Dover (DE) Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit

Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Dover.

Climate overview of Dover

Dover, Delaware, United States of America, experiences significant temperature variation throughout the year. Summers bring daytime highs of 31°C (88°F) in July, while winters cool to 6°C (43°F) in January.

With around 1220 mm (48 in) of annual rain/snowfall, Dover has a notably wet climate. However, this rain/snowfall is not evenly distributed — the city has very warm summers and cold winters. The wettest month is October.

Dover Weather by Month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Dover - and find the best time to visit.

Monthly Temperature in Dover

Depending on the time of the year, temperatures range from very warm to chilly in Dover. Average daytime temperatures reach a very warm 31°C (88°F) in July. In January, the coolest month of the year, temperatures drop to a chilly 6°C (43°F).

At night, temperatures range from around 21°C (70°F) in July to -3°C (27°F) in January.

Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.

Temperature ranges by month

Rainfall in Dover

Dover has a relatively rain/snowy climate with high precipitation levels, averaging 1220 mm (48 in) of rain/snowfall annually. Dover experiences moderate seasonal variation in rainfall, with monthly averages ranging from 143 mm (5.6 in) in October, the wettest month, and 70 mm (2.8 in) in February, the driest month. For more details, please visit our Dover Precipitation page.

The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow

Best Time to Visit Dover

For comfortable weather, consider visiting Dover in May. Conditions are usually least favourable in January, February and December.

Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.

  • Best overall: May
  • Warmest weather: July and August
  • Fewer rainy days: January, March, July, September and November
  • Seasonal pattern: Very warm summers and cold winters
  • Coldest conditions: January, with freezing nights around -3°C (27°F).

Frequently asked questions about the climate in Dover

What is the best time to visit Dover?

May typically offers the most optimal weather in Dover. In contrast, January, February and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Dover has very warm summers and cold winters.

What temperatures can I expect in Dover?

Daytime highs range from 6°C (43°F) in January to 31°C (88°F) in July. Nighttime lows range from -3°C (27°F) to 21°C (70°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.

How much rain does Dover get?

Annual rainfall is around 1220 mm (48 in). October is the wettest month with 143 mm (5.6 in), while February is the driest with 70 mm (2.8 in).

Dover 3-Day Forecast

Dover (DE) 3-Day Forecast

Dover on the map

Dover is highlighted - select any city to see its climate.

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