Denver (CO) Rainfall & Precipitation: Monthly Averages and Year-Round Insights

This page shows the average amount of rainfall per month in Denver (CO). The numbers are calculated over a 30-year period to provide a reliable average. Now, let’s explore all the details to give you a full picture.

Denver maintains relatively dry conditions year-round, recording average annual precipitation of 452 mm.

Monthly Precipitation Levels

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

The climate in Denver shows significant variation throughout the year. Expect 68 mm of precipitation during the wettest month May, distributed over 12 rainy days.

In contrast, January offers drier and sunnier days, with around 12 mm of snow/rainfall over 5 snowy/rainy days.

May, the wettest month, has a maximum daytime temperature of 21°C. The city receives 290 hours of sunshine in this period. During the driest month January you can expect a temperature of 7°C. For more detailed insights into the city’s temperatures, visit our Denver 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

Denver’s average annual precipitation is 452 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 Shanghai, China, the annual average precipitation is 1347 mm, with a humid subtropical climate.

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

Mumbai, India, experiences a tropical monsoon climate with 1860 mm of annual rainfall, with the majority of precipitation happening during the monsoon season from June to September.

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 Denver (CO)’s weather, including sunshine hours, humidity levels, and temperature data, visit our Denver (CO) Climate page.