Toronto, located in Ontario, Canada, experiences a wide range of weather conditions throughout the year due to its position in the northern hemisphere. The climate in Toronto is classified as humid continental (Dfb), meaning residents and visitors can expect distinct seasonal changes.
Winter spans from early December to mid-March, with temperatures often dropping below freezing.
Snow is common, and the city sees an average high of 32°F (0°C) during the coldest month, January.
Spring and fall are transitional seasons, marked by moderate temperatures and varied weather conditions. Toronto weather in these seasons can fluctuate greatly, making it important to be prepared for both warm and cool days.
Summer, which lasts from June to mid-September, brings the warmest weather with July averaging a high of 77°F (25°C) and lows around 63°F (17°C).
Rainfall occurs regularly through the year, with February being the driest month, receiving about 0.75 inches of precipitation.
To provide a clearer picture, here’s a snapshot of Toronto’s climate by month:
| Month | Avg High (°F) | Avg Low (°F) | Precipitation (inches) |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 32 | 19 | 1.5 |
| April | 54 | 36 | 2.6 |
| July | 77 | 63 | 2.9 |
| October | 56 | 42 | 2.7 |
Average Temperature in Toronto, Canada
Toronto experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year.
During the warm season, which lasts from June to mid-September, the average daily high temperature is above 68°F.
July is the hottest month, with an average high temperature of 77°F and a low of 63°F.
In contrast, the cold season lasts from early December to mid-March.
During this period, the average daily high temperature is below 39°F.
The coldest month is typically January, with average temperatures around 24°F, and lows often reaching around 14°F.
Monthly Average Temperatures
| Month | Average High (°F) | Average Low (°F) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 31 | 18 |
| February | 33 | 19 |
| March | 40 | 26 |
| April | 53 | 36 |
| May | 65 | 46 |
| June | 75 | 56 |
| July | 77 | 63 |
| August | 76 | 62 |
| September | 70 | 55 |
| October | 57 | 43 |
| November | 45 | 33 |
| December | 35 | 22 |
The late summer months like August still see high temperatures, with averages around 76°F and lows of around 62°F.
The temperature variations across the year indicate significant seasonal shifts, from warm summers to cold winters.
Average Precipitation in Toronto, Canada
Toronto experiences varied precipitation throughout the year, including both rainfall and snowfall. Understanding the distribution of rain and snow can help visitors plan their activities and pack appropriately.
Average Rainfall in Toronto, Canada
Toronto’s rainfall is spread out fairly evenly over the year.
June is typically the wettest month, averaging around 2.8 inches of rain. The least amount of rain falls in February, with about 1.2 inches.
| Month | Rainfall (inches) |
|---|---|
| January | 1.7 |
| February | 1.2 |
| March | 1.6 |
| April | 2.1 |
| May | 2.5 |
| June | 2.8 |
| July | 2.2 |
| August | 2.3 |
| September | 2.1 |
| October | 2.4 |
| November | 2.6 |
| December | 1.9 |
Rainy days are also relatively constant, with no month experiencing fewer than nine rainy days.
Average Snow in Toronto, Canada
Snowfall in Toronto is primarily concentrated between December and March.
January and February see the highest snowfall, with averages of around 11 inches each. Snow begins to ease as spring approaches.
| Month | Snowfall (inches) |
|---|---|
| January | 11.2 |
| February | 11.1 |
| March | 8.4 |
| April | 1.2 |
| May | 0.0 |
| June | 0.0 |
| July | 0.0 |
| August | 0.0 |
| September | 0.0 |
| October | 0.4 |
| November | 2.9 |
| December | 8.5 |
Toronto’s highest snowfalls make the winter months special but also impactful on daily activities.
Average Sun in Toronto, Canada
Toronto experiences varied sunshine throughout the year, with noticeable changes in daylight and cloud cover impacting the average daily shortwave solar energy.
Average Daily Shortwave Solar Energy in Toronto, Canada
Shortwave solar energy measures the energy from sunlight that hits the surface of the earth. In Toronto, this varies with the season.
During the summer months (June, July, August), Toronto receives the most sunlight.
In June, the city gets about 5.5-6.0 kWh/m² per day. July sees a slight increase, often reaching 6.5 kWh/m². By August, it starts to decrease slightly but remains close to 6.0 kWh/m².
In contrast, winter months (December, January, February) have much lower sunlight levels.
December typically gets around 1.5-2.0 kWh/m². January’s values are similar, and February sees a slight increase, reaching about 2.5 kWh/m² daily.
| Month | Solar Energy (kWh/m² per day) |
|---|---|
| January | 1.5-2.0 |
| February | 2.5 |
| June | 5.5-6.0 |
| July | 6.5 |
| August | 6.0 |
Spring and fall have intermediate values. March and April have around 3.0-4.0 kWh/m², while October and November usually see between 2.5-3.0 kWh/m².
Toronto’s cloud cover also changes with the seasons.
Summer months typically have less cloud cover, leading to longer sun hours. Conversely, winter months have more cloud cover, resulting in fewer sun hours.
Average Humidity in Toronto, Canada
Toronto experiences significant variations in humidity throughout the year.
Relative humidity levels change with the seasons.
During winter, humidity tends to be higher due to cold temperatures and the presence of snow.
In the summer, humidity can feel quite sticky, especially in July and August.
The chart below shows the monthly average relative humidity levels in Toronto:
| Month | Relative Humidity (%) |
|---|---|
| January | 75 |
| February | 73 |
| March | 71 |
| April | 68 |
| May | 66 |
| June | 64 |
| July | 70 |
| August | 72 |
| September | 67 |
| October | 69 |
| November | 74 |
| December | 76 |
The dew point is another important factor.
Higher dew points mean more moisture in the air, making it feel more humid.
Toronto’s dew point varies from 15°F in winter to 63°F in summer, making summer days feel muggy.
Relative humidity is typically highest in the morning and drops in the afternoon.
For example, in the summer, morning humidity can be around 85%, dropping to 60% by afternoon.
This pattern is common year-round.
Humidity affects comfort levels, influencing how hot or cold it feels.
Key Points
- Winter: Higher humidity and lower temperatures.
- Summer: Higher dew points and moderate to high humidity.
- Daily Variation: Higher humidity in the morning, lower in the afternoon.
Average Wind in Toronto, Canada
Toronto experiences varying wind speeds throughout the year.
The average wind speed fluctuates between 7 to 10 miles per hour. The windiest month tends to be March. During this time, the city often encounters stronger gusts.
Monthly Wind Speed Averages:
| Month | Average Wind Speed (mph) |
|---|---|
| January | 9 |
| February | 9 |
| March | 10 |
| April | 9 |
| May | 8 |
| June | 7 |
| July | 7 |
| August | 7 |
| September | 8 |
| October | 9 |
| November | 9 |
| December | 9 |
Throughout the year, winds predominantly come from the west and southwest. These directions influence daily weather patterns, contributing to both mild and harsh weather conditions.
From winter to early spring, wind speeds are generally higher. Cooler temperatures and increased pressure differences drive these winds. By contrast, summer months see slightly calmer conditions.
This pattern reflects seasonal changes and atmospheric conditions typical to the region. For further reading, check out articles about wind.
Average Air Quality in Toronto, Canada
Toronto’s air quality can vary throughout the year due to factors such as traffic, industrial activities, and weather conditions. The air quality index (AQI) is often used to measure and report air quality, where values below 50 are considered good.
Monthly Average AQI:
| Month | Average AQI |
|---|---|
| January | 40 |
| February | 42 |
| March | 45 |
| April | 50 |
| May | 48 |
| June | 52 |
| July | 55 |
| August | 57 |
| September | 50 |
| October | 45 |
| November | 43 |
| December | 41 |
Detailed Air Quality Factors:
- Visibility: On days with higher pollutant levels, visibility can decrease. Smog and haze may be more common in summer.
- Pressure: Changes in atmospheric pressure can influence air quality. High pressure tends to trap pollutants close to the ground.
- UV Index: High UV index levels in summer may coincide with poorer air quality days.
Historical Data:
Toronto’s historical air quality data provides insights on trends over the years. This data can be useful for understanding long-term air quality patterns.
Degree Days:
Degree days, which mark significant temperature changes, might also reflect changes in air quality. During heating degree days in winter, air quality might improve due to reduced smog, while cooling degree days in summer may see lower air quality.
Topography of Toronto, Canada
Toronto is located in Southern Ontario on the northwestern shore of Lake Ontario. The city is mostly flat with gentle rolling hills. These features provide a picturesque backdrop against the lake and urban skyline.
The Toronto Islands produce a natural harbor for the city. These small islands, formed from sand eroded from the Scarborough Bluffs, provide outdoor recreation and are popular with tourists.
The Scarborough Bluffs, located along the eastern waterfront of the city, rise approximately 300 feet above the shore, creating stunning views of Lake Ontario. This geological formation extends for about 9 miles and illustrates the region’s glacial history.
Toronto’s Don Valley carves through the city, contributing to the city’s natural landscape. The valley features parks, trails, and lush greenery, which residents and visitors enjoy year-round.
The city also incorporates various ravines, like the Humber River Valley and Rouge Valley. These areas offer a mix of forested terrain and river ecosystems, adding to Toronto’s diverse topography.
Lake Ontario influences the local climate and acts as a moderating force, reducing temperature extremes. The waterfront areas provide stunning views and serve as urban recreational spaces.
Key Features
- Elevation: Mostly between 250 to 350 feet above sea level
- Major Geographical Features:
- Toronto Islands
- Scarborough Bluffs
- Don Valley
- Humber River Valley
- Rouge Valley
Toronto’s topography, with its mix of flat lands, valleys, and waterfronts, helps shape its unique character and lifestyle.
Extreme Weather Events that Occur in Toronto, Canada
Toronto experiences a variety of extreme weather events. These can include heavy snowfall, ice storms, extreme cold, heatwaves, and heavy rainfalls.
Winter and Snow
Toronto is known for its cold winters. Snowfall can be heavy, affecting daily life and making winter sports like skating popular. Snowstorms can drop over a foot of snow in one event. The city often faces temperatures dropping to 14°F or lower.
| Month | Average Snowfall (in) | Average Low Temp (°F) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 12.5 | 18.0 |
| February | 11.1 | 19.4 |
| March | 7.1 | 27.1 |
Ice Storms
Ice storms are another severe winter weather event. They can lead to power outages and dangerous road conditions. A notable ice storm hit Toronto in December 2013, causing significant disruption.
Summer Heatwaves
In the summer, heatwaves are common. Temperatures can soar above 90°F in July and August. These heatwaves can pose health risks, particularly to vulnerable populations.
| Month | Average High Temp (°F) | Days Above 90°F |
|---|---|---|
| July | 80.6 | 5 |
| August | 78.4 | 4 |
Heavy Rainfall and Flooding
Toronto also experiences heavy rainfall, especially during late spring and early summer. Flooding can disrupt traffic and damage properties. Recent years have seen more frequent and intense rainfalls.
For example, Toronto’s grid was severely tested last week when a rainstorm caused major power outages.
Tornadoes and Windstorms
Although rare, tornadoes can occur in Toronto. Windstorms also happen and can cause falling trees and power lines, leading to outages and property damage.
Best Time of the Year to Visit Toronto, Canada
Toronto offers a variety of experiences throughout the year, from its vibrant summer festivals to the beautiful colors of fall, and the crisp winter months perfect for holiday celebrations. Here’s a closer look at what each season brings.
What is Toronto, Canada Like in Spring
Spring in Toronto runs from March to May. This season sees the city waking up from winter, with temperatures ranging between 32°F to 66°F.
April is known for rain, with an average of 2.5 inches of precipitation, making it a great time to explore indoor attractions.
March Weather:
| High | Low | Rainfall |
|---|---|---|
| 45°F | 28°F | 2.2 in |
April Weather:
| High | Low | Rainfall |
|---|---|---|
| 57°F | 39°F | 2.5 in |
Spring is ideal for visiting parks and trails, as flowers begin to bloom and the city becomes lush and green.
What is Toronto, Canada Like in Summer
Summer in Toronto spans June to August. This is the peak tourism season, with daytime highs reaching up to 77°F.
June Weather:
| High | Low | Rainfall |
|---|---|---|
| 73°F | 57°F | 2.3 in |
July Weather:
| High | Low | Rainfall |
|---|---|---|
| 77°F | 63°F | 2.8 in |
Festivals like Pride and Caribana bring the city to life. The warm weather is perfect for outdoor activities along Lake Ontario, visiting the Toronto Islands, and enjoying numerous street festivals.
What is Toronto, Canada Like in Fall
Fall, from September to November, showcases Toronto’s spectacular colors.
September Weather:
| High | Low | Rainfall |
|---|---|---|
| 70°F | 54°F | 2.8 in |
October Weather:
| High | Low | Rainfall |
|---|---|---|
| 58°F | 45°F | 2.6 in |
The cooler temperatures, ranging from 37°F to 70°F, provide a comfortable setting for outdoor explorations and events like the Cask Days Beer Festival.
Fewer tourists make it easier to explore major sites.
What is Toronto, Canada Like in Winter
Winter in Toronto runs from December to February. It is characterized by cold and snowy weather.
December Weather:
| High | Low | Snowfall |
|---|---|---|
| 34°F | 23°F | 4.9 in |
January Weather:
| High | Low | Snowfall |
|---|---|---|
| 30°F | 19°F | 4.8 in |
Temperatures drop to 19°F to 34°F. This season is perfect for holiday celebrations, ice skating, and visiting winter markets. Despite the cold, tourists can find excellent deals on luxury accommodations.
Toronto offers diverse experiences throughout the year. Each season brings its own charm.