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Contents
- The climate of Nantucket
- The best time to visit Nantucket
- The worst time to visit Nantucket
- Spring weather in Nantucket
- Summer weather in Nantucket
- Autumn weather in Nantucket
- Winter weather in Nantucket
- Weather in January
- Weather in February
- Weather in March
- Weather in April
- Weather in May
- Weather in June
- Weather in July
- Weather in August
- Weather in September
- Weather in October
- Weather in November
- Weather in December
- Frequently asked questions
- Average temperature
- Average pressure
- Average wind speed
- Average humidity
- Average rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average snowfall
- Average snowfall days
- Average sea temperature
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average sunshine days
- Average UV index
- Average cloud cover
- Average visibility
Beautiful homes built on the water overlooking the boats on the water below, in Nantucket, Massachusetts
Climate and monthly weather forecast
The climate of Nantucket
Nantucket, Massachusetts, sits within the realm of a humid subtropical climate, as defined by the Köppen climate classification. This means that it receives no dry season and experiences substantial moisture throughout the year. Geographically, Nantucket is located off the eastern coast of the United States, exposing it to a range of climatic conditions affected by the Atlantic Ocean.
Upon scrutinizing the climate details, it becomes apparent that Nantucket's weather demonstrates a moderate variation. The annual temperatures range from a chilly 32.5°F (0.3°C) up to a warm 72.1°F (22.3°C). The coldest month of the year is February with the minimum temperature dipping to 32.5°F (0.3°C) while the warmest month turns out to be August, when the maximum temperature goes up to 72.1°F (22.3°C).
Rainfall in Nantucket is reasonably consistent throughout the year, hovering between 1.77" (45mm) and 3.27" (83mm) per month. The island gets the maximum rainfall in October, marking it as the wettest month. On the contrary, July witnesses the least rainfall, thus making it the driest month.
Nantucket experiences snowy conditions from December to March, with the majority of it falling in January and December. Despite the minimal snowfall, these months demand the attention due to the presence of snow, unlike the rest of the year.
Upon scrutinizing the climate details, it becomes apparent that Nantucket's weather demonstrates a moderate variation. The annual temperatures range from a chilly 32.5°F (0.3°C) up to a warm 72.1°F (22.3°C). The coldest month of the year is February with the minimum temperature dipping to 32.5°F (0.3°C) while the warmest month turns out to be August, when the maximum temperature goes up to 72.1°F (22.3°C).
Rainfall in Nantucket is reasonably consistent throughout the year, hovering between 1.77" (45mm) and 3.27" (83mm) per month. The island gets the maximum rainfall in October, marking it as the wettest month. On the contrary, July witnesses the least rainfall, thus making it the driest month.
Nantucket experiences snowy conditions from December to March, with the majority of it falling in January and December. Despite the minimal snowfall, these months demand the attention due to the presence of snow, unlike the rest of the year.
The best time to visit Nantucket
Considering the weather parameters, the ideal time to plan a visit to Nantucket would be between June and September. During this period, the island enjoys the sunniest and warmest conditions. The maximum temperature during these months stays between 62.6°F (17°C) and 72.1°F (22.3°C), while the minimum temperature stays between 58.6°F (14.8°C) and 68.7°F (20.4°C). These favourable conditions ensure enjoyable outdoor activities and sight-seeing.
The worst time to visit Nantucket
While each season possesses a particular charm, the period from November to March could be less appealing for visitors. During this interval, temperatures can remarkably dip going down from 45.5°F (7.5°C) to a chilly 32.5°F (0.3°C). The frigid temperatures coupled with sporadic snowfall might discourage outdoor exploration.
Spring weather in Nantucket
Spring in Nantucket begins with a chilly start, with March boasting a temperature range from 36.1°F (2.3°C) to 41.9°F (5.5°C) progressing to warmer conditions by May, with temperatures varying from 50.5°F (10.3°C) to 54.3°F (12.4°C). The rainfall maintains a steady pattern throughout spring, ranging from 2.05" (52mm) to 2.52" (64mm).
Summer weather in Nantucket
With the commencement of summer, Nantucket comes alive with warm weather and sunshine. June sees the temperature oscillating from 58.6°F (14.8°C) to 62.6°F (17°C), advancing to hotter conditions by August that experiences temperatures from 68.7°F (20.4°C) to 72.1°F (22.3°C). Rainfall is at its lowest during the summer timespan, shifting between 1.81" (46mm) to 1.93" (49mm).
Autumn weather in Nantucket
Autumn in Nantucket exhibits a gradual cooling trend. The temperatures in September typically reside between 63.9°F (17.7°C) to 67.6°F (19.8°C), decreasing as we move into November with ranges from 46.9°F (8.3°C) to 52.7°F (11.5°C). The island encounters the highest rainfall during October at 3.27" (83mm).
Winter weather in Nantucket
Winter takes hold of Nantucket with the temperatures notably dipping. December marks the beginning with temperatures staying from 38.7°F (3.7°C) to 45.5°F (7.5°C) closing up to a chilling 32.5°F (0.3°C) to 39.7°F (4.3°C) by February. During this season, snowfall becomes a common occurrence with the island witnessing up to 1.06" (27mm) of snow in January.
Weather in January
Nantucket, Massachusetts, kicks off the year with chilly temperatures. January's weather is emblematic of the New England winter, with the average low of 32.9°F (0.5°C). It's the time of the year when Nantucket experiences a larger amount of snowfall with 1.06" (27mm) in comparison to the rest of the year, making it a real winter wonderland. Weather in January »
Weather in February
As the last full month of winter, February continues to be a season of cold temperatures in Nantucket. The average high remains below 40°F (4.4°C), only slightly warmer than its predecessor. However, February showcases a decrease in snowfall, with measurements falling to 0.67" (17mm). Weather in February »
Weather in March
In March, Nantucket embarks into the transitional period of spring with warmer temperatures. The average high jumps to 41.9°F (5.5°C), making it a tad warmer than the previous month. However, March has the highest rainfall days with an average of 13.2 days. Weather in March »
Weather in April
April heralds the arrival of Spring in earnest in Nantucket, Massachusetts. A noticeable increase in the average high temperature can be observed, reaching 47.5°F (8.6°C). Rainfall continues at a steady pace, transitioning into the lush vibrancy of springtime. Weather in April »
Weather in May
Weather in Nantucket undergoes a significant change in May. Average high temperatures transition into the 50s, currently reaching 54.3°F (12.4°C). As the gateway month to the summer season, May sees grasslands turning greener and longer daylight hours that ring in a sense of warmth and renewal. Weather in May »
Weather in June
June brings the official advent of the summer season in Nantucket, Massachusetts. The average high temperature now climbs gently into the 60s, specifically at 62.6°F (17°C). Flowers are in full bloom in June, providing a colourful spectacle for the island's residents and visitors. Weather in June »
Weather in July
July is the pinnacle of the summer season in Nantucket, witnessing the highest average temperature of the year, which reaches 70.5°F (21.4°C). Swimming and sunbathing dominate popular activities with the temperature of the sea reaching a welcoming warmth. Weather in July »
Weather in August
August sees Nantucket, Massachusetts, continue its summer indulgence. While the average high temperature is comparable to July, the lowest level reaches a high of 68.7°F (20.4°C). Despite the residual heat, August sees the beginning of a gentle cool down in evening temperatures, signaling the onset of autumn. Weather in August »
Weather in September
September brings the onset of fall in Nantucket, demonstrating a decrease in the average high temperature down to 67.6°F (19.8°C). However, the drop in temperature does not dampen local spirits or curtail outdoor activities. Weather in September »
Weather in October
October significantly marks the fall season in Nantucket, Massachusetts. Temperatures take a deeper dive, with the average high now standing at 60.8°F (16°C). The fall foliage is in its full glory this month, making it an ideal time for nature walk and photography. Weather in October »
Weather in November
Winter arrives on the heels of November in Nantucket with an average high dropping down to 52.7°F (11.5°C). An increase in humidity and lower sunshine hours hints at the imminent arrival of winter. As the chill in the air deepens, the environment gradually transitions into a serene and quiet landscape. Weather in November »
Weather in December
December in Nantucket, Massachusetts, welcomes the full swing of winter, sporting temperatures dropping as low as an average of 38.7°F (3.7°C). With the arrival of the season, snowfall marks its entry, albeit at a minor 0.47" (12mm). Weather in December »
Updated: Jun 4, 2024
Published by: Weather U.S. | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Published by: Weather U.S. | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Frequently asked questions
What is the least humid month?
January, November and December, with an average relative humidity of 75%, are the least humid months.
How many days does it rain in Nantucket?
Throughout the year, there are 153 rainfall days, and 26.61" (676mm) of precipitation is accumulated.
When does it snow?
January through March, November and December are months with snowfall.
What is the snowiest month?
The month with the most snowfall is January, when snow falls for 5.8 days and typically aggregates up to 1.06" (27mm) of snow.
How much does it snow in Nantucket?
Throughout the year, in Nantucket, there are 17.1 snowfall days, and 3.23" (82mm) of snow is accumulated.
When is the lowest UV index?
The months with the lowest UV index are January through March and December, with an average maximum UV index of 2.
What time of the year is the coldest?
With an average high-temperature of 39.7°F (4.3°C) and an average low-temperature of 32.5°F (0.3°C), February is the coldest month.
When is the ocean coldest?
February is the month with the coldest seawater, with an average ocean temperature of 37.9°F (3.3°C).
When is Daylight Saving Time (DST)?
On Sunday, March 10. 2024, at 2:00 am, Daylight Saving Time starts in Nantucket, Massachusetts, and the time zone changes from EST to EDT. Daylight Saving Time ends Sunday, November 3. 2024, at 2:00 am, and the time zone reverts from EDT to EST.
When it does not snow?
In Nantucket, snow does not fall in April through October.
When are the longest days?
The month with the longest days is June, with an average of 15h and 6min of daylight.
What is the most humid month?
With an average relative humidity of 86%, July is the most humid month.
What are the months with the most sunshine?
The months with the most sunshine in Nantucket are July and August, with an average of 10.7h of sunshine.
What is the month with the highest UV index?
July and August, with an average maximum UV index of 6, are months with the highest UV index.
What is the warmest month?
August, with its high-temperature average of 72.1°F (22.3°C) and a low-temperature average of 68.7°F (20.4°C), is the warmest month.
What is the month with the warmest ocean?
With an average ocean temperature of 67.6°F (19.8°C), August is the month with the warmest seawater.
What is the rainiest month?
The month with the most rainfall is October, when the rain falls for 13.8 days and typically aggregates up to 3.27" (83mm) of precipitation.
What is the driest month?
The month with the least rainfall is November, when the rain falls for 12.1 days and typically collects 1.77" (45mm) of precipitation.
What is the month with the shortest days?
December has the shortest days of the year, with an average of 9h and 18min of daylight.
What is the month with the least sunshine?
With an average of 4.3h of sunshine, December has the least sunshine of the year.
Average temperature
Nantucket, MA
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is August (72.1°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is February (39.7°F).
The month with the highest average low temperature is August (68.7°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is February (32.5°F).
Average pressure
Nantucket, MA
- Average pressure in January:
30"Hg - Average pressure in February:
29.98"Hg - Average pressure in March:
30.02"Hg - Average pressure in April:
29.98"Hg - Average pressure in May:
30.02"Hg - Average pressure in June:
29.94"Hg
- Average pressure in July:
29.96"Hg - Average pressure in August:
29.98"Hg - Average pressure in September:
30.05"Hg - Average pressure in October:
30.01"Hg - Average pressure in November:
30.06"Hg - Average pressure in December:
30.03"Hg
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is November (30.06"Hg).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is June (29.94"Hg).
Average wind speed
Nantucket, MA
- Average wind speed in January:
18.5mph - Average wind speed in February:
18.1mph - Average wind speed in March:
18.2mph - Average wind speed in April:
16mph - Average wind speed in May:
13.9mph - Average wind speed in June:
12.8mph
- Average wind speed in July:
11.9mph - Average wind speed in August:
11.8mph - Average wind speed in September:
14mph - Average wind speed in October:
16.4mph - Average wind speed in November:
17.8mph - Average wind speed in December:
18.1mph
The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is January (18.5mph).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is August (11.8mph).
Average humidity
Nantucket, MA
The month with the highest relative humidity is July (86%).
The months with the lowest relative humidity are January, November and December (75%).
Average rainfall
Nantucket, MA
- Average rainfall in January:
2.24" - Average rainfall in February:
1.97" - Average rainfall in March:
2.4" - Average rainfall in April:
2.52" - Average rainfall in May:
2.05" - Average rainfall in June:
1.93"
- Average rainfall in July:
1.81" - Average rainfall in August:
1.93" - Average rainfall in September:
2.2" - Average rainfall in October:
3.27" - Average rainfall in November:
1.77" - Average rainfall in December:
2.52"
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is October (3.27").
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is November (1.77").
Average rainfall days
Nantucket, MA
- Average rainfall days in January:
11.1 days - Average rainfall days in February:
9.2 days - Average rainfall days in March:
13.2 days - Average rainfall days in April:
14.1 days - Average rainfall days in May:
14.3 days - Average rainfall days in June:
13.9 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
13.4 days - Average rainfall days in August:
12.9 days - Average rainfall days in September:
11.7 days - Average rainfall days in October:
13.8 days - Average rainfall days in November:
12.1 days - Average rainfall days in December:
13.3 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is May (14.3 days).
The month with the least rainy days is February (9.2 days).
Average snowfall
Nantucket, MA
The month with the highest snowfall is January (1.06").
The months with the least snowfall are April, May, June, July, August, September and October (0").
Average snowfall days
Nantucket, MA
- Average snowfall days in January:
5.8 days - Average snowfall days in February:
3.8 days - Average snowfall days in March:
3.3 days - Average snowfall days in April:
0.3 days - Average snowfall days in May:
0 days - Average snowfall days in June:
0 days
- Average snowfall days in July:
0 days - Average snowfall days in August:
0 days - Average snowfall days in September:
0 days - Average snowfall days in October:
0 days - Average snowfall days in November:
0.6 days - Average snowfall days in December:
3.3 days
The month with the highest number of snowfall days is January (5.8 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are May, June, July, August, September and October (0 days).
Average sea temperature
Nantucket, MA
The best month for swimming (with the highest average sea temperature) is August (67.6°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average sea temperature) is February (37.9°F).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Nantucket, MA
- Average daylight in January:
9h and 4min - Average daylight in February:
10h and 4min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 0min - Average daylight in April:
13h and 2min - Average daylight in May:
14h and 3min - Average daylight in June:
15h and 1min
- Average daylight in July:
14h and 5min - Average daylight in August:
13h and 5min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 3min - Average daylight in October:
11h and 1min - Average daylight in November:
9h and 5min - Average daylight in December:
9h and 2min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 15h and 6min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 9h and 18min).
- Average sunshine in January:
4h and 4min - Average sunshine in February:
4h and 4min - Average sunshine in March:
5h and 5min - Average sunshine in April:
8h and 2min - Average sunshine in May:
8h and 3min - Average sunshine in June:
9h and 4min
- Average sunshine in July:
10h and 4min - Average sunshine in August:
10h and 4min - Average sunshine in September:
8h and 4min - Average sunshine in October:
6h and 4min - Average sunshine in November:
5h and 1min - Average sunshine in December:
4h and 2min
The months with the most sunshine are July and August (Average sunshine: 10h and 42min).
The month with the least sunshine is December (Average sunshine: 4h and 18min).
Average sunshine days
Nantucket, MA
- Average sunshine days in January:
11.3 days - Average sunshine days in February:
12.6 days - Average sunshine days in March:
13 days - Average sunshine days in April:
13.3 days - Average sunshine days in May:
14.8 days - Average sunshine days in June:
14.9 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
16.1 days - Average sunshine days in August:
16.5 days - Average sunshine days in September:
15.7 days - Average sunshine days in October:
14.3 days - Average sunshine days in November:
14.4 days - Average sunshine days in December:
11.4 days
The month with the most sunshine days is August (16.5 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is January (11.3 days).
Average UV index
Nantucket, MA
The months with the highest UV index are July and August (UV index 6).
The months with the lowest UV index are January, February, March and December (UV index 2).
Average cloud cover
Nantucket, MA
The month with the most cloud cover is December (Cloud cover 54).
The month with the least cloud cover is August (Cloud cover 27).
Average visibility
Nantucket, MA
The months with the highest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (6mi).
The months with the lowest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (6mi).