Outer Banks Weather Information
Outer Banks Seasons
Once known as a "summer " destination, the temperate weather on the Outer Banks makes it an enjoyable destination year-round. A combination of bright sunny days tempered by gentle ocean breezes, the Outer Banks enjoys around 200 sunny days each year, with a year-round average hovering around 70°. Wind is an everyday occurrence on the Outer Banks, and can range from gentle southwest breezes to strong northeast storm winds.
Summer
The summer months average lows from the mid 70's to highs near 90, depending on the time of the summer. Average temperatures on the Outer Banks climb to 85°, but even on the hottest of summer days you can expect a slight to moderate ocean breeze. In summer the wind blows out of the southwest, picking up speed in the late afternoon.
Fall
Visiting North Carolina's Outer Banks in the fall is perfect for spending your days outdoors. Expect temperatures in the lower 80's in September, and mid- 70's in October.
Winter
Winter temperatures are usually cool, though the wind can make it feel colder. Winter daytime temperatures average in the lower 50's with nights averaging in the upper 30's.
Spring
Spring is typically a mild season; however, temperatures in the spring can be very unpredictable. Average daytime temperatures are normally in the upper 60's and lower 70's.
Average Temperature, Precipitation & Wind Chart
The following weather readings reflect the average temperatures (degrees Fahrenheit), wind velocity (MPH), and
precipitation (inches) for the past ten years from Cape Hatteras. These temperatures have been provided by The National Weather Service Newport Office.
Month |
Max Temperature |
Min Temperature |
Water Temperature |
Precipitation |
Wind |
| January | 51°F | 36°F | 49°F | 4.7 inches | 14 mph |
| February | 54°F | 37°F | 46°F | 3.2 inches | 15 mph |
| March | 60°F | 43°F | 42°F | 4.6 inches | 15 mph |
| April | 69°F | 51°F | 59°F | 3.1 inches | 14 mph |
| May | 76°F | 60°F | 68°F | 4.2 inches | 13 mph |
| June | 83°F | 68°F | 74°F | 4.8 inches | 12 mph |
| July | 86°F | 72°F | 78°F | 5.3 inches | 11 mph |
| August | 85°F | 72°F | 80°F | 5.6 inches | 12 mph |
| September | 81°F | 67°F | 77°F | 4.9 inches | 14 mph |
| October | 71°F | 57°F | 70°F | 4.1 inches | 14 mph |
| November | 63°F | 48°F | 58°F | 3.4 inches | 14 mph |
| December | 55°F | 40°F | 55°F | 3.7 inches | 15 mph |
Hurricane Preparedness
Hurricane season runs from June 1 - November 30. Be sure to visit our weather update page to find current conditions on the Outer Banks - including any and all tropical storms or hurricanes in the Atlantic approaching the U.S. coastline.
Current Weather Forecast
