A Hot Summer Ahead for Canada

Get ready, Canada! Almost every province is bracing for a summer that's hotter than average, as predicted by the latest seasonal forecasts from Environment Canada.

Where Will the Heat Be Most Intense?

According to experts, temperatures are expected to soar particularly in Ontario and eastern Canada, with predictions nearing a staggering 100% certainty of increased warmth. The only exceptions? A few areas on British Columbia's coast and the Northwest Territories, which may see cooler conditions.

What to Expect This Summer?

Jennifer Smith, a meteorologist with Environment Canada, shared insights during a recent media briefing, noting that the warmer summer might manifest as significant heatwaves in certain regions or simply as consistently higher temperatures across many areas.

However, don't expect uninterrupted heat; the forecast offers a general overview rather than daily specifics, meaning cooler days are still on the table even in the warmest locations. "How that warmth shows up over the course of the summer can vary," Smith explained.

Increased Fire Risk and Humidity

The summer isn't just about the heat; Environment Canada warns of an increase in severe fire weather, especially in the western provinces come August. While rainfall predictions remain vague for many regions, heightened humidity levels are expected, particularly in Atlantic Canada.

Canada's Rapid Warming Trends

The facts are clear: Canada is warming faster than the global average, with human-induced climate change driving the trend. Bill Merryfield, a research scientist, reported that since 1948, the average summer temperature in Canada has climbed by a remarkable 1.8 degrees Celsius.

This warming trend is making extreme weather events, like heatwaves, increasingly likely. For instance, the recent heatwave in Alberta at the end of May was found to be 2 to 10 times more probable due to climate change.

Prepare for an Extraordinary Summer!

As we gear up for this sizzling summer, Canadians should stay informed and prepare for the heat, humidity, and the potential for extreme weather events. Stay safe and enjoy the sunny days ahead!