The Four Seasons in Canada: What to Expect & Tips

Part of Canada’s appeal is its four seasons: winter, spring, summer, and fall. They offer changing landscapes, temperatures, climate, and travel costs. The climate and intensity of these seasons vary across the country. 

Winter is generally December, January, and February, though winter weather can start in November and last through late March, or early April. Cover-up in layers.

WINTER: 

During winter in Canada, it’s cold, and the days are short. The average temperature is 10 ºC to 5 ºC. The winters in parts of Canada are not to be taken lightly – you need layers! Regardless of where you are in Ontario, however, plan for the following to stay safe and warm during winter:

• Don’t stay out longer than required

• Check the weather every day

• Check for wind chill as it can add to how cold the temperature can get

• Keep an eye out for snowstorms and plan to return home accordingly

• Buy extra layering clothes for children

• Eat and sleep well

• Keep shovels handy for cleaning your driveway/walkway outside

• While shovelling snow, it is important to warm up; shovelling can be intense for your heart and back

• It is a good idea to keep anti-freeze fluid in your car

Here are some common must-have fall/winter clothing accessories:

For hands: Gloves or mittens;

For neck: Scarf or neck warmers;

For feet: Socks that are made from wool or wool blend with silk or polypropylene;

For head and ears: Hat, toque, beanie, and/or ear muffs;

Here are some winter driving tips:

1. Often check weather and road conditions before leaving.

2. If driving conditions are dangerous or in the event of a serious ice storm, avoid driving altogether. 

3. Winter tires are a must! All-season tires do not have enough traction for icy and snowy conditions. The usual cut-off temperature is 7 C; if it is consistently below this temperature, get your winter tires installed.

4. Keep a safe distance behind other cars and especially snowplows.

5. You would be driving at slower speeds, so plan your trip accordingly.

6. Make sure that your windshield is clear from snow and ice and that you have enough visibility to drive the car. 

7. Wear enough clothes to keep yourself warm, however, too many layers can restrict your movement to check your blind spot. 

8. Keep a full gas tank- it can help reduce fuel system moisture and add extra weight to your vehicle to slow it down. 

9. Create a survival kit to place in your car trunk. It should include gloves, booster cables, a small shovel, windshield wiper fluid, a first aid kit, a flashlight, a safety vest, water bottles and non-perishable energy foods.

Here are some resources with tips for overcoming the winter blues: 

Canadian Mental Health Association – Kick the Winter Blues

Mental Health Commission of Canada – Seven Ways to Cope with the Winter Blues

SPRING:

Spring comes early on Canada’s west coast, with February seeing the arrival of tulips and temperatures on average staying above 0°C (32°F). Elsewhere in the country, spring sticks around through April and extends through to June. Spring in Canada brings in amazing activities, sightseeing attractions, and festivals. Keep your umbrella close at hand and consider purchasing a good raincoat that’s also lined so you stay warm and dry. Knee-high rain boots are also a good idea, as the transition between snow, slush and rain can be quite messy. Most importantly, enjoy the sunshine and warmer days!

SUMMER: 

Summer in Canada is generally June to August, with hot, humid weather often arriving earlier and staying later than this in central and eastern Canadian cities. The average temperature in summer is 10 ºC to 30 ºC. Wherever you go in Canada during summer, you are advised to bring a light jacket and some rainwear. It can get cooler in the evenings and at night. It is important to wear a sun hat and stay hydrated. With the intense heat and hot days, plan some cool indoor activities to enjoy the summer even though it will be very eventful outdoors.

FALL: 
Fall, or autumn, is a wonderful time of the year in Canada. In central and eastern Canada, cooler temperatures in September provide relief from the heat and humidity of August, and leaves on the trees begin their transformation to stunning shades of orange, red, and yellow. Many people travel to take in this spectacular fall foliage in Canada. Intensity and variety of colour are not as pronounced in western provinces, though the yellow larch makes for stunning autumn landscapes. Autumn can be a good time to travel to Canada as high summer prices have subsided, but the weather is pleasant, and you can still participate in lots of outdoor activities like hiking and camping, whale watching, and more.