Montreal, Canada boasts a distinctive climate characterized by significant seasonal changes. Located in Quebec, this vibrant city experiences warm summers and cold winters.
The warmest period stretches from late May to mid-September, with average daily highs exceeding 68°F.
July is the hottest month, with temperatures peaking around 79°F and lows around 63°F, making it ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.
On the flip side, Montreal’s winters are quite chilly.
The cold season spans from early December to mid-March, with average daily highs below 34°F.
During these months, residents and visitors can expect occasional snowfall and freezing temperatures, especially at night. This period typically sees a lot of indoor activities and winter sports take center stage.
Month-to-month variations are noticeable in Montreal’s weather. For example, October is mild with average highs around 57.6°F.
Rainfall is consistent throughout the year, with August being the wettest month, averaging 3.35 inches of rain.
This mixture of warmth, cold, and precipitation creates a dynamic and engaging climate, ensuring there’s something for everyone throughout the year. For more detailed weather insights and historical data, visit Climate and Average Weather Year Round in Montréal Quebec, Canada.
Average Temperature in Montreal, Canada
The average temperature in Montreal varies significantly throughout the year. During winter months, it gets very cold, while summers are pleasantly warm.
Monthly Average Temperatures (°F)
| Month | Max Temp | Min Temp |
|---|---|---|
| January | 25 | 16 |
| February | 27 | 18 |
| March | 37 | 27 |
| April | 51 | 38 |
| May | 64 | 47 |
| June | 75 | 58 |
| July | 79 | 63 |
| August | 77 | 62 |
| September | 70 | 54 |
| October | 55 | 43 |
| November | 41 | 32 |
| December | 29 | 20 |
Seasonal Breakdown
Winter: December through February are the coldest months, with daily high temperatures below 34°F. It often gets as low as 16°F during these months.
Spring: March to May sees temperatures rising gradually. By May, highs reach up to 64°F.
Summer: June to August are the warmest months. July is the hottest month with average high temperatures around 79°F and lows around 63°F.
Fall: September to November bring cooler weather. Highs decrease from 70°F in September to 41°F in November.
Average Precipitation in Montreal, Canada
Montreal experiences a mix of rainfall and snowfall throughout the year. Precipitation varies by season, with significant differences between rainy and snowy months.
Average Rainfall in Montreal, Canada
Montreal sees steady rainfall year-round. The city experiences highest rainfall during the summer months. Rainfall peaks in August, averaging around 3.6 inches.
In spring, rainfall is frequent, though amounts are moderate. In May, the average rainfall hits about 3.1 inches.
| Month | Rainfall (inches) |
|---|---|
| January | 1.9 |
| February | 1.6 |
| March | 2.0 |
| April | 2.7 |
| May | 3.1 |
| June | 3.5 |
| July | 3.1 |
| August | 3.6 |
| September | 3.5 |
| October | 3.3 |
| November | 3.2 |
| December | 2.2 |
Rainy days are most common in the warm months, making it important to be prepared for rain if visiting during this time.
Average Snow in Montreal, Canada
Snowfall is a key feature of Montreal’s winter. Snow typically starts in November and continues through March.
January sees the highest average snowfall, with around 19 inches. December and February follow, with snowfall averaging around 16 inches each.
| Month | Snowfall (inches) |
|---|---|
| January | 19.0 |
| February | 16.0 |
| March | 11.0 |
| April | 5.0 |
| May | 0.3 |
| June | 0 |
| July | 0 |
| August | 0 |
| September | 0 |
| October | 1.0 |
| November | 8.0 |
| December | 16.0 |
Snow can make travel challenging in winter months, often requiring more time to get around. Ice is also common in Montreal, making it essential to check local forecasts regularly. For more details on snowy conditions, refer to this page.
Snow days can affect daily activities and transportation, which is crucial for both residents and visitors to consider.
Average Sun in Montreal, Canada
Montreal experiences varying amounts of sunshine throughout the year. The amount of daily solar energy fluctuates with the seasons, affecting how much sun is received each month.
Average Daily Shortwave Solar Energy in Montreal, Canada
The average daily shortwave solar energy is an important measure of sunlight.
In January, Montreal receives about 1.8 kWh/m².
As spring arrives, this amount increases, and by April, it reaches approximately 4.3 kWh/m².
During the summer months, particularly in June, daily solar energy peaks at roughly 5.8 kWh/m².
In the fall, energy levels start to decline.
By October, they drop to around 3.3 kWh/m². In December, the levels further decrease to approximately 1.6 kWh/m².
| Month | Average Daily Shortwave Solar Energy (kWh/m²) |
|---|---|
| January | 1.8 |
| April | 4.3 |
| June | 5.8 |
| October | 3.3 |
| December | 1.6 |
Average Humidity in Montreal, Canada
The climate of Montreal features varying levels of humidity throughout the year. On average, Montreal experiences relatively high humidity levels.
Humidity Levels By Month
| Month | Average Relative Humidity (%) |
|---|---|
| January | 80% |
| February | 79% |
| March | 77% |
| April | 73% |
| May | 71% |
| June | 70% |
| July | 71% |
| August | 73% |
| September | 76% |
| October | 77% |
| November | 79% |
| December | 80% |
Understanding Humidity Patterns
Montreal’s relative humidity often peaks in the winter months. January and December tend to be the most humid, averaging around 80%.
During the summer, humidity decreases slightly but remains significant.
From June to August, average humidity levels are between 70% and 73%.
Dew Point
The dew point is another important measure of humidity. In the warmer months, Montreal’s dew point is higher, contributing to the muggy feel during summer days.
Effects on Weather
Higher humidity in winter can make the cold feel even more biting. In contrast, summer’s humidity contributes to the warmth and sometimes makes the heat feel more intense.
Visitors and residents should consider these humidity levels when planning activities, as both high humidity in winter and summer can impact comfort.
Average Wind in Montreal, Canada
Montreal experiences moderate wind speeds throughout the year. The average wind speed is about 8 mph, contributing to the city’s overall climate.
Wind directions in Montreal vary by season. The city often faces winds from the west and southwest, which can bring different weather patterns.
Monthly Average Wind Speed
| Month | Average Wind Speed (mph) |
|---|---|
| January | 9 |
| February | 9.5 |
| March | 8.9 |
| April | 8.3 |
| May | 7.8 |
| June | 7.5 |
| July | 7.3 |
| August | 7.2 |
| September | 7.5 |
| October | 8 |
| November | 8.5 |
| December | 9.2 |
Wind can affect daily life, from how people dress to outdoor activities.
These moderate winds can make colder months feel even chillier due to wind chill.
Understanding the wind patterns and speeds in Montreal helps plan activities and prepare for different weather conditions.
For more information about wind and its impact, explore wind patterns and articles for detailed insights.
Average Air Quality in Montreal, Canada
Montreal experiences varying air quality throughout the year.
The air quality index (AQI) measures air pollution, including common pollutants like particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), ozone, carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide.
Common Pollutants
- Particulate Matter (PM2.5 and PM10)
- Ozone (O3)
- Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2)
- Sulfur Dioxide (SO2)
- Carbon Monoxide (CO)
Seasonal Variations
Winter (December – March)
Winter months can have poorer air quality due to increased use of heating systems, which can release more pollutants.
- Average AQI: 50-70 (Moderate)
- Visibility: Reduced due to smog and possible snowfall
- Pressure: Higher, leading to more stable air and pollutant buildup
Spring (April – June)
Spring often sees improved air quality as temperatures rise and heating systems are used less.
- Average AQI: 30-50 (Good to Moderate)
- Visibility: Generally good
- Pressure: Varies, leading to occasional pollutant dispersion
Summer (July – September)
Summer can experience spikes in ozone levels, especially during heatwaves.
- Average AQI: 40-60 (Moderate)
- Visibility: Slightly reduced during high ozone days
- Pressure: Lower, with increased airflow dispersing pollutants
Fall (October – November)
Air quality begins to decline again as temperatures drop and heating systems are used.
- Average AQI: 50-70 (Moderate)
- Visibility: Varies, can be reduced in certain conditions
- Pressure: Higher, promoting pollutant accumulation
Monthly Air Quality Table
| Month | Average AQI | Visibility |
|---|---|---|
| January | 55 | Moderate |
| February | 60 | Moderate |
| March | 50 | Good |
| April | 45 | Good |
| May | 40 | Good |
| June | 50 | Good |
| July | 55 | Moderate |
| August | 50 | Moderate |
| September | 45 | Good |
| October | 55 | Moderate |
| November | 60 | Moderate |
| December | 60 | Moderate |
Additional Factors
The water temperature and wind also affect air quality.
During warmer months, water bodies can help regulate temperatures, reducing pollutant levels.
Wind patterns help disperse pollutants, improving air quality during breezy days.
Topography of Montreal, Canada
Montreal is located on the Island of Montreal at the convergence of the Saint Lawrence and Ottawa Rivers. The island is the largest in the Hochelaga Archipelago and is surrounded by water, contributing to its unique geographical features.
Mount Royal is the highest point in Montreal. It rises about 764 feet above sea level and provides a beautiful, natural landmark in the city’s center. This mountain remains a significant part of Montreal’s skyline and helps define the city’s character.
The Saint Lawrence River plays a crucial role in shaping the island’s landscape. It offers natural boundaries and plays a vital part in surface movement, shipping, and local industry. Montreal’s port is one of the oldest and most active ports in North America, benefiting from the river’s accessibility.
Montreal’s geology includes various types of rock formations. The island features limestone and shale in many areas. These materials significantly impact the construction industry and local architecture.
The city is characterized by a mixture of flat areas and gentle hills. The terrain is mostly level, with some rising elevations particularly around Mount Royal. This varied landscape is reflective of the city’s historical and modern development patterns.
Table of Elevation by Month:
| Month | Elevation (Max) | Elevation (Min) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 764 feet | 0 feet |
| February | 764 feet | 0 feet |
| March | 764 feet | 0 feet |
| April | 764 feet | 0 feet |
| May | 764 feet | 0 feet |
| June | 764 feet | 0 feet |
| July | 764 feet | 0 feet |
| August | 764 feet | 0 feet |
| September | 764 feet | 0 feet |
| October | 764 feet | 0 feet |
| November | 764 feet | 0 feet |
| December | 764 feet | 0 feet |
The topography supports a wide range of activities, from hiking on Mount Royal to sailing on the Saint Lawrence River. This diverse landscape makes Montreal a vibrant and dynamic city for both residents and visitors.
Extreme Weather Events that Occur in Montreal, Canada
Montreal experiences a range of extreme weather events throughout the year.
Winter months bring freezing temperatures, sometimes dipping below 0°F, making frost and ice common occurrences. Montreal sees snowstorms that can drop large amounts of snow in a short period, affecting travel and daily life.
Table of Average Snowfall (inches):
| Month | Average Snowfall |
|---|---|
| December | 20 inches |
| January | 25 inches |
| February | 20 inches |
| March | 15 inches |
The very cold winter months can be harsh.
Frostbite warnings are frequent when temperatures fall below -22°F. The cold weather can also cause pipes to freeze and burst.
In the warmer months, Montreal can experience sudden heavy rainfall leading to floods.
These events disrupt transportation and can cause property damage. They occur more frequently in late spring and early summer.
Montreal’s climate variability poses challenges.
During heatwaves in summer, temperatures can surpass 90°F. Residents must be cautious during such events to avoid heat-related illnesses.
Flood incidents are frequently reported, especially during the spring thaw. This happens when the ice melts and rivers overflow. Vigilance is necessary to mitigate the impact of these extreme weather events.
Best Time of the Year to Visit Montreal, Canada
Montreal offers diverse experiences across different seasons.
Tourists will enjoy mild weather in spring, vibrant festivals in summer, colorful foliage in autumn, and snow-filled activities in winter.
What is Montreal, Canada Like in Spring
Spring in Montreal, spanning from March to May, brings a gradual thaw after the cold winter months.
Temperatures during this season range from the low 30s in March to around the mid-60s by May. This period sees the city awaken with blooming flowers and outdoor events starting to take shape.
Visitors can enjoy the Montreal International Jazz Festival, which begins in late spring.
It’s also a great time for exploring the city’s parks and botanical gardens as the landscape comes to life. Light jackets are recommended, as temperatures can still be brisk, especially in early spring.
What is Montreal, Canada Like in Summer
Summer, from June to August, is the peak tourist season in Montreal.
The weather is warm and humid, with temperatures ranging between 54°F to 81°F. This season is bustling with numerous festivals, such as the Montreal International Jazz Festival and Just for Laughs, attracting visitors from around the world.
Outdoor activities are plentiful, including biking, picnicking, and exploring the city’s vibrant street life. Parc Jean-Drapeau and Mount Royal offer great vistas and outdoor adventures. Summer is also the time for dining terraces, where visitors can experience Montreal’s diverse culinary scene.
What is Montreal, Canada Like in Fall
Autumn, from September to November, is characterized by mild temperatures and stunning fall foliage.
Daytime highs range from the low 70s in September to the mid-40s by November. This season offers a blend of warm days and crisp evenings, perfect for outdoor activities.
The best time to visit Montreal for fall colors is October.
Festivals such as POP Montreal celebrate the arts scene, while Halloween events add a festive touch to the city. Packing a mix of light and warm clothing is advised, as conditions can vary.
What is Montreal, Canada Like in Winter
Winter in Montreal, lasting from December to February, is cold, with temperatures often dipping below freezing.
Snowfall is common, making it a great destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
Ice skating, snowshoeing, and skiing are popular activities in and around the city.
December brings holiday markets and festive decorations, while January and February are prime for activities like the Montreal Snow Festival and Igloofest, an outdoor electronic music festival.
Proper winter gear, including heavy coats, gloves, and boots, is essential to stay comfortable during these months.