Balclutha Monthly Rainfall & Precipitation
This page shows both the average monthly rainfall and the number of rainy days in Balclutha, Otago, New Zealand. The numbers reflect climate data gathered over a 30-year period, from 1990 to 2020. Now, let's explore all the details to give you a full picture.
Generally, Balclutha experiences moderate precipitation patterns, averaging 907 mm (36 in) yearly.
Monthly Precipitation Levels
The average number of days each month with precipitation (> 0.2 mm (0.01 in))
Balclutha offers a pleasant mix of wetter and slightly drier months. The difference in precipitation between January (102 mm (4 in)) and July (49 mm (1.9 in)) is not too significant, making the climate enjoyable for visitors and residents alike.
January, the wettest month, has a maximum daytime temperature of 19°C (66°F). The city receives 174 hours of sunshine in this period. During the driest month July you can expect a temperature of 10°C (50°F). For more detailed insights into the city's temperatures, visit our Balclutha Temperature page.
Annual Rainfall in New Zealand: City Comparison
The map below shows the annual precipitation across New Zealand. You can also select the different months in case you are interested in a specific month.
heavy rainfall
high
moderate
low
almost none
Balclutha vs World: Rainfall Compared
Balclutha's average annual precipitation is 907 mm (36 in). Let's compare this to some popular worldwide tourist destinations:
New York City, USA, receives 1276 mm (50 in) of rainfall annually, with precipitation evenly distributed throughout the year.
Beijing, China, receives 560 mm (22 in) of annual precipitation, concentrated in the summer months.
Perth, Australia, receives 565 mm (22 in) of rainfall annually, mostly during the winter months.
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, receives 1955 mm (77 in) of annual rainfall, with a pronounced wet season from May to November, typical of its tropical monsoon climate.
Precipitation amounts are measured using specific gauges installed at weather stations, collecting both rain and snow and any other type of precipitation. Rainfall is measured directly in millimeters, while that from snow and ice is obtained by melting it. Automated systems often incorporate heaters to make this easier.
Information from these stations is transmitted via Wi-Fi, satellite, GPS, or telephone connections to central monitoring networks. This information is immediately updated and integrated into weather models and forecasts.
Precipitation has a very strong role in determining the local climate and ecosystem:
- Changing Rainfall Patterns: Global warming causes drastic changes in the patterns of rainfall. Some areas have been experiencing increased frequency and intensity of rainfall, while other areas experience longer dry spells or even droughts.
- Local Impacts: Many regions are experiencing heavier rainfall in the winter months and drier, hotter summers. This affects agriculture, water resources, and ecosystems.
- Mawsynram in India is noted as being the wettest place on earth, with over 11 meters (36 feet) of rain falling every year.
- In contrast, Antofagasta in Chile is among the driest places on the planet, getting less than 0.1mm (0.004 inches) per year, with some years recording virtually no rainfall.
- Nearly 1,650 thunderstorm cells are estimated over the planet at any given time.
For more detailed information about Balclutha's weather, including sunshine hours, humidity levels, and temperature data, visit our Balclutha Climate page.
