Canberra Monthly Rainfall & Precipitation

This page shows both the average monthly rainfall and the number of rainy days in Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia. These values are calculated using 30 years of data (1990–2020) to ensure accuracy. Now, let's explore all the details to give you a full picture.

Generally, Canberra receives mid-range precipitation levels, with 653 mm (26 in) annually. The distribution varies significantly throughout the year, with a distinct dry season during certain months, as shown in our charts below.

Monthly Precipitation Levels

The average number of days each month with precipitation (> 0.2 mm (0.01 in))

Canberra offers a pleasant mix of wetter and slightly drier months. The difference in precipitation between November (69 mm (2.7 in)) and May (32 mm (1.3 in)) is not too significant, making the climate enjoyable for visitors and residents alike.

November, the wettest month, has a maximum daytime temperature of 23°C (73°F). The city receives 270 hours of sunshine in this period. During the driest month May you can expect a temperature of 16°C (61°F). For more detailed insights into the city's temperatures, visit our Canberra Temperature page.

Canberra's average annual precipitation is 653 mm (26 in). Let's compare this to some popular worldwide tourist destinations:

In Toronto, Canada, annual precipitation averages 964 mm (38 in), with snowy winters and rainy summers.

Beijing, China, receives 560 mm (22 in) of annual precipitation, concentrated in the summer months.

In Tokyo, Japan, the average annual precipitation is 1528 mm (60 in), with significant summer rains due to typhoon season.

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.

The proximity of a location to a large body of water can significantly affect its rainfall patterns:

• Ocean Influence: Coastal regions typically receive more rainfall due to the presence of moisture-laden winds from the ocean. These regions tend to have more humid climates and experience more frequent precipitation, especially in winter.
• Continental Climates: Areas further from the sea, such as inland or continental regions, experience less frequent rainfall and more extreme seasonal variations in precipitation.

• The U.S. has a significant number of thunderstorms every year, with over 14.6 million taking place across the world annually.
• Approximately 70% of lightning bolts strike land rather than oceans.
• A storm named John was the longest-lasting Pacific tropical storm, continuing for 31 days. As it crossed the dateline twice, it changed status from a hurricane to a typhoon and back to a hurricane.

For more detailed information about Canberra's weather, including sunshine hours, humidity levels, and temperature data, visit our Canberra Climate page.