Was it the driest summer on record in the Maritimes?
From wildfires to wells going dry, to farmers’ crops struggling and lawns burning up, the lack of rainfall this summer was evident across the Maritimes. Many people are wondering if this summer was a record dry season, but the answer varies depending on the location.
Summer rainfall is unpredictable, with thunderstorms bringing heavy rain in one area while leaving others completely dry. Any rain that falls between June 1 and August 31 counts towards summer totals, meaning a late August shower could significantly impact the overall season’s rainfall records.
Looking back at the summer of 2025, it was drier than usual in most parts of the Maritimes. Northwestern areas of Nova Scotia and southern New Brunswick, in particular, experienced exceptionally low rainfall levels. Regions along the Bay of Fundy, the Annapolis Valley, and Cobequid Bay received less than half of the average rainfall for the season.
In areas like Digby County, northern Annapolis County, and coastal Charlotte County, rainfall totals were less than 100 millimetres, making this one of the driest summers on record. Official weather stations in Saint John, Fundy Park, and Grand Manan reported their driest summer on record, dating back to 1870.
The Acadian Peninsula region also faced extreme dryness, with less than 100 millimetres of rainfall throughout the summer. As drought conditions persist in most of the Maritimes, a pattern change and multiple low-pressure systems are needed to replenish the deficits from this summer.
Overall, the summer of 2025 was one to remember for its lack of rainfall, especially in northwestern Nova Scotia and southern New Brunswick. As we move into September, the region continues to experience drier than average conditions, highlighting the importance of timely and sufficient rainfall for agricultural and environmental sustainability.
