Last updated: February 24, 2025
In October, the northern regions of the United States experience a strikingly diverse weather profile. Temperatures can soar to a maximum of 37°C (100°F), providing an unexpected warmth, while the average settles comfortably around 21°C (70°F). However, the month can also bring cooler spells, plunging to a minimum of 1°C (35°F). Precipitation is moderately common, with a total of 69 mm (2.7 in) spread across 7 days, complemented by a notable humidity level of 78%. This combination of warmth, coolness, and moisture makes October a uniquely dynamic month in the north, ideal for those who appreciate the changing seasons.
In October, temperatures in the northern United States begin to embrace the briskness of fall, showcasing a striking transition from the warmth of summer. The average temperature reaches a comfortable 21°C (70°F), with minimums dipping to 1°C (35°F), indicating the onset of cooler nights. Despite these cooler lows, the region can still experience a maximum of 37°C (100°F), reflecting occasional warm spells that linger at the start of autumn. This month acts as a bridge between the warmer months and the chillier conditions to come, painting a picture of transition that invites cozy sweaters and warm drinks as nature gears up for winter's arrival.
In October, the North United States experiences a notable shift in precipitation patterns, with average rainfall dropping to 69 mm (2.7 in) over just 7 days. This decline marks a departure from the wetter summer months, such as July and August, where precipitation levels peaked at 157 mm (6.2 in) and 148 mm (5.8 in), respectively. The transition into autumn is characterized by shorter and less frequent rain showers, as seen in September, which recorded a slightly higher 95 mm (3.7 in) over 9 days. Interestingly, October sets the stage for the impending chill of winter, with precipitation amounts tapering off before the onset of snow in November. As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, this month signals a calmer, albeit drier, period in the seasonal hydrological cycle.
As October settles in the northern United States, the humidity begins to recede, dipping to 78%. This is a noteworthy decline compared to the summer peak, with July and August hovering around 80-81%. The month marks a transition, as humidity gradually drops from September's 83%, making way for the crisper air of fall. Over the course of the year, October's figures reflect a broader trend of decreasing humidity as the seasons shift, with winter months like December and January expected to experience even higher levels at 87% and 86%, respectively. Thus, while October offers a refreshing respite from the summer humidity, it also hints at the moist, chilly days that winter will soon bring.
As October rolls in, the UV Index in the Northern United States remains notably high, registering an 8 on the scale, which falls under the very high exposure category. This trend showcases a slight decline from the peak summer months, where UV levels soared to an extreme 11, yet still emphasizes the importance of sun safety, as the burn time is just 15 minutes. Interestingly, the UV Index has shown a gradual decrease from the blistering 11 in the summer to this month's levels, which mirrors the fading warmth of the season. Residents should remain vigilant, especially when spending time outdoors, as protection against UV rays is still crucial. To stay informed on UV levels and safety measures, check the North UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
As October rolls in, the North United States basks in a warm fall embrace, enjoying 281 hours of glorious sunshine. This month continues a trend of abundant daylight that peaks in the summer, with July shining the brightest at 344 hours. Following the sunny July, August and September hold steady with impressive hours, but October marks a soft transition as the days grow shorter. Compared to the start of the year, where January barely offers 174 hours, the sunlight weaves a captivating narrative of brightness peaking during mid-year before gracefully easing into the cozy hues of autumn. As the vibrant leaves turn and the air cools, October creates a perfect balance of sunshine, inviting residents to relish the stunning landscapes under clear blue skies.
As October rolls in, the likelihood of sunny weather in the northern United States stands at 48%, showcasing a notable transition as the seasons change. Unlike the peak of summer, which sees much lower probabilities of sunshine, October's chances are more promising compared to the previous months like June and July, which lingered around 30% and 34%. Following the sunnier September, which had a 51% chance of clear skies, October maintains this positive trend, hinting at those beautiful fall days where the golden foliage can bask in sunlit splendor. Moreover, the approaching winter starkly contrasts this somewhat sunny October, characterized by a significantly higher likelihood of sun in November at 65%—perhaps an unexpected twist in the seasonal narrative. Overall, October balances the cozy moods of autumn with a decent chance of sunshine, inviting outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy the crisp air and colorful landscapes.
As October ushers in the crispness of fall, daylight hours begin to fade, offering about 11 hours of light—a slight decline from the 12 hours enjoyed in September. This gradual shortening of days marks a shift that mirrors the yearly trend in the northern United States, where daylight durations peak in the summer months, reaching a maximum of 14 hours in June and July. Following this peak, daylight gradually diminishes, with October serving as a transition month before November's 10 hours and December's even shorter 9 hours. As nature prepares for winter, October's shifting light creates a unique atmosphere, enhancing the vibrant hues of autumn foliage and inviting cozy evenings.
As October arrives in the North, United States, the winds begin to stir slightly more, averaging 2.8 m/s (6 mph), a subtle rise from the languid breezes of the summer months. This gentle increase marks a transition, steering the region from the serene calm of late summer, where wind speeds dipped to their lowest in August at 2.2 m/s (5 mph), towards the more robust winds characteristic of the upcoming winter months. Interestingly, this autumn month’s winds are steadier than those in September, which recorded only 2.4 m/s (5 mph). The pattern reflects a slow, yet steady reawakening of the atmosphere, hinting at the chill of November, when gusts again climb to 3.3 m/s (7 mph), preparing the landscape for the wintry vigor that lies ahead.
The weather in North 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 North and find detailed weather information for every month.
October and January present strikingly different climates. In October, temperatures range from a minimum of 1°C (35°F) to an average of 21°C (70°F), peaking at a maximum of 37°C (100°F). The month sees around 69 mm (2.7 in) of precipitation over seven days and maintains a humidity level of 78%. In contrast, January experiences much colder weather, with temperatures dropping to a minimum of -9°C (17°F) and averaging around 10°C (49°F), reaching a maximum of 27°C (80°F). Though slightly wetter, January's precipitation totals 80 mm (3.1 in) across eight days, coupled with a higher humidity level of 86%. For more detailed weather insights, check out North weather in January.
October weather typically features warmer temperatures, with averages around 21°C (70°F) and maximums reaching up to 37°C (100°F). In contrast, February presents cooler conditions, with average temperatures of 13°C (55°F) and minimums dipping to -5°C (23°F). Additionally, February experiences slightly higher precipitation levels at 99 mm (3.9 in) over approximately 10 days, compared to October's 69 mm (2.7 in) over 7 days. Humidity levels are relatively similar in both months, with October at 78% and February at 81%. For a more in-depth look at February weather, you can visit North weather in February.
In October, temperatures can vary significantly, with minimums around 1°C (35°F) and maximums reaching up to 37°C (100°F), resulting in an average of 21°C (70°F), while March experiences cooler temperatures, ranging from a minimum of -4°C (24°F) to a maximum of 32°C (90°F), averaging 15°C (59°F). The precipitation levels in March are slightly higher at 80 mm (3.1 in), falling on approximately 10 days compared to October's 69 mm (2.7 in) over 7 days. Additionally, humidity remains somewhat consistent between the two months, with October at 78% and March slightly higher at 81%. For a deeper dive into March weather in specific regions, visit North weather in March.
When comparing the weather of October and April, one can observe notable differences in temperature and precipitation patterns. October enjoys a wider temperature range, with a minimum of 1°C (35°F) and a maximum of 37°C (100°F), while April ranges from a minimum of 0°C (32°F) to a maximum of 33°C (92°F). Although average temperatures in October are slightly warmer at 21°C (70°F) compared to April's 19°C (66°F), April experiences more precipitation, at 116 mm (4.6 in) over 8 days, compared to October's 69 mm (2.7 in) over 7 days. Both months have similar humidity levels, hovering around 78-79%. For a detailed look at weather conditions, you can check out North weather in April.
In comparing the weather of October and May, one can observe distinct variations in temperature and precipitation. October begins to cool down with minimum temperatures dropping to 1°C (35°F) and an average of 21°C (70°F), while May enjoys milder nights starting at 6°C (43°F) and slightly warmer average temperatures of 23°C (74°F). Both months can reach high temperatures, with October maxing out at 37°C (100°F) and May peaking at 38°C (101°F). Precipitation is more prevalent in May, with 104 mm (4.1 in) over 9 days, compared to October's 69 mm (2.7 in) across 7 days. However, humidity levels are relatively high in both months, at 78% in October and slightly lower at 75% in May. For more detailed information on May weather, visit North weather in May.
In comparison to June, October experiences a broader range of temperatures, with minimums dipping to 1°C (35°F) and maximums reaching 37°C (100°F), while June maintains a milder minimum of 13°C (56°F) and a maximum of 39°C (102°F). The average temperature in October is cooler at 21°C (70°F) compared to June's warmer average of 26°C (79°F). Additionally, October is characterized by less precipitation, totaling 69 mm (2.7 in) over about 7 days, whereas June sees significantly more rainfall, 122 mm (4.8 in) spread across 14 days. Humidity levels are relatively similar between the two months, with October slightly higher at 78% compared to June's 75%. For more details on the climate in June, you can check North weather in June.
In comparing the weather of October and July, significant differences emerge in temperature and precipitation. October experiences a broader temperature range, with a minimum of 1°C (35°F) and an average of 21°C (70°F), while July maintains higher temperatures, with a minimum of 16°C (61°F) and an average of 28°C (82°F). The maximum temperatures in both months are comparable, peaking at 37°C (100°F) in October and 38°C (101°F) in July. However, July is notably wetter, receiving 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain over 17 days, compared to October's 69 mm (2.7 in) over just 7 days. Humidity levels remain relatively similar, with October at 78% and July at 80%. For a deeper dive into July weather specifics, check North weather in July.
When comparing the weather in October and August, several key differences emerge. October experiences a broader temperature range, with minimums dropping to 1°C (35°F) and maximums reaching up to 37°C (100°F), while August maintains a warmer atmosphere with minimums around 16°C (62°F) and averages of 27°C (81°F). Precipitation in August is significantly higher at 148 mm (5.8 in) over 18 days compared to October's 69 mm (2.7 in) over just 7 days, making October generally drier. Humidity levels remain relatively similar in both months, with October at 78% and August slightly higher at 81%. For a more detailed look at August weather, you can refer to North weather in August.
October weather showcases a notable shift compared to September, with a significant drop in minimum temperatures from 11°C (52°F) to just 1°C (35°F). While both months share a maximum temperature of 37°C (99°F), October experiences a lower average temperature of 21°C (70°F) compared to September's warmer 25°C (78°F). Precipitation in October is slightly less at 69 mm (2.7 in) over 7 days, while September sees 95 mm (3.7 in) across 9 days, indicating a drier trend as the month progresses. Humidity also decreases slightly from 83% in September to 78% in October. For more detailed insights on September weather, check out North weather in September.
October tends to have warmer temperatures, with an average of 21°C (70°F) and maximum highs reaching up to 37°C (100°F). In contrast, November experiences cooler weather, averaging around 13°C (56°F) and dipping to a minimum of -3°C (27°F). Both months see similar levels of precipitation, with October recording 69 mm (2.7 in) and November slightly less at 62 mm (2.4 in), though the humidity rises from 78% in October to 85% in November. For a closer look at what to expect in November, check out North weather in November.
In October, the weather is generally warm, with average temperatures reaching around 21°C (70°F) and maximums that can soar up to 37°C (100°F). It experiences a moderate level of precipitation at 69 mm (2.7 in) over approximately 7 days, alongside a humidity level of 78%.
In contrast, December sees a significant drop in temperatures, with averages around 11°C (52°F) and minimums that can plummet to -6°C (22°F). This month is also wetter, with 128 mm (5.1 in) of precipitation spread across about 10 days, coupled with higher humidity at 87%. For more insights on the weather conditions, you can visit North weather in December.
As October unfolds in North, the weather showcases a notable transition from the summer heat to cooler temperatures. While the month can still experience maximum highs reaching up to 37°C (100°F), the evenings offer a refreshing change with average lows around 1°C (35°F). This significant drop marks a shift from the oppressive summer humidity, as October brings a more comfortable average humidity of 78% alongside a modest precipitation rate of 69 mm (2.7 in) over just seven days. Overall, October in North serves as a reminder of nature’s changing rhythms, setting the stage for the cooler months ahead. To learn more about how October weather fits into the broader climatic pattern, explore North Climate.