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In general, Ontario's climate is considered continental, with temperatures ranging from humid in the south, with chilly winters and warm summers, to sub-Arctic in the north. Due to Ontario's size, temperatures may vary tremendously from region to region and even within the regions themselves. The large bodies of water in the north and south have a bit of a moderating effect on the climate, with less extreme temperatures during the summer and winter months. This effect also reduces the differences between day and night temperatures.
Temperatures are given officially in degrees Celsius (C) with the Fahrenheit equivalent (F) often added. For an exact conversion of Celsius to Fahrenheit, multiply the Celsius temperature by 9, divide that answer by 5, then add 32. Environment Canada provides a current Ontario weather update and local forecasts. On average, the coldest month of the year is January and the warmest is July. January temperatures around the Ottawa River in Eastern Ontario average -13 C (9 F). From Niagara Falls to Windsor, the January average is about -4 C (25 F). The average temperatures in July range from 23 C (74 F) in Southwestern Ontario, to 19 C (64 F) in Eastern Ontario. The difference in seasonal temperature is much greater in Northern Ontario - for example, at Kapuskasing, the record low is -47 C (-53 F), while the record high is 38 C (101 F).
The cold polar air from the north meeting the warm, moist air from the south causes considerable precipitation throughout the year. During the winter months, most of Ontario is blanketed with snow, especially in the north. Precipitation in Northern Ontario varies from 70 cm (28 in.) in Moosonee, to 97 cm (38 in.) in North Bay. In Southwestern Ontario, precipitation averages about 95 cm (37 in.) per year. A boon to skiers and winter outdoors enthusiasts, annual snowfalls east of Lake Huron and Georgian Bay, including Owen Sound, can exceed 339 cm (134 in.). The Canada Weather Office provides frequently updated reports for all regions in Ontario. You'll find more weather information in the Weather section of this web site.
Snow Conditions and Ski Reports
Snow reports and ski/snowboard conditions for major ski resorts in Ontario are available through Ski Ontario, from Dec.-March.
What to Wear
When heading to Ontario, look to the season to decide which clothing to bring. In summer, temperatures can soar above 30 C (86 F), while in winter they can drop to below -13 C (9 F), even colder in the north.
Clothing
Spring Months (March, April, May)
The snow that has fallen during the winter months takes longer to give way to green in the north than it does in the south. Bring layers, such as long-sleeved shirts, thick pants, warm socks, sweaters, and toward the end of spring, substitute your winter jacket for a medium-weight jacket. It's wise to have raingear, water-repellent footwear and an umbrella for Ontario's spring showers.
Summer Months (June, July, August)
During the summer months it's wise to wear a hat and apply sunscreen to exposed skin to prevent sunburn. If you're visiting the southern areas of Ontario, bring light pants or shorts, short-sleeved shirts, a light jacket, sandals and light shoes. Pack some raingear and an umbrella in case it rains. Farther north, it gets much cooler at night, so bring a sweater or two to layer up.
Fall Months (September, October, November)
Typically, there is more precipitation during these months, so keep raingear and an umbrella handy. It's a good idea to bring thick pants and a medium-weight jacket to wear over sweaters or long-sleeved shirts. Footwear should cover the foot and, if possible, be water repellent. Again, temperatures in the northern parts of the province are cooler, especially at night, so pack plenty of layers.
Winter Months (December, January, February)
Ontario is renowned for its glorious snowy winters. Temperatures can dip quite low in all regions of the province, so it's imperative that you dress in layers, starting with thermal underclothes and socks. Long-sleeved shirts under a sweater will help keep the heat in, especially when topped with a good thermal/waterproof jacket. Your best defense against the cold is to wear a hat - almost 90 per cent of body heat escapes through your head. Waterproof and warm boots will guard against the cold. Bundle up with a scarf and some warm mitts. |
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