As a possible strong El Niño event is predicted to shape the upcoming summer season, the Weather Network is forecasting a ‘come and go’ summer for Canada.

Summer forecast 2023 temperature (CNW Group/Pelmorex Corp.)
La Niña, which influenced global weather for the past three years, has concluded, with forecasts predicting a transition towards a moderate to strong El Niño. This reversal could significantly affect this summer’s weather, according to The Weather Network’s Chief Meteorologist, Chris Scott. Canada may experience a variable summer, with cycles of hot, dry weather interrupted by cooler, unsettled conditions.
The Weather Network aniticipates a generally cooler summer, particularly in eastern Canada. However, the vestiges of La Niña could provoke sporadic hot weather, particularly in the west.
The weather agency says despite potential drought worries in some regions due to the dominant storm track forecasted to be primarily south of the international border, changeable weather should prevent prolonged drought conditions once summer is in full swing, allowing for occasional stormy episodes.
According to Weather Network, the forthcoming hurricane season, stretching from June 1st to November 30th, maybe less active across the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico, aligning with El Niño’s associated wind shear conditions. However, unusually warm ocean temperatures and favourable atmospheric conditions might sustain or intensify storms outside typical tropical zones. While the total number of storms is predicted to be around long-term averages, the east coast of the U.S. and Canada remains at risk from impactful tropical systems.
The Weather Network: Forecast For 2023 Summer
British Columbia
British Columbia’s summer might be warmer than usual, but the consistent heat seen in recent years is not expected, says the Weather network. Periods of cooler, unsettled weather will provide relief from the heat. Despite wildfire risks, optimism is held for much-needed rain during the summer peak.
- Temperature Outlook: Above normal; Near normal central and northern coast
- Precipitation Outlook: Near normal; Above normal northwest and parts of southern interior
The Prairies
The Prairies are set for a notably warm summer, especially in the western parts. Accoring the agency, cold fronts will bring cooler periods, particularly to the east. Drought and wildfire risks persist, but significant rainfall, including thunderstorms, is anticipated at times.
Alberta
- Temperature Outlook: Above normal
- Precipitation Outlook: Near normal
Saskatchewan
- Temperature Outlook: Above normal west; Near normal east
- Precipitation Outlook: Near normal south; Below normal north
Manitoba
- Temperature Outlook: Near normal west and central; Below normal far east and northeast
- Precipitation Outlook: Near normal south; Below normal central and north
Ontario & Quebec
Ontario & Quebec are expected to experience a fluctuating summer with intermittent heat that will be often offset by cooler weather. Days with 30-degree temperatures might be fewer than in recent summers. Rainfall is likely to be below average in northern Ontario, whereas the south could see near to slightly above-average levels.
Ontario
- Temperature Outlook: Below normal; Near normal southernmost areas
- Precipitation Outlook: Below normal north; Near normal south
Québec
- Temperature Outlook: Below normal; Near normal east and southernmost areas
- Precipitation Outlook: Near normal; Below normal northwest and above normal southernmost areas
Atlantic Canada
In Atlantic Canada, a typical summer is expected, though southern regions may experience slightly warmer temperatures, mainly due to milder nights. A blend of dry and stormy periods is expected to lead to near or above average rainfall. There is also a potential for significant tropical system impacts despite a predicted quieter hurricane season.
- Temperature Outlook: Near normal central and north; Above normal south
- Precipitation Outlook: Above normal; Near normal parts of south and far east
Northern Canada
For Northern Canada, Weather Network forecasts a summer warmer than usual in the west and cooler in the east. Dry conditions are expected, particularly west of Hudson Bay. Wildfires are a major concern in the western regions due to higher temperatures.
- Temperature Outlook: Above normal west; Below normal southeast; Near normal elsewhere
- Precipitation Outlook: Near normal; Below normal parts of southeast







