Amherst (NS) Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Amherst.
Climate overview of Amherst
The climate in Amherst, Nova Scotia, Canada, is marked by large temperature swings across the seasons, ranging from 25°C (77°F) in July to -1°C (30°F) in January.
With around 1162 mm (46 in) of annual rain/snowfall, Amherst has a notably wet climate. The wettest month is December. The sunniest month is July, with 8.5 hours of sunshine per day on average.
Amherst Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Amherst — and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Amherst
In Amherst, temperatures differ significantly between summer and winter months. Average daytime temperatures reach a comfortable 25°C (77°F) in July. In January, the coolest month of the year, temperatures drop to a very cold -1°C (30°F).
At night, temperatures range from around 14°C (57°F) in July to -12°C (10°F) in January.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Amherst
Amherst experiences significant rain/snowfall throughout the year, averaging 1162 mm (46 in) of precipitation annually. Despite minor fluctuations, Amherst enjoys fairly consistent precipitation throughout the year. In December, you can expect around 119 mm (4.7 in) of precipitation, while in July, Amherst receives about 78 mm (3.1 in). For more details, please visit our Amherst Precipitation page.
The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow
The average number of days each month with precipitation
Sunshine Hours in Amherst
Amherst can be enjoyed more throughout the sunniest month of July under a blue sky, with approximately 8.5 hours of sunshine daily. In contrast, the city experiences much darker days in November, with only 3.2 hours of sunlight per day.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Daily percentage of sunshine
Best Time to Visit Amherst
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Amherst
What is the best time to visit Amherst?
June, July and August typically offer the most optimal weather in Amherst. In contrast, January, February, March, April, November and December tend to have less optimal conditions.
What temperatures can I expect in Amherst?
Daytime highs range from -1°C (30°F) in January to 25°C (77°F) in July. Nighttime lows range from -12°C (10°F) to 14°C (57°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does Amherst get?
Annual rainfall is around 1162 mm (46 in). December is the wettest month with 119 mm (4.7 in), while July is the driest with 78 mm (3.1 in). In the coldest months, precipitation may fall as snow/rain.
How sunny is Amherst?
Amherst receives around 1,998 hours of sunshine per year. July is the sunniest month with 256 hours, while November is the cloudiest with just 95 hours.
Amherst 3-Day Forecast
Amherst (NS) 3-Day Forecast
Amherst on the map
Amherst is highlighted — select any city to see its climate.
Popular this month
Where to go in June — average daytime high across popular destinations.
Montréal
25°C (77°F) Niagara Falls
25°C (77°F) Ottawa25°C (77°F) Quebec City
23°C (73°F) Toronto22°C (72°F) Calgary20°C (68°F) Vancouver19°C (66°F) Whistler15°C (59°F) 
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