Hamilton (ON) Monthly Rainfall & Precipitation
This page shows both the average monthly rainfall and the number of rainy days in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. The figures are based on a 30-year period (1990–2020) to provide a reliable average. Let's explore the details to provide you with a complete overview.
Generally, Hamilton experiences moderate precipitation patterns, averaging 978 mm (39 in) yearly.
Monthly Precipitation Levels
The average number of days each month with precipitation (> 0.2 mm (0.01 in))
The wettest period in Hamilton occurs in April, which receives around 98 mm (3.9 in) of precipitation. During the driest month, February, Hamilton experiences moderate snowfall, totaling approximately 66 mm (2.6 in). The consistent precipitation levels throughout the year contribute to a relatively stable climate.
April, the wettest month, has a maximum daytime temperature of 13°C (55°F). The city receives 184 hours of sunshine in this period. During the driest month February you can expect a temperature of 1°C (34°F). For more detailed insights into the city's temperatures, visit our Hamilton Temperature page.
Annual Rainfall in Canada: City Comparison
The map below shows the annual precipitation across Canada. You can also select the different months in case you are interested in a specific month.
heavy rainfall
high
moderate
low
almost none
Hamilton vs World: Rainfall Compared
Hamilton's average annual precipitation is 978 mm (39 in). Let's compare this to some popular worldwide tourist destinations:
In Lisbon, Portugal, the average annual precipitation is 774 mm (30 in), characterized by wet winters and dry summers typical of the Mediterranean climate.
In Seoul, South Korea, the average annual precipitation is 1237 mm (49 in), with most rain falling during the summer monsoon season.
Melbourne, Australia, has 690 mm (27 in) of rainfall annually, spread fairly evenly throughout the year.
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.
Climate change is affecting precipitation patterns worldwide, including Hamilton (ON):
- 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 Hamilton (ON)'s weather, including sunshine hours, humidity levels, and temperature data, visit our Hamilton (ON) Climate page.
