Fort McMurray (AB) Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Fort McMurray.
Climate overview of Fort McMurray
Fort McMurray, Alberta, Canada, sees big temperature differences between seasons, with July peaking at 24°C (75°F) and January dropping to -11°C (12°F).
Fort McMurray sees a moderate amount of rain/snowfall, totalling around 510 mm (20 in) per year. It experiences a distinct dry season from October to April, with warm summers and very cold winters, creating some seasonal variation. The most sunshine falls in July, with an average of 9.6 hours of daily sunshine.
Fort McMurray Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Fort McMurray - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Fort McMurray
Visitors to Fort McMurray can expect significant temperature changes throughout the year. Average maximum daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 24°C (75°F) in July, the warmest time of the year, to a very cold -11°C (12°F) during cooler months like January.
At night, you can expect temperatures ranging from 12°C (54°F) in July to around -21°C (-6°F) during January.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Fort McMurray
Generally, Fort McMurray experiences moderate precipitation patterns, averaging 510 mm (20 in) yearly. Significant seasonal changes in precipitation occur throughout the year. In the wettest month, July it receives moderate rainfall, averaging 88 mm (3.5 in) of precipitation, recorded across 14 rainy days. In contrast, the driest month February brings less snowfall, with 19 mm (0.7 in) over 9 snowy days. For more details, please visit our Fort McMurray Precipitation page.
The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow
The average number of days each month with precipitation
Sunshine Hours in Fort McMurray
Seasonal changes in sunshine hours are quite dramatic in Fort McMurray. While July receives considerable daily sunshine with up to 9.6 hours, November marks the darkest time of the year, where sunshine is scarce with only 2.1 hours of sunlight per day.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Daily percentage of sunshine
Best Time to Visit Fort McMurray
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
- Best overall: June, July and August
- Warmest weather: July and August
- Most sunshine: May and July
- Fewest rainy days: February, March and April
- Seasonal pattern: A distinct dry season from October to April, with warm summers and very cold winters
- Coldest conditions: January, with freezing nights around -21°C (-6°F).
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Fort McMurray
What is the best time to visit Fort McMurray?
June, July and August typically offer the most optimal weather in Fort McMurray. In contrast, January, February, March, October, November and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Fort McMurray has a distinct dry season from October to April, with warm summers and very cold winters.
What temperatures can I expect in Fort McMurray?
Daytime highs range from -11°C (12°F) in January to 24°C (75°F) in July. Nighttime lows range from -21°C (-6°F) to 12°C (54°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does Fort McMurray get?
Annual rainfall is around 510 mm (20 in). July is the wettest month with 88 mm (3.5 in), while February is the driest with 19 mm (0.7 in).
How sunny is Fort McMurray?
Fort McMurray receives around 2,095 hours of sunshine per year. July is the sunniest month with 287 hours, while November is the cloudiest with just 63 hours. Overall, Fort McMurray enjoys abundant sunshine.
Fort McMurray 3-Day Forecast
Fort McMurray on the map
Fort McMurray is highlighted - select any city to see its climate.
Popular this month
Where to go in August - average daytime high across popular destinations.
Bucket list
Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.
The 5 most beautiful lakes in Canada
Explore Canada's stunning lakes: Lake Louise, Lake Superior, Maligne Lake, Emerald Lake, and Lake Okanagan, each offering unique beauty and activities.
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.