Toronto 
While parts of Canada experienced significant snowstorms in Atlantic Canada and a period of severe cold in the western part of the country, the country as a whole experienced a notably mild winter marked by El Niño’s influence, leading to one of the warmest winters on record with reduced snowfall in many areas.
As spring approaches, The Weather Network’s forecast for March, April, and May indicates a continuation of this pattern, albeit with some concerns.
Credit: CNW Group/Pelmorex Corp.
The Weather Network says Spring, a vital time for precipitation due to the onset of the growing season, might start with active and stormy weather in March. However, there’s an apprehension that dry conditions could become prevalent across large parts of Canada as summer approaches.
“El Niño is fading, and La Niña appears to be getting ready to take the stage as we head towards summer,” said Chris Scott, Chief Meteorologist with The Weather Network, in a news release.
“Therefore, we expect this spring will feature profound mood swings across Canada as periods of late winter-like weather interrupt our journey towards consistent warm weather. However, we expect that warmer-than-normal temperatures will outduel the cold weather for most Canadians this spring.”
The Weather Network: Spring 2024 Forecast
Credit: CNW Group/Pelmorex Corp
Ontario & Quebec:
In Ontario and Quebec, an early onset of spring weather suggests a season characterized by warmer-than-average temperatures. Despite this, the season may also experience fluctuations, including colder spells, potential late winter weather events, and a late season frost risk. Dry conditions could become more pronounced in the latter half of the season.
Ontario:
- Temperature Outlook: Above normal; Near normal far north
- Precipitation Outlook: Below normal south & northeast; Near normal northwest
Quebec:
- Temperature Outlook: Above normal south & northeast; Near normal elsewhere
- Precipitation Outlook: Below normal south; Near normal north & far east
British Columbia:
British Columbia is anticipated to have a cooler and unsettled start, eventually giving way to pleasant, warmer, and drier conditions than usual. Reduced concerns for spring flooding are noted due to a below-average snowpack in alpine areas, though this also hints at a shorter spring ski season and an early risk for wildfires.
- Temperature Outlook: Above normal
- Precipitation Outlook: Below normal; Near normal southeast & far north
The Prairies:
The Prairies are expected to see warmer temperatures overall, with a lower risk of spring flooding due to less snowpack. Nevertheless, the region could face more temperature variability than usual, including colder periods and potential late winter weather events. Drought and an increased risk of wildfires, especially in Alberta, are concerns for later in the season.
Alberta:
- Temperature Outlook: Above normal
- Precipitation Outlook: Near normal south; Below normal north
Saskatchewan:
- Temperature Outlook: Above normal
- Precipitation Outlook: Near normal; Above normal east central
Manitoba:
- Temperature Outlook: Above normal; Near normal far north
- Precipitation Outlook: Near normal; Below normal northwest NB; Above normal southwest NS
Atlantic Canada:
Atlantic Canada’s forecast includes near-normal temperatures and precipitation, with the possibility of sudden weather shifts and late winter storms. An active storm track could persist into early spring, followed by drier conditions.
- Temperature Outlook: Near normal; Above normal Labrador & northern Newfoundland
- Precipitation Outlook: Near normal
Northern Canada:
Northern Canada, including the Yukon, much of the Northwest Territories (NWT), and Baffin Island, should anticipate warmer-than-normal temperatures, while western Nunavut may see near-normal temperatures.
- Temperature Outlook: Above normal Yukon, western & central NWT, and Baffin Island; Near normal most of Nunavut & eastern NWT
- Precipitation Outlook: Near normal
The Weather Network advises Canadians to stay informed on daily forecasts as weather and road conditions may rapidly change, underscoring the unpredictable nature of the spring season across the country.
