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

This page shows the average amount of rainfall per month in Christchurch. 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.

On average, Christchurch receives a reasonable amount of rainfall, with an annual precipitation of 995 mm.

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 119 mm of precipitation, spread over 15 rainy days.

In contrast, May experiences a drier climate, with about 60 mm of rainfall spread across 13 rainy days.

November, the wettest month, has a maximum daytime temperature of 13°C. The city receives 77 hours of sunshine in this period. During the driest month May you can expect a temperature of 16°C. For more detailed insights into the city’s temperatures, visit our Christchurch Temperature page.

Annual Precipitation in the United Kingdom

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

Amsterdam Precipitation Compared World Wide

Christchurch’s average annual precipitation is 995 mm. Let’s compare this to some popular worldwide tourist destinations:

Athens, Greece, receives an average annual precipitation of 400 mm, making it one of the drier Mediterranean climates with rainfall mostly in winter.

Meanwhile, Buenos Aires, Argentina, enjoys a humid subtropical climate with 1000 mm of annual rainfall, mostly in the summer.

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

Singapore, situated near the equator, gets 2581 mm of rainfall annually, with no distinct dry season and consistent monthly precipitation.

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.

Global Warming and Precipitation

Climate change is affecting precipitation patterns worldwide, including Christchurch:

• 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.

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