Vancouver's dry summer defies Raincouver reputation—39% below seasonal average

Vancouver has received 439 millimetres of rain through July 28—just 77 per cent of the seasonal average of 567 millimetres—marking a stark departure from the city's wet-coast identity. The shortfall is especially sharp when measured against Edmonton, which has typically received 273.6 millimetres by this point but has already accumulated 655.7 millimetres as of July 28.

Environment Canada meteorologist Terri Lang notes that Vancouver and Edmonton have opposite precipitation patterns. While Vancouver tends toward wet winters and dry summers, Edmonton experiences dry winters and wet summers—a difference that has been exaggerated this year. The Prairie city's excess moisture hasn't moved west; it has stayed put, creating severe flooding that has forced major facility closures.

Metro Vancouver's dryness, combined with heat and wildfire smoke drifting in from the Interior, has prompted air quality advisories. Despite the clear skies and temperatures near seasonal norms, the region's traditionally wet reputation is taking a hit—at least for now. Environment Canada had forecast hotter, drier conditions for summer, and the prediction is holding.