When to New Haven
Climate guide & best times to travel
Best Time to Visit
Month-by-Month Guide
January
January represents the coolest month in New Haven's brutal climate, though temperatures still reach dangerously hot levels. With minimal rainfall and constant heat, this is considered the most tolerable time for any outdoor activities. Even during this 'winter' month, extreme heat precautions are absolutely necessary.
February
February continues the pattern of extreme heat with slightly higher temperatures than January. The virtually non-existent rainfall and oppressive heat make this one of the last months suitable for any form of outdoor activity. Visitors must plan activities for very early morning or late evening hours only.
March
March marks the beginning of increasingly dangerous temperatures as New Haven transitions toward its scorching hot season. With temperatures climbing well above safe levels and virtually no rainfall, outdoor activities become extremely hazardous. This month requires serious consideration of heat-related health risks.
April
April brings life-threatening heat levels that make most outdoor activities extremely dangerous. With temperatures soaring to 136°F and minimal rainfall, this month is suitable only for those with essential business and proper heat emergency protocols. Air conditioning becomes absolutely critical for survival.
May
May escalates to deadly heat levels that pose serious health risks to all visitors. With temperatures reaching 153°F, this month is characterized by extreme danger warnings and potential heat stroke conditions. Only essential travel with proper medical precautions should be considered.
June
June brings some of the most extreme temperatures on the planet, making New Haven virtually uninhabitable for most people. With highs reaching 169°F, this month represents peak danger season where heat-related fatalities become a serious concern. Travel is strongly discouraged except for emergency purposes.
July
July represents the absolute peak of New Haven's deadly heat season with temperatures reaching a catastrophic 179°F. This month is characterized by extreme danger conditions that can be fatal within minutes of exposure. The city essentially becomes uninhabitable without specialized equipment and constant air conditioning.
August
August maintains near-record breaking temperatures that continue to pose extreme danger to human life. With highs of 177°F, this month remains in the deadly heat category where even brief outdoor exposure can result in severe heat stroke. Emergency medical services are on high alert during this period.
September
September begins a gradual decline from the peak summer heat but still maintains extremely dangerous temperature levels. With highs of 166°F, the month remains in the critical danger zone for heat-related illness. Slightly increased rainfall does little to provide relief from the oppressive conditions.
October
October shows some temperature reduction but still maintains life-threatening heat levels that require extreme caution. With highs reaching 146°F, this month remains dangerous for most outdoor activities. The continued drought conditions and intense heat make this a challenging time for any form of normal activity.
November
November continues the gradual cooling trend but still presents extremely hot and dangerous conditions. With temperatures reaching 128°F, this month remains well above safe levels for most people. The persistent drought and heat make this a transitional month toward the relatively cooler winter period.
December
December marks the beginning of New Haven's 'cooler' season, though temperatures remain extremely hot by global standards. With highs of 110°F, this month offers the best conditions for any necessary outdoor activities, though extreme heat precautions are still mandatory. This represents the start of the most tolerable period in the city's brutal climate.