Climate and monthly weather forecastSalem, OR
Climate and monthly weather forecast
The climate of Salem
Predominately, Salem, Oregon belongs to the Csb, Mediterranean, warm summer zone of the Köppen climate classification. This geographical location and classification contribute to its generally mild and moist weather conditions. Over the course of a year, a broad range of weather patterns is observed in this region due to the shifting of seasons.Temperature swings in Salem are typical, with average high temperatures varying between a peak of 82°F (27.8°C) in August to a low of 45.5°F (7.5°C) in December. Likewise, average minimum temperatures range from 54.1°F (12.3°C) in August down to 34.5°F (1.4°C) in December, indicating a drop in temperature as the year concludes. The varying pressure, stable around 30.04 in, remains fairly constant year-round, exerting only a minor influence on Salem's weather conditions.
Throughout the year, rainfall events are frequent, with December recording the highest average rainfall of 3.94" (100mm). Conversely, July notes the lower end of the spectrum with approximately 0.28" (7mm). A similar pattern is identified in the number of rainfall days, ranging from a high of 19.6 days in March to a low of 3.9 days in July.
Humidity levels in Salem maintain an average from 65% to 86%, making the climate moist and rather humid most of the year. In contrast, snowfall is a rare occurrence with minimal figures recorded in January, February, and December, while being practically absent the rest of the year.
The best time to visit Salem
The best time to visit Salem for optimal weather conditions would primarily be between June to September. During these months, the city experiences an average high temperature from 66.7°F (19.3°C) to 82°F (27.8°C), rendering it perfect for outdoor activities. The lower humidity in July and August, approximately 67%, makes the weather less oppressive, offering a more comfortable experience. Additionally, the amount of rainfall is significantly reduced during summer, making these months the driest and providing a pleasant climate for visitors.The worst time to visit Salem
Contrastingly, the months from November to February can be considered the least suitable for visiting Salem. This period is marked by the lowermost temperatures, with highs plunging to 47.7°F (8.7°C) and lows to 34.5°F (1.4°C). The climate during these months also hosts the highest rainfall levels, reaching up to 3.94" (100mm) in December alone. Coupled with high humidity figures, this period of the year might not appeal to every traveler's comfort.Spring weather in Salem
The arrival of spring in Salem comes with a gradual increase in temperature. Average high temperatures range from 52.9°F (11.6°C) in March to 66.7°F (19.3°C) in May. However, nights continue to hold a chill, with the average low temperature varying from 37.4°F (3°C) to 42.8°F (6°C) within the same period. The precipitation stays comparatively high, marking an average of about 2.92" (74mm) in the spring months.Summer weather in Salem
Summers in Salem are relatively warm and dry. The month of July, in particular, witnesses the highest temperatures, with average highs reaching up to 80.8°F (27.1°C). The average low temperatures during this season vary from 47.7°F (8.7°C) to 54.1°F (12.3°C). Rainfall drops low, and July sees the least with only 0.28" (7mm) recorded on average.Autumn weather in Salem
As autumn sets in, temperatures in Salem begin to decline. High temperatures average between 74.7°F (23.7°C) in September and 51.8°F (11°C) in November. Conversely, the low temperatures show a downward trend from 50.9°F (10.5°C) to 40.1°F (4.5°C) during the same period. A noticeable increase in rainfall is also experienced, with the month of November recording the highest fall at 2.72" (69mm).Winter weather in Salem
Winter in Salem brings colder temperatures and increased precipitation. Average temperatures hover around 45.5°F (7.5°C) for highs and 34.5°F (1.4°C) for the lows. The city experiences its highest rainfall in the winter months, particularly December, with an average of 3.94" (100mm). December also documents the highest relative humidity of the year at about 86%, adding to the cold and dampness.Weather in January
Typical weather for Salem, Oregon in January is characterized by moderate winters with a high average temperature of 47.7°F (8.7°C) and a low of 35.2°F (1.8°C). Compared to the following month, January features higher rainfall at 3.66" (93mm). Weather in January »Weather in February
Transitioning into February, Salem's weather presents a gradual rise in temperatures. Interestingly, February records a slightly higher snowfall of 1.18" (30mm), though it is still a rare phenomenon for the city. The major distinction lies in the lower precipitation at 2.76" (70mm), which is considerably reduced compared to January. Weather in February »Weather in March
March in Salem reveals a weather pattern leaning towards spring with warmer temperatures becoming more apparent. There's an increase in the rainfall with 2.99" (76mm) and an increase in daylight hours up to 12. In terms of snowfall, March sees a reduction to 0.47" (12mm), indicating the wrapping up of wintry conditions. Weather in March »Weather in April
As April sets in, Salem experiences a noticeable shift from the wet weather to a drier climate. Highlighting the change, there's a significant decrease in rainfall with 2.32" (59mm), while the snowfall ceases completely. With the arrival of spring, temperatures continue to rise, alluding to a different phase in Salem's weather cycle. Weather in April »Weather in May
In May, the city of Salem is in the full bloom of spring. This is underlined by a sharp reduction in rainfall (formed about 1.46" (37mm)) and an increased daylight period. May maintains a dry weather pattern, ensuring a vibrant outdoor ambiance. Weather in May »Weather in June
June in Salem represents the beginning of the summer season, as the temperatures continue to climb. In line with the summer expectations, June is considerably drier with a restricted rainfall measure of 1.02" (26mm). Correspondingly, the daylight extends further, fulfilling the city’s summer promise. Weather in June »Weather in July
July in Salem experiences the height of summer with the highest average temperature across the year, signaling a peak in the warm season. On the spotlight, July records the lowest rainfall in the year, with a sparse 0.28" (7mm), exemplifying the dry summer trend. Weather in July »Weather in August
August prolongs Salem's summer spell with a typical warm and dry climate. Although it holds a rainfall figure of just 0.31" (8mm), August still marks a slight increase when compared to July. The city embraces this weather by hosting various food festivals and farmers' markets. Weather in August »Weather in September
September's weather in Salem is a blend of summer and fall, with warmth fading gradually. Compared to August, rainfall inches up to 1.22, signaling the starting shift towards the wet season. However, September remains an ideal time for visiting the city's attractions and taking part in local events. Weather in September »Weather in October
October marks a significant shift in Salem's weather, featuring cooler temperatures and an increasing rainfall measure of 2.4" (61mm). The weather transition is evident with the advent of Fall. This is the time when Salem is adorned with the colors of fall, enhancing the city’s aesthetic appeal. Weather in October »Weather in November
As November arrives, Salem prepares for the onset of winter, visible through a dip in temperatures. Rainfall measures also escalate to 2.72" (69mm), contributing to the cold weather appeal. Interestingly, the month experiences instances of light snowfall with 0.04" (1mm), offering a sneak peek into the approaching winter. Weather in November »Weather in December
Finally, December homes the celebrations of Winter in Salem with the coldest weather throughout the year. The city sees a higher level of rainfall at 3.94" (100mm), defining the mood of December. The feature of December's weather is a moderate snowfall around 0.35" (9mm), which visually aligns with the celebratory holiday season. Weather in December »Updated: Jun 4, 2024
Published by: Weather Atlas | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Published by: Weather Atlas | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Frequently asked questions
January, February and December, with an average relative humidity of 86%, are most humid months.
In Salem, during the entire year, the rain falls for 162.5 days and collects up to 25.08" (637mm) of precipitation.
Months with snowfall are January through March, November and December.
In Salem, during the entire year, snow falls for 4.7 days and aggregates up to 2.48" (63mm) of snow.
The months with the lowest UV index are January, February, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 2.
February is the month with the most snowfall. Snow falls for 1.8 days and accumulates 1.18" (30mm) of snow.
With an average of 4.2h of sunshine, February has the least sunshine of the year.
On Sunday, March 10. 2024, at 2:00 am, Daylight Saving Time starts, and the time zone changes from PST to PDT. Daylight Saving Time ends Sunday, November 3. 2024, at 2:00 am, and the time zone reverts from PDT to PST.
April through October are months without snowfall.
The month with the longest days is June, with an average of 15h and 36min of daylight.
July is the month with the least rainfall. Rain falls for 3.9 days and accumulates 0.28" (7mm) of precipitation.
With an average maximum UV index of 6, July is the month with the highest UV index in Salem.
Salem witnesses the warmest weather in August, with temperatures averaging a high of 82°F (27.8°C) and a low of 54.1°F (12.3°C).
With an average relative humidity of 65%, August is the least humid month.
The month with the most sunshine is August, with an average of 11h of sunshine.
December is the coldest month of the year, registering average temperatures as high as 45.5°F (7.5°C) and as low as 34.5°F (1.4°C).
The month with the most rainfall is December, when the rain falls for 18.3 days and typically aggregates up to 3.94" (100mm) of precipitation.
The month with the shortest days is December, with an average of 8h and 48min of daylight.
Average temperature
Salem, OR
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is August (82°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is December (45.5°F).
The month with the highest average low temperature is August (54.1°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is December (34.5°F).
Average pressure
Salem, OR
- Average pressure in January:
30.11"Hg - Average pressure in February:
30.08"Hg - Average pressure in March:
30.04"Hg - Average pressure in April:
30.07"Hg - Average pressure in May:
30.04"Hg - Average pressure in June:
30.04"Hg
- Average pressure in July:
30.04"Hg - Average pressure in August:
30.01"Hg - Average pressure in September:
30.01"Hg - Average pressure in October:
30.05"Hg - Average pressure in November:
30.06"Hg - Average pressure in December:
30.1"Hg
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is January (30.11"Hg).
The months with the lowest atmospheric pressure are August and September (30.01"Hg).
Average wind speed
Salem, OR
- Average wind speed in January:
5.5mph - Average wind speed in February:
5.4mph - Average wind speed in March:
5.5mph - Average wind speed in April:
5.1mph - Average wind speed in May:
4.5mph - Average wind speed in June:
4.4mph
- Average wind speed in July:
4.4mph - Average wind speed in August:
4.2mph - Average wind speed in September:
4.4mph - Average wind speed in October:
4.9mph - Average wind speed in November:
5.5mph - Average wind speed in December:
5.3mph
The windiest months (with the highest average wind speed) are January, March and November (5.5mph).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is August (4.2mph).
Average humidity
Salem, OR
The months with the highest relative humidity are January, February and December (86%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is August (65%).
Average rainfall
Salem, OR
- Average rainfall in January:
3.66" - Average rainfall in February:
2.76" - Average rainfall in March:
2.99" - Average rainfall in April:
2.32" - Average rainfall in May:
1.46" - Average rainfall in June:
1.02"
- Average rainfall in July:
0.28" - Average rainfall in August:
0.31" - Average rainfall in September:
1.22" - Average rainfall in October:
2.4" - Average rainfall in November:
2.72" - Average rainfall in December:
3.94"
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is December (3.94").
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is July (0.28").
Average rainfall days
Salem, OR
- Average rainfall days in January:
17.1 days - Average rainfall days in February:
16.3 days - Average rainfall days in March:
19.6 days - Average rainfall days in April:
17.7 days - Average rainfall days in May:
13.4 days - Average rainfall days in June:
10.8 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
3.9 days - Average rainfall days in August:
4 days - Average rainfall days in September:
8.9 days - Average rainfall days in October:
15.1 days - Average rainfall days in November:
17.4 days - Average rainfall days in December:
18.3 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is March (19.6 days).
The month with the least rainy days is July (3.9 days).
Average snowfall
Salem, OR
The month with the highest snowfall is February (1.18").
The months with the least snowfall are April, May, June, July, August, September and October (0").
Average snowfall days
Salem, OR
- Average snowfall days in January:
0.9 days - Average snowfall days in February:
1.8 days - Average snowfall days in March:
1.2 days - Average snowfall days in April:
0 days - Average snowfall days in May:
0 days - Average snowfall days in June:
0 days
- Average snowfall days in July:
0 days - Average snowfall days in August:
0 days - Average snowfall days in September:
0 days - Average snowfall days in October:
0 days - Average snowfall days in November:
0.2 days - Average snowfall days in December:
0.6 days
The month with the highest number of snowfall days is February (1.8 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are April, May, June, July, August, September and October (0 days).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Salem, OR
- Average daylight in January:
9h and 12min - Average daylight in February:
10h and 30min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 0min - Average daylight in April:
13h and 30min - Average daylight in May:
14h and 54min - Average daylight in June:
15h and 36min
- Average daylight in July:
15h and 12min - Average daylight in August:
14h and 0min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 30min - Average daylight in October:
10h and 54min - Average daylight in November:
9h and 36min - Average daylight in December:
8h and 48min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 15h and 36min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 8h and 48min).
- Average sunshine in January:
4h and 18min - Average sunshine in February:
4h and 12min - Average sunshine in March:
5h and 48min - Average sunshine in April:
7h and 18min - Average sunshine in May:
8h and 36min - Average sunshine in June:
9h and 30min
- Average sunshine in July:
10h and 54min - Average sunshine in August:
11h and 0min - Average sunshine in September:
9h and 24min - Average sunshine in October:
5h and 30min - Average sunshine in November:
4h and 48min - Average sunshine in December:
4h and 18min
The month with the most sunshine is August (Average sunshine: 11h and 0min).
The month with the least sunshine is February (Average sunshine: 4h and 12min).
Average sunshine days
Salem, OR
- Average sunshine days in January:
12.4 days - Average sunshine days in February:
9.3 days - Average sunshine days in March:
8.8 days - Average sunshine days in April:
10.3 days - Average sunshine days in May:
16.3 days - Average sunshine days in June:
17.2 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
26.3 days - Average sunshine days in August:
25.2 days - Average sunshine days in September:
20 days - Average sunshine days in October:
14.8 days - Average sunshine days in November:
11.3 days - Average sunshine days in December:
10.6 days
The month with the most sunshine days is July (26.3 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is March (8.8 days).
Average UV index
Salem, OR
The month with the highest UV index is July (UV index 6).
The months with the lowest UV index are January, February, November and December (UV index 2).
Average cloud cover
Salem, OR
The month with the most cloud cover is February (Cloud cover 60).
The month with the least cloud cover is August (Cloud cover 21).
Average visibility
Salem, OR
The months with the highest visibility are July, August and September (6mi).
The months with the lowest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, October, November and December (5mi).
