Last updated: February 24, 2025
In October, Port Townsend experiences a mild and moist climate, characterized by average temperatures hovering around 11°C (52°F), with peaks reaching up to 21°C (69°F). As the month progresses, residents and visitors can expect cooler evenings, with lows dipping to 3°C (38°F). The region sees significant rainfall, accumulating 155 mm (6.1 in) over approximately 18 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 83%. This combination of cool temperatures and frequent showers creates a vibrant autumn atmosphere, perfect for enjoying the area's stunning natural beauty and cozy local experiences.
In October, Port Townsend experiences a notable transition in temperatures as autumn settles in. With minimums around 3°C (38°F), the crisp air begins to replace the lingering warmth of summer, while average temperatures hover around 11°C (52°F). Daytime highs can reach a comfortable 21°C (69°F), offering a pleasant backdrop for outdoor activities amidst the changing foliage. This month marks a shift from the warmer summer months, where highs peaked at 27°C (81°F) in August, and starts to align more closely with the approaching winter. As such, October serves as a pivotal moment in the seasonal transition, showcasing the charm of Pacific Northwest autumn with its cool breezes and stunning landscapes.
In October, Port Townsend experiences a notable resurgence in rainfall, with 155 mm (6.1 in) of precipitation spread over 18 days. This marks a slight increase from the drier summer months, where July and August recorded just 58 mm and 51 mm respectively. The trend continues as the region transitions into the wetter fall season; October's rainfall is notably higher than the preceding months, including September's 129 mm (5.1 in). As the month unfolds, residents can expect to see frequent showers signaling the approach of winter, with November typically bringing even heavier precipitation at 187 mm (7.4 in) across 20 days. This pattern highlights Port Townsend's distinct climate, characterized by substantial precipitation as the year winds down.
In October, humidity in Port Townsend hovers at a comfortable 83%, aligning closely with the trend seen throughout the year. The fall month marks a slight uptick from the drier summer days of August (73%) and September (74%), indicating a return to the more humid conditions typical of the coastal climate. Interestingly, this modest increase helps maintain a sense of freshness in the air, bridging the gap to the wetter months of November and December, which see humidity levels rise to 86% and 87%, respectively. Overall, October serves as a transitional month, where the humidity retains a pleasant balance that prepares residents for the upcoming winter climate.
As October rolls into Port Townsend, the UV Index dips to 5, reflecting a moderate exposure category that invites outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy the autumn scenery with more mindful sun protection. This month marks a noticeable decrease from the high levels observed during the vibrant summer months, where indices soared to 9 in July and June. With burn times extending to 30 minutes, residents and visitors can comfortably spend time outside, basking in the cooler, crisp air. It’s crucial to note this trend of decreasing UV exposure as the year progresses—following the sun's intensity in the height of summer, October offers a gentler reminder of nature's changing rhythms. For more details, check out the UV Index guide here: Port Townsend UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
In October, Port Townsend enjoys a transition marked by 197 hours of sunshine, a significant step down from the peak brightness of summer but still a delightful embrace of fall. As the warm days of July and August fade, the sunlight in October reflects a seasonal shift, dipping from the 382 hours of July to a noticeable decrease. However, this month still shines more brightly than the gloomy November, which only sees 126 hours. With the crisp air and vibrant foliage, October's sunshine lends a golden hue to the landscape, inviting locals and visitors alike to revel in the beauty of autumn's last warm days, while the promise of winter looms with shorter daylight ahead.
As October approaches in Port Townsend, residents can anticipate a 25% chance of sunny weather, a notable decrease from the summer months. Following the peak sunshine of July at 59%, the likelihood of clear skies gradually diminishes, echoing the transition into fall as daylight wanes. This shift is reflective of a broader trend seen throughout the year, where the sunniest months are concentrated in the summer, while late autumn and winter months, including November and December, plunge to lower probabilities of sunshine at 16% and 14%, respectively. Ultimately, October offers a brief window before the prominent overcast months arrive, presenting a mixed bag of weather—a reminder that in Port Townsend, even the fall can surprise with pockets of brightness.
As October unfolds in Port Townsend, the days gradually shorten, offering around 10 hours of daylight. This marks a significant transition from the long, sun-drenched days of summer, which peak at 15 hours in June and July. Following the vibrant blooms of spring and the extended daylight of summer, October signals the entry into the more subdued light of autumn, with decreasing daylight already evident from September's 12 hours. This reduction continues into November, where daylight dips to 9 hours, setting the stage for the quieter winter months ahead. The prevailing trend shows a rhythmic cycle of daylight that not only highlights the changing seasons but also invites one to savor the beauty of shorter days, where each hour of sunlight feels precious.
As October arrives in Port Townsend, the wind begins to stir with a refreshing vigor. With an average wind speed of 3.8 m/s (8 mph), October experiences a notable increase from the summer's gentle breezes. This uptick in wind speed hints at the transition into fall, as the calms of summer give way to the more robust gusts that will characterize the approaching winter months. Following a gradual rise since September, the winds begin to echo the briskness of November, which boasts an average speed of 4.3 m/s (10 mph). This shift not only invites the vibrant autumn leaves to dance but also sets the stage for the maritime activities that thrive in this picturesque coastal town.
The weather in Port Townsend 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 Port Townsend and find detailed weather information for every month.
October and January present contrasting weather patterns, with October typically enjoying milder temperatures ranging from a minimum of 3°C (38°F) to a maximum of 21°C (69°F), averaging 11°C (52°F). In contrast, January experiences colder conditions with temperatures dipping as low as -4°C (26°F) and reaching a high of 13°C (55°F), averaging 6°C (43°F). Both months see similar levels of precipitation, with October receiving 155 mm over 18 days and January slightly higher at 160 mm over 17 days. Additionally, humidity remains relatively high in both months, at 83% in October and 86% in January, contributing to a damp atmosphere. For more detailed information, you can check Port Townsend weather in January.
October and February present contrasting weather patterns. In October, temperatures range from a minimum of 3°C (38°F) to a comfortable maximum of 21°C (69°F), with an average of 11°C (52°F). The month sees significant rainfall, with about 155 mm (6.1 in) of precipitation spread over 18 days, accompanied by high humidity at 83%. In comparison, February is notably colder, with temperatures dipping as low as -6°C (22°F) and averaging around 5°C (41°F). The maximum temperature reaches only 13°C (55°F). It also experiences slightly more precipitation, totaling 157 mm (6.2 in) across 21 days, while maintaining a similar humidity level of 84%. For more detailed insights, check Port Townsend weather in February.
When comparing the weather in October and March, October tends to be milder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 3°C (38°F) to a maximum of 21°C (69°F) and an average of 11°C (52°F). In contrast, March is cooler, with temperatures ranging from 0°C (32°F) to a maximum of 19°C (67°F) and an average of 7°C (45°F). Both months experience significant precipitation, with October receiving about 155 mm (6.1 in) and March slightly less at 131 mm (5.1 in), though both months see rainfall on approximately 18 days. Additionally, humidity remains high in both months, at 83% in October compared to 85% in March. For more detailed insights into March weather, you can check Port Townsend weather in March.
When comparing October and April weather, we see a slight shift in temperatures and precipitation patterns. October generally experiences a wider temperature range, with averages hitting a maximum of 21°C (69°F) compared to April's maximum of 20°C (68°F). However, October is slightly warmer overall, with an average of 11°C (52°F) compared to April's 9°C (49°F). Precipitation is more abundant in October, totaling 155 mm (6.1 in) over 18 days, while April sees less rain at 124 mm (4.9 in) over 16 days. Both months share similar humidity levels at 83%, giving them a characteristically damp feel. For a closer look at April’s weather specifics, check out Port Townsend weather in April.
When comparing the weather in October and May, several notable differences emerge. October features a broader temperature range, with minimums dropping to around 3°C (38°F) and maximums peaking at 21°C (69°F), while May presents milder conditions with temperatures ranging from 5°C (42°F) to a maximum of 22°C (71°F). Additionally, October experiences significantly higher precipitation, averaging 155 mm (6.1 in) over 18 days, compared to May's 91 mm (3.6 in) over just 13 days. Humidity levels remain similar, with October at 83% and May slightly higher at 84%. For more detailed insights, check out the Port Townsend weather in May.
When comparing the weather in October and June, we see notable differences in temperature and precipitation patterns. October experiences cooler temperatures, with averages ranging from a minimum of 3°C (38°F) to a maximum of 21°C (69°F), while June is warmer, featuring a minimum of 8°C (47°F) and a maximum of 31°C (88°F). In terms of precipitation, October sees higher rainfall, totaling 155 mm (6.1 in) over 18 days, compared to June's 125 mm (4.9 in) over 15 days. Both months have relatively high humidity, with October at 83% and June slightly higher at 84%. For more details on June weather, check out Port Townsend weather in June.
October weather is significantly cooler compared to July, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 3°C (38°F) to a maximum of 21°C (69°F), while July boasts milder temperatures between 11°C (52°F) and 25°C (77°F). Additionally, October experiences nearly three times as much precipitation as July, with 155 mm (6.1 in) falling over 18 days, compared to July's 58 mm (2.3 in) over just 10 days. The humidity levels remain similar, with October at 83% and July slightly lower at 82%. For more details on July conditions, you can check Port Townsend weather in July.
When comparing the weather in October to August, it's evident that October offers a significantly cooler climate. In October, temperatures range from a brisk minimum of 3°C (38°F) to a comfortable maximum of 21°C (69°F), with an average of 11°C (52°F). In contrast, August tends to be much warmer, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 11°C (52°F) up to a maximum of 27°C (81°F) and an average of 17°C (63°F). Additionally, October experiences more frequent rainfall, accumulating 155 mm (6.1 in) over 18 days, compared to August's lighter precipitation of 51 mm (2.0 in) over just 8 days. October's humidity is also higher at 83%, compared to August's 73%. For more details on August weather, you can check out Port Townsend weather in August.
In comparing the weather of October to September, we see a notable drop in temperatures, with October averaging around 11°C (52°F) compared to September's 15°C (59°F). While September experiences milder conditions, with maximum temperatures reaching up to 24°C (76°F), October's highs only reach 21°C (69°F). Additionally, October brings more precipitation, totaling 155 mm (6.1 in) over 18 days, which is an increase from September’s 129 mm (5.1 in) across 15 days. Humidity also rises in October to 83%, compared to September's 74%. For more detailed insights on September weather, check out Port Townsend weather in September.
In October, the weather typically features a milder temperature range, with minimums around 3°C (38°F) and maximums reaching 21°C (69°F), averaging 11°C (52°F). This month experiences considerable rainfall, totaling 155 mm (6.1 in) over about 18 days, with humidity at 83%. In contrast, November sees a drop in average temperatures to around 8°C (47°F), with nightly lows of 1°C (35°F) and highs peaking at 16°C (61°F). Precipitation increases to 187 mm (7.4 in) over 20 days, accompanied by slightly higher humidity at 86%. For a closer look at the specifics, check out Port Townsend weather in November.
October and December present distinct contrasts in weather patterns. In October, temperatures range from a chilly 3°C (38°F) at night to a mild 21°C (69°F) during the day, with an average of 11°C (52°F). The month sees significant rainfall, recording 155 mm (6.1 in) across 18 days and a relative humidity of 83%. In contrast, December brings colder conditions, with temperatures dipping between -5°C (23°F) at night to a maximum of 13°C (55°F) during the day, averaging around 6°C (43°F). This month experiences even more precipitation, totaling 187 mm (7.4 in) over 21 days, while humidity climbs slightly to 87%. For more detailed insights on December weather conditions, check out Port Townsend weather in December.
As October unfolds in Port Townsend, the weather transforms into a cooler yet vibrant tapestry, distinct from the warmer summer months. With average temperatures dipping to a refreshing 11°C (52°F), the charm of autumn is unmistakable. Although daytime temperatures can still reach a mild 21°C (69°F), the nights turn crisp, often dropping to 3°C (38°F), inviting cozy sweaters and warm drinks. This month also sees an increase in precipitation, with 155 mm (6.1 in) falling over 18 days, presenting a stark contrast to the drier summer conditions. Coupled with the high humidity of 83%, the air feels rich and alive. For a deeper understanding of how weather shapes this coastal town, explore more at Port Townsend Climate.