Bellingham, Washington Weather by Month

Bellingham, located in the northwestern corner of Washington State, is a vibrant city known for its stunning natural surroundings, thriving arts scene, and outdoor recreational opportunities. Located approximately 90 miles north of Seattle and 50 miles south of Vancouver, Canada, Bellingham is located between the Salish Sea and the snow-capped peaks of the North Cascades. With a population of around 90,000 residents, Bellingham strikes a perfect balance between small-town charm and urban amenities. Home to Western Washington University and a bustling downtown area, Bellingham offers visitors and residents alike a unique blend of outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, and scenic beauty.

Geography

Bellingham is located at approximately 48.7519° N latitude and 122.4787° W longitude, in Whatcom County, Washington. The city is located on Bellingham Bay, an inlet of the Salish Sea, with Mount Baker rising prominently to the east. The surrounding landscape features a mix of coastal plains, forested hillsides, and pristine waterways, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Bellingham’s location near the Canadian border and between the Puget Sound and the Cascade Mountains contributes to its diverse geography and unique natural beauty.

Population

As of the latest census data, Bellingham has a population of approximately 90,000 residents, making it the largest city in Whatcom County and the twelfth-largest city in Washington State. The city’s population is diverse, with a mix of students, professionals, artists, and outdoor enthusiasts contributing to its vibrant community atmosphere. Bellingham’s residents are known for their active lifestyles, environmental consciousness, and commitment to preserving the city’s natural resources for future generations.

Major Landmarks

Bellingham boasts several major landmarks and attractions that showcase its rich history and cultural heritage. The Fairhaven Historic District, with its charming Victorian-era buildings and waterfront parks, offers a glimpse into Bellingham’s past as a bustling seaport and trading hub. The Bellingham Railway Museum and the Whatcom Museum provide opportunities to learn about the city’s railroad history and Native American heritage, respectively. Outdoor enthusiasts flock to nearby attractions such as Larrabee State Park, Chuckanut Drive, and the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest for hiking, camping, and scenic drives.

Climate and Weather Overview

Average Climate Statistics

Bellingham experiences a temperate marine climate, characterized by mild, wet winters and cool, dry summers. The city’s proximity to the Pacific Ocean moderates its temperatures year-round, resulting in relatively stable weather patterns and frequent precipitation.

Table 1: Average Monthly Climate Statistics for Bellingham, Washington

Month Average Temperature (°F) Precipitation (inches) Sunny Days
January 44°F 6.61 inches 12
February 46°F 4.47 inches 12
March 49°F 4.03 inches 13
April 53°F 2.71 inches 14
May 58°F 2.14 inches 15
June 63°F 1.60 inches 15
July 66°F 0.99 inches 17
August 67°F 1.26 inches 17
September 62°F 1.93 inches 15
October 54°F 3.39 inches 13
November 48°F 6.28 inches 11
December 44°F 7.13 inches 11

Weather by Month

January

January in Bellingham is characterized by cool temperatures and frequent rainfall, with average highs around 44°F. The month typically sees substantial precipitation, with an average of 6.61 inches. Outdoor activities during January may include exploring local parks and trails, birdwatching, or attending cultural events indoors. Visitors can also take advantage of the city’s vibrant arts scene, with galleries, theaters, and live music venues offering entertainment throughout the month.

February

February brings similar cool temperatures to Bellingham, with average highs reaching 46°F. Precipitation levels decrease slightly compared to January, with an average of 4.47 inches. Outdoor enthusiasts can still enjoy activities such as hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing in the city’s parks and natural areas. Indoor activities like visiting museums, attending film festivals, or sampling local cuisine offer opportunities for relaxation and cultural enrichment during the winter months.

March

March marks the transition to spring in Bellingham, with gradually warming temperatures and decreasing rainfall. Average highs reach 49°F, while precipitation levels drop to 4.03 inches. The month offers ideal conditions for outdoor activities such as gardening, picnicking, and nature walks in the city’s parks and green spaces. Visitors can also take part in spring festivals, farmers markets, and community events as the city comes alive with the sights and sounds of the season.

April

April brings milder and more pleasant weather to Bellingham, with average highs around 53°F. Precipitation levels continue to decrease, with an average of 2.71 inches. This ideal weather makes April perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and kayaking in the city’s parks and waterways. Visitors can also enjoy exploring local gardens, attending outdoor concerts, or taking scenic drives along Chuckanut Drive as spring blooms and wildlife abound.

May

May heralds the arrival of spring in full force in Bellingham, with average highs reaching 58°F. The month experiences minimal precipitation, with an average of 2.14 inches. Outdoor enthusiasts can fully embrace the spring weather by engaging in activities such as camping, fishing, and boating at nearby lakes and rivers. Hiking, photography, and exploring local trails offer additional opportunities to enjoy the beauty of the season.

June

June brings the onset of summer in Bellingham, with average highs climbing to 63°F. Precipitation levels remain low, with an average of 1.60 inches. The warmer weather makes June perfect for outdoor activities such as picnicking, swimming, and kayaking in the city’s parks and waterfront areas. Visitors can also enjoy attending outdoor festivals, farmers markets, and community events as the city celebrates the arrival of summer.

July

July is characterized by mild temperatures and abundant sunshine in Bellingham, with average highs peaking at 66°F. The month sees minimal precipitation, with an average of 0.99 inches. Despite the pleasant weather, visitors can still enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and beachcombing along the city’s scenic coastline. Exploring local parks, attending outdoor concerts, or dining al fresco at waterfront restaurants offer additional ways to soak up the summer sun.

August

August continues the trend of mild temperatures and sunny skies in Bellingham, with average highs remaining at 67°F. Precipitation levels remain low compared to other months, with an average of 1.26 inches. While the weather may be warm, visitors can still find relief by participating in water-based activities such as sailing, paddleboarding, and whale watching tours. Additionally, August is an excellent time to explore local farms, orchards, and markets as they celebrate the harvest season.

September

September brings the first signs of fall to Bellingham, with average highs dropping to 62°F. The month experiences slightly increased precipitation, with an average of 1.93 inches. Outdoor enthusiasts can take advantage of the milder weather by engaging in activities such as hiking, biking, and wildlife watching in the city’s parks and natural areas. September is also a great time to explore local festivals, apple orchards, and pumpkin patches as they celebrate the autumn season.

October

October showcases the vibrant colors of fall foliage in Bellingham, with average highs around 54°F. Precipitation levels increase significantly, with an average of 3.39 inches. Visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of autumn by participating in activities such as leaf-peeping, apple picking, and scenic drives along Chuckanut Drive. Hiking, birdwatching, and exploring the city’s parks offer additional opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation.

November

November brings cooler temperatures and increased rainfall to Bellingham, with average highs dropping to 48°F. The month sees significant precipitation, with an average of 6.28 inches. Despite the cooler weather, outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and birdwatching are still popular choices for visitors. Indoor activities like visiting museums, attending holiday markets, or enjoying cozy nights by the fire offer opportunities for relaxation during the colder months.

December

December ushers in winter in Bellingham, with average highs around 44°F. The month experiences substantial precipitation, with an average of 7.13 inches. While outdoor activities may be limited due to the colder weather, visitors can still enjoy seasonal attractions such as holiday light displays, festive markets, and carriage rides. Indoor activities like shopping for unique gifts, attending holiday concerts, or baking holiday treats offer opportunities for holiday cheer and relaxation.

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