Duluth, the likelihood of sunny weather dips to 30%, marking a transition into the cooler months. This follows a seasonal trend where the sun shines most prominently during the summer, peaking at 63% in July, and gradually declining through autumn. By October, residents and visitors can expect more clouds as the daylight wanes and the lush greenery gives way to the stunning fall colors. This reflects the city's pattern of clear days being more frequent in the warmer months, making the brief bursts of sunshine in October a cherished aspect of the changing season.

Percentage of Sunny Days in October in Duluth

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Duluth 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 Duluth experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec29%42%43%31%47%52%63%58%52%30%36%21%
Data source: Duluth October chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Duluth in October

As October arrives in Duluth, the city experiences a notable shift in daylight duration, with 10 hours of sunlight marking the month. This decline is part of a gradual transition from the peak of summer when residents enjoy a generous 15 hours of daylight from June to August. Following the vibrant colors of autumn, daylight hours continue to wane, tapering off to 12 hours in September before dipping further in October. This pattern suggests a seasonal rhythm, where the lengthening nights remind us of the cozy indoor activities to come in the colder months. As November approaches, daylight diminishes even more, leading into the twilight hours of winter with just 9 hours in November and dropping to 8 hours in December.

Average Daylight Hours in Duluth for October

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Duluth throughout the year, with October highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h10h 19m11h 57m13h 37m15h 3m15h 47m15h 23m14h 6m12h 29m10h 49m9h 21m8h 35m
Data source: Duluth daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

October Winds in Duluth

As October unfolds in Duluth, the breeze brings a refreshing chill, with average wind speeds around 4.3 m/s (10 mph). This marks a slight dip from the bustling activity of the earlier summer months, where winds were gentler at 3.3 m/s (7 mph) in July and 3.5 m/s (8 mph) in June. However, the winds pick up as the season transitions toward winter, hinting at what's to come. The month of October shares wind characteristics similar to September, maintaining a consistent 10 mph, creating a crisp atmosphere that invites locals and visitors alike to embrace the beauty of fall. As the year progresses, the winds will increasingly escalate into the gusty conditions of November, reaching 5.6 m/s (13 mph) and signaling the arrival of winter's embrace.

Average October Wind Speed in Duluth

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Duluth, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4.24.75.03.94.03.53.34.34.44.3 m/s5.65.5
Data source: Duluth October wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How October Weather in Duluth Compares to Other Months

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

When comparing the weather in October and January, it's clear that October tends to be milder and wetter. Average temperatures in October range from a low of -5°C (24°F) to a comfortable maximum of 22°C (71°F), with an average of 9°C (48°F). In contrast, January sees significantly colder temperatures, with minimums plunging to -31°C (-24°F) and an average of -10°C (15°F). Additionally, October experiences more precipitation, totaling 153 mm (6.0 in) over 13 days, while January has only about 25 mm (1.0 in) over just 6 days. The humidity is also noteworthy, as January is notably more humid at 93% compared to October's 81%. For more detailed insights, check out Duluth weather in January.

When comparing October and February weather, notable differences emerge in temperature and precipitation patterns. October experiences milder temperatures, with a minimum of -5°C (24°F) and an average of 9°C (48°F), while February plunges to significantly colder conditions, with a minimum of -32°C (-25°F) and an average of -10°C (14°F). Precipitation also varies considerably between the two months; October sees 153 mm (6.0 in) over about 13 days, in contrast to February's much lighter total of 33 mm (1.3 in) over just 7 days. Furthermore, February's humidity is higher at 93%, compared to October's 81%, enhancing the cold bite of winter air. For a more detailed view of February conditions, you can visit Duluth weather in February.

When comparing the weather in October to that of March, it becomes evident that October offers significantly milder temperatures, with averages around 9°C (48°F) and highs reaching up to 22°C (71°F). In contrast, March is much colder, with average temperatures plummeting to -3°C (28°F) and maximums only reaching 10°C (51°F). Precipitation is also more pronounced in October, with 153 mm (6.0 in) falling over approximately 13 days, while March sees only 53 mm (2.1 in) across about 6 days. Additionally, both months have high humidity, but March's humidity lingers slightly higher at 89% compared to October's 81%. For more detailed information about March weather, you can visit Duluth weather in March.

When comparing the weather in October and April, it's clear that both months exhibit distinctive characteristics. October tends to be milder with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -5°C (24°F) to a maximum of 22°C (71°F), contrasted with April, which is cooler overall, featuring temperatures from a minimum of -13°C (9°F) to a maximum of 18°C (65°F). Precipitation levels are significantly higher in October, with 153 mm (6.0 in) over approximately 13 days, whereas April sees less rain at 74 mm (2.9 in) over about 10 days. Additionally, humidity levels remain fairly high in both months, at 81% in October and slightly higher at 85% in April. For a more detailed look at April weather in Duluth, you can visit Duluth weather in April.

October and May offer contrasting weather experiences. In October, temperatures range from a chilly -5°C (24°F) at night to a pleasant 22°C (71°F) during the day, with an average temperature of 9°C (48°F). This month sees significant precipitation, totaling 153 mm (6.0 in) over 13 days, contributing to a higher humidity level of 81%. In contrast, May features slightly milder temperatures, with nighttime lows around -1°C (30°F) and daytime highs peaking at 26°C (79°F), averaging at 8°C (47°F). This month experiences less rainfall, accumulating 94 mm (3.7 in) over just 11 rainy days and lower humidity at 76%. For a detailed look at the weather, check out Duluth weather in May.

October and June present markedly different weather conditions. In October, temperatures can drop as low as -5°C (24°F) with an average of 9°C (48°F) and a maximum reaching 22°C (71°F), while June sees a comfortable range with a minimum of 5°C (42°F), an average of 15°C (59°F), and a high of 28°C (82°F). Precipitation in October is significantly higher at 153 mm (6.0 in) over approximately 13 days, compared to June's 76 mm (3.0 in) across 9 days. Additionally, October's humidity of 81% makes it feel chillier, while June’s lower humidity of 71% contributes to a more pleasant summer feel. For more detailed insights on June weather, you can visit Duluth weather in June.

The weather in October is marked by much cooler temperatures compared to July, with minimums dipping down to -5°C (24°F) and an average of 9°C (48°F), while July enjoys milder temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 11°C (53°F) to an average of 19°C (66°F). On average, October experiences significantly higher precipitation levels at 153 mm (6.0 in) over approximately 13 rainy days, compared to July's 95 mm (3.8 in) spread over 8 days. Additionally, October's humidity is higher at 81%, compared to July's 70%, creating a notable difference in the overall feel of the two months. For more details on July weather, you can check this link: Duluth weather in July.

October weather in Duluth is notably cooler than August, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -5°C (24°F) to a maximum of 22°C (71°F), compared to August's milder range of 13°C (55°F) to 27°C (82°F). Additionally, October experiences higher precipitation, averaging 153 mm (6.0 in) over 13 days, while August sees less rain, totaling 109 mm (4.3 in) over just 11 days. The humidity also increases in October, averaging 81% compared to 71% in August, contributing to a markedly different feel between the two months. For more details, you can visit Duluth weather in August.

In comparing the weather between September and October, October experiences cooler temperatures overall, with a minimum of -5°C (24°F) compared to September's minimum of 4°C (39°F). The average temperature in October is significantly lower at 9°C (48°F), while September has a more comfortable average of 16°C (62°F). Additionally, October sees an increase in precipitation, totaling 153 mm (6.0 in) over 13 days, compared to September's 119 mm (4.7 in) over just 12 days. Humidity also rises from 73% in September to 81% in October, contributing to a noticeably different climate as the seasons transition. For more insights into September weather patterns, you can visit Duluth weather in September.

October and November showcase a distinct shift in weather patterns. In October, temperatures tend to be milder, with minimums around -5°C (24°F) and averages of 9°C (48°F), peaking at a comfortable 22°C (71°F). Precipitation is relatively high at 153 mm (6.0 in), falling over 13 days, while humidity hovers around 81%. In contrast, November experiences colder conditions, with minimum temperatures dropping to -12°C (11°F) and an average of just 1°C (34°F), alongside maximums reaching only 17°C (63°F). The month sees a significant decrease in precipitation, totaling 52 mm (2.0 in) over 10 days, and humidity increases slightly to 87%. For a more detailed view of the weather in November, check out Duluth weather in November.

In comparing the weather between October and December, it's clear that December brings significantly colder temperatures, with minimums dropping to -26°C (-15°F) compared to October's minimum of -5°C (24°F). The average temperature also reflects this shift, plummeting from 9°C (48°F) in October to -5°C (23°F) in December. Precipitation is less frequent in December, with only 67 mm (2.6 in) over 10 days, while October experiences 153 mm (6.0 in) across 13 days. Humidity levels rise slightly in December to 91%, compared to 81% in October, adding to the chilly atmosphere. For more details, check out Duluth weather in December.

Compare Duluth's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From October Weather in Duluth

October in Duluth brings a distinct shift in weather, marking the transition from the warmer embrace of summer to the crispness of fall. With temperatures dipping and the average hovering around a cool 9°C (48°F), residents and visitors experience a refreshing chill that contrasts sharply with the preceding months. The month is notable not just for its cooler temperatures but also for increased precipitation, with about 13 days of rain adding a layer of unpredictability to outdoor plans. As humidity lingers at 81%, it creates that characteristic autumn atmosphere where the vibrant foliage can be enjoyed, albeit with a chance of a light drizzle. For a deeper understanding of what to expect in this beautiful, yet shifting, season, check out the detailed insights at Duluth Climate.