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Amherst (NS) Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Amherst.
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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. However, this rain/snowfall is not evenly distributed, the city has warm summers and very cold winters. 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
Data from: Moncton, Canada (53 KM, 33 Miles).
Daily hours of sunshine
Data from: Moncton, Canada (53 KM, 33 Miles).
Daily percentage of sunshine
Data from: Moncton, Canada (53 KM, 33 Miles).
Best Time to Visit Amherst
The most comfortable overall weather for exploring Amherst is usually found in June, July and August. Conditions are generally least comfortable in January, February, March, April, November and December.
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
Jan
very cold
Feb
very cold
Mar
cold
Apr
cold
May
good
Jun
excellent
Jul
excellent
Aug
excellent
Sep
very good
Oct
mixed
Nov
wet
Dec
cold
- Best overall: June, July and August
- Warmest weather: July and August
- Most sunshine: July
- Seasonal pattern: Warm summers and very cold winters
- Coldest conditions: January, with freezing nights around -12°C (10°F).
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. Amherst has warm summers and very cold winters.
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 on the map
Amherst is highlighted - select any city to see its climate.
Popular in September
Where to go in September - average daytime high across popular destinations.
Toronto
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