Last updated: February 24, 2025
October in Chapel Hill, United States, showcases a vibrant transition into cooler autumn days. With maximum temperatures reaching up to 36°C (98°F) and an average of 18°C (65°F), residents enjoy a wide range of warm days, although minimum temperatures can dip to a crisp 2°C (36°F) during the month. Rainfall is present, with an average precipitation of 97 mm (3.8 in) across 9 days, adding a refreshing touch to the changing landscape. The air remains consistently humid at 80%, enveloping the area in a cozy atmosphere that invites both adventure and relaxation amidst the captivating fall foliage.
In October, Chapel Hill experiences a delightful transition as temperatures begin to cool from the warm summer months. The minimum temperature settles around 2°C (36°F), giving a crispness to the air, while the average temperature rises to a comfortable 18°C (65°F), ideal for outdoor activities and enjoying the vibrant fall foliage. With a maximum of 36°C (98°F), some days may still hold onto summer’s warmth, but this month marks the gradual shift towards the chillier winter months. As October progresses, residents can anticipate a mix of refreshing days and cooler nights, creating a perfect backdrop for cozy gatherings and enjoying autumn's beauty.
In Chapel Hill, October brings an average precipitation of 97 mm (3.8 in) over approximately nine days of rain. This amount marks a decrease from the wetter months of August and September, each averaging 128 mm (5.1 in), highlighting a transition into the drier fall season. As temperatures start to cool, rainfall becomes more scattered, paving the way for vibrant autumn foliage while still ensuring that the area remains lush. This pattern reflects a trend where October typically serves as a bridge between the summer's heavier downpours and the milder, more manageable precipitation seen later in the year.
As October arrives in Chapel Hill, the humidity settles at 80%, maintaining a notable consistency seen in the preceding months. After a gradual decline from September’s 79%, this slight uptick brings a hint of moisture as the season transitions into cooler weather. The overall trend throughout the year highlights elevated humidity levels, particularly in the winter months with January and December reaching peaks of 85% and 86% respectively. Notably, October’s level aligns with the slightly drier late summer months, hinting at a balanced climate that becomes more pronounced as the year approaches its end. With November looming, the humidity will likely rise again, emphasizing the region's characteristically damp, mild atmosphere.
As autumn settles in Chapel Hill, the October UV Index presents a very high rating of 8, suggesting that while the risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure remains significant, it is a notch below the peak levels experienced during the summer months. With a burn time of just 15 minutes, it's essential to stay vigilant, especially as we transition from the extreme index levels of July and August. This downward trend in UV intensity reflects the changing seasons, moving from a peak of 11 in the summer to a more moderate, yet still concerning level in the fall. October serves as a reminder that UV rays can still be potent, so protecting your skin while enjoying the beautiful autumn days is crucial. For more detailed information, check out the full report at Chapel Hill UV Index.
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As October graces Chapel Hill, the days begin to shorten, yet the sun still shines brightly, offering 270 hours of glorious daylight. This marks a gentle decline from the peak of 352 hours in July, reflecting the natural transition from summer's exuberance to autumn's embrace. The month stands out as a bridge between the long, sun-soaked days of summer and the cooler, crisper months ahead, reminiscent of the 306 hours in May. With October's light continuing to linger after the summer's end, residents and visitors alike can bask in the vibrant hues of fall foliage, enjoying a perfect balance of warmth and freshness that signals the changing seasons.
In Chapel Hill, October brings a 48% chance of sunny weather, aligning with the city's tendency towards fluctuating conditions as the year progresses. After experiencing a 58% likelihood of sunshine in September, residents might find October's sunny potential somewhat moderate, although still on par with the chilly months at the start of the year. This month sits between the vibrant blooms of April, which enjoys a 60% chance, and the sunnier November, boasting a 63% chance of clear skies. Overall, while October may not be the sunniest month of the year, it still offers a fair possibility of delightful autumn days, perfect for enjoying the beautiful fall foliage.
As October unfolds in Chapel Hill, the daylight duration begins to wane, offering a stark contrast to the sun-drenched summer months. With 11 hours of daylight, October marks a gentle transition from the bright abundance of summer, where residents enjoyed up to 14 hours, to the shorter days that characterize the winter months. This month mirrors the gradual descent into November's 10 hours of daylight and foreshadows the further reduction in December, where daylight shrinks to a mere 9 hours. The shifting hours of light not only signal the approach of winter but also invite the community to embrace the cozy charm of autumn evenings, as nature prepares itself for the seasonal shift ahead.
As October rolls into Chapel Hill, the average wind speed picks up slightly, reaching 2.8 m/s (6 mph). This modest increase follows a summer characterized by lighter breezes, where the winds dipped to their lowest in August at 2.0 m/s (5 mph). The transition into fall seems to invigorate the air, setting the stage for vibrant autumn days. As the months progress toward winter, one can anticipate a gradual rise in wind speeds, with November bringing an average of 3.0 m/s (7 mph). This shift not only signifies seasonal change but also adds a refreshing crispness to the atmosphere, perfect for long walks amid the colorful foliage.
The weather in Chapel Hill 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 Chapel Hill and find detailed weather information for every month.
October and January offer starkly contrasting weather conditions. In October, temperatures range from a mild 2°C (36°F) at night to a warm 36°C (98°F) during the day, with an average of 18°C (65°F). The month sees about 97 mm (3.8 in) of precipitation spread over nine days, accompanied by a humidity level of 80%. In contrast, January experiences much colder temperatures, with nighttime lows plunging to -15°C (6°F) and daytime highs reaching a maximum of 25°C (77°F), averaging around 6°C (43°F). Although January has slightly less precipitation at 89 mm (3.5 in) over the same number of days, humidity remains high at 85%. For a closer look at January conditions, you can visit Chapel Hill weather in January.
When comparing the weather in October and February, notable differences emerge. October offers a broader temperature range, with a minimum of 2°C (36°F) and a maximum reaching up to 36°C (98°F), averaging around 18°C (65°F). In contrast, February experiences colder conditions, with a minimum of -6°C (21°F) and a maximum of 27°C (81°F), averaging only 9°C (48°F). Both months see considerable precipitation, with October receiving 97 mm (3.8 in) over 9 days and February experiencing slightly more at 117 mm (4.6 in) over 11 days. Humidity remains fairly consistent, with October at 80% and February at 82%. For a more detailed look at February weather, visit Chapel Hill weather in February.
In comparing the weather of October and March, October tends to be warmer overall, with average temperatures around 18°C (65°F) and maximums reaching up to 36°C (98°F). In contrast, March typically sees cooler temperatures, averaging 11°C (53°F) with a maximum temperature of 31°C (88°F). Precipitation is slightly more prevalent in October, totaling 97 mm (3.8 in) over 9 days, compared to March's 84 mm (3.3 in) over 10 days. Both months experience high humidity, but October's is marginally lower at 80% compared to March's 81%. For more details on March weather, you can check Chapel Hill weather in March.
When comparing the weather in October and April, both months exhibit significant temperature variability and similar humidity levels. In October, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of 2°C (36°F) to a warm maximum of 36°C (98°F), with an average of 18°C (65°F). In contrast, April experiences slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -1°C (31°F) and a maximum of 31°C (88°F), resulting in an average of 16°C (62°F). Precipitation is somewhat higher in April at 116 mm (4.6 in) over 10 days compared to October's 97 mm (3.8 in) over 9 days. Despite these differences, both months maintain a humidity level of 80%. For more details on April weather, visit Chapel Hill weather in April.
When comparing October and May, both months share a maximum temperature of up to 36°C (98°F), but they differ in their average temperatures and overall feel. October experiences a wide range, with minimum temperatures dropping to 2°C (36°F), while May's temperatures are slightly warmer, with a minimum of 4°C (39°F). Precipitation is fairly common in both months, with October receiving 97 mm (3.8 in) over 9 days and May slightly wetter at 118 mm (4.6 in) over 11 days. Humidity levels are comparable, with October at 80% and May slightly higher at 81%. For more details on the climate during May, check out Chapel Hill weather in May.
In comparing the weather of October and June, October tends to have cooler temperatures overall, with a minimum of 2°C (36°F) compared to June's minimum of 12°C (55°F). June offers a warmer average temperature of 24°C (76°F), while October's average is slightly cooler at 18°C (65°F). Both months can reach a maximum temperature of 36°C (97°F), but October does see a wider range, with its maximum soaring up to 36°C (98°F). Precipitation levels are higher in June, with 121 mm (4.8 in) over 13 days, as opposed to October's 97 mm (3.8 in) occurring over 9 days. Humidity is fairly consistent between the two months, with October at 80% and June at 81%. For more detailed insights, refer to Chapel Hill weather in June.
In comparison to July, October's weather showcases a broader temperature range, with minimums dipping to 2°C (36°F) and maximums reaching up to 36°C (98°F). July, on the other hand, maintains warmer averages with minimums around 16°C (61°F) and maximums peaking at 37°C (99°F). Precipitation patterns differ as well; October experiences around 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain over 9 days, while July sees slightly more rain at 114 mm (4.5 in) distributed over 14 days. Humidity levels remain quite similar, with October at 80% and July at 81%. For more detailed weather information, you can check the Chapel Hill weather in July.
In comparing the weather between October and August, one can observe notable differences in temperature and precipitation. October experiences a wider range of temperatures, with a minimum of 2°C (36°F) compared to August’s milder minimum of 15°C (59°F). The average temperature in October is 18°C (65°F), significantly cooler than August's average of 26°C (78°F). Precipitation is also a factor, with October receiving 97 mm (3.8 in) over 9 days, while August sees more rain at 128 mm (5.1 in) spread over 15 days. Both months have similar humidity levels at 80%. For a more detailed look at August weather patterns, you can visit Chapel Hill weather in August.
In comparing the weather between September and October, October experiences a notable drop in minimum temperatures, averaging 2°C (36°F) compared to September's 9°C (48°F). While October has a slightly lower average temperature of 18°C (65°F) versus September's 23°C (74°F), it can still see maximum temperatures reaching as high as 36°C (98°F). Precipitation also shifts, with October receiving 97 mm (3.8 in) over 9 days, which is less than September's 128 mm (5.1 in) across the same number of days. Humidity remains consistent, at 80% in October compared to 79% in September. For more details on September weather specifically, check out Chapel Hill weather in September.
October weather is characterized by a wide temperature range, with minimums reaching 2°C (36°F) and maximums soaring up to 36°C (98°F), resulting in an average temperature of 18°C (65°F). This month experiences relatively high humidity at 80% and about 97 mm (3.8 in) of precipitation over 9 days. In contrast, November brings cooler temperatures, with minimums dropping to -4°C (25°F) and a maximum of 29°C (84°F), leading to an average of 10°C (51°F). While it is slightly drier, with 81 mm (3.2 in) of precipitation spread over 7 days, November has a higher humidity level at 85%. For more details, check the link: Chapel Hill weather in November.
October weather is characterized by a wide temperature range, with minimums around 2°C (36°F) and maximums reaching up to 36°C (98°F), yielding an average of 18°C (65°F). The month experiences significant rainfall, with 97 mm (3.8 in) of precipitation over 9 days and a humidity level of 80%. In contrast, December brings cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -7°C (19°F) and a maximum of 23°C (73°F), resulting in an average of 8°C (46°F). Precipitation slightly increases to 107 mm (4.2 in) over the same number of days, accompanied by a higher humidity level of 86%. For more detailed information, check out Chapel Hill weather in December.
In October, Chapel Hill experiences a dramatic transition, blending the warmth of lingering summer with the crispness of approaching fall. Unlike the sweltering heat of summer, where temperatures can soar, October brings a more moderate average, making outdoor adventures enjoyable. The 80% humidity still lingers, but the 9 days of precipitation remind us of the changing seasons. As trees start to don their autumn attire, this month offers a refreshing escape, perfect for enjoying the vibrant foliage. For more insights into Chapel Hill's unique weather patterns throughout the year, visit Chapel Hill Climate.