Ottawa Weather & What To Pack

Ottawa Weather

Ottawa typically experiences warm, humid summers, and cold, snowy winters. Normal high temperatures in June, July and August range from 24°C to 26°C, while daytime temperatures in December, January and February are normally below the freezing mark. The city also normally receives 45cm to 56cm of snow during each of these winter months.

What To Pack*

Spring/Fall

Early spring can be quite cool in Ottawa, with daytime temperatures in March and April near or below 10°C. May brings a noticeable warmup, with daytime temperatures averaging near 20°C, which sparks an outburst of spring flowers, especially tulips.

Autumn is a beautiful and invigorating time in Ottawa. Early September usually brings the first chill, when evening temperatures drop below 10°C. At the end of the month, trees
begin to change to vibrant shades of red, yellow and orange. The colours usually peak in early October.

What To Pack:

• Warm clothing that can be layered during the day
• Light waterproof rain coat
• Warm coat for the evenings

Winter

In the Winter months (December, January, February) Ottawa can experience cold, snowy winters with temperature typically in the range of -2°C to -15°C. Ottawa normally receives between 45cm to 60cm of snowfall during each of these winter months.

What To Pack:

• Warm/Heavy coat
• Waterproof boots/shoes
• Gloves, scarf and warm hat
• Your skates for the world longest skating rink
    –The Rideau Canal

*With major climatic changes, what we are recommending is based on the norm and not the exception.