Known for its beautiful scenery, mild climate, and friendly people, Vancouver is a popular destination for tourists and residents alike. But what is the weather like in Vancouver? Here's a month-by-month guide to Vancouver's weather, so you can plan your trip or move accordingly.
The climate in Vancouver is classified as a temperate oceanic climate, meaning it has mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. The average annual temperature is 10.9 °C (51.6 °F), and the average annual rainfall is 1,190 mm (46.9 in).
While Vancouver's weather is generally mild, it can vary from month to month. Let's take a closer look at what you can expect in terms of temperature and precipitation throughout the year.
vancouver weather monthly
Mild winters, warm summers, moderate rainfall.
- January: Cool, rainy
- February: Mild, wet
- March: Warmer, showers
- April: Blossoms, sunshine
- May: Pleasant, sunny
- June: Warmest, driest
- July: Hot, less rain
- August: Sunny, beach days
Vancouver's climate offers something for everyone, whether you prefer mild winters, warm summers, or a mix of both.
January: Cool, rainy
January is the coldest month in Vancouver, with average temperatures ranging from 3.3 °C (37.9 °F) to 7.1 °C (44.8 °F). It is also the wettest month, with an average of 15 rainy days and 119 mm of precipitation.
While January can be chilly and wet, it also has its charms. The city is often blanketed in a layer of snow, creating a beautiful winter wonderland. This is a great time to visit local ski resorts or go snowshoeing or cross-country skiing in the nearby mountains.
If you're visiting Vancouver in January, be sure to pack warm, waterproof clothing and an umbrella. You'll also want to check the weather forecast before heading out, as conditions can change quickly.
Despite the cold and rain, January is still a great time to visit Vancouver. The city is less crowded than during the summer months, and there are plenty of indoor activities to enjoy, such as visiting museums, art galleries, and theaters.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind about Vancouver's weather in January:
- The average temperature of the sea is 7 °C (45 °F), so it's too cold for swimming.
- The days are shorter in January, with an average of 8 hours of daylight.
- There is a higher chance of fog in January, especially in the morning.
February: Mild, wet
February is a transitional month in Vancouver, as the weather begins to warm up and the days get longer. However, it is still a wet month, with an average of 13 rainy days and 103 mm of precipitation.
- Average temperature: The average temperature in February is 4.7 °C (40.5 °F) to 8.4 °C (47.1 °F).
Details: While the days can be mild, the nights can still be quite cold. Be sure to pack layers of clothing so you can adjust to the changing temperatures.
- Rain and snow: February is the second wettest month in Vancouver, but it can also see some snow.
Details: Snowfall is more common in the higher elevations of the city, such as the North Shore mountains. If you're hoping to see snow, be sure to check the forecast before your visit.
- Sunshine: February has an average of 7 hours of sunshine per day.
Details: While this is less than in the summer months, it's still enough to enjoy some outdoor activities, such as walking, running, or biking.
- Things to do: Despite the wet weather, there are still plenty of things to do in Vancouver in February.
Details: You can visit indoor attractions such as museums, art galleries, and theaters. Or, you can take advantage of the mild temperatures and go for a walk or bike ride in Stanley Park.
Overall, February is a good time to visit Vancouver if you're prepared for rain and mild temperatures. Just be sure to pack an umbrella and some warm clothes, and you'll be sure to have a great time.
March: Warmer, showers
March is a month of transition in Vancouver, as the weather begins to warm up and the days get longer. The average temperature ranges from 5.6 °C (42.1 °F) to 10.1 °C (50.2 °F), and there is an average of 12 rainy days and 88 mm of precipitation.
One of the most noticeable changes in March is the increase in sunshine. The city averages 9 hours of sunshine per day, which is a welcome change after the gloomy winter months.
While March is generally a mild month, it can still be quite wet. Be sure to pack an umbrella or raincoat, and be prepared for occasional showers.
Despite the rain, there are still plenty of things to do in Vancouver in March. The city's parks and gardens start to come alive with color, and there are many outdoor activities to enjoy, such as walking, running, and biking.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind about Vancouver's weather in March:
- The average temperature of the sea is 8 °C (46 °F), so it's still too cold for swimming.
- The days are getting longer in March, with an average of 11 hours of daylight.
- There is a higher chance of fog in March, especially in the morning.
April: Blossoms, sunshine
April is a beautiful time to visit Vancouver, as the city comes alive with color. The cherry blossoms are in full bloom, and the days are getting longer and warmer.
- Average temperature: The average temperature in April is 8.1 °C (46.6 °F) to 12.8 °C (55.0 °F).
Details: The days are mild and sunny, but the nights can still be cool. Be sure to pack layers of clothing so you can adjust to the changing temperatures.
- Sunshine: April has an average of 11 hours of sunshine per day.
Details: This is the sunniest month in Vancouver, so be sure to take advantage of the long days and explore the city's many outdoor attractions.
- Rain: April is a relatively dry month, with an average of only 6 rainy days and 51 mm of precipitation.
Details: However, it is still a good idea to pack an umbrella or raincoat, just in case.
- Things to do: There are many things to do in Vancouver in April.
Details: You can visit the city's many parks and gardens, go for a walk or bike ride along the seawall, or take a day trip to one of the nearby mountains.
Overall, April is a great time to visit Vancouver. The weather is mild and sunny, and there are plenty of things to see and do.
May: Pleasant, sunny
May is a delightful month in Vancouver, with warm, sunny days and cool nights. The average temperature ranges from 10.6 °C (51.1 °F) to 16.1 °C (61.0 °F), and there is an average of only 5 rainy days and 38 mm of precipitation.
The days are getting longer in May, with an average of 15 hours of daylight. This makes it the perfect time to enjoy the city's many outdoor attractions, such as Stanley Park, Granville Island, and the North Shore mountains.
May is also a great time to visit Vancouver's many festivals and events. The Vancouver International Jazz Festival and the Vancouver International Film Festival are both held in May, and there are also many smaller festivals and events happening throughout the month.
Overall, May is a wonderful time to visit Vancouver. The weather is perfect for exploring the city and enjoying all that it has to offer.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind about Vancouver's weather in May:
- The average temperature of the sea is 10 °C (50 °F), so it's still a bit too cold for swimming.
- The days are getting longer in May, with an average of 15 hours of daylight.
- There is a lower chance of fog in May, making it a great time to enjoy the city's stunning views.
June: Warmest, driest
June is the warmest and driest month in Vancouver, with average temperatures ranging from 12.8 °C (55.0 °F) to 19.1 °C (66.4 °F). There is an average of only 4 rainy days and 24 mm of precipitation, making it the perfect time to enjoy the city's many outdoor attractions.
The days are long in June, with an average of 16 hours of daylight. This gives you plenty of time to explore the city and soak up the sun.
June is also a great time to visit Vancouver's many beaches. The water is warm enough for swimming, and the beaches are often less crowded than in the summer months.
Overall, June is a fantastic time to visit Vancouver. The weather is perfect for enjoying all that the city has to offer, from its many parks and beaches to its vibrant arts and culture scene.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind about Vancouver's weather in June:
- The average temperature of the sea is 12 °C (54 °F), which is warm enough for swimming for most people.
- The days are the longest in June, with an average of 16 hours of daylight.
- There is a lower chance of fog in June, making it a great time to enjoy the city's stunning views.
July: Hot, less rain
July is the hottest month in Vancouver, with average temperatures ranging from 14.4 °C (57.9 °F) to 21.4 °C (70.5 °F). There is an average of only 3 rainy days and 18 mm of precipitation, making it the driest month of the year.
The days are long and sunny in July, with an average of 17 hours of daylight. This makes it the perfect time to enjoy the city's many outdoor activities, such as swimming, biking, and hiking.
July is also a great time to visit Vancouver's many festivals and events. The Vancouver Folk Music Festival and the Celebration of Light fireworks competition are both held in July, and there are also many smaller festivals and events happening throughout the month.
Overall, July is a fantastic time to visit Vancouver. The weather is perfect for enjoying all that the city has to offer, from its many parks and beaches to its vibrant arts and culture scene.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind about Vancouver's weather in July:
- The average temperature of the sea is 15 °C (59 °F), which is warm enough for swimming for most people.
- The days are the longest in July, with an average of 17 hours of daylight.
- There is a lower chance of fog in July, making it a great time to enjoy the city's stunning views.
August: Sunny, beach days
August is a delightful month in Vancouver, with warm, sunny days and cool nights. It's the perfect time to enjoy the city's many beaches, parks, and outdoor attractions.
- Average temperature: The average temperature in August is 14.4 °C (57.9 °F) to 21.4 °C (70.5 °F).
Details: The days are warm and sunny, with average temperatures in the mid-20s Celsius. The nights are cool, with average temperatures in the mid-teens Celsius.
- Sunshine: August has an average of 16 hours of sunshine per day.
Details: This is the sunniest month in Vancouver, so be sure to take advantage of the long days and explore the city's many outdoor attractions.
- Rain: August is a dry month, with an average of only 2 rainy days and 15 mm of precipitation.
Details: However, it is still a good idea to pack an umbrella or raincoat, just in case.
- Things to do: There are many things to do in Vancouver in August.
Details: You can visit the city's many beaches, go for a walk or bike ride in Stanley Park, or take a day trip to one of the nearby mountains.
Overall, August is a wonderful time to visit Vancouver. The weather is perfect for enjoying all that the city has to offer, from its many parks and beaches to its vibrant arts and culture scene.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about Vancouver's weather by month:
Question 1: What is the best month to visit Vancouver?
Answer: The best time to visit Vancouver is during the summer months, from June to August. The weather is warm and sunny, with little rain.
Question 2: What is the coldest month in Vancouver?
Answer: January is the coldest month in Vancouver, with average temperatures ranging from 3.3 °C (37.9 °F) to 7.1 °C (44.8 °F).
Question 3: How much rain does Vancouver get?
Answer: Vancouver receives an average of 1,190 mm (46.9 in) of rain per year. The wettest months are November and December, while the driest months are July and August.
Question 4: Does Vancouver get snow?
Answer: Yes, Vancouver does get snow, but it is not common. The city averages only 11.3 cm (4.4 in) of snow per year. Snowfall is most common in the higher elevations of the city, such as the North Shore mountains.
Question 5: What is the average temperature in Vancouver?
Answer: The average annual temperature in Vancouver is 10.9 °C (51.6 °F). The warmest month is August, with an average temperature of 21.4 °C (70.5 °F), and the coldest month is January, with an average temperature of 4.7 °C (40.5 °F).
Question 6: What are some things to do in Vancouver during the winter months?
Answer: There are many things to do in Vancouver during the winter months, such as visiting indoor attractions like museums and art galleries, going for a walk or bike ride in Stanley Park, or going skiing or snowboarding at one of the nearby mountains.
Closing Paragraph for FAQ:
These are just a few of the most frequently asked questions about Vancouver's weather. For more information, please visit the Vancouver Tourism website or the Government of Canada's weather website.
Now that you know more about Vancouver's weather, here are a few tips for planning your trip:
Tips
Here are a few tips for planning your trip to Vancouver, month by month:
Tip 1: Dress in layers.
Details: Vancouver's weather can be unpredictable, so it's always a good idea to dress in layers so you can adjust to the changing temperatures.
Tip 2: Pack an umbrella or raincoat.
Details: Vancouver is a rainy city, so it's a good idea to pack an umbrella or raincoat, especially if you're visiting during the wetter months.
Tip 3: Take advantage of the long summer days.
Details: Vancouver's summers are long and sunny, so make sure to take advantage of the long days by exploring the city's many outdoor attractions.
Tip 4: Visit the city's indoor attractions during the winter months.
Details: Vancouver has many indoor attractions, such as museums, art galleries, and theaters, which are perfect for visiting during the colder winter months.
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By following these tips, you can make sure that you have a great time in Vancouver, no matter what time of year you visit.
Now that you know more about Vancouver's weather and have some tips for planning your trip, it's time to start planning your adventure!
Conclusion
Summary of Main Points:
- Vancouver has a mild, temperate climate, with average temperatures ranging from 3.3 °C (37.9 °F) in January to 21.4 °C (70.5 °F) in August.
- The city receives an average of 1,190 mm (46.9 in) of rain per year, with the wettest months being November and December.
- Vancouver does get snow, but it is not common. The city averages only 11.3 cm (4.4 in) of snow per year.
- The best time to visit Vancouver is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny.
- There are many things to do in Vancouver year-round, from enjoying the city's many parks and beaches to visiting its indoor attractions.
Closing Message:
Vancouver is a beautiful city with a lot to offer visitors. No matter what time of year you visit, you're sure to find something to enjoy. So start planning your trip today and experience all that Vancouver has to offer!