Dunedin Monthly Rainfall & Precipitation

This page shows both the average monthly rainfall and the number of rainy days in Dunedin, Otago, New Zealand. These averages rely on historical data collected over 30 years, from 1990 to 2020. Let's explore the details to provide you with a complete overview.

Generally, Dunedin receives mid-range precipitation levels, with 864 mm (34 in) annually.

Monthly Precipitation Levels

The average number of days each month with precipitation (> 0.2 mm (0.01 in))

The amount of precipitation varies moderately throughout the year. The wettest month, December, sees around 98 mm (3.9 in) of rainfall, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of rain now and then. The driest month, July, still receives a respectable 50 mm (2 in) of rainfall.

December, the wettest month, has a maximum daytime temperature of 17°C (63°F). The city receives 182 hours of sunshine in this period. During the driest month July you can expect a temperature of 11°C (52°F). For more detailed insights into the city's temperatures, visit our Dunedin Temperature page.

Annual Rainfall in New Zealand: City Comparison

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

Annual

Annual

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Legend

heavy rainfall

high

moderate

low

almost none

Heavy annual rainfall has been defined as more than 1000 mm (39 in) precipitation. High: 600 mm (24 in) to 1000 mm (39 in). Moderate: 250 mm (9.8 in) to 600 mm (24 in). Low: less than 250 mm (9.8 in).

Dunedin vs World: Rainfall Compared

Dunedin's average annual precipitation is 864 mm (34 in). Let's compare this to some popular worldwide tourist destinations:

In Toronto, Canada, annual precipitation averages 964 mm (38 in), with snowy winters and rainy summers.

In Seoul, South Korea, the average annual precipitation is 1237 mm (49 in), with most rain falling during the summer monsoon season.

In Tokyo, Japan, the average annual precipitation is 1528 mm (60 in), with significant summer rains due to typhoon season.

Singapore, situated near the equator, gets 2581 mm (102 in) 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.

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.

Interesting weather facts

The U.S. has a significant number of thunderstorms every year, with over 14.6 million taking place across the world annually.
Approximately 70% of lightning bolts strike land rather than oceans.
A storm named John was the longest-lasting Pacific tropical storm, continuing for 31 days. As it crossed the dateline twice, it changed status from a hurricane to a typhoon and back to a hurricane.

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

Current rainfall in Dunedin

10-Day Forecast