Halifax (NS) Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit

Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Halifax.

Climate overview of Halifax

Temperatures in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada, vary greatly throughout the year. August is the hottest month at 23°C (73°F), while January is the coldest at 1°C (34°F).

Rain/snowfall is high, totalling around 1379 mm (54 in) per year. December is the wettest month and May the driest. The most sunshine falls in July, with an average of 7.8 hours of daily sunshine.

Halifax Weather by Month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Halifax — and find the best time to visit.

Monthly Temperature in Halifax

The climate in Halifax is known for significant temperature differences throughout the year, making the weather dynamic. Average maximum daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 23°C (73°F) in August, the warmest time of the year, to a very cold 1°C (34°F) during cooler months like January.

At night, you can expect temperatures ranging from 16°C (61°F) in August to around -8°C (18°F) during January.

Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.

Temperature ranges by month

Rainfall in Halifax

Halifax has a notably wet climate with abundant precipitation, recording 1379 mm (54 in) of rain/snowfall per year. Year-round, Halifax has a balanced climate with minimal variation in precipitation. The difference between the wettest month, December, with 144 mm (5.7 in), and the driest month, May, with 92 mm (3.6 in), is minimal. For more details, please visit our Halifax Precipitation page.

The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow

Sunshine Hours in Halifax

Seasonal changes in sunshine hours are quite dramatic in Halifax. While July receives considerable daily sunshine with up to 7.8 hours, November marks the darkest time of the year, where sunshine is scarce with only 3.5 hours of sunlight per day.

Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.

Monthly hours of sunshine

Daily hours of sunshine

Humidity in Halifax by Month

Best Time to Visit Halifax

Halifax's weather is most enjoyable during June, July, August and September, with comfortable temperatures from 19°C (65°F) to 23°C (74°F). The moderate conditions ensure pleasant weather for exploring the area. Expect varied weather during this period with rainfall between 95 mm (3.7 in) and 109 mm (4.3 in), providing a good balance of sunny and rainy days.

Seeking the perfect travel destination for this year? We've created a tool that suggests locations matching your desired weather. Let our weather planner guide your travel decisions.

Frequently asked questions about the climate in Halifax

What is the best time to visit Halifax?

July and August typically offer the most optimal weather in Halifax. In contrast, January, February, March, April, November and December tend to have less optimal conditions.

What temperatures can I expect in Halifax?

Daytime highs range from 1°C (34°F) in January to 23°C (73°F) in August. Nighttime lows range from -8°C (18°F) to 16°C (61°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.

How much rain does Halifax get?

Annual rainfall is around 1379 mm (54 in). December is the wettest month with 144 mm (5.7 in), while May is the driest with 92 mm (3.6 in). In the coldest months, precipitation may fall as snow/rain.

How sunny is Halifax?

Halifax receives around 1,965 hours of sunshine per year. July is the sunniest month with 235 hours, while November is the cloudiest with just 106 hours.

Halifax 3-Day Forecast

Halifax (NS) 3-Day Forecast

Halifax on the map

Halifax is highlighted — select any city to see its climate.

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