Climate and monthly weather forecastWhitefish, MT

The climate of Whitefish

Whitefish, Montana, falls within the Köppen climate classification of Dfb, which is translated to a Humid continental climate with warm summers and no dry season. The city’s geographical position in the Northern Rockies results in diverse weather conditions throughout the year. Weather parameters vary significantly, with temperatures swinging from a low of 12°F (-11.1°C) in the heart of winter to a soaring high of 79°F (26.1°C) in the summer months.

The course of the year sees a rise and fall in various weather parameters. On average, the city receives 1.9" (48mm) of rainfall in January, which drops to a yearly low of 1.2" (30mm) in October before climbing back up to 2" (51mm) in December. The number of rainy days per month also veers between 8 and 15. Sunlight hours stretch from 8.4 hours in winter months to a generous 16 hours in summer.

Interesting patterns emerge within these annual variations. July and August hit the highest average temperatures, hovering around 79°F (26.1°C), and also the maximum UV index of 8. Conversely, the winter months of December and January dip to the lowest temperatures, averaging between 12°F (-11.1°C) to 16°F (-8.9°C). Intriguingly, the month of uneven weather patterns is July which sees the least amount of rainfall days but also the highest temperatures and UV index.

The best time to visit Whitefish

Given the diversity in weather conditions, determining the best time to visit Whitefish would depend greatly on the preferences of the traveler. However, for those targeting optimal temperatures coupled with an abundance of sunshine, the months from June to August emerge as favorable choices. Temperature highs during these months range from 63°F (17.2°C) to 79°F (26.1°C), while the average sunlight duration is between 15.3 hours to 16 hours. Moreover, these months also present moderate rainfall, measuring from 1.3" (33mm) to 2.4" (61mm), making outdoor exploration pleasant.

The worst time to visit Whitefish

The least favorable period for a visit to Whitefish, especially for tourists not acclimatized to harsh winters, would be the colder months from December to February. During these months, the lowest average temperatures are recorded, ranging from 12°F (-11.1°C) to 16°F (-8.9°C). These months also see reduced hours of daylight, between 8.4 hours and 10.2 hours, and an average of 2 hours of sunshine, making outdoor activities less appealing.

Spring weather in Whitefish

Spring in Whitefish, spanning from March to May, ushers in warmer weather following the chilly winter. Temperatures steadily escalate from an average high of 43°F (6.1°C) in March to 63°F (17.2°C) in May. The rainfall during spring spans from 1.3" (33mm) to 2.2" (56mm), while the number of daylight and sunshine hours both increase, offering more chances to take in the sights and wonders of the area.

Summer weather in Whitefish

Summertime in Whitefish, lasting from June to August, is characterized by hot temperatures and a generous amount of sunshine. The average maximum temperature spikes to a balmy 79°F (26.1°C) in the months of July and August. Regular rainfall during these months helps to keep the temperatures at a moderate level.

Autumn weather in Whitefish

Autumn, marking the months of September to November, brings a gradual drop in temperatures from an average high of 68°F (20°C) in September to 37°F (2.8°C) in November. Rainfall measures between 1.2" (30mm) and 1.7" (43mm), while daylight hours decline from 12.6 hours to 9.2 hours.

Winter weather in Whitefish

Winter in Whitefish endures from December through February with lowest average temperatures of the year, bringing chilly conditions. Average highs dip as low as 28°F (-2.2°C) in January, adding to the winter chill. Despite this, the winter months also see a rise in rainfall, peaking at 2" (51mm) in December, providing opportunities for winter sports enthusiasts. Sunshine hours are low, ranging from 2 to 3 hours daily.

Weather in January

In Whitefish, Montana, January marks the essence of winter. Starkly different from its summer months, January can be described as significantly cold and snowy. The temperature fluctuates, with the highest temperatures remaining below freezing at 28°F (-2.2°C), and the lower threshold being as chilly as 12°F (-11.1°C). Weather in January »

Weather in February

February, the last full month of winter in Whitefish, is marginally milder than January, while still maintaining the character of a chilly winter month. The area gradually sees a slight increase in temperatures, symbolizing the imminent arrival of spring. Weather in February »

Weather in March

As Whitefish, Montana transitions into spring, March brings consistent change while still clinging to the remnants of winter. Incremental increases in temperature act as an indication of the encroaching warming trend. Spanning 23°F (-5°C) to 43°F (6.1°C), average temperatures for this month exhibit a definitive warming, which is especially noticeable in the afternoons. Weather in March »

Weather in April

With April acting as a full-fledged beacon of spring in Whitefish, warming trends accelerate. This, coupled with an increase in daylight hours, eradicates the last vestiges of winter. Temperatures take a significant leap, averaging from 30°F (-1.1°C) to 54°F (12.2°C), ushering in a milder climate. Weather in April »

Weather in May

May sees Whitefish truly step out of its spring attire and start to exhibit signs of the impending summer. The climate turns appreciably milder, with warming temperatures invigorating the landscape and its inhabitants. The average temperature ranges from 37°F (2.8°C) to 63°F (17.2°C), affirming a solid positioning within spring and anticipation of summer. Weather in May »

Weather in June

June introduces Whitefish, Montana to summer temperatures that hover in the moderate range. The landscape transforms, becoming an inviting playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Temperatures swing between 43°F (6.1°C) and 72°F (22.2°C), providing a lovely balance of warmth without the excessive heat often characteristic of summer months. Weather in June »

Weather in July

The heat of July represents the pinnacle of summer in Whitefish, with the city cloaked in an inviting, warm atmosphere. Substantially warmer than previous months, the climate reaches its zenith in terms of summer-enhanced temperatures. Weather in July »

Weather in August

Whitefish experiences a second round of heat in August, matching July as the warmest month of the year. The month continues the ongoing summer spell, with comforting warmth enveloping the city. The average temperature stays uniform at 46°F (7.8°C) to 79°F (26.1°C), mirroring the climatic pattern from July, keeping the warm season alive. Weather in August »

Weather in September

The climate of September signals a transition towards cooler months in Whitefish, offering a mild respite from the summer heat. Despite the slight dip in temperature, the weather remains largely hospitable, even as the days begin to shorten. Weather in September »

Weather in October

October adorns Whitefish with an autumnal blanket, signaled by the falling leaves and the noticeable chill in the air. The transition towards the colder months becomes more pronounced, with temperatures continuing their decent. Weather in October »

Weather in November

Approaching the end of the year, November ushers in the chill of winter back into Whitefish, Montana. The autumn leaves all but disappear, replaced by a gradually accumulating layer of frost. The low temperatures settle in the vincinity of 23°F (-5°C), often plunging down from the high of 37°F (2.8°C), signaling the arrival of a frigid climate. Weather in November »

Weather in December

December plunges Whitefish into the full swing of winter with a drop in temperatures, reduced daylight hours, and more frequent snowfall. The city dons a pristine white coat, with frozen landscapes echoing the quiet, serene ambiance of winter. Weather in December »