Canada sees diverse rainfall patterns, and a few cities are renowned for their higher precipitation levels. Being one of the rainiest cities involves consistent and abundant rain throughout all seasons. Rainfall measurements in millimetres or inches show how frequent and intense rain is in specific locations. Cities with more annual rainfall often have gloomy days and vibrant, green scenery.
Physical features and atmospheric factors significantly affect which cities in Canada get the most rain. Locations with higher exposure to standard weather systems or adjacent to moist areas can have increased rainfall. Topography, coastal presence, and dominant wind directions shape precipitation amounts. Additionally, human actions like deforestation and city growth can affect local weather patterns, impacting rainfall.
Now let’s discover our list of Canada’s rainiest cities!
Rainiest places in Canada
According to Environment Canada, Prince Rupert is the rainiest city in Canada with over 2400 millimetres of precipitation annually. St. John’s and Halifax are also rainy places. Other rainiest cities include Abbotsford, Vancouver, and Chilliwack.
Here are the top 10 rainiest cities in Canada:
| City | Annual Precipitation |
|---|---|
| Prince Rupert | 2400 mm |
| St. John’s | 1300 mm |
| Halifax | 1200 mm |
| Abbotsford | 1200 mm |
| Vancouver | 1200 mm |
| Chilliwack | 1200 mm |
| Sydney | 1200 mm |
| Nanaimo | 1100 mm |
| Moncton | 1100 mm |
| St. Stephen | 1100 mm |
What contributes to the rainiest city?
We’ll judge the rainiest cities in Canada based on these four criteria:
Precipitation level
Measuring precipitation levels is essential for finding Canada’s rainiest cities since it tracks rainfall from heavy storms to light drizzles. Cities like Prince Rupert in British Columbia have high precipitation levels, contributing to intense rain.
Climate
Climate covers temperature, humidity, and general weather patterns. Cities with a maritime environment, such as St. John’s in Newfoundland and Labrador, usually receive more rainfall due to nearby ocean influences. The overall climate determines precipitation patterns.
Rainy days
Knowing the number of rainy days adds depth to understanding a city’s precipitation characteristics beyond total rainfall volume. Cities like Halifax in Nova Scotia have many rainy days, indicating constant and regular yearly rainfall. These insights examine overall climate patterns and how often residents face rainy conditions.
Seasonal rainfall
Reviewing seasonal rainfall provides a complete picture of precipitation patterns. Cities with steady rain across all seasons may have a more balanced water supply, influencing agriculture, water management, and environmental sustainability. Some cities, like Abbotsford in British Columbia, might have noticeable wet and dry seasons.
List of rainiest cities in Canada
- Prince Rupert
- St. John’s
- Halifax
- Abbotsford
- Vancouver
- Chilliwack
- Sydney
- Nanaimo
- Moncton
- St. Stephen
- Saint John
- Quebec City
Prince Rupert
2400 mm annual precipitation in Prince Rupert
Prince Rupert is the rainiest city in Canada with beyond 2400 millimetres of precipitation each year. This coastal city is located in British Columbia, Canada. It lies by the Pacific Ocean, giving it a maritime climate with plenty of moisture from ocean air masses. The ocean’s moist air strongly impacts the local environment, causing consistent and heavy rainfall.
Frequent rains help dense forests, bright plants, and flowing waterfalls grow around Prince Rupert. Despite its wet conditions, the city has charm and stunning natural beauty. Residents and travellers alike adapt to the misty weather and enjoy this rainy refuge.
Prince Rupert – Precipitation Level
Prince Rupert sees lots of rain annually, often beyond 2,400 millimetres. Due to the Pacific Ocean’s influence, the city experiences steady and considerable precipitation all year round. This constant rain creates lush green landscapes and thick forests nearby.
Prince Rupert – Climate
Prince Rupert’s climate is known as marine or oceanic west coast. Winters are mild with little snow, while summers are cool and less wet than in other seasons. The ocean’s cooling effect keeps temperatures stable, offering a pleasant atmosphere.
Prince Rupert – Rainy Days
Rainy days happen frequently in Prince Rupert since most days have precipitation. The misty and foggy weather adds to the city’s unique appeal but also highlights its wetness. Raincoats and umbrellas are must-haves for locals and tourists.
Prince Rupert – Seasonal Rainfall
Prince Rupert doesn’t have clear wet or dry seasons like some climates. Instead, the rainfall stays consistent year-round. Lacking significant dry periods allows green landscapes and thriving ecosystems to flourish.
St. John’s
1300 mm annual precipitation in St. John’s
St. John’s, the capital of Newfoundland and Labrador, is famous for its significant rain. Found on the eastern coast of the Avalon Peninsula, the meeting of the cool Labrador Current and the warm Gulf Stream creates its wet climate. This makes it one of Canada’s rainiest cities.
The Atlantic Ocean brings moisture-filled air, causing fog and mist, especially during colder seasons. St. John’s gets about 1,300 millimetres of rain each year. The city often has rain with strong coastal winds as residents walk through its lovely and historic streets.
St. John’s – Precipitation Level
The city gets about 1,300 millimetres of annual average precipitation, spread evenly across all seasons. Influenced by the Labrador Current and Gulf Stream, St. John’s has a mild and humid climate with cool winters and snowfall. Summer is more temperate than in other Canadian cities.
St. John’s – Climate
Classified as a subarctic or boreal maritime climate, St. John’s features mild winters and cool summers. Thanks to the Atlantic Ocean’s influence, it avoids extreme temperatures throughout the year. However, it is the windiest city in Canada with an average wind speed of 24.3 km/h.
St. John’s – Rainy Days
St. John’s has around 150 rainy days yearly, leading to picturesque green landscapes filled with colourful plants. Given how often it rains or snows, locals and visitors should be ready for various weather conditions.
St. John’s – Seasonal Rainfall
St. John’s doesn’t have specific wet or dry seasons. Precipitation remains relatively constant during the fall and winter months. Its coastal setting by the North Atlantic heavily shapes its climate, making it an enchanting mix of nature’s beauty and maritime appeal.
Halifax
1200 mm annual precipitation in Halifax
Halifax is Nova Scotia’s capital. Located on Canada’s east coast, the city gets an annual average of 1,300 millimetres of precipitation. The Atlantic Ocean shapes Halifax’s weather by bringing in moist air from the ocean. Rain falls evenly throughout the seasons, with autumn and winter being the wettest.
Halifax – Precipitation Level
Halifax enjoys about 1,400 millimetres of rain annually, with its climate heavily affected by the Atlantic Ocean. This leads to mild temperatures and high levels of humidity. Winters are cold and snowy, while summers offer moderate warmth for a pleasant atmosphere.
Halifax – Climate
The city’s climate is humid continental, with four distinct seasons. Halifax has cool winters and warm summers, receiving rainfall almost evenly throughout the year. The Atlantic Ocean keeps the temperature mild, making it milder than other places at similar latitudes.
Halifax – Rainy Days
Rain is no stranger to Halifax, happening roughly 160 days each year. Snowfall occurs during winter. Locals and tourists must be ready for different precipitation types all year.
Halifax – Seasonal Rainfall
Halifax sees even rainfall throughout the year. Autumn and winter have slightly more rain. The city’s seaside location near the Atlantic significantly affects its weather. This makes Halifax a lively and welcoming place with natural beauty and maritime charm.
Abbotsford
1200 mm annual precipitation in Abbotsford
Abbotsford lies in British Columbia’s Fraser Valley, with mild, rainy winters and warm, dry summers. The city gets about 1,400 millimetres of rain annually, creating lush landscapes and fertile farmland. Being close to the coast affects Abbotsford’s climate, as the Pacific Ocean prevents extreme temperature changes. The wet season lasts from November to February.
Abbotsford – Precipitation Level
Abbotsford gets 1,400 millimetres of rain each year. The climate is oceanic or marine west coast, with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. Nearby mountains play a role in the area’s weather, creating a unique microclimate that affects rain and temperature.
Abbotsford – Climate
Abbotsford has clear-cut seasons, featuring cool, damp winters and warm, dry summers. The city sees some snow in winter, but it’s not as harsh as in other parts of Canada. The climate suits farming, as the rich soil and ample rain help grow various crops.
Abbotsford – Rainy Days
Rain is common in Abbotsford, with rainfall spread evenly all year round. Around 140 days of the year, it rains in the city. Even though fall and winter are the wettest months, mild temperatures still allow outdoor activities.
Abbotsford – Seasonal Rainfall
Abbotsford follows a pattern of wetter and drier periods. Fall and winter receive more rain, which is crucial for agriculture and helps maintain lush greenery. This balance of precipitation throughout the year adds to Abbotsford’s scenic beauty, resulting in a diverse and flourishing landscape.
Vancouver
1200 mm annual precipitation in Vancouver
Vancouver is known for its balance of rain and natural beauty. Vancouver receives around 1,200 millimetres of rain yearly in British Columbia on the southwestern Canadian coast due to its maritime climate. Famous for its precipitation, mainly in the fall and winter, this rain creates stunning greenery covering the city and nearby mountains.
Vancouver – Precipitation Level
Vancouver is well-known for its steady, moderate rainfall. The city gets an average of 1,200 millimetres of rain annually. The Pacific Ocean impacts this precipitation, resulting in lush greenery and a mild climate in Vancouver.
Vancouver – Climate
Vancouver’s climate is temperate maritime, featuring mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. The Pacific Ocean’s influence keeps temperature extremes at bay. Winters are cool but rarely severe, and summers are comfortably warm. Vancouver’s agreeable climate makes it one of the most livable cities in Canada for those wanting enjoyable seasons without harshness.
Vancouver – Rainy Days
Rain is prevalent in Vancouver, as the city sees precipitation of roughly 165 days yearly. The wet season is most noticeable during the fall and winter, coinciding with the area’s rainy period. Even in the summer, occasional showers keep vibrant vegetation thriving throughout the city and its surroundings.
Vancouver – Seasonal Rainfall
Vancouver’s seasonal rainfall distribution is attractive due to its prominence during the cooler months. Fall and winter are the rainiest months, with November and February being the rainiest. Summers are relatively dry. This rainfall pattern supports lush rainforests in nearby areas and adds to the ecological diversity that shapes Vancouver’s natural landscape and adjacent coastal mountains.
Chilliwack
1200 mm annual precipitation in Chilliwack
Chilliwack is located in British Columbia’s Fraser Valley, featuring a distinct seasonal rainfall pattern that defines its climate. The city receives about 1,200 millimetres of precipitation yearly. The heaviest rain falls between November and February, while summer brings drier weather from June to August. This climate supports farming activities and creates an attractive, ever-changing backdrop for locals and tourists.
Chilliwack – Precipitation Level
Chilliwack experiences a lot of rain, which creates rich agricultural land. The city gets around 1,200 millimetres of rain yearly, thanks to its proximity to the Pacific Ocean and coastal mountains. This rainfall supports diverse vegetation and fertile farmland in the area.
Chilliwack – Climate
The climate in Chilliwack is Mediterranean, with pleasant, dry summers and cool, damp winters. The Pacific Ocean moderates temperatures, so extreme temperatures are rare. People enjoy pleasant warmth during summer, which is great for outdoor fun, while winter brings cool weather and occasional snow.
Chilliwack – Rainy Days
Rain is expected in Chilliwack, with about 140 rainy days per year. Most rainfall occurs in the fall and winter, supporting the vibrant agriculture industry. Even the few summer rainy days keep the scenery lush and green, creating a beautiful view for everyone.
Chilliwack – Seasonal Rainfall
Chilliwack has noticeable rainfall differences throughout the seasons. Most rain falls between November and February, quenching local agriculture thirst. Summers stay dry, offering a warm and cozy atmosphere. These seasonal patterns highlight Chilliwack’s role as an agricultural centre and showcase the stunning nature surrounding it.
Sydney
1200 mm annual precipitation in Sydney
On Cape Breton Island, Sydney in Nova Scotia has a temperate maritime climate affecting its rainfall patterns. The city sees about 1,400 millimetres of precipitation annually, with peak raininess during autumn and winter. Due to its closeness to the Atlantic Ocean, the weather includes moderate temperatures and consistent rainfall. The ocean’s impact also brings frequent fog and mist.
Sydney – Precipitation Level
Sydney has moderate precipitation all year. The city gets about 1,600 millimetres of rainfall each year on average. Its coastal position and closeness to the Atlantic Ocean impact precipitation, leading to green and lively landscapes in Sydney.
Sydney – Climate
Sydney has a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold and have snowfall, while summers offer warmth and humidity. The city’s position near the Atlantic coast softens extreme temperatures, making the climate milder than areas further inland. Fog and mist appear because of the ocean’s influence, giving a unique atmosphere.
Sydney – Rainy Days
Rain happens frequently in Sydney, with precipitation around 160 days per year. Rainy days are spread throughout the seasons but are more common in the fall and winter. Thanks to the maritime effect, Sydney stays mild, and rain supports diverse ecosystems.
Sydney – Seasonal Rainfall
Rainfall in Sydney is evenly dispersed throughout the year but tends to be heavier during the fall and winter. The wet months from October until February bring increased amounts of rain that nurture the region’s natural appeal and help plants grow. Summers are dry, but occasional rainfall keeps Sydney’s surroundings green and scenic all year.
Nanaimo
1100 mm annual precipitation in Nanaimo
In British Columbia on Vancouver Island, Nanaimo receives a moderate annual rainfall of around 1,000 millimetres. The coastal location impacts the city’s weather patterns, producing steady yet manageable yearly precipitation. Nanaimo gets more rain during the fall and winter, but summer offers drier and milder weather.
Nanaimo – Precipitation Level
Nanaimo has moderate precipitation due to its coastal position. The city gets about 1,000 millimetres of rain yearly, which is needed to maintain its lush landscapes, ranging from thick forests to beautiful coastlines.
Nanaimo – Climate
Nanaimo’s climate is marked by a mild maritime feel, characterized by soft, wet winters and dry, warm summers. The Pacific Ocean keeps temperature fluctuations moderate all year round. Mild winters with some rain and comfortably warm summers make Nanaimo an ideal place to visit for those who prefer gentle seasonal changes without severe weather.
Nanaimo – Rainy Days
Nanaimo sees rain often, around 150 days per year. Rain is more prominent during the fall and winter, matching the region’s rainy season. Even in the drier summer months, occasional rain still falls, adding to the bright green landscapes that cover the city and nearby areas.
Nanaimo – Seasonal Rainfall
Nanaimo’s rainfall has a noticeable pattern throughout the seasons. The wettest months usually happen during fall and winter, with November to February receiving the most rain. While summers are drier, Nanaimo still experiences rain, keeping Nanaimo’s scenery vibrant and thriving all year long. These rainfall patterns contribute to the city’s diverse ecosystem, making it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Moncton
1100 mm annual precipitation in Moncton
Moncton is in New Brunswick. It has a lot of rainfall yearly, making its ecosystems diverse. Getting about 1,100 millimetres of precipitation each year, rain comes steadily throughout the seasons. Moncton’s humid climate means snowy winters and warm summers, with moisture keeping greenery alive.
Moncton – Precipitation Level
Moncton has moderate precipitation amounts all year round. Yearly, the city gets around 1,100 millimetres of rain. Being near the Bay of Fundy and inland plays a role in this. The rain helps local Canadian farms thrive.
Moncton – Climate
Moncton’s climate is humid continental. There are four distinct seasons. Winters have cold temperatures and snow. Summers are warm and muggy. The Bay of Fundy helps keep temperature extremes in check, making it milder than further inland areas. Fog and mist may occur, especially in the cooler months.
Moncton – Rainy Days
Moncton often rains, with about 140 days of precipitation yearly. Rainy days are spread across the seasons, but more in spring and summer. Rain keeps Moncton’s landscapes lush and vibrant, allowing forests and parks to flourish.
Moncton – Seasonal Rainfall
Rainfall in Moncton is relatively even throughout the year. During the summer months – June to August – there’s less rain. However, the fall and spring months have more rainfall, with the wettest time being from September to November. Moncton stays green and nourished thanks to this distribution, attracting those who enjoy diverse weather patterns.
St. Stephen
1100 mm annual precipitation in St. Stephen
In New Brunswick, St. Stephen experiences moderate rainfall, receiving around 1,200 millimetres annually. Cold winters and warm summers define the city’s humid continental climate, with rain falling relatively evenly all year long. St. Stephen gets rain 150 days a year, more often in spring and summer.
St. Stephen – Precipitation Level
St. Stephen has a lot of precipitation all year round. The town gets around 1,200 millimetres annually. Due to its inland position and closeness to the Bay of Fundy, this precipitation supports agriculture and ecological diversity in the area.
St. Stephen – Climate
St. Stephen’s climate is humid. Winters bring cold and snow, while the summers are warm and dry. Thanks to the Bay of Fundy, the temperature is milder than in inland areas. This climate supports various ecosystems like forests and water bodies.
St. Stephen – Rainy Days
Rain is expected in St. Stephen as it rains 150 days each year. Rainy days are spread evenly across the seasons but are more frequent in spring and summer. Rain adds lush greenery to the region’s parks, gardens, and plant life.
St. Stephen – Seasonal Rainfall
Rainfall in St. Stephen is distributed throughout the year. Summer months from June to August tend to be drier, while fall and spring receive more rain. The wettest time is between September and November. This rainfall keeps St. Stephen’s landscape vibrant year-round, making it attractive for residents and visitors alike.
Saint John
1100 mm annual precipitation in Saint John
Saint John lies in New Brunswick along the Bay of Fundy and experiences plenty of rain that adds to its lush scenery. With around 1,200 millimetres of rainfall annually, precipitation occurs consistently throughout each season. The Bay of Fundy’s effect leads to milder temperatures and regular rain, roughly 140 days per year. Saint John sees more rain during the spring and summer months.
Saint John – Precipitation Level
Saint John gets a lot of rainfall, seeing about 1,200 millimetres yearly. The Bay of Fundy has a significant impact on this precipitation, which is vital for the diverse ecosystems and farming activities around Saint John.
Saint John – Climate
Saint John’s winters bring cold temperatures and snow, while the summers are warm and humid. Weather is milder than in inland areas. Thanks to this climate, the city is home to forests, coastlines, and bodies of water.
Saint John – Rainy Days
Saint John experiences rain on roughly 140 days per year. Rainy days are spread across the seasons but more frequent in spring and summer. This regular rainfall keeps the city’s landscapes green and fresh, including the region’s parks, gardens, and plants.
Saint John – Seasonal Rainfall
Rainfall in Saint John is even throughout the year. Summer months — June to August — have lower precipitation levels, resulting in a drier period. In contrast, fall and spring receive more rain, with the wettest time from September to November. This pattern ensures that the city stays green and scenic all year, making it an inviting place for locals and visitors.
Quebec City
1000 mm annual precipitation in Quebec City
Quebec City experiences a fair amount of rainfall yearly in eastern Canada, receiving about 1,000 millimetres. Influenced by its inland location and proximity to the St. Lawrence River, Quebec City sees rain 120 days annually. Its continental climate brings cold winters and warm summers while occasional rain falls evenly across the seasons.
Quebec City – Precipitation Level
Quebec City has a fair amount of precipitation all year round. About 1,000 millimetres of rain fall annually in the city, thanks to its inland location and the nearby St. Lawrence River. This moisture helps keep Quebec City’s natural environment lively and diverse.
Quebec City – Climate
With a humid climate, Quebec City enjoys four seasons. Cold, snowy winters contrast warm, damp summers. Ice Arctic air and the warm Gulf of Mexico influence city temperatures, allowing outdoor activities like winter sports and summer festivals.
Quebec City – Rainy Days
Quebec City rains often, with around 120 wet days each year. These days are spread evenly across the seasons, though spring and summer see more. The recurring rain adds to the beauty of the city’s green areas, such as parks, gardens, and the historic Plains of Abraham.
Quebec City – Seasonal Rainfall
Rainfall in Quebec City is distributed evenly across the seasons. From June to August, summers have less rain, making for a drier time. In contrast, fall and spring see more rainfall, especially from September to November. This pattern keeps Quebec City’s scenery beautiful and engaging for residents and tourists alike throughout the year.
