Weather in Arcata

Stay up to date with the current weather conditions in the city of Arcata to ensure your trip is as comfortable as possible. Below, you will find the latest data, detailed forecasts, and temperature fluctuation charts.

The climate of Arcata can be described as mild marine, with a strong ocean influence that smooths out temperature fluctuations. There is practically no exhausting heat or severe frost here, making the weather quite even and predictable. Even in the warmest summer months, such as August, the average maximum temperature rarely exceeds +19°C, and in winter, the thermometer usually does not drop below +5°C.

The year here is clearly divided into dry and wet seasons. Summer in Arcata, especially July and August, is a time when rain is almost completely absent, allowing you to enjoy walks in the fresh air. However, with the arrival of autumn, precipitation begins to increase, peaking in the winter months: in January and December, the number of rainy days can make up more than half the month. Travellers should take this feature into account and, regardless of the season, bring layered clothing, as the coolness is felt here all year round.

The climate in Arcata is distinguished by surprising mildness and stability, thanks to which there is no extreme heat or severe frost here. The annual temperature progression is quite smooth: the coolest months fall at the end of winter, particularly February, when the average temperature is about 7.9°C, and night-time figures can drop to 5.3°C. Winter here is cool and wet rather than frosty, and even in January and December, daytime temperatures confidently stay above 11°C.

The summer period in this region of the United States is ideal for travellers who do not tolerate heat well. Summer in Arcata can be described as pleasantly warm and fresh. The warmest month is August with an average temperature of 16.0°C and daytime highs of around 19.1°C; September is practically just as warm. At this time of year, the weather encourages long walks, as the air warms up to comfortable levels but does not become scorching.

A characteristic feature of the local climate is the small amplitude of daily temperature fluctuations. The difference between day and night figures is small and rarely exceeds 6–7 degrees. For example, at the height of summer, in July and August, after daytime temperatures of 18–19°C, a moderately cool night follows with temperatures around 12–13°C. This stability makes Arcata a predictable and comfortable destination for tourism in any season.

The pattern of precipitation in Arcata has a pronounced seasonality, dividing the year into a wet winter period and a dry summer. Since temperatures here remain above freezing even in the coldest months (minimum around +5°C), snow falls extremely rarely, and the main type of precipitation is rain.

The rainy season lasts from late autumn to early spring. The rainiest month is considered to be January, when an average of about 17 days with precipitation are recorded. December and March are also characterized by high humidity — it can rain for half the month. During this period, travellers should definitely carry waterproof clothing and an umbrella.

Summer, on the contrary, delights with stable and dry weather. From June, the amount of precipitation decreases sharply, reaching a minimum in July and August. In these months, the probability of getting caught in the rain is practically zero: statistics show an average of only 1 rainy day for the entire month, which creates excellent conditions for walks and excursions.

Given Arcata's mild but rather cool climate, the main principle when packing your suitcase should be layering. Even in the warmest months, July and August, the average temperature rarely exceeds 16–19°C, so light t-shirts should be supplemented with warm jumpers, fleece jackets, or hoodies. The wind from the ocean can be fresh at any time of the year, so a reliable windbreaker will be useful to you even in summer, especially for evening strolls.

If you are planning a trip between November and April, be prepared for a high probability of precipitation: in January and December, it rains for almost half the month. At this time of year, a waterproof jacket with a hood and high-quality water-repellent shoes are simply essential. An umbrella will not be amiss either, but due to possible gusts of wind, it is more convenient to use a raincoat or membrane clothing, which will protect against both dampness and cold.

Regardless of the season, to explore the picturesque surroundings and city streets, you will need comfortable walking shoes — broken-in trainers or light trekking boots. Despite the fact that there is no exhausting heat here, the sun can be active, so be sure to bring sunglasses and SPF cream. Such a set of items will allow you to feel comfortable and enjoy your trip in any weather.