Climate & Weather in Canada
Canada's climate is a defining feature of life here. Understanding what to expect - especially winter - is crucial for newcomers.
Climate Regions
| Region | Winter | Summer | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vancouver/Victoria | 5°C to 10°C | 20°C to 25°C | Mildest, rainy winters |
| Southern Ontario | -10°C to -5°C | 25°C to 30°C | Cold winters, humid summers |
| Montreal/Quebec | -15°C to -10°C | 25°C to 30°C | Very cold, snowy winters |
| Calgary | -15°C to -5°C | 20°C to 25°C | Chinooks (warm winds), dry |
| Prairies | -25°C to -15°C | 20°C to 30°C | Extreme cold, hot summers |
| Atlantic | -10°C to -5°C | 20°C to 25°C | Maritime, snowy |
Understanding Canadian Winter
What -20°C feels like:
- Exposed skin: frostbite in 10-30 minutes
- Car may not start without block heater
- Everything freezes instantly
- Walking painful without proper gear
Wind chill:
- Makes it feel much colder
- -20°C with wind chill of -35°C is common
- Weather warnings issued for extreme wind chill
Duration:
- True winter: December to March (4 months)
- Extended cold: November to April in many regions
- Vancouver exception: rarely below freezing
Best Cities by Climate Preference
Mildest winters:
- Victoria, BC
- Vancouver, BC
- Lower mainland BC
Warmest summers:
- Windsor/Southern Ontario
- Okanagan, BC
- Southern Prairies
Most balanced:
- Vancouver (mild but rainy)
- Toronto (four seasons, manageable)
- Calgary (cold but sunny, chinooks)
Winter Preparation
Essential gear:
| Item | Cost Range | Priority |
|---|---|---|
| Winter jacket (rated -30°C) | $200-600 | Essential |
| Winter boots | $100-300 | Essential |
| Warm layers | $100-200 | Essential |
| Gloves/mitts | $30-100 | Essential |
| Toque (hat) | $20-50 | Essential |
| Scarf/neck warmer | $20-50 | Important |
Home costs:
- Heating: $100-300/month additional in winter
- Block heater for car (if very cold region)
- Snow removal (shoveling or service)
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
Reality check: Many newcomers from warmer climates struggle with:
- Short daylight hours (4pm sunset in December)
- Extended grey periods
- Limited outdoor activity
Strategies:
- Light therapy lamps
- Vitamin D supplements
- Regular exercise
- Embracing winter sports
- Social connections
Weather Resources
- Environment Canada: Official forecasts
- Weather Network: Detailed local forecasts
- Weather alerts: Taken seriously - check regularly
- Road conditions: Check before winter travel
Extreme Weather
| Type | Where | When |
|---|---|---|
| Extreme cold | Prairies, Quebec | January-February |
| Ice storms | Ontario, Quebec | Winter |
| Wildfires | BC, Alberta | Summer |
| Hurricanes | Atlantic | Fall (rare) |
| Tornadoes | Prairies, Ontario | Spring-Summer |
Embracing Winter
Many Canadians genuinely love winter:
- Skiing and snowboarding
- Ice skating (outdoor rinks everywhere)
- Hockey (playing and watching)
- Winter festivals
- Cozy indoor culture
Pro Tips
- •Invest in quality winter gear - it makes winter bearable
- •Vancouver has the mildest weather but expect rain
- •Seasonal affective disorder is real - plan for it
- •Learn a winter sport - it transforms the season
- •Check weather forecasts daily in winter - conditions change fast
Have questions about climate & weather in Canada?