Good morning, Canada! As you start your Wednesday, May 21st, let’s take a comprehensive look at the diverse weather conditions shaping our vast and beautiful country. From the Atlantic shores to the Pacific coast and up into the territories, here’s a snapshot of what you can expect as you begin your day.
Eastern Canada: Maritime Mix and Lingering Clouds
The Atlantic provinces are waking up to a mixed bag of conditions. In Nova Scotia and Newfoundland and Labrador, expect lingering cloud cover from an overnight system, with the possibility of scattered showers throughout the morning, particularly along coastal areas. Temperatures will be mild, ranging from 8°C to 12°C.
Prince Edward Island and New Brunswick are starting the day with mostly cloudy skies. There’s a chance of some patchy fog in the early hours, so commuters should exercise caution. The good news is that these clouds are expected to break up as the day progresses, potentially leading to some sunny spells in the afternoon. Temperatures will be similar to Nova Scotia and Newfoundland, hovering in the low teens.
Central Canada: Ontario’s Showers and Quebec’s Gradual Clearing
Here in Ontario, many regions, including the Greater Toronto Area and Brampton, are waking up to overcast skies and the likelihood of light showers. This precipitation is associated with a weak low-pressure system moving through the region. Temperatures are on the cooler side for this time of year, with highs expected to reach only around 9°C to 13°C in the south. As you head north in Ontario, conditions will vary, with some areas experiencing clearer skies but cooler temperatures, especially closer to the Quebec border.
Quebec is seeing a contrast between its southern and northern regions. Southern Quebec is currently under a blanket of cloud, with a chance of morning drizzle in some areas. However, there’s optimism for improvement as the day goes on, with skies potentially clearing to reveal some sunshine in the afternoon. Temperatures will range from 7°C to 11°C. Northern Quebec is experiencing cooler temperatures, with some areas even reporting near-freezing conditions overnight. Expect a mix of sun and cloud in the north, with a slight chance of isolated flurries in the higher elevations.
The Prairies: Warming Trend and Varied Skies
The Prairie provinces are experiencing a general warming trend. Alberta is starting the day with mostly sunny skies across much of the province. Temperatures are expected to climb steadily throughout the day, reaching comfortable highs in the mid-teens to low twenties. However, some southern regions might see some high clouds moving in later in the day.
In Saskatchewan, conditions are a bit more varied. The southern parts of the province will enjoy sunny skies, similar to Alberta, with temperatures also rising into the teens and low twenties. Central and northern Saskatchewan will see more cloud cover, with a slight chance of isolated showers in the morning.
Manitoba is also seeing a mix of conditions. Southern Manitoba will have partly cloudy skies with temperatures gradually warming up. Central and northern Manitoba might experience more persistent cloud cover and slightly cooler temperatures. There’s a small chance of a passing shower in the central regions.
British Columbia: Coastal Rain and Sunny Interior
British Columbia presents its typical contrast between the coast and the interior. The coastal regions, including Vancouver and Victoria, are waking up to overcast skies and the likelihood of rain. This is due to a Pacific weather system pushing onshore. Rainfall could be moderate at times, so be sure to have your umbrellas ready. Temperatures along the coast will be mild, in the range of 9°C to 13°C.
The interior of British Columbia, however, is enjoying much sunnier conditions. Expect clear skies and pleasant temperatures, with highs ranging from the mid-teens to the low twenties. The Okanagan and Kootenay regions will be particularly sunny and warm today.
The North: Cool Temperatures and Potential for Snow
Across Canada’s territories, cooler temperatures prevail. In Yukon, expect mostly cloudy skies with a chance of scattered showers, particularly in the southern parts. Temperatures will remain cool, generally below 10°C.
The Northwest Territories are experiencing a range of conditions depending on the region. Southern parts might see some sunshine breaking through the clouds, while the Arctic regions will remain cold, with temperatures hovering around or below freezing. There’s a possibility of light snow in some of the far northern communities.
Nunavut is generally cold, with temperatures well below freezing in many areas. Expect mostly cloudy skies across the territory, with a chance of light snow, especially in the eastern regions.
Looking Ahead
As the day progresses, keep an eye on your local forecasts for more detailed and up-to-the-minute information. While some regions are starting with cloud and showers, there’s potential for improvement in many areas as the day unfolds. Enjoy your Wednesday, Canada, and stay safe whatever the weather brings!