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

This page shows the average amount of rainfall per month in Columbia (MD). The numbers are calculated over a 30-year period to provide a reliable average. Let's now guide you through the details for a complete overview.

Columbia is known for its substantial rain/snowfall, with annual precipitation reaching 1233 mm.

Monthly Precipitation Levels

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

Columbia offers a pleasant mix of wetter and slightly drier months. The difference in precipitation between October (140 mm) and November (74 mm) is not too significant, making the climate enjoyable for visitors and residents alike.

October, the city’s wettest month, has a maximum daytime temperature of 20°C and receives 205 hours of sunshine. During the driest month November you can expect a temperature of 13°C. For more detailed insights into the city’s temperatures, visit our Columbia Temperature page.

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

Columbia’s average annual precipitation is 1233 mm. Let’s compare this to some popular worldwide tourist destinations:

Chicago, USA, sees an annual precipitation of 1062 mm, with rain and snow contributing to its humid climate.

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

Adelaide, Australia, enjoys 511 mm of annual precipitation, with dry summers and wet winters.

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, receives 1955 mm of annual rainfall, with a pronounced wet season from May to November, typical of its tropical monsoon climate.

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.

Sea vs. Land Precipitation

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.

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