Will Winter Hold off Until the Solstice? Not Likely
The Farmers’ Almanac winter forecast for Canada predicts a season packed with rain, snow, and little downtime.
Winter officially begins on the solstice, December 21, 2024, but don’t think the weather to wait for the calendar. La Niña is expected to develop and linger through the season, bringing colder-than-normal temperatures to two-thirds of the country, particularly from the Prairies to Ontario. The coldest stretch will hit late January through early February when Arctic air plunges the Prairies into deep freeze. In contrast, Quebec and the Maritimes may see near to above-normal temperatures, while British Columbia faces an unusually chilly winter.
In terms of precipitation, the eastern third of Canada, especially around the Great Lakes, is expected to see above-normal levels. Newfoundland and Labrador will have a wet winter, with more slush than snow, while Quebec is forecasted to receive more snow, especially with a mid-February storm. Ontario will experience a mix of snow and rain, with the best chance for a white winter is here in the Prairies! Fingers crossed for a good old fashioned Christmas winter wonderland! Skiers in British Columbia can also look forward to plenty of snow in the mountains. What’s in store for those in the east after the jolly old man visits? A particularly stormy period is expected from January 20-27, bringing heavy precipitation and gusty winds.