Townsville Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit

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

Climate overview of Townsville

The climate in Townsville, Queensland, Australia, is remarkably consistent, with temperatures year-round averaging 30°C (86°F). The warmest month is December at 33°C (91°F), and the coolest is July at 26°C (79°F).

With around 937 mm (37 in) of annual rainfall, the city has moderate precipitation levels. February is the wettest month and September the driest. It also has a distinct dry season from May to October. Sunshine peaks in October, when the city sees around 10.0 hours of sunshine per day.

Townsville Weather by Month

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

Monthly Temperature in Townsville

In Townsville temperatures are generally consistent throughout the year. Typically, average maximum daytime temperatures range from a very warm 33°C (91°F) in December to a comfortable 26°C (79°F) in the coolest month, July.

Nights vary from 25°C (77°F) in December to around 15°C (59°F) during the colder months.

Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.

Temperature ranges by month

Rainfall in Townsville

On average, Townsville receives a reasonable amount of rainfall, with an annual precipitation of 937 mm (37 in). The climate in Townsville shows significant variation throughout the year. Expect heavy rainfall in February, the wettest month, with an average of 244 mm (9.6 in) of precipitation over 12 rainy days.

In contrast, the driest month September offers drier and sunnier days, with around 14 mm (0.6 in) of rainfall over 3 rainy days. For more details, please visit our Townsville Precipitation page.

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

Sunshine Hours in Townsville

Townsville offers a pleasant mix of sunny and slightly overcast days. The difference in sunshine hours between October (10.0 hours daily) and February (6.7 hours daily) provides a bit of variety for visitors and residents.

Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.

Monthly hours of sunshine

Daily hours of sunshine

Water Temperature in Townsville

The mean water temperature over the year ranges from 22°C (72°F) in June to 27°C (81°F) in January.

Water temperature over the year

Humidity in Townsville by Month

Wind Speed in Townsville

Best Time to Visit Townsville

The most comfortable overall weather for exploring Townsville is usually found in May, June, July, August and September. Conditions are generally least comfortable in January and February.

Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.

  • Best overall: May, June, July, August and September
  • Warmest weather: January, February, March, November and December
  • Most sunshine: October
  • Fewer rainy days: July, August, September, October and November
  • Best for swimming: Any time of year. The sea stays pleasantly warm year-round.
  • Wettest months: January, February and March, when rainfall is highest.
  • Seasonal pattern: A distinct dry season from May to October

Frequently asked questions about the climate in Townsville

What is the best time to visit Townsville?

May, June, July, August and September typically offer the most optimal weather in Townsville. In contrast, January and February tend to have less optimal conditions. Townsville has a distinct dry season from May to October.

What temperatures can I expect in Townsville?

Daytime highs range from 26°C (79°F) in July to 33°C (91°F) in December. Nighttime lows range from 15°C (59°F) to 25°C (77°F). Temperatures stay relatively stable year-round.

How much rain does Townsville get?

Annual rainfall is around 937 mm (37 in). February is the wettest month with 244 mm (9.6 in), while September is the driest with 14 mm (0.6 in).

How sunny is Townsville?

Townsville receives around 3,044 hours of sunshine per year. October is the sunniest month with 301 hours, while February is the cloudiest with just 202 hours. Overall, Townsville enjoys abundant sunshine.

Townsville 3-Day Forecast

Townsville on the map

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