Halifax (NS) Monthly Rainfall & Precipitation

This page shows both the average monthly rainfall and the number of rainy days in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada. Long-term data from 1990 to 2020 was used to calculate these averages. Now, let's explore all the details to give you a full picture.

Halifax has a notably wet climate with abundant precipitation, recording 1379 mm (54 in) of rain/snowfall per year.

Monthly Precipitation Levels

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

The wettest period in Halifax occurs in December, which receives around 144 mm (5.7 in) of precipitation. During the driest month, May, Halifax experiences moderate rainfall, totaling approximately 92 mm (3.6 in). The consistent precipitation levels throughout the year contribute to a relatively stable climate.

December, the wettest month, has a maximum daytime temperature of 5°C (41°F). The city receives 108 hours of sunshine in this period. During the driest month May you can expect a temperature of 14°C (57°F). For more detailed insights into the city's temperatures, visit our Halifax Temperature page.

Halifax's average annual precipitation is 1379 mm (54 in). Let's compare this to some popular worldwide tourist destinations:

The city of Rome, Italy, has an average annual precipitation of 832 mm (33 in), spread fairly evenly throughout the year.

Beijing, China, receives 560 mm (22 in) of annual precipitation, concentrated in the summer months.

Perth, Australia, receives 565 mm (22 in) of rainfall annually, mostly during the winter months.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, receives 2529 mm (100 in) of annual rainfall, characteristic of its equatorial tropical rainforest climate, with consistent rainfall throughout the year and peak months during March and November.

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.

Climate change is affecting precipitation patterns worldwide, including Halifax (NS):

• 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.

• Mawsynram in India is noted as being the wettest place on earth, with over 11 meters (36 feet) of rain falling every year.
• In contrast, Antofagasta in Chile is among the driest places on the planet, getting less than 0.1mm (0.004 inches) per year, with some years recording virtually no rainfall.
• Nearly 1,650 thunderstorm cells are estimated over the planet at any given time.

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