Dartmouth (NS) Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Dartmouth.
Climate overview of Dartmouth
Temperatures in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, Canada, vary greatly throughout the year. August is the hottest month at 24°C (75°F), while January is the coldest at 1°C (34°F).
The city receives considerable rain/snowfall, with around 1363 mm (54 in) annually. December is the wettest month. It has warm summers and very cold winters. July is the sunniest month, averaging 7.8 hours of sunshine per day.
Dartmouth Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Dartmouth - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Dartmouth
The climate in Dartmouth is known for significant temperature differences throughout the year, making the weather dynamic. Typically, average maximum daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 24°C (75°F) in August to a very cold 1°C (34°F) in the coolest month, January.
Nights vary from 15°C (59°F) in August to around -8°C (18°F) during the colder months.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Dartmouth
Dartmouth has a notably wet climate with abundant precipitation, recording 1363 mm (54 in) of rain/snowfall per year. Precipitation levels in Dartmouth remain relatively steady throughout the year. December has the most snow/rain, with 142 mm (5.6 in) over 15 days. In the driest month May, this drops slightly to 90 mm (3.5 in), making the city's climate fairly predictable. For more details, please visit our Dartmouth 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 Dartmouth
For those who appreciate different seasons, Dartmouth serves as an ideal destination. Expect longer, more sun-filled days in July with an average of 7.8 hours of sunshine daily, and embrace the darker days in November, offering only 3.5 hours of daily sunlight.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Daily percentage of sunshine
Humidity in Dartmouth by Month
The relative humidity is high throughout the year in Dartmouth.
The city experiences its highest humidity in December, reaching 76%. In May, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 62%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Best Time to Visit Dartmouth
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
- Best overall: July and August
- Warmest weather: July and August
- Most sunshine: July and August
- Seasonal pattern: Warm summers and very cold winters
- Coldest conditions: January, with freezing nights around -8°C (18°F).
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Dartmouth
What is the best time to visit Dartmouth?
July and August typically offer the most optimal weather in Dartmouth. In contrast, January, February, March, April, November and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Dartmouth has warm summers and very cold winters.
What temperatures can I expect in Dartmouth?
Daytime highs range from 1°C (34°F) in January to 24°C (75°F) in August. Nighttime lows range from -8°C (18°F) to 15°C (59°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does Dartmouth get?
Annual rainfall is around 1363 mm (54 in). December is the wettest month with 142 mm (5.6 in), while May is the driest with 90 mm (3.5 in). In the coldest months, precipitation may fall as snow/rain.
How sunny is Dartmouth?
Dartmouth receives around 1,965 hours of sunshine per year. July is the sunniest month with 235 hours, while November is the cloudiest with just 106 hours.
Dartmouth 3-Day Forecast
Dartmouth on the map
Dartmouth is highlighted - select any city to see its climate.
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