One of the first things many international students are shocked by is the Canadian winters! Not to fear – this short guide is aimed to help you prepare.
Toronto has four seasons throughout the year: winter, spring, summer and fall (also referred to as autumn).
Winter
Winter officially runs from December 21 - March 19. During this time, it can get very cold and snowy, and the days are quite short (a sunset time of 4:30pm is sometimes surprising for some people!). It is possible that we get snow as early as November and it may stay on the ground all the way until March. The winter is beautiful and the snow offers some fun activities as well. But it’s important that you dress warmly and take precautions when getting around the city.
Tips to stay safe and warm during the Canadian winter:
- Dress in layers
- Invest in some good quality basic winter gear: windproof/waterproof jacket, hat, gloves, scarf, boots
- Before you leave the house, be sure to check the weather and dress appropriately. In addition to the actual temperature, you will find weather channels provide a wind chill value. This refers to what it feels like with the wind. For example, on a very windy day, -3°C can feel like -15°C!
- On icy days, be extra careful when walking on the sidewalks or crossing the street. Cars may not be able to stop as quickly as they usually do, so be vigilant. A good pair of boots with grips will help prevent slipping on ice.
Spring
Spring officially runs from March 20 - June 20. During this season, the temperatures start to rise and the days start to get longer. It rains frequently, which allows for the flowers and trees to start blooming again. The temperature during the day can be around 10-15°C. You will want to wear your lighter jacket and don’t forget to keep your umbrella handy.
Summer
Summer officially runs from June 21 - September 21. Canadians love their short summers, so you will find that there is always something to do in the city – get out there and enjoy! During July and August, the temperatures can get as high as 30-35°C. Remember to stay hydrated, and protect your skin with sunscreen.
Fall
Fall officially runs from September 22 - December 20. During this season, the temperature begins to drop. This is a beautiful time of year as the leaves on the trees start to change to red, orange and yellow. You will want to bring out your lighter jacket for the cooler days.