Whether you’re planning ahead for your summer 2022 visit to a Malcolm Island fishing lodge or are lucky enough to be visiting Sointula this fall, one big question that most visitors to British Columbia have is what the weather will be like. We’re breaking down what you can expect each season on Malcolm Island.
Winter Weather
Officially kicking off on December 21st each year, winter weather in Sointula isn’t what you might expect. If winter in Canada automatically brings to mind snowy landscapes and freezing temps, think again. Malcolm Island, like much of British Columbia, actually experiences very mild winters. In fact, the region is home to some of Canada’s mildest winter weather.
The central and interior sections of British Columbia, as well as the northern section, have harsher winters than the coast, bringing snowfall and sub-freezing temperatures. On Malcolm Island, though, temperatures rarely drop below freezing.
In December, expect the following average temperatures:
- The average daily high is 43 degrees Fahrenheit.
- The daily low is 35 degrees Fahrenheit.
- In January and February, the average daily low remains the same, but the average daily high rises by a degree, to 44 degrees Fahrenheit in January and 45 degrees Fahrenheit in February.
Of course, like anywhere else, the occasional odd temperature rise or fall does occur. You might get lucky with a warm, sunny day in mid-December, or experience a below-freezing day in January from time to time.
Snow is a rarity in Sointula. But the island does get some of its highest monthly rain totals during the winter months. December averages more than 8 inches of rain a month, with January seeing similar amounts of precipitation. By February, that number drops to 4 inches and remains low until mid-to-late Fall.
See the Spring Showers
Do spring showers bring May flowers? While things may start to bloom with the warmer temperatures of May, Malcolm Island actually sees a fairly low average rainfall during the Spring months.
Spring technically arrives on March 20th. But with temperatures still in the high 40s, it doesn’t always feel that way. The average daily high in March is 48 degrees Fahrenheit, with a low of 36 degrees Fahrenheit. The average monthly rainfall rises ever so slightly from the previous month to 5 inches, with a similar amount in April. May sees less rain, at around 2 inches on average for the month.
May and June have daily average highs of 52 and 57 degrees Fahrenheit. Lows hover between 38 and 43 degrees.
Summer Days and Salmon Fishing
The start of summer also means the start of the fishing season here at Sointula! As we are welcoming back fishing enthusiasts and other guests for another season of fun and adventure, temperatures in the area are starting to rise, and rainfall begins disappearing.
Because this is the season when most guests will be seeing Malcolm Island for the first time, we get a lot of questions about what kind of weather to expect. The answer depends on the month you visit, as well as the time of day that you’re asking about.
While average daily highs and lows can help give you an idea of what to expect, the reality is that temperatures often change throughout the day. Mornings during the summer months are often cool and crisp, warranting a light down jacket or fleece and thermals. But by mid-day, rising temperatures and sunshine will have you shedding a few layers. If you’re planning to spend time on the water, we recommend dressing in layers so that you can add or remove clothing throughout the day to stay comfortable.
Daily average highs and lows for the summer months include:
- June has a daily average high of 60 degrees Fahrenheit and an average daily low of 48 degrees.
- July has a daily average high of 64 degrees Fahrenheit and an average daily low of 51 degrees.
- August is the warmest month of the year on Malcolm Island. It has a daily average high of 65 degrees Fahrenheit and an average daily low of 52 degrees.
Rainfall drops significantly this season as well. June and August see around 2 inches of average monthly rainfall, while July sees just over an inch.
Fall Colors Bring Sointula Alive
British Columbia might not be widely known for its fall colors, but rest assured that the region’s trees still put on a show. And with so many outdoor activities to enjoy and the weather still mild, this is a great place to come for some fall fun.
Late September is the start of fall, but don’t expect the leaves to change just yet. With temperatures still hovering just a few degrees below what they were in July and August, you’ll enjoy highs around 61 degrees Fahrenheit and lows around 48 degrees.
In October, the trees come alive in shades of orange, red, and yellow, and temperatures drop. Average daily highs are around 53 degrees and lows are around 43 degrees. November sees another drop, to 47 degrees for highs and 38 degrees for lows.
Rainfall spikes late in the fall season. The monthly average jumps from 3 inches a month in September to nearly 8 inches in October. November sees the largest amount of monthly rainfall each year, averaging just under 10 inches.
Planning Your Next Visit to Sointula
With mild temperatures and less snow and rainfall than most other parts of British Columbia, Sointula is a great place to visit any time of year. Of course, if you’re looking forward to a fishing excursion during your trip, you’ll need to set your sights on a summer visit.
Ready to find the perfect Malcolm Island vacation package for you? Check out our planning resources to help you find the perfect hotel or fishing lodge for your next visit!