Smithers (BC) Monthly Rainfall & Precipitation
This page shows both the average monthly rainfall and the number of rainy days in Smithers, British Columbia, Canada. These values are calculated using 30 years of data (1990–2020) to ensure accuracy. Let's explore the details to provide you with a complete overview.
Smithers is known for its substantial rain/snowfall, with annual precipitation reaching 1030 mm (41 in).
Monthly Precipitation Levels
The average number of days each month with precipitation (> 0.2 mm (0.01 in))
While snow/rainfall varies throughout the year, each season offers its own charm. October brings wetter days averaging 122 mm (4.8 in) of precipitation, spread over 16 snowy/rainy days.
In contrast, May experiences a drier climate, with about 62 mm (2.4 in) of rainfall spread across 10 rainy days.
October, the wettest month, has a maximum daytime temperature of 6°C (43°F). During the driest month May you can expect a temperature of 12°C (54°F). For more detailed insights into the city's temperatures, visit our Smithers 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
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moderate
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Smithers vs World: Rainfall Compared
Smithers's average annual precipitation is 1030 mm (41 in). Let's compare this to some popular worldwide tourist destinations:
Athens, Greece, receives an average annual precipitation of 400 mm (16 in), making it one of the drier Mediterranean climates with rainfall mostly in winter.
In Shanghai, China, the annual average precipitation is 1347 mm (53 in), with a humid subtropical climate.
Adelaide, Australia, enjoys 511 mm (20 in) of annual precipitation, with dry summers and wet winters.
Mumbai, India, experiences a tropical monsoon climate with 1860 mm (73 in) of annual rainfall, with the majority of precipitation happening during the monsoon season from June to September.
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 Smithers (BC):
- 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.
- 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 Smithers (BC)'s weather, including sunshine hours, humidity levels, and temperature data, visit our Smithers (BC) Climate page.
