Last updated: January 18, 2025
British Columbia, Canada, exhibits a diverse climate characterized by a mix of Köppen-Geiger climate classes including Dsc, Csb, Cfb, Dfc, and Dfb. This regional variability is highlighted by extreme temperature ranges, with a chilling minimum of -44°C (-47°F) recorded in February, emphasizing the harsh winter conditions. In contrast, the summer months can soar to a blistering 44°C (111°F) in June, showcasing the potential for significant seasonal temperature fluctuations. The average temperature for the province hovers around 7°C (45°F), reflecting a generally cool maritime climate influenced by its geographical diversity and topography.
British Columbia experiences pronounced seasonal temperature patterns, with frigid winters giving way to warmer summers. The year begins with January and February exhibiting extreme lows, reaching as low as -44°C (-47°F), with average temperatures hovering just below freezing. As spring arrives in March, temperatures begin to rise significantly, with averages climbing to 2°C (36°F) and peak highs at 25°C (77°F) by the month's end. April and May continue this warming trend, with May seeing temperatures reaching up to 30°C (87°F). By June, summer asserts its presence, featuring average temperatures of 14°C (58°F) and dramatic highs peaking at a blistering 44°C (111°F). July and August maintain similar warmth, although August sees a slight cooling before autumn ushers in decreasing temperatures once again. Despite cooler nights, September can still deliver warm days, while October through December mark a return to harsh winter conditions, showcasing the province's stark climatic contrasts throughout the year.
Tofino experiences a minimum temperature of -5°C (23°F) in December and a maximum of 28°C (82°F) in June, providing a mild coastal climate throughout the year (monthly temperatures in Tofino). In contrast, Victoria has a slightly colder minimum of -7°C (20°F) in December and peaks at 23°C (74°F) in August, making its summer pleasant but milder than Tofino (monthly temperatures in Victoria). Vancouver, known for its more extreme temperatures, can plummet to -16°C (4°F) in December while soaring to a sweltering 37°C (99°F) in June, showcasing a broader temperature range than both Tofino and Victoria (monthly temperatures in Vancouver).
In British Columbia, precipitation patterns reveal a significant seasonal variation, heavily influenced by the winter and early spring months. January marks the wettest month, accumulating 174 mm (6.9 in) of rainfall over approximately 14 days, while November closely follows with 226 mm (8.9 in) over 17 days. The late fall and early winter months are characterized by substantial rainfall, providing critical moisture during these cooler periods. As spring approaches, precipitation begins to taper off, dropping to 68 mm (2.7 in) in May, before stabilizing around 70 mm during the early summer months of June and July.
July and August are the driest months, with only 43 mm (1.7 in) of rainfall each, occurring over about 6 days, creating a marked contrast to the wetter seasons. As autumn sets in, September experiences a rise in precipitation with 119 mm (4.7 in), signaling a transition back to the wetter patterns of the year. The precipitation trend underscores the distinct climatic zones within British Columbia, where the initial months of the year are markedly wet, while summer showcases a notable dry phase before the onset of the rainy season in the fall.
In British Columbia, the sunshine duration exhibits a pronounced seasonal trend, beginning with relatively low hours during the winter months. January captures only 81 hours of sunshine, which gradually increases to 143 hours in February and 208 hours in March. As spring unfolds, April witnesses a significant jump to 246 hours, heralding the arrival of sunnier days and a reassuring transition toward the brighter seasons. This upward trend continues into May, where sunshine hours peak at 324 hours, further amplifying the region's vibrant spring landscape.
The summer months of June and July showcase the apex of sunshine, with June basking in 331 hours and July reaching its zenith at 378 hours. This abundance of sunlight fosters ideal conditions for outdoor activities and agricultural growth. However, as summer wanes, the days gradually shorten; August still enjoys a respectable 339 hours, but by September, the sunshine hours drop to 244. The trend continues into the fall and winter, where October records 180 hours before plunging to 111 hours in November and 98 hours in December. This cyclical pattern of sunshine duration not only highlights the naturally changing seasons in British Columbia but also reflects the larger climatic influences shaping the region's diverse environment.
The UV Index in British Columbia showcases notable seasonal variations, indicating how solar radiation intensity changes throughout the year. In the winter months, January and December present lower UV Index values of 2 and 1, categorized as low exposure risk, allowing for longer burn times of 45 minutes. As February arrives, there is a modest increase to a 3, marking a moderate level of risk and a shorter burn time of 30 minutes. Early spring months, such as March, see the UV Index rise further to 5, reinforcing the need for awareness as outdoor activities increase.
As summer approaches, the UV Index reaches its peak intensity, with May hitting 9 and June soaring to 10, both classified as very high exposure. The recommended burn time during this period drastically reduces to just 15 minutes, emphasizing the importance of sun safety practices. July and August maintain the 9 level, reflecting the sustained risk during the height of summer. As fall approaches, the UV Index begins to decline to 7 in September and 5 in October, demonstrating that while the sun's intensity lessens, moderate caution is still warranted. By November, the UV Index returns to 3, before tapering down to 1 again in December, illustrating the cyclical nature of UV radiation exposure throughout the year in British Columbia.
UV Risk Categories
In British Columbia, daylight duration exhibits a clear seasonal rhythm that reflects the annual cycle of light. Starting the year in January with just 8 hours of daylight, the province gradually gains light as winter transitions into spring. By February, daylight increases to 10 hours and further extends to 11 hours in March, signaling the gradual awakening of the natural world. As the days lengthen, April enjoys 13 hours of sunlight, with May reaching a comfortable 15 hours, enhancing outdoor activities and clear visibility.
The peak daylight duration occurs in June, when residents bask in an impressive 16 hours of sunlight. This extended illumination contributes to the vibrant summer atmosphere of the region. As summer wanes, daylight begins to decline, with July still offering 15 hours before tapering to 14 hours in August. The trend continues into autumn, where September provides 12 hours, followed by a drop to 10 hours in October. The cycle concludes with November and December reverting to 8 hours of daylight, reflecting the return to winter and shorter days, encapsulating the yearly ebb and flow of light in British Columbia.
Bowen Island, Canada, experiences a mild maritime climate characterized by cool, wet winters and warm, dry summers. January temperatures range from -10°C to a maximum of 8°C, while July sees highs around 28°C, with average monthly temperatures peaking in June at 16°C. Precipitation is highest in the winter months, particularly in November with 463 mm, whereas summer months enjoy significantly less rainfall, around 61 mm in July. Sunshine hours are abundant in the summer, peaking at 373 hours in July, contrasting with just 72 hours in January. For more detailed information, visit Bowen Island climate.
Campbell River, Canada experiences a temperate coastal climate with warm summers and cold winters. January temperatures range from -12°C to 9°C and see significant rainfall, peaking at 260 mm. Summers, particularly July and August, reach highs of 31°C and 32°C, accompanied by lower precipitation levels of around 69 mm and 74 mm, respectively. With the most sunshine in July (377 hours), Campbell River offers a pleasant summer environment, while winter months are marked by shorter days and frequent rain. For more details, visit Campbell River climate.
Chemainus, Canada experiences a diverse climate characterized by cool winters and warm summers. January and February are the coldest months, with temperatures ranging from -9°C to 13°C (15°F to 55°F) and significant precipitation, especially in November and January. As spring arrives, temperatures gradually rise, peaking in July and August, where highs can reach up to 34°C (93°F). The region enjoys plenty of sunshine during the summer months, with July receiving up to 383 hours. For more detailed information, visit Chemainus climate.
Cowichan Bay, Canada, experiences a temperate oceanic climate with mild winters and warm summers. January and December showcase the coldest temperatures, averaging around 4°C (40°F), while July is the warmest month, reaching averages of 18°C (65°F). Precipitation peaks in November and January, with over 200 mm (8 inches), contrasting with the drier months of July and August. The area enjoys significant sunshine during summer, with July boasting the highest at 384 hours. For more detailed weather patterns, visit Cowichan Bay climate.
Fernie, Canada, experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January and February are the chilliest months, with average temperatures around -10°C to -11°C (14°F to 12°F) and significant snowfall, collecting up to 84 mm of precipitation. By summer, temperatures rise to an average of 16°C to 24°C (61°F to 76°F) in June and July, complemented by more sunshine, peaking at 402 hours in July. Rainfall is fairly consistent throughout the year, with November being the wettest month, receiving about 104 mm. For more detailed information, visit Fernie climate.
Golden, Canada, experiences a diverse climate with cold winters and mild summers. January temperatures can drop as low as -34°C (-29°F) with an average of -11°C (13°F), while July sees warmer averages around 14°C (58°F) to 35°C (95°F). Precipitation varies throughout the year, peaking in June at 110 mm (4.3 in) and generally falling between 55 mm to 102 mm (2.2 in to 4.0 in) in other months. Sunshine hours increase significantly from winter to summer, with July receiving the most at 367 hours. For more details, visit Golden climate.
Hornby Island, Canada, experiences a temperate climate characterized by mild winters and warm summers. January and February see average temperatures around 3-4°C (38-40°F) with substantial precipitation peaking in November at 296 mm (11.7 in). As summer arrives, July and August feature average highs of 18-19°C (65-66°F) and significantly less rain, particularly in July with only 24 mm (1.0 in). The island benefits from considerable sunshine, particularly in June and July, which receive around 328 and 378 hours, respectively. For more detailed weather patterns, visit Hornby Island climate.
Invermere, Canada experiences a diverse climate with cold winters and warm summers. January and December are particularly frigid, with average temperatures around -9°C (15°F) and -10°C (14°F), respectively, while July sees averages climb to a warm 16°C (60°F). Precipitation peaks in June and November, reaching 103 mm (4.1 in) and 85 mm (3.3 in) respectively, contributing to a yearly average that supports lush greenery. The region enjoys abundant sunshine, especially in summer, with July boasting up to 391 hours. For more details on the climate, visit Invermere climate.
Kelowna, Canada experiences a diverse climate marked by cold winters and warm summers. January and February see minimum temperatures dropping to around -26°C (-15°F) and average highs rarely exceeding 9°C (48°F), while July boasts maximum temperatures peaking at 34°C (94°F). Precipitation is highest in late fall, with November receiving an average of 104 mm (4.1 in), while the summer months are notably drier. Sunshine hours peak in July with 391 hours, offering a bright summer experience. For more details, visit Kelowna climate.
The climate in Kimberley, Canada, showcases a wide range of temperatures throughout the year, with January averages around -8°C (18°F) and warming to 17°C (63°F) in July. Precipitation peaks in June and November, with an average of 75 mm (3.0 in) and 73 mm (2.9 in), respectively. The region experiences significant sunshine from late spring to summer, peaking at 401 hours in July. For more detailed information, visit Kimberley climate.
Lake Cowichan, Canada, experiences a diverse climate with cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures can drop to a minimum of -17°C (1°F), while summer highs in July and August reach around 32°C (91°F) and 34°C (94°F) respectively. Precipitation is highest in the winter months, with November receiving 313 mm (12.3 in) and January 274 mm (10.8 in). Sunshine peaks in July with 374 hours, creating a stark contrast to the limited sunlight in winter months like December, which averages only 89 hours. For more detailed information, visit Lake Cowichan climate.
Nanaimo, Canada experiences a temperate maritime climate characterized by mild winters and warm summers. The average temperatures range from a chilly 4°C (40°F) in January to a warm 19°C (66°F) in July, with July typically being the sunniest month, boasting 378 hours of sunshine. Precipitation is significant, especially in the winter and fall months, peaking in November with 304 mm (12.0 in). Visitors can expect a mix of rainy weather and sunny days throughout the year, offering a variety of outdoor experiences. For more information, visit Nanaimo climate.
Nelson, Canada experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January and February are the coldest months, with average temperatures around -7°C (20°F) and significant snowfall, while July is the warmest, averaging 18°C (64°F) with maximums reaching up to 37°C (99°F). Precipitation is fairly consistent year-round, peaking in November with 115 mm (4.5 in). Sunshine hours vary notably, with July enjoying the most at 395 hours, while January sees only 84 hours. For more detailed information, visit Nelson climate.
North Vancouver experiences a temperate climate with notable seasonal variations. Winters are chilly, with January temperatures ranging from -10°C to 10°C and significant precipitation, peaking in November with 411 mm. Summers are warmer, especially from June to August, where average highs reach up to 18-33°C and rainfall is minimal. Sunshine hours peak in July at 385 hours, offering plenty of daylight during the summer months. For more detailed information, visit North Vancouver climate.
Oak Bay, Canada experiences a temperate climate with mild winters and warm summers. January temperatures range from a minimum of -4°C (26°F) to a maximum of 11°C (51°F), while July sees highs of 22°C (71°F) and low precipitation (12 mm) compared to winter months, which can bring over 140 mm. The area enjoys significant sunshine during summer, peaking in July with 390 hours, contrasted by fewer sunny days in winter. Overall, the climate supports a vibrant outdoor lifestyle throughout most of the year. For more details, visit Oak Bay climate.
Osoyoos, Canada, experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and hot summers. January and February see average temperatures around -3°C (27°F) with significant precipitation, while July and August soar to 21°C (70°F) and beyond, featuring long sunny days with over 400 hours of sunshine. The area receives the least rainfall in summer, with just 8 mm (0.3 in) in July. Notably, the annual temperature range and substantial sunshine make Osoyoos a unique climate destination. For more details, visit Osoyoos climate.
Parksville, Canada experiences a temperate climate characterized by mild winters and warm summers. January sees average temperatures around 4°C (40°F) and heavy precipitation averaging 238 mm (9.4 in), while July offers warmth with averages of 18°C (64°F) and minimal rainfall at 29 mm (1.2 in). The region enjoys abundant sunshine, especially in the summer months, peaking at 364 hours in July. Autumn and winter bring increased rainfall, particularly in November, which records 283 mm (11.1 in). For more detailed information, visit Parksville climate.
Pemberton, Canada experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and mild summers. January is the coldest month, with temperatures ranging from -28°C to 4°C and high precipitation, averaging 239 mm. As summer approaches, temperatures peak in July, reaching an average of 14°C, while precipitation decreases to about 49 mm. The region is also quite sunny, especially in July, when it enjoys approximately 370 hours of sunshine. For more detailed information, visit Pemberton climate.
Penticton, Canada experiences a diverse climate with cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures can drop as low as -23°C (-9°F), while July sees highs of up to 40°C (104°F). Precipitation is highest in late fall, particularly November with 93 mm (3.7 in), and decreases significantly during the summer months. The region enjoys considerable sunshine, peaking in July with 397 hours. For more detailed information, visit Penticton climate.
Revelstoke, Canada, experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and mild summers. January and February are particularly frigid, with average temperatures around -8°C (18°F) and significant snowfall, while July boasts warmer temperatures averaging 16°C (61°F) and abundant sunshine. Precipitation varies throughout the year, peaking in November with 187 mm (7.4 in) and declining to 59 mm (2.3 in) in August. Revelstoke sees the most sunshine in July, reaching 363 hours, making it a popular summer destination. For more detailed information, visit Revelstoke climate.
Salt Spring Island, Canada, experiences a temperate climate characterized by mild winters and warm summers. January temperatures range from a minimum of -9°C (15°F) to a maximum of 11°C (52°F), while July sees highs around 32°C (90°F). Precipitation is highest during the winter months, peaking in November with 206 mm (8.1 in), and is relatively low in July at only 14 mm (0.6 in). The island enjoys abundant sunshine, especially in July with 384 hours; May and June also provide substantial sunlight. For detailed climate insights, visit Salt Spring Island climate.
Squamish, Canada, experiences a diverse climate with cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures range from a minimum of -20°C to a maximum of 6°C, while July sees averages between 5°C and 28°C. Precipitation is significant, peaking in November at 465 mm, contributing to a lush environment. Sunshine hours are highest in the summer months, with July averaging 373 hours, making it the sunniest month. For more details, visit Squamish climate.
Summerland, Canada experiences a diverse climate, with cold winters and warm summers. In summer months, specifically June to August, temperatures range from an average of 18°C (64°F) to a high of 38°C (101°F). Precipitation is low during this period, with July and August receiving only 22 mm (0.8 in) and 17 mm (0.7 in), respectively. Sunshine is abundant, particularly in July, which boasts approximately 397 hours of sunlight. For more detailed information, visit Summerland climate.
Tofino, Canada, experiences a mild maritime climate characterized by cool winters and warm summers. January sees temperatures ranging from -2°C to 12°C, while July peaks at 21°C. Precipitation is significant, particularly in the fall and winter months, with November receiving the highest at 521 mm. Sunshine is abundant during the summer, with July boasting 361 hours, but diminishes in the winter months. For more detailed information, visit Tofino climate.
Ucluelet, Canada experiences a temperate oceanic climate characterized by mild temperatures and significant rainfall throughout the year. Winter temperatures range from -5°C to 11°C, while summer highs can reach up to 30°C in June. Precipitation is heaviest in the autumn and winter months, notably around 507 mm in November, with June being the driest month at 102 mm. Sunshine is plentiful during the summer, peaking at 369 hours in July, while winter months receive considerably less sunlight. For more detailed information, visit Ucluelet climate.
Vancouver experiences a temperate maritime climate with mild winters and warm summers. January and February are the coldest months, with average temperatures around 2-3°C (37-38°F) and significant precipitation peaking in November at 411 mm (16.2 in). Summers are warm, particularly in July and August, where average temperatures reach 18°C (64°F) and rainfall diminishes to about 41-46 mm (1.6-1.8 in). The city enjoys the most sunshine from May to July, totaling up to 341 hours in June. For more detailed information, visit Vancouver climate.
Victoria, Canada, experiences a temperate climate characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. January and February are typically the coldest months, with average temperatures around 5-6°C (42-44°F) and significant rainfall peaking around 143 mm (5.6 in) in January. By summer, particularly in July and August, temperatures rise to averages of 15°C (59°F) and minimal precipitation, making it the driest period with around 12-15 mm (0.5-0.6 in) of rain. Sunshine is abundant in the summer months, reaching up to 390 hours in July, contrasting sharply with the cloudier winters. For more details, visit Victoria climate.
The climate in West End, Canada, features a cool maritime influence with significant seasonal variation. Winter temperatures range from a minimum of -9°C (16°F) in December to a maximum of 10°C (50°F) in January, accompanied by high precipitation levels of up to 278 mm (10.9 in). Summers are milder, with average highs reaching 29°C (84°F) in July and August, while rainfall decreases significantly to around 32 mm (1.2 in) in July. Sunlight is abundant in the summer months, boasting up to 385 hours in July, but tapers off to only 82 hours in January. For more details, visit West End climate.
Whistler, Canada, experiences a diverse climate with cold winters and mild summers. January and December are the coldest months, averaging around -5°C (23°F) and often dropping to lows of -28°C (-18°F). Precipitation peaks in November, with around 425 mm (16.7 in), while July enjoys the least with just 74 mm (2.9 in). The summer months are characterized by warmer temperatures, reaching a maximum of 33°C (92°F) in June, and abundant sunshine, particularly in July with 358 hours. For more detailed information, visit Whistler climate.
White Rock, Canada, experiences a mild coastal climate with distinct seasonal variations. Winters are chilly, with temperatures averaging around 4°C (40°F) in January and significant precipitation, particularly in November and December, which see up to 296 mm (11.7 in). Summers are warmer, peaking in July with maximum temperatures reaching 33°C (91°F) and minimal rainfall. Sunshine is abundant from May to August, with July boasting the highest at 387 hours. For more details, visit White Rock climate.
In conclusion, British Columbia's climate and daylight patterns reveal the province's rich seasonal diversity, marked by notable variations in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours. From the brisk winters with limited daylight and cold temperatures to the vibrant summers filled with abundant sunshine and high UV exposure, each season offers unique experiences and challenges. Understanding these climatic characteristics is essential for residents and visitors alike, as they navigate daily activities, health precautions, and outdoor pursuits. Overall, the interplay of these elements not only shapes the region's ecological landscape but also enhances the appreciation for the natural beauty that British Columbia has to offer throughout the year.