british columbia climate

Climate in British Columbia is influenced by the latitude, mountainous topography, and the Pacific Ocean. This diversity causes wide variations in average rainfall, snowfall, temperature and hours of sunshine, sometimes over very short distances. In general, however, temperatures are warmer in the south than in the north, and rainfall is heaviest along the coast and lightest in the southern interior.

Spring and fall can often be very warm and pleasant, especially in June and September. Daytime temperatures -particularly in southwestern BC and the southern interior- allow for dresses, shorts and short-sleeved shirts; however, it is advisable to have sweaters, trousers and a light coat or jacket on hand as well.

Summers are hottest in BC's interior, particularly in the south where temperatures frequently surpass 86°F. Nearer the coast, temperatures range from 72 to 83°F. Recommended clothing for both regions in summer is the same: shorts, short-sleeved shirts and light dresses in daytime and sweaters and trousers in the evenings.