Climate and monthly weather forecastSalem, NH
Climate and monthly weather forecast
The climate of Salem
Situated in one of the the temperate zones, Salem, New Hampshire, USA, experiences a distinct variety in climate over the course of a year. It falls under the Dfb Köppen climate classification, which denotes a humid continental climate with no dry season and warm summers.Temperature fluctuates noticeably throughout the year with monthly average highs ranging from 32.2°F (0.1°C) to 81.7°F (27.6°C) and lows from 20.3°F (-6.5°C) to 63°F (17.2°C). A guidepost for the seasons, it can tip the scale from quite cold in winter to moderately warm in summer. Relative humidity remains relatively steady throughout the year, varying from values of 71% to 79%.
Rainfall in Salem is well distributed throughout the year with monthly averages between 1.3" (33mm) and 2.87" (73mm). However, the number of rainy days varies significantly from a low of 7.6 to a high of 15.9. Snowfall is mainly experienced in the colder months with January and February receiving 3.46" (88mm) and 5.87" (149mm) respectively. Snowy days range between 0 in the warmer months to 8.5 in winter.
The best time to visit Salem
The optimal period to visit Salem differs based on individual preferences. For those who enjoy mild temperatures and more sunshine, the months between May and September would be ideal. During this time, the average high temperatures vary from 66°F (18.9°C) to 81.7°F (27.6°C), and average low temperatures range from 48.7°F (9.3°C) to 63°F (17.2°C).Sunshine hours are also at their peak, with the city enjoying between 8.6 hours and 10.6 hours of sunshine per day. Furthermore, relative humidity decreases slightly, providing a more comfortable atmosphere for outdoor activities.
The worst time to visit Salem
Visitors who prefer to avoid colder temperatures and snowfall might find the months from December to February less appealing. During these months, average high temperatures are between 32.2°F (0.1°C) and 42.1°F (5.6°C) and lows between 20.3°F (-6.5°C) and 28.6°F (-1.9°C). Snowfall reaches its peak, with 3.46" (88mm) in December and 5.87" (149mm) in February. Consequently, these months have the highest number of snowy days, with 8.5 days in January and 7.7 days in February.Spring weather in Salem
Spring in Salem ushers in warmer temperatures after the cold winter months. From March to May, the average high temperatures increase from 42.1°F (5.6°C) to 66°F (18.9°C), and lows rise from 28.6°F (-1.9°C) to 48.7°F (9.3°C). Rainfall also sees an uptick, ranging from 2.56" (65mm) in March to 1.97" (50mm) in May.Summer weather in Salem
Summer in Salem, from June to August, is characterized by the warmest temperatures of the year. Average high temperatures vary from 73.9°F (23.3°C) to 81.7°F (27.6°C), and lows range between 56.1°F (13.4°C) and 63°F (17.2°C). Despite the warm temperatures, rainfall remains moderate, from 1.97" (50mm) in June to 1.69" (43mm) in August.Autumn weather in Salem
Autumn sees a gradual dip in temperatures. From September to November, the average highs drop from 72.3°F (22.4°C) to 48.2°F (9°C), and lows decrease from 55.8°F (13.2°C) to 35.4°F (1.9°C). Rainfall surges to 2.83" (72mm) in October — the highest in the year.Winter weather in Salem
Winter brings with it the coldest days of the year. The average high temperatures from December to February fall between 32.2°F (0.1°C) and 42.1°F (5.6°C), and lows plummet to between 20.3°F (-6.5°C) and 28.6°F (-1.9°C). Snowfall is prevalent, particularly in December and February with 3.46" (88mm) and 5.87" (149mm), respectively.Weather in January
January in Salem, New Hampshire initiates the year with abundant cloud cover and a fair share of snowfall, comprising a snowfall of 3.46" (88mm) across 8.5 days. The cold winter weather fosters the formation of snow rather than rain, providing a striking contrast to the hot, rain-filled summers in the region. Weather in January »Weather in February
February sees a continuation of the winter season in Salem, featuring a slight increase in snowfall to 5.87" (149mm) over 7.7 days compared to the preceding month. The crisp winter air is often filled with the soft fluttering of snowflakes, attracting winter sports enthusiasts and lovers of serene landscapes. Weather in February »Weather in March
In March, Salem experiences an increase in average high temperatures to 42.1°F (5.6°C) and a decrease in snowfall to 4.29" (109mm), signifying the first signs of the coming spring. This mix of winter chill and emerging spring warmth creates a unique climate during this month. Weather in March »Weather in April
April in Salem brings significant changes, with a substantial temperature hike to 54.7°F (12.6°C) and a decreased snowfall to 1.69" (43mm). A respite from the chilly weather of the preceding months, this transition provides a refreshing change for the residents. Weather in April »Weather in May
Salem in May experiences a spring climate characterized by warmer temperatures and a further reduction in snowfall to just 0.16" (4mm). With the decline in winter’s influence, spring flowers bloom, creating scenic beauty throughout the city. Weather in May »Weather in June
June brings the first taste of summer to Salem, New Hampshire, with temperatures peaking at an average high of 73.9°F (23.3°C) and no incidence of snowfall. This onset of the summertime encourages outdoor exploration and participation in water-related activities, especially with the sea temperature rising to 57.1°F (13.9°C). Weather in June »Weather in July
July is the warmest month in Salem, with the highest average temperature of the year at 81.7°F (27.6°C), and also experiences no snowfall. The hot weather is typically complemented by a relaxed outdoor lifestyle and a diverse array of summer-specific activities and events. Weather in July »Weather in August
In August, Salem's weather remains summery, featuring high temperatures around 79.9°F (26.6°C) and negligible snowfall. Bask in the late-summer sunshine which permeates the city, despite occasional rainy spells. August offers the perfect climate for beach activities as the sea temperature ascends to a warm 66.4°F (19.1°C). Weather in August »Weather in September
September in Salem witnesses a slight drop in average high temperatures to 72.3°F (22.4°C) and an absence of snowfall. The commencement of fall ushers in a cooling trend, but the pleasant weather invites continued outdoor activities. Weather in September »Weather in October
October introduces a more noticeable shift towards cooler weather, with an even further decline in temperatures in Salem than in previous months. As fall deepens, the foliage reaches its peak color, transforming the city into a picturesque scene popular with photographers and nature enthusiasts. Weather in October »Weather in November
November in Salem marks the start of colder weather, with temperatures dropping down considerably from the previous month. With heavy overcast skies becoming more frequent, the shift toward winter is tangible. As the leaves fall, trees gradually lose their foliage, reflecting the changing seasons. Weather in November »Weather in December
In December, Salem’s weather grows colder still, with temperatures falling to an average low of 27.3°F (-2.6°C) and snowfall increasing to 4.49" (114mm). As the city gets ready for the Christmas festivities, snow is often a common sight, enveloping Salem in a winter wonderland. Weather in December »Updated: Aug 19, 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
In Salem, January is the month with the lowest recorded average temperatures, measuring a high of 32.2°F (0.1°C) and a low of 20.3°F (-6.5°C).
Throughout the year, there are 144 rainfall days, and 26.97" (685mm) of precipitation is accumulated.
Months with snowfall are January through May, October through December.
Throughout the year, there are 31.9 snowfall days, and 20.94" (532mm) of snow is accumulated.
The months with the lowest UV index are January through March, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 2.
February is the most humid month, with an average relative humidity of 79%.
February is the month with the most snowfall in Salem. Snow falls for 7.7 days and accumulates 5.87" (149mm) of snow.
The month with the least sunshine is February, with an average of 4.7h of sunshine.
With an average ocean temperature of 38.8°F (3.8°C), March is the month with the coldest seawater.
On Sunday, March 10. 2024, at 2:00 am, Daylight Saving Time starts, 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.
April is the least humid month, with an average relative humidity of 71%.
June through September are months without snowfall.
With an average of 15h and 18min of daylight, June has the longest days of the year.
June through August, with an average maximum UV index of 6, are months with the highest UV index.
July, with average temperatures reaching a high of 81.7°F (27.6°C) and a low of 63°F (17.2°C), is the warmest month.
August is the month with the warmest seawater, with an average ocean temperature of 66.4°F (19.1°C).
With an average of 10.6h of sunshine, August has the most sunshine of the year.
September is the month with the least rainfall. Rain falls for 10.6 days and accumulates 1.3" (33mm) of precipitation.
The month with the most rainfall is December, when the rain falls for 10.6 days and typically aggregates up to 2.87" (73mm) of precipitation.
The month with the shortest days is December, with an average of 9h and 6min of daylight.
Average temperature
Salem, NH
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (81.7°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (32.2°F).
The month with the highest average low temperature is July (63°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (20.3°F).
Average pressure
Salem, NH
- Average pressure in January:
30"Hg - Average pressure in February:
29.99"Hg - Average pressure in March:
30.03"Hg - Average pressure in April:
29.97"Hg - Average pressure in May:
30"Hg - Average pressure in June:
29.92"Hg
- Average pressure in July:
29.94"Hg - Average pressure in August:
29.97"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 (29.92"Hg).
Average wind speed
Salem, NH
- Average wind speed in January:
9.2mph - Average wind speed in February:
8.9mph - Average wind speed in March:
8.6mph - Average wind speed in April:
8mph - Average wind speed in May:
6.8mph - Average wind speed in June:
6.2mph
- Average wind speed in July:
5.6mph - Average wind speed in August:
5.5mph - Average wind speed in September:
6mph - Average wind speed in October:
7.4mph - Average wind speed in November:
7.8mph - Average wind speed in December:
8.6mph
The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is January (9.2mph).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is August (5.5mph).
Average humidity
Salem, NH
The month with the highest relative humidity is February (79%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is April (71%).
Average rainfall
Salem, NH
- Average rainfall in January:
2.17" - Average rainfall in February:
2.13" - Average rainfall in March:
2.56" - Average rainfall in April:
2.64" - Average rainfall in May:
1.97" - Average rainfall in June:
2.2"
- Average rainfall in July:
1.97" - Average rainfall in August:
1.69" - Average rainfall in September:
1.3" - Average rainfall in October:
2.83" - Average rainfall in November:
2.64" - Average rainfall in December:
2.87"
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is December (2.87").
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is September (1.3").
Average rainfall days
Salem, NH
- Average rainfall days in January:
7.6 days - Average rainfall days in February:
7.6 days - Average rainfall days in March:
11.8 days - Average rainfall days in April:
14.2 days - Average rainfall days in May:
15.9 days - Average rainfall days in June:
14.4 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
14.4 days - Average rainfall days in August:
13 days - Average rainfall days in September:
10.6 days - Average rainfall days in October:
13.4 days - Average rainfall days in November:
10.5 days - Average rainfall days in December:
10.6 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is May (15.9 days).
The months with the least rainy days are January and February (7.6 days).
Average snowfall
Salem, NH
- Average snowfall in January:
3.46" - Average snowfall in February:
5.87" - Average snowfall in March:
4.29" - Average snowfall in April:
1.69" - Average snowfall in May:
0.16" - Average snowfall in June:
0"
The month with the highest snowfall is February (5.87").
The months with the least snowfall are June, July, August and September (0").
Average snowfall days
Salem, NH
- Average snowfall days in January:
8.5 days - Average snowfall days in February:
7.7 days - Average snowfall days in March:
7.1 days - Average snowfall days in April:
1.4 days - Average snowfall days in May:
0.1 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:
0.1 days - Average snowfall days in November:
1.7 days - Average snowfall days in December:
5.3 days
The month with the highest number of snowfall days is January (8.5 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are June, July, August and September (0 days).
Average sea temperature
Salem, NH
The best month for swimming (with the highest average sea temperature) is August (66.4°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average sea temperature) is March (38.8°F).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Salem, NH
- Average daylight in January:
9h and 30min - Average daylight in February:
10h and 36min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 0min - Average daylight in April:
13h and 24min - Average daylight in May:
14h and 42min - Average daylight in June:
15h and 18min
- Average daylight in July:
15h and 0min - Average daylight in August:
13h and 54min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 30min - Average daylight in October:
11h and 0min - Average daylight in November:
9h and 48min - Average daylight in December:
9h and 6min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 15h and 18min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 9h and 6min).
- Average sunshine in January:
5h and 6min - Average sunshine in February:
4h and 42min - Average sunshine in March:
5h and 48min - Average sunshine in April:
8h and 18min - Average sunshine in May:
8h and 36min - Average sunshine in June:
9h and 18min
- Average sunshine in July:
10h and 18min - Average sunshine in August:
10h and 36min - Average sunshine in September:
8h and 36min - Average sunshine in October:
6h and 0min - Average sunshine in November:
5h and 30min - Average sunshine in December:
4h and 54min
The month with the most sunshine is August (Average sunshine: 10h and 36min).
The month with the least sunshine is February (Average sunshine: 4h and 42min).
Average sunshine days
Salem, NH
- Average sunshine days in January:
17.6 days - Average sunshine days in February:
14.3 days - Average sunshine days in March:
14.1 days - Average sunshine days in April:
13.6 days - Average sunshine days in May:
13.5 days - Average sunshine days in June:
13.8 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
15.1 days - Average sunshine days in August:
16.5 days - Average sunshine days in September:
17.9 days - Average sunshine days in October:
14.9 days - Average sunshine days in November:
17.2 days - Average sunshine days in December:
16.5 days
The month with the most sunshine days is September (17.9 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is May (13.5 days).
Average UV index
Salem, NH
The months with the highest UV index are June, July and August (UV index 6).
The months with the lowest UV index are January, February, March, November and December (UV index 2).
Average cloud cover
Salem, NH
The month with the most cloud cover is March (Cloud cover 50).
The month with the least cloud cover is August (Cloud cover 31).
Average visibility
Salem, NH
The months with the highest visibility are January, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (6mi).
The month with the lowest visibility is February (5mi).
