Toronto has a hot-summer humid continental climate (Köppen: Dfa). Its weather is heavily moderated by its location on the northwestern shore of Lake Ontario, which keeps the city warmer in the winter and cooler in the spring/early summer compared to further inland.
Seasonal Overview
Winter (December – March): Cold and snowy with significant wind-chill. January is the coldest month, averaging -4.2°C (24°F). While Toronto is milder than many Canadian cities, extreme cold snaps can drop temperatures to -30°C (-22°F) with wind chill.
Spring (April – May): A transitional, often unpredictable season with rapid temperature swings. Expect frequent rain and occasional late snowstorms even in April.
Summer (June – August): Warm and humid. July is the hottest month, with average highs of 27°C (81°F), though humidex values often make it feel above 40°C (104°F). Intense thunderstorms are common.
Fall (September – November): Generally pleasant with clear skies and mild days, though temperatures drop sharply in November.
Key Climate Data
Annual Precipitation: Approximately 831 mm (32.7 in), distributed fairly evenly throughout the year.
Annual Snowfall: Averages about 121.5 cm (47.8 in), though it varies significantly by year.
Sunlight: Toronto is relatively sunny, with about 2,038 sunshine hours annually.
