Columbia Falls (MT) Monthly Rainfall & Precipitation
This page shows both the average monthly rainfall and the number of rainy days in Columbia Falls, Montana, United States of America. These values are calculated using 30 years of data (1990–2020) to ensure accuracy. Let's now guide you through the details for a complete overview.
On average, Columbia Falls receives a reasonable amount of rain/snowfall, with an annual precipitation of 544 mm (21 in). Despite this overall moderate level, the city experiences distinct dry season during certain months throughout the year, as illustrated in the precipitation charts below.
Monthly Precipitation Levels
The average number of days each month with precipitation (> 0.2 mm (0.01 in))
Significant seasonal changes in precipitation occur throughout the year. During the wettest month, June receives substantial rainfall, averaging 88 mm (3.5 in) of precipitation, recorded across 15 rainy days.
In contrast, the driest month, August brings less rainfall, with 25 mm (1 in) over 7 rainy days.
June, the wettest month, has a maximum daytime temperature of 22°C (72°F). During the driest month August you can expect a temperature of 28°C (82°F). For more detailed insights into the city's temperatures, visit our Columbia Falls Temperature page.
Annual Rainfall in the United States of America: City Comparison
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.
heavy rainfall
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moderate
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Columbia Falls vs World: Rainfall Compared
Columbia Falls's average annual precipitation is 544 mm (21 in). Let's compare this to some popular worldwide tourist destinations:
Chicago, USA, sees an annual precipitation of 1062 mm (42 in), with rain and snow contributing to its humid climate.
In Shanghai, China, the annual average precipitation is 1347 mm (53 in), with a humid subtropical climate.
In Brisbane, Australia, the annual precipitation is 979 mm (39 in), making it wetter than Sydney.
Singapore, situated near the equator, gets 2581 mm (102 in) of rainfall annually, with no distinct dry season and consistent monthly precipitation.
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.
- "Ginger" was the longest-lasting Atlantic tropical storm, which spun around the open ocean for 28 days in 1971.
- The world's largest snowflake was recorded in the Guinness Book of Records, at 38 cm (15 inches) wide and 20 cm (7.9 inches) thick. The snowflake fell at Fort Keogh, Montana, USA, on 28 January 1887.
- The greatest snowfall recorded was on Mt. Rainier, Washington State, USA—over 31.5 meters (103 feet) fell during the winter of 1972.
For more detailed information about Columbia Falls (MT)'s weather, including sunshine hours, humidity levels, and temperature data, visit our Columbia Falls (MT) Climate page.
