Weather by Month - Canberra
Temperature Comparison
The biggest temperature swing occurs between April and May, with a change of 4°C.
Jan
WARM
Feb
WARM
Mar
WARM
Apr
MILD
May
COOL
Jun
COOL
Jul
COOL
Aug
COOL
Sep
MILD
Oct
MILD
Nov
MILD
Dec
WARM
| Month | Low Temperature | High Temperature | Category |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | | | warm |
| February | | | warm |
| March | | | warm |
| April | | | mild |
| May | | | cool |
| June | | | cool |
| July | | | cool |
| August | | | cool |
| September | | | mild |
| October | | | mild |
| November | | | mild |
| December | | | warm |
Rain & Sunshine Patterns
Driest Months
#1 April
Best for: outdoor activities & sightseeing
#2 May
Best for: outdoor activities & sightseeing
#3 July
Best for: outdoor activities & sightseeing
Wettest Months
#1 November
Expect: possible showers, pack waterproofs
#2 December
Expect: possible showers, pack waterproofs
#3 October
Expect: possible showers, pack waterproofs
UV & Sun Protection Calendar
High UV Alert:
January, February, March, April, September, October, November, December require serious sun protection.
Jan
10
VERY-HIGH
Feb
9
VERY-HIGH
Mar
8
VERY-HIGH
Apr
6
HIGH
May
5
MODERATE
Jun
4
MODERATE
Jul
4
MODERATE
Aug
5
MODERATE
Sep
7
HIGH
Oct
8
VERY-HIGH
Nov
9
VERY-HIGH
Dec
10
VERY-HIGH
Extreme (11+)
Avoid sun during midday, use SPF 50+
Very High (8-10)
Essential sun protection required
High (6-7)
Use SPF 30+, wear hat & sunglasses
Moderate (3-5)
Sun protection recommended
Low-Moderate (1-2)
Minimal protection needed
Low (0)
No protection required
Daylight Hours
Daylight varies from 9.8 hours in June (winter) to 14.5 hours in December (summer), which is a difference of 4.7 hours.
Shortest Days
June
9.8h
Average Sunrise:08:09
Average Sunset:17:58
Plan daytime activities for midday when light is best. Early sunsets mean evening plans should account for darkness.
Longest Days
December
14.5h
Average Sunrise:05:44
Average Sunset:20:13
Extended daylight perfect for evening activities and late dining. You can fit more sightseeing into each day.
Wind & Humidity Overview
Wind Conditions
Average wind speed
Windiest months:
September (12 km/h)
October (12 km/h)
November (12 km/h)
Packing tip: Conditions are generally calm, but a light layer is always handy.
Humidity Levels
Average humidity
73%
Most humid:
June (84%)
Least humid:
December (64%)
Packing tip: Choose breathable, natural fabrics like cotton or linen for comfort in humid conditions.
Seasonal Overview
Southern Hemisphere seasons shape the weather patterns throughout the year. Here's what to expect in each season:
Summer
January, February, December
Avg High 26°C
Avg Low 14°C
Avg Rain 58 mm
Warm and pleasant; perfect for travel
Autumn
March, April, May
Avg High 19°C
Avg Low 8°C
Avg Rain 39 mm
Mild conditions; transitional weather
Winter
June, July, August
Avg High 11°C
Avg Low 2°C
Avg Rain 51 mm
Cool weather; bring layers and a jacket
Spring
September, October, November
Avg High 19°C
Avg Low 7°C
Avg Rain 67 mm
Variable conditions; layer your clothing
Monthly Details
Click any month for detailed weather information and packing advice.
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View Best Time to VisitFrequently Asked Questions
When is Canberra warmest?
January is typically the warmest month in Canberra, with average high temperatures reaching around 27°C (81°F). This is peak summer weather, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
When is Canberra coldest?
July is usually the coldest month, with average low temperatures dropping to around 1°C (34°F). Pack warm layers if visiting during this time, especially for evening activities.
When does Canberra get the most rain?
November typically sees the most rainfall in Canberra, averaging around 79mm (3.1 inches). It's wise to pack waterproof layers and have some indoor backup plans if you're visiting during this month.
What is the driest month in Canberra?
April is typically the driest month, with average rainfall of just 35mm (1.4 inches). This makes it an excellent time for outdoor exploration and activities with minimal risk of rain disruption.
How much does the temperature vary in Canberra throughout the year?
Temperatures in Canberra range from average lows of 8°C (46°F) to highs of 19°C (65°F). This variation means you'll want to pack differently depending on when you visit—layers are key for adapting to the seasonal changes.
Do I need sun protection when visiting Canberra?
Yes, sun protection is important in Canberra. UV levels can reach 10 during peak months, which is considered very high. Pack sunscreen (SPF 30+), sunglasses, and a hat, especially if you'll be outdoors for extended periods.