Nelson Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit

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

Climate overview of Nelson

Nelson, United States of America, experiences significant temperature variation throughout the year. Summers bring daytime highs of 26°C (79°F) in July, while winters cool to 2°C (36°F) in December.

Nelson sees a moderate amount of rain/snowfall, totalling around 851 mm (34 in) per year. It experiences a distinct dry season from June to September, with warm summers and very cold winters, creating some seasonal variation.

Nelson Weather by Month

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

Monthly Temperature in Nelson

Depending on the time of the year, temperatures range from comfortable to very cold in Nelson. Average maximum daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 26°C (79°F) in July, the warmest time of the year, to a very cold 2°C (36°F) during cooler months like December.

At night, you can expect temperatures ranging from 11°C (52°F) in July to around -5°C (23°F) during December.

Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.

Temperature ranges by month

Rainfall in Nelson

Generally, Nelson has a moderate amount of precipitation, averaging 851 mm (34 in) of rain/snowfall annually. Significant seasonal changes in precipitation occur throughout the year. In the wettest month, December it receives high snowfall, averaging 154 mm (6.1 in) of precipitation, recorded across 22 snowy days. In contrast, the driest month July brings less rainfall, with 9.4 mm (0.4 in) over 4 rainy days. For more details, please visit our Nelson Precipitation page.

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

Best Time to Visit Nelson

Conditions in Nelson are generally most comfortable in June, July, August and September. 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, July, August and September
  • Warmest weather: July and August
  • Fewest rainy days: July and August
  • Wettest months: January, February, March, October, November and December, when rainfall is highest.
  • Seasonal pattern: A distinct dry season from June to September, with warm summers and very cold winters
  • Coldest conditions: December, with freezing nights around -5°C (23°F).

Frequently asked questions about the climate in Nelson

What is the best time to visit Nelson?

June, July, August and September typically offer the most optimal weather in Nelson. In contrast, January, February, March, November and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Nelson has a distinct dry season from June to September, with warm summers and very cold winters.

What temperatures can I expect in Nelson?

Daytime highs range from 2°C (36°F) in December to 26°C (79°F) in July. Nighttime lows range from -5°C (23°F) to 11°C (52°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.

How much rain does Nelson get?

Annual rainfall is around 851 mm (34 in). December is the wettest month with 154 mm (6.1 in), while July is the driest with 9.4 mm (0.4 in). In the coldest months, precipitation may fall as snow.

Nelson 3-Day Forecast

Nelson on the map

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