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An Overview of Canadian Weather
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If nothing else, the weather in Canada is always a conversation topic.
The world's image of Canada is as a cold place. While this is true—it
can and does get very cold in Canada—temperatures vary throughout the year,
and Canada is just as much about long, hot summer days as it is about bitter
cold. Besides, the cold weather brings phenomenal winter sports and leisure
opportunities, from world-class skiing, to dog sleighing and snow shoeing.
Towns and cities are well equipped for the low temperatures, as cultural
and recreational activities abound despite the cold. In the larger metropolises,
it is not necessary to venture outdoors, as many downtown buildings
are connected by walkway systems.
Spring is always an exciting time in Canada,
with the renewal of the vegetation, migratory birds flying back to nest,
and the promise of warmer weather and longer days. Summer is usually warm
and sunny, even hot in many areas. There is a huge range of summer activities
available in Canada. Stroll around Canada's historic towns, cities and cultural
sites in the warm sunshine, or enjoy outdoor shopping in the many markets.
Take part in the wide variety of outdoor festivals—from jazz to Shakespeare.
With so many lakes and so much ocean coastline, water sport opportunities
in Canada are tremendous. Fall is cooler and more comfortable to many. All
over the country the autumn leaves provide a truly natural spectacle. Whatever
the season, Canada has a vast selection of destinations and activities to
suit any desire.
With average humidity the following is an approximate estimate of how
certain metric measurements feel. In summer higher humidity makes heat
more oppressive, and in winter higher humidity makes the cold more penetrating.
Humidity varies from the dryness of Alberta to the more humid regions
that are by large inland lakes or the ocean.
- 40°C (104°F) - a heat wave - very rare to get this sort of heat anywhere
in Canada.
- 30°C (86°F) - a hot day - perfect for watersports in one of Canada's
many lakes or on an ocean beach.
- 20°C (68°F) - room temperature - very comfortable for sightseeing
and hiking.
- 0 °C (32°F) - water freezes - but let it get considerably cooler before
skating on a pond, lake or river.
- -10°C (14°F) - a pleasant winter day - dress warm to enjoy
the many winter activities Canada is famous for.
- -25°C (-13°F) - a cold winter day - Canada has plenty of indoor activities
of all kinds.
- -40°C (-40°F) - exposed skin will freeze in seconds, very rare except
in the far north
Please note that temperatures are very relative, and comfort level depends
as much on the humidity level and wind chill as on the temperature.
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Canada
