When will Summer finally arrive in Canada

July 3, 2024July 3, 2024Alberta, Calgary, canada, Montreal, ontario, Rain, rainy summer, Summer, Summer 2024, toronto, unusual rain fall

Canada, known for its diverse and often harsh weather, has recently experienced an unusually rainy spring and summer. This shift in weather patterns has caught the attention of meteorologists and the public alike. Not only is it raining quite a bit in Canada this year, but, it is raining felt like every second day with very low temperatures in between. Sun seekers, campers, swimmers, outdoor contractors, dog walkers and everyone who seeks summery weather in Canada has been disappointed in Canada. But is this type of weather pattern here to stay for the rest of the year or will Canadians finally see some nice weather?

A Wetter Than Normal Spring

Spring in Canada is typically a season of renewal, marked by moderate temperatures and the gradual melting of winter snow. However, the spring of 2024 deviated significantly from the norm, with many regions experiencing higher-than-average rainfall.

According to Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC), several provinces, including Ontario, Quebec, and British Columbia, recorded precipitation levels well above their historical averages. In Ontario, for example, Toronto saw 150mm of rainfall in May alone, compared to the historical average of 75mm. Similarly, Vancouver experienced an unusually wet spring, with rainfall totals exceeding 200mm in April, nearly double the typical amount.

Record-Breaking Summer Rainfall

The rainy trend continued into the summer of 2024, with several regions experiencing record-breaking precipitation. July, traditionally one of the driest months in many parts of Canada, did not start with gorgeous weather either.

Analyzing the Statistics

To put these figures into perspective, let’s compare the recent rainfall data with historical trends. The past decade has seen fluctuating rainfall patterns, but the spring and summer of 2024 stand out due to the sheer volume of precipitation.

Toronto: The city’s average rainfall for May over the past 10 years has been around 70-80mm. The 150mm recorded in May 2024 is nearly double this average. But April has left also a big mark this year with over 135mm downfall, compared to previous years, it was 40mm more than in 2023 and 80 mm more than in 2022.
Vancouver: Historically, April sees around 100-110mm of rain. The 200mm recorded in 2023 is almost twice the usual amount. Vancouver staid less wet than Toronto for instance, but still, Summer did not start there either.
Calgary: June’s average rainfall over the past century has hovered around 60-70mm. The 83mm in June 2024 is somewhat above average.
Montreal: April rainfall in Montreal was 141,5mm, May 72,4mm and June 128,7mm, compared with previous year 2023: April 101.4mm, May 43,6mm, June 73,4mm.

Potential Causes and Implications

The reasons behind this unusual weather pattern are complex and multifaceted. Climate change is a significant factor, with rising global temperatures altering weather patterns and increasing the frequency and intensity of precipitation events. Additionally, the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) cycle can influence weather conditions, and recent years have seen fluctuations between El Niño and La Niña phases, contributing to unusual weather patterns.

The implications of a rainy spring and summer are far-reaching:

Agriculture: Excessive rainfall can damage crops, delay planting and harvesting, and increase the risk of plant diseases. Farmers across Canada have faced challenges adapting to these wetter conditions.
Flooding: Increased rainfall heightens the risk of flooding, particularly in urban areas with inadequate drainage systems. Flooded streets, basements, and infrastructure pose significant problems for municipalities.
Water Quality: Heavy rain can lead to runoff, carrying pollutants into rivers, lakes, and reservoirs, affecting water quality and aquatic ecosystems.
Tourism and Recreation: Rainy weather can dampen outdoor activities and tourism, impacting local economies that rely on summer visitors.

Adapting to the New Normal

As climate change continues to influence weather patterns, Canadians must adapt to these new realities. Improved infrastructure, such as enhanced drainage systems and flood prevention measures, can help mitigate the impact of heavy rainfall. Farmers may need to adopt new practices and technologies to cope with changing precipitation patterns.

Is this weather here to stay for entire Summer?

According to the Weather Network, Toronto is supposed to have above average temperatures, fewer rain fall for June, July and August. Sorry Weather Network, but so far this has been a big failure at least when we look at June’s weather. When we take a look at the next 14 days weather forecast, Summer is somewhat returning, thank God. Yet, sunny days will be interrupt with on and off heavy showers and thunder storms.

Screenshot: The Weather Network

Vancouver will see some usual Summer or temperatures slightly under normal according the Weather Network. Second week in July will finally start the Summer season with temperatures rising with more sun exposure. Sun all the way for the next 14 days in Vancouver according the prediction.

Screenshot: The Weather Network

Calgary Summer can definitely start according to the Weather Network. Sun all the way for the next 14 days with temperatures above average with sizzling 30 degrees celsius.

Montreal has still no luck with the weather. According to the Weather Network, Montreal will continue with on and off rain trend for the next 14 days at least.

Sum-up:

While the Canadian prairies and British Columbia get to enjoy great Summer in July, Ontario and Quebec will see slight to no improvement.