Weather and Climate in Ontario

Ontario which is huge in size, is a province containing three principal climatic regions – Southwestern Ontario; Central and Eastern Ontario and lastly Northern Ontario. It is a land that enjoys four seasons a year although average temperatures differ a great deal from northern to southern Ontario and even within a particular region.

Deciding upon which time is best to visit Ontario really depends on the type of climate conditions you prefer but also what conditions you need in order to enjoy a particular type of holiday. If skiing or ice fishing is what you are looking for, the winter season during November and January would be the most recommended time to visit. If you enjoy camping, boating or wish to go hiking through parts of the wilderness, either spring, summer or early autumn are the most ideal times to do so. Overall, it mostly depends on which part of Ontario you are heading to as climate conditions and temperatures are variable from region to region.

Generally, the coldest month in the province is January. The winter season which lasts from December to February is when everything becomes glazed with snow so if you want a real winter experience, this would be the ultimate time to go to Ontario! The hottest month in the province, however, occurs in July. The summertime season in Ontario is warm and lasts from July to August. It is usually the preferred time for holidaymakers and allows you to visit popular tourist attractions without having to worry about the weather ruining your plans. Be aware thought that the summer season is the most expensive time to visit so expect peak rates. May and June offer pleasant temperatures during spring time as do the months of September and October during the autumn season; a fantastic time to be in the city when city parks and trees come to life as they put on a show of dazzling autumn colours.

Southwestern Ontario

Southern Ontario has one of the mildest climates of all Canada. Winters are cold with plenty of snowfall running from December to April. It has a continental climate during the summer seasons and conditions are warm and many times humid. Rainfall is quite consistent throughout the year but moderately light.

Central and Eastern Ontario

Central and Eastern Ontario has a much more extreme continental climate in comparison with the south. Summers are very hot and winters become very cold and last for longer periods. Rainfall is very consistent along the year but not excessive. Snowfall in this area is heavy during the winter season, falling in greater quantity than in the south.

Northern Ontario

The general climate in northern Ontario, like other parts of the province is of a continental type although its seasons and temperatures vary reasonably. Winters here are very long and significantly cold. Snowfall in northern Ontario can actually last for almost half a year but rainfall is actually less than other zones. Summers in Ontario are relatively short with temperatures rarely reaching above mild levels. The most northern parts of Ontario experience the coldest temperatures as the area suffers a subarctic climate so expect below freezing temperatures and severe weather conditions.