Churchill (MB) Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Churchill.
Climate overview of Churchill
Churchill, in Manitoba, Canada, experiences significant temperature changes throughout the year. Mild summers transition to very cold winters, while the area receives moderate rainfall and snowfall spread across the seasons. This remote town sits on Hudson Bay where polar bears gather each fall, making it the world's polar bear capital with incredible wildlife viewing opportunities. Let's explore all the climate details to give you a complete overview on when to visit.
Churchill Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Churchill - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Churchill
The climate in Churchill is known for significant temperature differences throughout the year, making the weather dynamic. Average maximum daytime temperatures range from a moderate 15°C (59°F) in August, the warmest time of the year, to a very cold -21°C (-6°F) during cooler months like January.
At night, you can expect temperatures ranging from 9°C (48°F) in August to around -28°C (-18°F) during January.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Churchill
Generally, Churchill receives mid-range precipitation levels, with 541 mm (21 in) annually. Significant seasonal changes in precipitation occur throughout the year. In the wettest month, August it receives moderate rainfall, averaging 91 mm (3.6 in) of precipitation, recorded across 14 rainy days. In contrast, the driest month February brings less snowfall, with 18 mm (0.7 in) over 9 snowy days. For more details, please visit our Churchill Precipitation page.
The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow
Sunshine Hours in Churchill
Seasonal changes in sunshine hours are quite dramatic in Churchill. While July receives considerable daily sunshine with up to 9.4 hours, December marks the darkest time of the year, where sunshine is scarce with only 1.7 hours of sunlight per day.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Humidity in Churchill by Month
The city experiences its highest humidity in November, reaching 89%. In July, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 70%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Wind Speed in Churchill
The mean wind speed varies between 5 m/s (10 knots) and 6 m/s (12 knots) throughout the year. It is lowest in May, June, July and August and highest during January, February, March, April, September, October, November and December. What does this mean?
The mean monthly wind speed over the year (meters per second)
Best Time to Visit Churchill
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
- Best overall: July and August
- Warmest weather: July and August
- Most sunshine: July
- Fewer rainy days: February, March, April, May and June
- Seasonal pattern: A distinct dry season from November to April, with mild summers and very cold winters
- Coldest conditions: January, with freezing nights around -28°C (-18°F).
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Churchill
What is the best time to visit Churchill?
July and August typically offer the most optimal weather in Churchill. In contrast, January, February, March, April, May, June, October, November and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Churchill has a distinct dry season from November to April, with mild summers and very cold winters.
What temperatures can I expect in Churchill?
Daytime highs range from -21°C (-6°F) in January to 15°C (59°F) in August. Nighttime lows range from -28°C (-18°F) to 9°C (48°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does Churchill get?
Annual rainfall is around 541 mm (21 in). August is the wettest month with 91 mm (3.6 in), while February is the driest with 18 mm (0.7 in).
How sunny is Churchill?
Churchill receives around 1,806 hours of sunshine per year. July is the sunniest month with 283 hours, while December is the cloudiest with just 52 hours.
Churchill 3-Day Forecast
Churchill (MB) 3-Day Forecast
Churchill on the map
Churchill is highlighted - select any city to see its climate.
Popular this month
Where to go in July - average daytime high across popular destinations.
Bucket list
Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.
See Polar Bears in Churchill Canada
Thousands of bears gather at the small town of Churchill. In the evening the northern lights give a light show against the dark evening sky. An unforgettable experience.
Canoeing the south Nahannii
The South Nahanni in the northwest of Canada is one of the most impressive wilderness rivers in the world. Canoeing the south Nahanni is something you must add to your bucket list.
See Polar Bears in Churchill Canada
Thousands of bears gather at the small town of Churchill. In the evening the northern lights give a light show against the dark evening sky. An unforgettable experience.
Banff National Park
Snowy mountains, clear blue lakes and green forests make Banff National Park a wonderful bucket list destination. The pristine wilderness is a mecca for walkers.