California (MD) Rainfall & Precipitation: Monthly Averages and Year-Round Insights

This page shows the average amount of rainfall per month in California (MD). The numbers are calculated over a 30-year period to provide a reliable average. Now, let’s explore all the details to give you a full picture.

California has a relatively rain/snowy climate with high precipitation levels, averaging 1213 mm of rain/snowfall annually.

Monthly Precipitation Levels

The average number of days each month with precipitation (> 0.2 mm)

California experiences moderate seasonal variation in rainfall, with monthly averages ranging from 138 mm in June, the wettest month, and 68 mm in February, the driest month.

Annual Precipitation in the United States of America

The map below shows the annual precipitation across the United States of America. You can also select the different months in case you are interested in a specific month.

Amsterdam Precipitation Compared World Wide

California’s average annual precipitation is 1213 mm. Let’s compare this to some popular worldwide tourist destinations:

In Toronto, Canada, annual precipitation averages [964 mm], with snowy winters and rainy summers.

Beijing, China, receives 560 mm of annual precipitation, concentrated in the summer months.

Melbourne, Australia, has 690 mm of rainfall annually, spread fairly evenly throughout the year.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, receives 2529 mm of annual rainfall, characteristic of its equatorial tropical rainforest climate, with consistent rainfall throughout the year and peak months during March and November.

How is Precipitation Measured?

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.

How Does Precipitation Affect Local Climate?

Precipitation has a very strong role in determining the local climate and ecosystem:

• Rainy Seasons: Many parts of the world have well-defined wet seasons where precipitation is distinctly higher. These are normally accompanied by lush vegetation and temperature patterns.
• Dry Seasons: In areas where the climate is either desert or Mediterranean, the amount of precipitation is drastically reduced, leading to a shortage of water and arid conditions.

For more detailed information about California (MD)’s weather, including sunshine hours, humidity levels, and temperature data, visit our California (MD) Climate page.