Whistler (BC) Monthly Rainfall & Precipitation

This page shows both the average monthly rainfall and the number of rainy days in Whistler, British Columbia, 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.

Whistler experiences significant rain/snowfall throughout the year, averaging 2336 mm (92 in) of precipitation annually. However, this abundant rainfall is not evenly distributed, with a distinct rainy season during certain months. You can clearly see this in our monthly precipitation graphs below.

Monthly Precipitation Levels

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

Significant seasonal changes in precipitation occur throughout the year. During the wettest month, November receives substantial snowfall, averaging 343 mm (14 in) of precipitation, recorded across 18 snowy days.

In contrast, the driest month, July brings less rainfall, with 80 mm (3.1 in) over 10 rainy days.

November, the wettest month, has a maximum daytime temperature of 1°C (34°F). The city receives 42 hours of sunshine in this period. During the driest month July you can expect a temperature of 19°C (66°F). For more detailed insights into the city's temperatures, visit our Whistler Temperature page.

Whistler's average annual precipitation is 2336 mm (92 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.

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

Adelaide, Australia, enjoys 511 mm (20 in) of annual precipitation, with dry summers and wet winters.

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.

Precipitation has a very strong role in determining the local climate and ecosystem:

• 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 Whistler (BC)'s weather, including sunshine hours, humidity levels, and temperature data, visit our Whistler (BC) Climate page.