Dunkirk (NY) Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit

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

Climate overview of Dunkirk

The climate in Dunkirk, New York State, United States of America, is marked by large temperature swings across the seasons, ranging from 26°C (79°F) in July to 0°C (32°F) in February.

The city has a wet climate, receiving around 1117 mm (44 in) of rain/snowfall per year. Despite the high annual total, it has warm summers and very cold winters. October is the wettest month. July is the sunniest month, averaging 10.2 hours of sunshine per day.

Dunkirk Weather by Month

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

Monthly Temperature in Dunkirk

In Dunkirk, temperatures differ significantly between summer and winter months. On average, daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 26°C (79°F) in July to a very cold 0°C (32°F) in February.

Nighttime temperatures range from 17°C (63°F) in July to -8°C (18°F) in February.

Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.

Temperature ranges by month

Rainfall in Dunkirk

Dunkirk experiences significant rain/snowfall throughout the year, averaging 1117 mm (44 in) of precipitation annually. The seasons in Dunkirk bring significant changes in precipitation. The wettest month, October, receives high rainfall, with an average of 142 mm (5.6 in) of precipitation. This rainfall is distributed across 16 rainy days.

In contrast, the driest month, February, experiences much less snowfall, totaling 63 mm (2.5 in) over 14 snowy days. These distinct seasonal differences provide diverse experiences throughout the year. For more details, please visit our Dunkirk Precipitation page.

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

Sunshine Hours in Dunkirk

In Dunkirk, summer days are longer and more sunny, with daily sunshine hours peaking at 10.2 hours in July. As the darker season arrives, the brightness of the sun becomes less. December sees a soft sun for only 2.3 hours per average day.

Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.

Monthly hours of sunshine

Data from: Buffalo, the United States of America (58 KM, 36 Miles).

Daily hours of sunshine

Data from: Buffalo, the United States of America (58 KM, 36 Miles).

Humidity in Dunkirk by Month

Best Time to Visit Dunkirk

Conditions in Dunkirk are generally most comfortable in June. They are typically least comfortable in January, February, March, November 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: June
  • Warmest weather: July and August
  • Most sunshine: July
  • Seasonal pattern: Warm summers and very cold winters
  • Coldest conditions: February, with freezing nights around -8°C (18°F).

Frequently asked questions about the climate in Dunkirk

What is the best time to visit Dunkirk?

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

What temperatures can I expect in Dunkirk?

Daytime highs range from 0°C (32°F) in February to 26°C (79°F) in July. Nighttime lows range from -8°C (18°F) to 17°C (63°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.

How much rain does Dunkirk get?

Annual rainfall is around 1117 mm (44 in). October is the wettest month with 142 mm (5.6 in), while February is the driest with 63 mm (2.5 in).

How sunny is Dunkirk?

Dunkirk receives around 2,211 hours of sunshine per year. July is the sunniest month with 307 hours, while December is the cloudiest with just 68 hours. Overall, Dunkirk enjoys abundant sunshine.

Dunkirk 3-Day Forecast

Dunkirk on the map

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