Vancouver

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The climate of Canada varies widely from one region to another. The Vancouver area benefits from a sort of micro-climate thanks to its geographic location between the Pacific Ocean and the Rockies. Temperatures in Vancouver vary between 0°C and 15°C in the winter and are much warmer in the summer. Average temperatures in July and August approach 22oC in Vancouver and Victoria.

The high altitudes of the Rocky Mountains and the winds of the Prairies make for a varied climate throughout the rest of Western Canada. Winters are cold and dry and temperatures can drop to -40°C, though the average is around -10°C to -15°C. Summers are dry, with temperatures staying steady around 25°C on the plains and lower in the mountains.

Weather
Environment Canada
(604) 664-9010

Winter

Vancouver has a particularly wet winter, so don't forget your raincoat. In southern British Columbia, the mercury rarely falls below 0°C. December to March remains the ideal season for winter sports enthusiasts who can enjoy many activities near the city (skiing, skating, etc.). During this season, it’s essential to wear warm clothing (coat, scarf, hat, gloves, wool sweaters and boots) if you plan on visiting the mountains.

Spring and Fall

In Vancouver, spring and fall, and winter too for that matter, are hardly discernable. Spring is short (from the end of March to the end of May), and conditions are generally rainy. Warmer temperatures encourage a beautiful blossoming of flowers. Fall is often cool and wet. A sweater, scarf, gloves, windbreaker and of course an umbrella are recommended for these seasons.

Summer

Summer lasts from May to the end of August. Bring along T-shirts, lightweight shirts and pants, shorts and sunglasses; a sweater or light jacket is a good idea for evenings. If you plan on doing any hiking, remember that temperatures are cooler at higher altitudes.