Climate and monthly weather forecastDunkirk, NY
Climate and monthly weather forecast
The climate of Dunkirk
Dunkirk, New York, US, experiences a Humid continental climate, bearing no dry seasons and warm summers, according to the Köppen climate classification. This typifies a Dfb predominate climate, influenced by its geographical position on the Southern shores of Lake Erie, which guides the changing seasons and weather events.Throughout the year, Dunkirk's weather shifts with every seasonal transition. High temperatures in the heart of winter average between 29.7°F (-1.3°C) in January to 31.3°F (-0.4°C) in February, and then rise modestly to reach 48.4°F (9.1°C) by the spring month of April. Sunlit summer days from June to August offer respite with the mercury surging to a congenial range from 67.6°F (19.8°C) to 74.8°F (23.8°C). As autumn rolls in, the temperature starts plummeting, going down to a chilly 36.5°F (2.5°C) in December.
In terms of rainfall, an average of 2.4" (61mm) in January increases steadily to peak at 3.23" (82mm) in the month of April and May. July and August present a slight dip, but monsoons continue to be a persistent presence with 3.07" (78mm) of precipitation in July. A marginally drier spell is observed in September with 2.05" (52mm) of rainfall, which once more escalates toward the end of the year.
The meteorological conditions of Dunkirk are unique due to the high humidity levels that persist all year round, settling above the 77% mark throughout. Snowfall is witnessed from December to March, reaching a high of 5.98" (152mm) in February.
The best time to visit Dunkirk
An analysis of the annual weather conditions suggests that summer, particularly between June to August, would make for a pleasant visit to Dunkirk. Temperature highs are comfortably placed between 67.6°F (19.8°C) and 74.8°F (23.8°C), coupled with a reasonably lower rainfall. During this season, daylight is abundant, averaging around 14.9 to 15.3 hours, giving tourists plenty of time to explore the attractions that the city has to offer.The worst time to visit Dunkirk
Winter months, specifically from December to February, are relatively harsher in Dunkirk and might not be ideal for tours. The temperature ranges from a low of 21.2°F (-6°C) to a high of 31.3°F (-0.4°C). Additionally, during this period, the city experiences frequent snowfall accompanied by low daylight hours, between 9.1 to 10.6 on average, and might limit outdoor activities for visitors.Spring weather in Dunkirk
Spring in Dunkirk, from March through May, sees a substantial rise in temperature from the winter lows, averaging between 38.5°F (3.6°C) to 59.5°F (15.3°C). The daylight hours gradually increase and reach up to 14.6 hours by May. Despite higher rainfall during the spring months, it's accompanied by an increase in sunshine, offering almost 7.3 hours of bright daylight in April.Summer weather in Dunkirk
The summer season in Dunkirk brings in warm and pleasant weather. From June through August, the high temperatures oscillate between 67.6°F (19.8°C) to 74.8°F (23.8°C) making it comfortable to enjoy outdoor activities. Humidity still maintains a steady range but is balanced by increased sunshine hours, climbing up to 10.3 hours in July.Autumn weather in Dunkirk
Autumn, from September through November, witnesses temperature highs ranging from 69.3°F (20.7°C) to 45.5°F (7.5°C). It's the onset of chilly winds, but the sunshine persists, providing around 8.9 hours of daylight until September. Rainfall, however, begins to increase, in October, causing damper conditions.Winter weather in Dunkirk
December through February marks the winter season in Dunkirk when the mercury plummets dramatically. High temperatures range from 29.7°F (-1.3°C) in January down to 36.5°F (2.5°C) in December. The city experiences significant snowfall, and daylight becomes more scarce with only about 9.1 hours in December. Winter winds range from 13.9mph (22.4km/h) to 14.4mph (23.2km/h), making Dunkirk a winter wonderland.Weather in January
January in Dunkirk, New York, foretells of a cold and snowy start to the year. This month accounts for the highest snowfall, with 4.33" (110mm) coating the landscape, as well as boasting the strongest maximum wind speeds at 15.3mph (24.6km/h). Weather in January »Weather in February
February continues the winter vibe started by January but offers slightly increased daylight hours. The increase in sunshine hours to 2.9 hours gives Dunkirk's weather a slightly brighter disposition. There's an increase of 1.65" (42mm) in snowfall, totaling to 5.98" (152mm). Weather in February »Weather in March
As Dunkirk gets into March, there's a gradual increase in temperatures, as the region transitions from winter to spring. The weather exhibits fewer snowy days, now standing at 9.4. Longer daylight hours become apparent offering 12 hours, improving the mood for outdoor activities. Weather in March »Weather in April
April showcases noticeable changes in Dunkirk’s weather trends. The snow almost completely disappears, giving way to 3.23" (82mm) of rainfall. The month becomes the harbinger of spring in its full extent, with longer daylight hours brightening up the sky for 13.4 hours. Weather in April »Weather in May
Dunkirk gains a new weather rhythm come May. The shift in temperatures continues its upwards trend, yet May remains relatively cool. The fresh spring remains active with nature simultaneously flourishing under 3.23" (82mm) of precipitation. Weather in May »Weather in June
June carries forth a significant shift in Dunkirk’s weather. The temperatures escalate to a mild summer heat, yet humidity stays consistent. Dunkirk experiences 15.3 daylight hours, the longest throughout the year. It also marks the transition to the summer season with an increased UV index. Weather in June »Weather in July
July comes armed with the highest temperatures, reaching 74.8°F (23.8°C). It’s the warmest month in Dunkirk, bringing about the peak of the summer season. Clearer skies become dominant, as the percentage of cloud coverage drops to its lowest. Weather in July »Weather in August
August maintains similar temperature trends to July, keeping Dunkirk in the grasp of summer. The climate remains fairly hot, although rainfall heightens marginally to 3.03" (77mm), providing momentary respite. The sunny weather continues to rid the sky of clouds, maintaining a clear view and increasing daylight hours. Weather in August »Weather in September
September invites the advent of the autumn season in Dunkirk. The decline in temperature becomes noticeable, albeit gradual. The precipitation reduces to 2.05" (52mm), marking a relatively dry month. The extended daylight hours begin to shorten, indicating the forthcoming winter. Weather in September »Weather in October
October further pronounces the ongoing shift in Dunkirk's weather, transitioning deeper into autumn. The weather asserts its volatility with significant rainfall of 3.19" (81mm). The UV index stays low, and daylight hours decline, aligning with the changing season. Weather in October »Weather in November
The arrival of November in Dunkirk takes the region a step closer to winter. The temperatures respond accordingly, dipping to a low of 36.9°F (2.7°C). Remarkably, snowfall reappears, ushering in the start of winter with 3.07" (78mm) of snow. Weather in November »Weather in December
December firmly situates Dunkirk in the midst of winter. The temperature drops further to a cool 36.5°F (2.5°C), establishing a chilly environment. Snowfall enhances, laying down 3.23" (82mm) of snow, creating a classic winter view. Weather in December »Updated: Feb 13, 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
January is the month when Dunkirk sees the average lowest temperatures, with a high of 29.7°F (-1.3°C) and a low of 21.2°F (-6°C).
In Dunkirk, New York, during the entire year, the rain falls for 171.9 days and collects up to 33.43" (849mm) of precipitation.
January through May, October through December are months with snowfall.
Throughout the year, in Dunkirk, there are 61.7 snowfall days, and 20.67" (525mm) of snow is accumulated.
January has the least sunshine of the year, with an average of 2.4h of sunshine.
January and December, with an average maximum UV index of 1, are months with the lowest UV index in Dunkirk.
The most humid month is February, with an average relative humidity of 85%.
February is the month with the most snowfall. Snow falls for 14.2 days and accumulates 5.98" (152mm) of snow.
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.
The wettest months are April and May, with an average 3.23" (82mm) of rainfall.
In Dunkirk, New York, snow does not fall in June through September.
June has the longest days of the year, with an average of 15h and 12min of daylight.
In Dunkirk, July records the average highest temperatures, peaking at 74.8°F (23.8°C) and reaching a low of 64.2°F (17.9°C).
The month with the highest UV index in Dunkirk, New York, is July, with an average maximum UV index of 6.
August has the most sunshine of the year in Dunkirk, New York, with an average of 10.4h of sunshine.
September through November, with an average relative humidity of 77%, are the least humid months in Dunkirk, New York.
September is the month with the least rainfall in Dunkirk, New York. Rain falls for 14.3 days and accumulates 2.05" (52mm) of precipitation.
The month with the shortest days in Dunkirk, New York, is December, with an average of 9h and 6min of daylight.
Average temperature
Dunkirk, NY
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (74.8°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (29.7°F).
The month with the highest average low temperature is July (64.2°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (21.2°F).
Average pressure
Dunkirk, NY
- Average pressure in January:
30.06"Hg - Average pressure in February:
30.05"Hg - Average pressure in March:
30.08"Hg - Average pressure in April:
29.97"Hg - Average pressure in May:
29.99"Hg - Average pressure in June:
29.93"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:
30.1"Hg - Average pressure in December:
30.06"Hg
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is November (30.1"Hg).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is June (29.93"Hg).
Average wind speed
Dunkirk, NY
- Average wind speed in January:
14.4mph - Average wind speed in February:
13mph - Average wind speed in March:
11.6mph - Average wind speed in April:
11.6mph - Average wind speed in May:
9.4mph - Average wind speed in June:
9.1mph
- Average wind speed in July:
8.3mph - Average wind speed in August:
8.8mph - Average wind speed in September:
9.6mph - Average wind speed in October:
12.2mph - Average wind speed in November:
13.5mph - Average wind speed in December:
13.9mph
The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is January (14.4mph).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is July (8.3mph).
Average humidity
Dunkirk, NY
The month with the highest relative humidity is February (85%).
The months with the lowest relative humidity are September, October and November (77%).
Average rainfall
Dunkirk, NY
- Average rainfall in January:
2.4" - Average rainfall in February:
2.6" - Average rainfall in March:
2.32" - Average rainfall in April:
3.23" - Average rainfall in May:
3.23" - Average rainfall in June:
3.03"
- Average rainfall in July:
3.07" - Average rainfall in August:
3.03" - Average rainfall in September:
2.05" - Average rainfall in October:
3.19" - Average rainfall in November:
2.52" - Average rainfall in December:
2.76"
The wettest months (with the highest rainfall) are April and May (3.23").
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is September (2.05").
Average rainfall days
Dunkirk, NY
- Average rainfall days in January:
8.3 days - Average rainfall days in February:
8 days - Average rainfall days in March:
13.1 days - Average rainfall days in April:
16.7 days - Average rainfall days in May:
17.3 days - Average rainfall days in June:
16.8 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
17.8 days - Average rainfall days in August:
17.6 days - Average rainfall days in September:
14.3 days - Average rainfall days in October:
19.3 days - Average rainfall days in November:
12.2 days - Average rainfall days in December:
10.5 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is October (19.3 days).
The month with the least rainy days is February (8 days).
Average snowfall
Dunkirk, NY
- Average snowfall in January:
4.33" - Average snowfall in February:
5.98" - Average snowfall in March:
2.32" - Average snowfall in April:
1.22" - Average snowfall in May:
0.16" - Average snowfall in June:
0"
The month with the highest snowfall is February (5.98").
The months with the least snowfall are June, July, August and September (0").
Average snowfall days
Dunkirk, NY
- Average snowfall days in January:
15.6 days - Average snowfall days in February:
14.2 days - Average snowfall days in March:
9.4 days - Average snowfall days in April:
3.5 days - Average snowfall days in May:
0.3 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:
0.6 days - Average snowfall days in November:
6.6 days - Average snowfall days in December:
11.5 days
The month with the highest number of snowfall days is January (15.6 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are June, July, August and September (0 days).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Dunkirk, NY
- 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 36min - Average daylight in June:
15h and 12min
- Average daylight in July:
14h and 54min - 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 12min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 9h and 6min).
- Average sunshine in January:
2h and 24min - Average sunshine in February:
2h and 54min - Average sunshine in March:
5h and 18min - Average sunshine in April:
7h and 18min - Average sunshine in May:
8h and 54min - Average sunshine in June:
9h and 42min
- Average sunshine in July:
10h and 18min - Average sunshine in August:
10h and 24min - Average sunshine in September:
8h and 54min - Average sunshine in October:
4h and 36min - Average sunshine in November:
4h and 12min - Average sunshine in December:
2h and 42min
The month with the most sunshine is August (Average sunshine: 10h and 24min).
The month with the least sunshine is January (Average sunshine: 2h and 24min).
Average sunshine days
Dunkirk, NY
- Average sunshine days in January:
6.2 days - Average sunshine days in February:
7.5 days - Average sunshine days in March:
10.2 days - Average sunshine days in April:
10.2 days - Average sunshine days in May:
11.2 days - Average sunshine days in June:
11.3 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
11.2 days - Average sunshine days in August:
11.3 days - Average sunshine days in September:
14 days - Average sunshine days in October:
10.1 days - Average sunshine days in November:
10.9 days - Average sunshine days in December:
6.7 days
The month with the most sunshine days is September (14 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is January (6.2 days).
Average UV index
Dunkirk, NY
The month with the highest UV index is July (UV index 6).
The months with the lowest UV index are January and December (UV index 1).
Average cloud cover
Dunkirk, NY
The month with the most cloud cover is January (Cloud cover 77).
The month with the least cloud cover is August (Cloud cover 29).
Average visibility
Dunkirk, NY
The months with the highest visibility are March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October and November (6mi).
The month with the lowest visibility is January (4mi).
