Conway, New Hampshire Weather by Month
Conway, New Hampshire, located in the northeastern United States, is a charming town known for its scenic beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities, and rich history. Situated within Carroll County, Conway is part of the larger Mount Washington Valley region, which is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, including the majestic White Mountains. The town covers an area of approximately 71 square miles and boasts a population of around 10,000 residents, though this number can fluctuate seasonally due to tourism.
Conway is home to several notable landmarks and attractions. One of the most famous is the Conway Scenic Railroad, offering nostalgic train rides through the White Mountains. The town is also known for its proximity to Mount Washington, the highest peak in the Northeastern United States, attracting hikers, climbers, and sightseers. Additionally, Conway hosts Cranmore Mountain Resort, a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding in the winter and various outdoor activities in the warmer months.
While Conway does not house a major university, it is near several educational institutions, including Plymouth State University and the University of New Hampshire, both of which contribute to the region’s educational and cultural environment.
Climate and Weather Overview
Conway, New Hampshire experiences a humid continental climate, characterized by four distinct seasons: cold, snowy winters; warm, humid summers; and transitional spring and fall seasons. The weather patterns are heavily influenced by the town’s geographical location in the White Mountains, which can lead to significant variations in weather conditions.
The following table provides an overview of Conway’s average temperature, precipitation, and sunny days for each month:
Month | Avg. Temperature (°F) | Avg. Precipitation (in) | Avg. Sunny Days |
---|---|---|---|
January | 15 – 32 | 3.5 | 8 |
February | 18 – 35 | 3.2 | 9 |
March | 25 – 45 | 3.5 | 10 |
April | 35 – 58 | 3.3 | 11 |
May | 45 – 68 | 3.8 | 13 |
June | 55 – 77 | 4.0 | 14 |
July | 60 – 82 | 3.7 | 15 |
August | 58 – 80 | 3.9 | 14 |
September | 50 – 72 | 3.6 | 12 |
October | 40 – 60 | 3.7 | 11 |
November | 30 – 47 | 4.0 | 9 |
December | 20 – 36 | 4.1 | 8 |
January
In January, Conway experiences its coldest temperatures, with average highs reaching around 32°F and lows dipping to approximately 15°F. Snowfall is common, contributing to an average precipitation of 3.5 inches. The town sees about 8 sunny days during this month. The cold weather is perfect for winter sports enthusiasts, with activities like skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating being popular at local resorts such as Cranmore Mountain Resort. Visitors and residents can also enjoy snowshoeing and winter hiking in the White Mountains.
Natural disasters such as blizzards can occasionally occur in January, leading to heavy snowfall and potential disruptions. It is essential for residents and visitors to stay informed about weather forecasts and to take necessary precautions during severe winter storms.
February
February in Conway remains cold, with temperatures slightly rising compared to January. Average highs are around 35°F, and lows are near 18°F. The town receives about 3.2 inches of precipitation, primarily in the form of snow. February sees an increase in sunny days, with an average of 9 days of clear weather.
Winter activities continue to be the highlight of February. The consistent snow cover makes it an ideal time for skiing, snowboarding, and other snow-related activities. The town often hosts winter festivals and events that celebrate the season’s beauty.
March
March marks the beginning of a transitional period in Conway’s weather. Temperatures start to rise, with averages ranging from 25°F to 45°F. The town receives about 3.5 inches of precipitation, which can include both snow and rain as temperatures fluctuate. There are approximately 10 sunny days in March.
As winter begins to recede, the town sees a mix of winter and early spring activities. While skiing and snowboarding may still be possible in early March, the latter part of the month often brings opportunities for early spring hiking and exploring the region’s scenic trails.
Natural disasters such as late-season snowstorms can occur, occasionally leading to heavy snowfall and disruptions. However, the overall trend is toward milder weather.
April
April in Conway sees a significant change in weather as spring takes hold. Average temperatures range from 35°F to 58°F, and precipitation averages 3.3 inches. The month typically has around 11 sunny days.
April is a great time to explore Conway’s natural beauty as the snow melts and the landscape begins to green. Hiking and exploring the local parks and trails become popular activities. The town’s rivers and lakes start to thaw, making it a suitable time for fishing and other water-related activities.
While April showers are common, contributing to the precipitation levels, the risk of severe weather is generally low. However, it is not uncommon to experience a late snowfall or frost, so it’s advisable to be prepared for varied weather conditions.
May
May brings warmer weather to Conway, with average temperatures ranging from 45°F to 68°F. Precipitation increases slightly to about 3.8 inches, and the town enjoys an average of 13 sunny days.
Spring is in full bloom during May, making it an excellent time for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and exploring the area’s natural beauty. The White Mountain National Forest and local parks offer numerous trails and scenic spots for visitors to enjoy. The warmer temperatures also mark the beginning of the fishing and boating season on the local lakes and rivers.
Natural disasters are rare in May, but the month can occasionally experience heavy rains and thunderstorms. It is essential to stay informed about weather forecasts when planning outdoor activities.
June
June in Conway sees the arrival of summer, with average temperatures ranging from 55°F to 77°F. The town receives around 4 inches of precipitation, and there are approximately 14 sunny days.
The warm weather opens up a wide range of outdoor activities. Hiking, camping, and exploring the White Mountains are popular choices. The Saco River offers opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and tubing. The local farmers’ markets and outdoor events also begin to pick up, offering a taste of the region’s produce and crafts.
While June is generally pleasant, occasional thunderstorms can occur. These storms can bring heavy rainfall and strong winds, so it’s advisable to check weather updates and be prepared for sudden changes in weather conditions.
July
July is the warmest month in Conway, with average temperatures ranging from 60°F to 82°F. The town receives around 3.7 inches of precipitation, and there are about 15 sunny days.
The warm, sunny weather makes July a peak time for tourism and outdoor activities. Hiking trails are bustling with visitors, and water sports on the Saco River are in full swing. The town often hosts summer festivals, outdoor concerts, and community events. The scenic beauty of the area, combined with the pleasant weather, makes it an ideal time for camping and exploring the outdoors.
Although July is generally warm and pleasant, occasional thunderstorms can occur, bringing heavy rain and potential flooding in low-lying areas. Visitors and residents should stay informed about weather conditions and exercise caution during outdoor activities.
August
August in Conway continues the warm trend, with average temperatures ranging from 58°F to 80°F. Precipitation remains steady at around 3.9 inches, and the town enjoys approximately 14 sunny days.
August is a great time for outdoor activities, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and exploring the natural beauty of the White Mountains. The warm weather also makes it a popular time for water activities, including swimming, kayaking, and tubing on the Saco River. The local farmers’ markets are in full swing, offering fresh produce and local goods.
Thunderstorms are still possible in August, and these can bring heavy rainfall and strong winds. As always, it’s essential to stay informed about weather conditions and be prepared for sudden changes.
September
September marks the beginning of fall in Conway, with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 72°F. The town receives around 3.6 inches of precipitation and enjoys approximately 12 sunny days.
The fall foliage season begins in September, drawing visitors to the area to witness the vibrant colors of the changing leaves. Hiking and exploring the White Mountains become popular activities as the temperatures cool. The town also hosts various fall festivals and events celebrating the season.
While September is generally mild, it can occasionally experience remnants of tropical storms or hurricanes, bringing heavy rain and strong winds. It’s important to stay updated on weather forecasts and be prepared for potential weather disruptions.
October
October in Conway sees cooler temperatures, with averages ranging from 40°F to 60°F. The town receives about 3.7 inches of precipitation and has around 11 sunny days.
October is peak foliage season in Conway, attracting visitors from all over to enjoy the stunning colors of the changing leaves. The cooler weather makes it a perfect time for hiking, biking, and exploring the outdoors. The town often hosts fall festivals, pumpkin patches, and other seasonal events.
While October is generally a pleasant month, it can experience early frost and occasional snow, particularly towards the end of the month. It’s advisable to dress in layers and be prepared for a range of weather conditions.
November
November brings colder temperatures to Conway, with averages ranging from 30°F to 47°F. The town receives around 4 inches of precipitation, which can include both rain and snow. There are approximately 9 sunny days in November.
As the weather cools, the town begins to transition towards winter activities. Hiking and outdoor exploration continue, but snow begins to fall, marking the start of the skiing and snowboarding season at local resorts. The town often hosts holiday events and markets in preparation for the winter season.
November can experience early-season snowstorms, which can bring significant snowfall and potential disruptions. It’s important to be prepared for winter weather conditions and to stay informed about forecasts.
December
December in Conway is characterized by cold temperatures and snowfall. Average temperatures range from 20°F to 36°F, and the town receives around 4.1 inches of precipitation, primarily in the form of snow. There are approximately 8 sunny days in December.
Winter sports enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the arrival of snow, with skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities becoming popular. The holiday season brings festive events and decorations to the town, making it a charming time to visit. Conway’s scenic beauty, combined with its winter activities, makes it a popular destination for holiday travelers.
Natural disasters such as blizzards can occur in December, leading to heavy snowfall and potential travel disruptions. It’s essential to be prepared for winter weather and to take necessary precautions during severe storms.