INTRODUCTION TO CANADA

CLIMATE

Western Canada has four distinct seasons, with the temperature rising or falling dramatically between summer and winter. Temperatures range from +30°C to -40°C.

Average Temperature

Fall/Autumn

Officially fall begins in mid-September and ends in mid-December. However, most people characterize fall as that time of the year, usually September, when the temperatures begin to get cooler, especially at night. You will need heavier clothing, a sweater or a jacket/coat in the evening and early morning. While the temperatures during the day can get into the 20 degree Celsius range, at night it can cool off to 0 degrees Celsius.

 Winter

If you come from a warm climate, you may be concerned about the cold, dry Canadian winters. While the temperature can go as low as minus 40 degrees Celsius, winter can actually be enjoyable if one dresses properly.

Snow usually begins to fall in late October or early November, although it can begin as early as September. The coldest month is usually January. Western Canada is known for its hours of sunshine, one of the highest in North America. Often on winter nights the dancing Northern Lights appear.

Spring explodes with new growth around mid-March. As the days and nights get warmer, yards turn green, gardens flourish, flowers bloom and farm fields burst into colour. Temperatures range between lows of -13 degrees C at night to highs of +15 degrees C during the day (on average).

Summer

The summers in Saskatoon are generally very warm, sunny and very dry with temperatures reaching higher than +30°C.  Parks, beaches and backyards are full. Families go to the many summer fairs and festivals, or just get in the car and explore the countryside, where oceans of flowering crops of green, yellow and purple be seen rippling in the breeze.