Canberra Rainfall & Precipitation: Monthly Averages and Year-Round Insights

This page shows the average amount of rainfall per month in Canberra. The numbers are calculated over a 30-year period to provide a reliable average. Let’s explore the details in depth to provide you with a complete overview.

Generally, Canberra has a moderate amount of precipitation, averaging 653 mm of rain/snowfall annually.

Monthly Precipitation Levels

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

While rainfall varies throughout the year, each season offers its own charm. November brings wetter days averaging 69 mm of precipitation, spread over 13 rainy days.

In contrast, May experiences a drier climate, with about 32 mm of rainfall spread across 11 rainy days.

November, the city’s wettest month, has a maximum daytime temperature of 23°C and receives 270 hours of sunshine. During the driest month May you can expect a temperature of 16°C. For more detailed insights into the city’s temperatures, visit our Canberra Temperature page.

Annual Precipitation in Australia

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

Amsterdam Precipitation Compared World Wide

Canberra’s average annual precipitation is 653 mm. Let’s compare this to some popular worldwide tourist destinations:

In Barcelona, Spain, the average annual precipitation is 620 mm, evenly distributed across the year with no extreme wet or dry seasons.

In Seoul, South Korea, the average annual precipitation is 1237 mm, with most rain falling during the summer monsoon season.

In Brisbane, Australia, the annual precipitation is 979 mm, making it wetter than Sydney.

Bangkok, Thailand, experiences a tropical monsoon climate with 1668 mm of annual rainfall, with the heaviest precipitation occurring during September and October.

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 Canberra’s weather, including sunshine hours, humidity levels, and temperature data, visit our Canberra Climate page.