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Contents
- The climate of Nanaimo
- The best time to visit Nanaimo
- The worst time to visit Nanaimo
- Spring weather in Nanaimo
- Summer weather in Nanaimo
- Autumn weather in Nanaimo
- Winter weather in Nanaimo
- Weather in January
- Weather in February
- Weather in March
- Weather in April
- Weather in May
- Weather in June
- Weather in July
- Weather in August
- Weather in September
- Weather in October
- Weather in November
- Weather in December
- Frequently asked questions
- Average temperature
- Average humidity
- Average rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average snowfall
- Average snowfall days
- Average sea temperature
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
Climate and monthly weather forecast
The climate of Nanaimo
Nanaimo, located in Canada, is categorized as a Cfb climate under the Köppen climate classification. This classification represents a marine west coast environment with a mild summer. The year-round climate and weather present a mix of temperate conditions, with notable changes in the various weather components throughout the year.
Average high temperatures range from a mild 6.3°C (43.3°F) during the chilliest winter month of December, to a peak of 24.3°C (75.7°F) in August, demonstrating a moderate increase in warmth during the summer months. Low temperatures follow a similar trend with the coldest months, January and December, recording 0.1°C (32.2°F) and -0.2°C (31.6°F) respectively, and climbing to 12.3°C (54.1°F) in July.
Humidity follows an inverse relationship with temperature throughout the year. The highest humidity levels are experienced in the colder months of December and January at 83.2% and 81.5% respectively, and these figures drop to 52.1% in August. As for precipitation, the patterns indicate wetter conditions during winter and a drier summer, with the highest rainfall occurring in November at 187mm (7.36"). This precipitation often comes in the form of snow during the winter months, with the highest snowfall occurring from December to February, reaching 210mm (8.27") in January.
Outside of its more conventional weather conditions, the beautiful marine west coast of Nanaimo also touts a relatively constant sea temperature, ranging from 7.2°C (45°F) to 11.5°C (52.7°F) and daylight varying from 8.3 hours in December to 16.2 hours in June.
Average high temperatures range from a mild 6.3°C (43.3°F) during the chilliest winter month of December, to a peak of 24.3°C (75.7°F) in August, demonstrating a moderate increase in warmth during the summer months. Low temperatures follow a similar trend with the coldest months, January and December, recording 0.1°C (32.2°F) and -0.2°C (31.6°F) respectively, and climbing to 12.3°C (54.1°F) in July.
Humidity follows an inverse relationship with temperature throughout the year. The highest humidity levels are experienced in the colder months of December and January at 83.2% and 81.5% respectively, and these figures drop to 52.1% in August. As for precipitation, the patterns indicate wetter conditions during winter and a drier summer, with the highest rainfall occurring in November at 187mm (7.36"). This precipitation often comes in the form of snow during the winter months, with the highest snowfall occurring from December to February, reaching 210mm (8.27") in January.
Outside of its more conventional weather conditions, the beautiful marine west coast of Nanaimo also touts a relatively constant sea temperature, ranging from 7.2°C (45°F) to 11.5°C (52.7°F) and daylight varying from 8.3 hours in December to 16.2 hours in June.
The best time to visit Nanaimo
With its climate displaying clear seasonal patterns, the best time to visit Nanaimo largely depends on the visitor's preferences. For those who enjoy warmer temperatures and a relatively dry climate, July and August might prove the best period to visit, with the high temperatures soaring to 23.9°C (75°F) and 24.3°C (75.7°F) respectively, and least amount of rain falling, recording only 25mm (0.98") and 28mm (1.1"). This period also holds the longest daylight hours.
The worst time to visit Nanaimo
Conversely, travellers might want to avoid the colder months between December and February. During this time, temperature drops to as low as -0.2°C (31.6°F) and rainfall increases, furthermore, it is likely to snow given that the highest amount of snowfall at 210mm (8.27") occurs in January. The humidity also tends to be very high during these months.
Spring weather in Nanaimo
Spring in Nanaimo is characterized by a steady rise in temperatures and a decrease in precipitation. During these months, average high temperatures increase from 11°C (51.8°F) in March to 17.7°C (63.9°F) in May, while the low temperatures rise from 1.7°C (35.1°F) to 7.2°C (45°F) in the same period. Rainfall subsides from 107mm (4.21") in March to 54mm (2.13") in May, marking a shift from the wet winter to a drier summer season.
Summer weather in Nanaimo
Nanaimo's summer, extending from June to August, is typically warm and relatively dry, characterized by a steady rise in temperature and an accompanying decrease in rainfall. The temperature fluctuation between day and night becomes more pronounced during these months, with high temperatures soaring from 20.8°C (69.4°F) in June to 24.3°C (75.7°F) August, and the low temperatures also increase from 10.3°C (50.5°F) to 12.1°C (53.8°F). Rainfall drops to its yearly lows during summer, with a meagre 25mm (0.98") recorded in July.
Autumn weather in Nanaimo
Autumn in Nanaimo sees a gradual decline in temperatures and an increase in rainfall. The high temperatures drop sharply from 20.9°C (69.6°F) in September to 9.3°C (48.7°F) in November, while the lows also decrease significantly from 8.9°C (48°F) to 1.8°C (35.2°F). Rainfall during this time increases substantially, marking the transition from the dry summer to wet winter, with an increment from 36mm (1.42") in September to a hefty 187mm (7.36") in November.
Winter weather in Nanaimo
The winter months in Nanaimo are typically cold and wet, with snowfall being a common occurrence. The high temperatures range from 6.9°C (44.4°F) to 6.3°C (43.3°F) and low temperatures teeter between 0.1°C (32.2°F) to -0.2°C (31.6°F), making it the coldest time of the year. Rainfall remains high, reaching up to 168mm (6.61") in December. Additionally, snow is prevalent during this season, with the highest registered amount, 210mm (8.27"), being recorded in January. In general, the winter in Nanaimo is marked by its heightened precipitation, either as rain or snow, lower temperatures, and shorter daylight hours.
Weather in January
January is the kick-start of the rainy season in Nanaimo, Canada which often results in a dense cloak of cloud cover over the quaint city. The temperatures during this month rarely drop to extreme lows, though there are occasional snowfalls adding a frosty hue to the scenic backdrop. Weather in January »
Weather in February
The transition from January to February sees a marked decrease in the frequency of snowfall, thus improving the city’s weather conditions somewhat. In comparison to the preceding month, February experiences a visible reduction in rain and snow, indicating the starting phase of a drier spell. Weather in February »
Weather in March
The change in weather trends continues into March, with a further decline in the annual precipitation, allowing more opportunities for sunlit days. The lowering of humidity gives a mild respite from the cold winter days and hints at the forthcoming spring warmth. Weather in March »
Weather in April
The weather in April experiences a considerable increase in temperature from 11°C (51.8°F) to 14.1°C (57.4°F). The increase in temperature brings out the lush greenery of Nanaimo showcasing its spring bloom. Despite the rain showers, the city basks in an average of 13.8 daylight hours, allowing the residents to soak in the seasonal vibrance. Weather in April »
Weather in May
May signals the arrival of summer, with a distinct rise in temperature and a decrease in rainfall. The longer daylight hours unfold the scenic beauty of Nanaimo, igniting the outdoors with lively activities. The cooler evening temperatures provide a pleasant contrast to warm afternoons. Weather in May »
Weather in June
In June, the weather conditions in Nanaimo transform notably as the summer sets in fully. The light rainfall bodes well for the city, filling the air with a fresh cool fragrance. Residents enjoy the profusion of daylight and the warm, cozy afternoons. Weather in June »
Weather in July
July marks the peak of summer in Nanaimo, with the city bathing in abundant sunshine for around 15.7 hours. The city sees not only the warmest temperatures but also the lowest rainfall. The increase in temperature is accompanied by a dip in the relative humidity making this month the driest of all. Weather in July »
Weather in August
August sustains the summer warmth of July, witnessed through increased water activities at the beaches due to sea temperature peaking at 11.5°C (52.7°F). The rainfall remains at a yearly low. The lush cityscape under the clear sky serves as a beautiful canvas for photography enthusiasts. Weather in August »
Weather in September
The weather in Nanaimo undergoes a transition in September, with temperatures commencing a gradual fall. The residents bid farewell to the summer heat, welcoming the onset of Autumn. Despite the reduction in daylight hours, the city glows with autumn hues. Weather in September »
Weather in October
October comes with an evident dip in temperature, causing a noticeable chill in the air. Foggy mornings, followed by sunny afternoons, and crisp evenings depict a typical day in Nanaimo. Amidst a spell of increased rainfall, the city glows under the autumn sun. Weather in October »
Weather in November
With November, Nanaimo enters into a predominantly colder phase. The most rainfall of the year is observed this month, increasing to 187mm (7.36"). The city is often enveloped in a cool fog, muting the autumn colors and paving the way for winter. Weather in November »
Weather in December
December brings the winter season to Nanaimo, featuring low temperatures, heavy rainfall, and an increased incidence of snowfall. The shorter days imbue the city with a tranquil charm, marking the onset of holiday season. Outdoor enthusiasts savor the opportunity of snowfall during this month, turning the city into a winter wonderland. Weather in December »
Updated: Aug 8, 2024
Published by: Weather Atlas | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Published by: Weather Atlas | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Frequently asked questions
How many days does it rain?
Throughout the year, there are 170.1 rainfall days, and 1098mm (43.23") of precipitation is accumulated.
When does it snow in Nanaimo?
Months with snowfall are January through May, October through December.
When does it snow the most?
January is the month with the most snowfall. Snow falls for 3.1 days and accumulates 210mm (8.27") of snow.
How many days does it snow?
Throughout the year, in Nanaimo, there are 11 snowfall days, and 687mm (27.05") of snow is accumulated.
What is the month with the coldest sea water?
With an average sea temperature of 7.2°C (45°F), February is the month with the coldest seawater.
When is Daylight Saving Time (DST)?
On Sunday, 10. March 2024, at 2:00 am, Daylight Saving Time starts, and the time zone changes from PST to PDT. Daylight Saving Time ends on Sunday, 03. November 2024, at 2:00 am, and the time zone reverts from PDT to PST.
When it does not snow?
June through September are months without snowfall.
When are the longest days?
The month with the longest days is June, with an average of 16h and 12min of daylight.
What is the driest month?
The month with the least rainfall is July, when the rain falls for 7.6 days and typically collects 25mm (0.98") of precipitation.
What month has the most sunshine in Nanaimo?
July has the most sunshine of the year, with an average of 9.3h of sunshine.
What time of the year is the hottest in Nanaimo?
August, with its high-temperature average of 24.3°C (75.7°F) and a low-temperature average of 12.1°C (53.8°F), is the warmest month.
What is the least humid month?
With an average relative humidity of 52.1%, August is the least humid month.
What month is the sea warmest?
With an average sea temperature of 11.5°C (52.7°F), August is the month with the warmest seawater in Nanaimo.
What is the rainiest month?
November is the month with the most rainfall. Rain falls for 19.8 days and accumulates 187mm (7.36") of precipitation.
What month is the coldest?
The lowest temperatures are recorded in December, with averages reaching a high of 6.3°C (43.3°F) and a low of -0.2°C (31.6°F).
What is the most humid month?
With an average relative humidity of 83.2%, December is the most humid month.
What is the month with the shortest days in Nanaimo?
With an average of 8h and 18min of daylight, December has the shortest days of the year.
What is the month with the least sunshine?
With an average of 1.6h of sunshine, December has the least sunshine of the year.
Average temperature
Nanaimo, Canada
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is August (24.3°C).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is December (6.3°C).
The month with the highest average low temperature is July (12.3°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is December (-0.2°C).
Average humidity
Nanaimo, Canada
- Average humidity in January:
81.5% - Average humidity in February:
71.1% - Average humidity in March:
65.5% - Average humidity in April:
59.6% - Average humidity in May:
57.8% - Average humidity in June:
57%
- Average humidity in July:
52.7% - Average humidity in August:
52.1% - Average humidity in September:
56.2% - Average humidity in October:
68.5% - Average humidity in November:
78.4% - Average humidity in December:
83.2%
The month with the highest relative humidity is December (83.2%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is August (52.1%).
Average rainfall
Nanaimo, Canada
- Average rainfall in January:
167.8mm - Average rainfall in February:
115.2mm - Average rainfall in March:
106.9mm - Average rainfall in April:
67.2mm - Average rainfall in May:
54.2mm - Average rainfall in June:
43.4mm
- Average rainfall in July:
25.4mm - Average rainfall in August:
28.4mm - Average rainfall in September:
35.8mm - Average rainfall in October:
101.2mm - Average rainfall in November:
186.5mm - Average rainfall in December:
166.1mm
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is November (186.5mm).
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is July (25.4mm).
Average rainfall days
Nanaimo, Canada
- Average rainfall days in January:
18 days - Average rainfall days in February:
14.9 days - Average rainfall days in March:
17.8 days - Average rainfall days in April:
15.6 days - Average rainfall days in May:
14.8 days - Average rainfall days in June:
12.4 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
7.6 days - Average rainfall days in August:
6.8 days - Average rainfall days in September:
8.2 days - Average rainfall days in October:
15.4 days - Average rainfall days in November:
19.8 days - Average rainfall days in December:
18.8 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is November (19.8 days).
The month with the least rainy days is August (6.8 days).
Average snowfall
Nanaimo, Canada
The month with the highest snowfall is January (210mm).
The months with the least snowfall are June, July, August and September (0mm).
Average snowfall days
Nanaimo, Canada
- Average snowfall days in January:
3.1 days - Average snowfall days in February:
2.3 days - Average snowfall days in March:
1 days - Average snowfall days in April:
0 days - Average snowfall days in May:
0.1 days - Average snowfall days in June:
0 days
- Average snowfall days in July:
0 days - Average snowfall days in August:
0 days - Average snowfall days in September:
0 days - Average snowfall days in October:
0.1 days - Average snowfall days in November:
1.2 days - Average snowfall days in December:
3.2 days
The month with the highest number of snowfall days is December (3.2 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are April, June, July, August and September (0 days).
Average sea temperature
Nanaimo, Canada
The best month for swimming (with the highest average sea temperature) is August (11.5°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average sea temperature) is February (7.2°C).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Nanaimo, Canada
- Average daylight in January:
8h and 5min - Average daylight in February:
10h and 1min - Average daylight in March:
11h and 5min - Average daylight in April:
13h and 5min - Average daylight in May:
15h and 2min - Average daylight in June:
16h and 1min
- Average daylight in July:
15h and 4min - Average daylight in August:
14h and 2min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 4min - Average daylight in October:
10h and 5min - Average daylight in November:
9h and 1min - Average daylight in December:
8h and 2min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 16h and 12min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 8h and 18min).
- Average sunshine in January:
1h and 5min - Average sunshine in February:
3h and 1min - Average sunshine in March:
4h and 2min - Average sunshine in April:
6h and 0min - Average sunshine in May:
7h and 1min - Average sunshine in June:
7h and 3min
- Average sunshine in July:
9h and 2min - Average sunshine in August:
9h and 0min - Average sunshine in September:
7h and 1min - Average sunshine in October:
4h and 2min - Average sunshine in November:
2h and 1min - Average sunshine in December:
1h and 4min
The month with the most sunshine is July (Average sunshine: 9h and 18min).
The month with the least sunshine is December (Average sunshine: 1h and 36min).
