Prince Rupert enjoys a marine climate that is cool in the summer and warm in the winter. It is also the wettest city in Canada, a distinction which has garnered it the nickname, “City of Rainbows.” The average annual precipitation in this seaport city is about 250 centimeters (100 inches). Rain falls around the year, though autumn is the wettest season. In particular, it is not unusual to see more than 40 centimeters (16 inches) of rain in the month of October alone. Sunshine, conversely, is quite rare, though tourist brochures put out by the city claim 100 sunny days a year.

One upside to the frequent precipitation is the relative mildness of its winters. Days rarely go below freezing even in January around Prince Rupert. Despite the city’s northern location (around 54°N latitude), snowfall is relatively rare and light. Prince Rupert does, however, get very large amounts of hail compared to the regions around it. However, travelers should be prepared for the occasional blasts of cold wind that come down to Prince Rupert from the north.

Summers are also very cool and mild, with daytime highs usually hovering around 15°C or 60°F. Humidity is also high due to the proximity of the Pacific Ocean.

For forecasts, current conditions, and up-to-date weather warnings, visit Environment Canada's Prince Rupert weather page. This page is also available in imperial units.

For detailed climate information, including rainfall, wind, sunshine, and temperature, see Environment Canada's Prince Rupert climate page.