Outer Banks Weather by Month
86°
Average July high
51°
Average January high
80°
Ocean temperature in August
Jun 1
Hurricane season starts (ends Nov 30)
Month by month
Average temperatures and rainfall
Air temperatures and rainfall are 30-year averages (1991 to 2020) for Manteo, in the middle of the Outer Banks. Ocean temperatures are averages for the waters off Cape Hatteras. The northern beaches run a little cooler in winter.
| Month | Avg. high | Avg. low | Ocean | Rain |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 51°F | 36°F | 49°F | 3.8 in. |
| February | 53°F | 37°F | 46°F | 3.2 in. |
| March | 59°F | 43°F | 52°F | 3.8 in. |
| April | 68°F | 51°F | 59°F | 2.9 in. |
| May | 75°F | 60°F | 68°F | 3.5 in. |
| June | 82°F | 69°F | 74°F | 4.5 in. |
| July | 86°F | 73°F | 78°F | 5.3 in. |
| August | 84°F | 72°F | 80°F | 5.6 in. |
| September | 79°F | 69°F | 77°F | 4.5 in. |
| October | 71°F | 58°F | 70°F | 3.2 in. |
| November | 61°F | 48°F | 58°F | 2.9 in. |
| December | 55°F | 40°F | 55°F | 3.3 in. |
Sources: NOAA 1991 to 2020 climate normals for Manteo (Dare County Regional Airport); NOAA coastal water temperatures for Cape Hatteras. Averages, not a forecast.
Best time to visit
Each season has its own appeal
March to May
Spring
Highs climb from the 50s in March to the mid 70s by May. Great for hiking Jockey's Ridge, biking and fishing. The ocean is still chilly for swimming until late May.
June to August
Summer
Highs in the 80s, ocean in the upper 70s and the busiest beaches of the year. Expect pop-up afternoon thunderstorms and book lodging and ferries early.
September to October
Fall
Many locals' favorite: the ocean stays warm into October and the crowds thin out. It is also the heart of hurricane season, so keep an eye on the tropics and consider travel insurance.
November to February
Winter
Quiet, mild and breezy, with highs in the 50s and occasional nor'easters. Snow is rare. Some seasonal shops close, but year-round businesses welcome off-season visitors.
June 1 to November 30
Hurricane season and storm alerts
Most summers pass without a direct hit, but storms, high surf and overwash on NC 12 can disrupt plans, especially from mid-August through October. Sign up for local alerts before you need them.
Dare County
Emergency alerts
Text, call or email alerts for severe weather, evacuations and reentry for Duck through Hatteras Island.
Sign up for Dare alerts →Currituck County
Currituck Alert
County alerts by text, call or email. For Corolla and the 4x4 beaches, text SAFECOROLLA to 888-777.
Sign up for Currituck Alert →Tropics
National Hurricane Center
Official tracks, cones and advisories for every storm in the Atlantic.
Check the tropics →Business owners and property owners: get your reentry permit now
After an evacuation, Dare County lets people back in by stages, and you need a current permit to return early. Permits expire at the end of each year. Apply at DareNC.gov/Reentry →
Today's conditions
Forecast and beach conditions
Local forecast
The National Weather Service office in Newport/Morehead City covers the Outer Banks from Duck south.
NWS forecast →Rip currents and surf
Check the daily rip current risk before you swim, and always swim near a lifeguard.
Beach forecast →Lifeguard text alerts
Text "Join OBXBeachConditions" to 30890 for beach condition updates from Outer Banks lifeguards.
Common questions
Weather FAQ
When is the ocean warm enough to swim?
Most people find the water comfortable from about mid June into early October, when it averages in the mid 70s to 80°F. May and late October are brisk.
What is the weather like in March and April?
Cool to mild. Highs average about 59°F in March and 68°F in April, with breezy days and chilly nights. Pack layers and a windbreaker.
What is the weather like in May and October?
Two of the nicest months. May highs average about 75°F and October about 71°F, with fewer crowds than summer. October's ocean is still near 70°F.
Does it snow on the Outer Banks?
Rarely. Winter is usually mild, with highs in the 50s, though a dusting of snow happens some years.
Planning your visit?
Find places to stay, eat and explore from local Chamber members, any time of year. Questions? Call the Chamber at 252.441.8144.
