According to The Weather Network’s latest seasonal forecast, Canada is poised for a sunny, warm summer.
Credit: CNW Group/Pelmorex Corp.
Most areas will experience above-normal temperatures and less rainfall than usual. Covering June through August, this forecast highlights an increased likelihood of heatwaves and minimal rain across the nation.
“This summer will feature widespread heat across the country, with most Canadians experiencing normal to above normal temperatures,” said Chris Scott, Chief Meteorologist with The Weather Network, in the summer forecast news release titled, Abundant sunshine and warm temperatures; Is this the ideal summer forecast?.
“However, too much heat can bring risks, including the threat for localized drought conditions and a heightened risk for wildfires and poor air quality.”
Overall, The Weather Network predicts that rainfall across most of Canada is likely to be normal or less than usual this season. Nonetheless, the warmer temperatures could lead to occasional severe thunderstorms, potentially disrupting outdoor activities and causing damage. Additionally, an active hurricane season is anticipated in the Atlantic region.
The Weather Network: 2024 Summer Forecast
Credit: CNW Group/Pelmorex Corp.
British Columbia:
Forecasts predict a typical summer with intermittent hot spells and a mix of dry and wet weather, including frequent thunderstorms. Wildfires remain a significant threat, alongside the potential for smoke-filled days affecting air quality.
- Temperature Outlook: Near normal
- Precipitation Outlook: Near normal
The Prairies:
While Alberta may see a standard summer, Saskatchewan and Manitoba are expected to endure very warm conditions. Drought poses a substantial concern, particularly in northern areas. The region could experience occasional powerful storms due to an active storm track shifting north from the U.S., potentially balancing the overall rainfall.
Alberta
- Temperature Outlook: Near normal; Above normal northeast
- Precipitation Outlook: Near normal; Below normal northeast
Saskatchewan
- Temperature Outlook: Above normal; Near normal southwest
- Precipitation Outlook: Near normal south; Below normal north
Manitoba
- Temperature Outlook: Above normal
- Precipitation Outlook: Near normal south; Below normal central and north
Ontario and Quebec:
Residents should brace for a particularly hot and humid summer, with extended heatwaves likely. While there may be cooler spells in June, the real heat will intensify in July and August and may persist into early September. Dry spells raise concerns about fires and air quality, although occasional severe storms could provide some relief.
Ontario
- Temperature Outlook: Above normal
- Precipitation Outlook: Below normal north; Near normal south
Québec
- Temperature Outlook: Above normal
- Precipitation Outlook: Near normal; Below normal northern New Brunswick
Atlantic Canada:
A warmer and more humid summer is on the horizon, with some cooler periods in early summer. The peak of the heat will occur in late July and August, extending into early September. Dry conditions will prevail, but an active hurricane season could disrupt this pattern, potentially normalizing the season’s rainfall levels.
- Temperature Outlook: Near normal central and north; Above normal south
- Precipitation Outlook: Above normal; Near normal parts of south and far east
Northern Canada:
Western Nunavut and eastern Northwest Territories are likely to face a warm summer, while other areas might see near-normal temperatures. The primary concerns for these regions are ongoing dry conditions, wildfires, and poor air quality due to smoke.
- Temperature Outlook: Above normal western Nunavut & eastern NWT; Near normal elsewhere
- Precipitation Outlook: Below normal western Nunavut & eastern NWT; Near normal elsewhere