Raleigh (NC) Rainfall & Precipitation: Monthly Averages and Year-Round Insights

This page shows the average amount of rainfall per month in Raleigh (NC). The numbers are calculated over a 30-year period to provide a reliable average. Now, let’s break down all the details for a clearer picture.

Raleigh has a notably wet climate with abundant precipitation, recording 1175 mm of rain/snowfall per year.

Monthly Precipitation Levels

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

While rainfall varies throughout the year, each season offers its own charm. September brings wetter days averaging 136 mm of precipitation, spread over 9 rainy days.

In contrast, February experiences a drier climate, with about 70 mm of rainfall spread across 9 rainy days.

September, the city’s wettest month, has a maximum daytime temperature of 28°C and receives 217 hours of sunshine. During the driest month February you can expect a temperature of 12°C. For more detailed insights into the city’s temperatures, visit our Raleigh 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

Raleigh’s average annual precipitation is 1175 mm. Let’s compare this to some popular worldwide tourist destinations:

New York City, USA, receives 1276 mm of rainfall annually, with precipitation evenly distributed throughout the year.

In Shanghai, China, the annual average precipitation is 1347 mm, with a humid subtropical climate.

Melbourne, Australia, has 690 mm of rainfall annually, spread fairly evenly throughout the year.

Bangkok, Thailand, experiences a tropical monsoon climate with 1668 mm of annual rainfall, with the heaviest precipitation occurring during September and October.

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