Weather overview
Ванкувер enjoys a mild coastal climate, but the weather shifts noticeably throughout the year. Winters here are rarely harsh, though January and December bring the most rain, with temperatures hovering around +5 °C. By March, the city starts to warm up, and April often feels like the true start of spring, with longer days and less precipitation.
Summer in Ванкувер is the driest and most pleasant time, especially from June to August, when temperatures reach +19...+24 °C. September marks the transition to autumn, with cooling air and a gradual return of rain. By November, the city settles into its wet season, which lasts until early spring.
Temperature
The warmest months in Ванкувер are July and August, when daytime highs average +23...+24 °C, though evenings can still feel cool near the coast. June and September offer comfortable warmth, with temperatures around +16...+20 °C, making them ideal for outdoor activities without the summer crowds.
Winter temperatures in Ванкувер rarely drop below freezing, with January and February averaging +5 °C during the day and +2...+3 °C at night. March and April see a gradual rise, reaching +10...+14 °C by mid-spring. Even in November and December, the cold is mild compared to much of Canada, though the dampness can make it feel chillier.
| Month | Minimum | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| January | 3.2 | 7.3 |
| February | 2.6 | 7.4 |
| March | 4.5 | 10.6 |
| April | 6.9 | 13.7 |
| May | 10.3 | 18 |
| June | 12.8 | 20.5 |
| July | 15.4 | 24 |
| August | 15.3 | 23.8 |
| September | 12.7 | 19.9 |
| October | 8.6 | 13.9 |
| November | 5.6 | 10 |
| December | 3.1 | 7.3 |
Precipitation
Ванкувер is known for its rain, particularly from October to March, when monthly precipitation often exceeds 200 mm. November is typically the wettest month, with over 250 mm of rainfall, while July and August are the driest, averaging just 25–26 mm. Even in the wet season, rain usually comes in steady drizzles rather than heavy downpours.
The shift from dry to wet season is noticeable by October, when rainfall more than doubles compared to September. April and May offer a brief respite, with precipitation dropping below 120 mm, but the city’s lush greenery thrives on the consistent moisture, especially in the surrounding mountains and forests.
| Month | Precipitation |
|---|---|
| January | 208 |
| February | 129.9 |
| March | 130 |
| April | 113.8 |
| May | 69.4 |
| June | 61.4 |
| July | 25.6 |
| August | 26 |
| September | 78.6 |
| October | 202.3 |
| November | 258.6 |
| December | 226.1 |
What to pack
For a trip to Ванкувер in summer, pack light layers—days can be warm, but evenings near the water may require a light jacket. A waterproof shell is useful even in July or August, as occasional showers can surprise visitors. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the city’s parks and trails.
From November to March, waterproof footwear and a reliable raincoat are essential for Ванкувер’s wet season. Layering is key, as indoor spaces are well-heated, but outdoor temperatures rarely rise above +7...+8 °C. A warm hat and gloves are rarely needed, but an umbrella will be your constant companion.
Spring and autumn in Ванкувер call for versatile clothing. In April or May, a mix of short- and long-sleeve shirts with a light sweater works well, while September and October may require a warmer jacket as temperatures dip. Always keep a compact umbrella handy—rain can arrive with little warning.
| Month | Wind speed |
|---|---|
| January | 2.9 |
| February | 2.9 |
| March | — |
| April | 3.2 |
| May | 3.1 |
| June | 2.9 |
| July | 2.6 |
| August | 2.4 |
| September | 2.5 |
| October | 2.7 |
| November | 2.9 |
| December | 2.6 |