WEATHER

Lots of students from other countries are surprised by how cold Canadian winters can be. But don’t worry! This quick guide will help you get ready.
Toronto has four seasons in a year: winter, spring, summer, and fall (also called autumn).

WINTER

Winter in Canada officially starts on December 21 and lasts until March 19. During this time, it gets very cold, snowy, and the days are quite short. Sometimes, the sun sets as early as 4:30 pm, which can surprise some people. Snow can start falling as early as November and may stay on the ground until March. Winter is beautiful, and you can have fun in the snow, but it’s essential to keep warm and be cautious when you’re out in the city.
Here are some simple tips to stay safe and warm during the Canadian winter:
  1. Dress in layers: Wear multiple layers of clothing to keep warm. Start with a thermal shirt, add a sweater, and top it with a windproof and waterproof jacket.
  2. Invest in good winter gear: Get a warm hat, gloves, a scarf, and boots. These should keep you cozy and dry in the cold and snow.
  3. Check the weather: Before you leave home, check the weather. Dress appropriately for both the temperature and wind. Wind can make it feel much colder than it is. For example, on a windy day, -3°C can feel like -15°C!
  4. Be careful on icy days: When the sidewalks and streets are icy, be extra cautious when walking. Cars may not stop as quickly on icy roads, so be alert. Wearing boots with good grips can help prevent slipping on ice.

SPRING

Spring begins in Canada on March 20 and lasts until June 20. In spring, the weather gets warmer, and the days become longer. There’s more rain during this time, which helps flowers and trees grow and become colorful again. Daytime temperatures can be around 10-15°C, so you can wear a lighter jacket. Don’t forget to keep your umbrella with you because it might rain.

SUMMER

Summer in Canada starts on June 21 and ends on September 21. Canadians really enjoy their short summers, so you’ll always find fun things to do in the city – so go out and have a good time! In July and August, it can get really hot, with temperatures reaching 30-35°C. Make sure to drink enough water and use sunscreen to keep your skin safe.

FALL

Fall in Canada starts on September 22 and ends on December 20. In this season, the weather starts to get cooler. It’s a lovely time because the leaves on the trees change color to red, orange, and yellow. You’ll need to wear a lighter jacket on the cooler days.