Weather in Ottawa and best time to go
Ottawa is situated in a temperate continental climate, which is characterised by 4 seasons with large variations in temperature.
Summers are warm and relatively humid with average temperatures around 26 °C, while in winter frosts are common with average temperatures of -5 °C, but hard freezes below -10 °C are not uncommon.
Compare prices for flights to Ottawa
Temperatures and weather during the year
What are the specifics of Ottawa's weather, when is it hottest and when is it rainiest?
Winter weather
Although Ottawa is located in the southernmost part of Canada, winters here can be harsh and bitter.
The coldest months are December to February, when average temperatures hover around -5°C, with fairly frequent extremes below -14°C.
There are also regular freezes in March.
During the winter, snow accounts for over half of the total precipitation, the rest being light and often freezing rain. In winter, there are often cloudy skies and on average it snows or rains every other day.
Spring weather
Spring is a great time of year to travel throughout southern Canada if you don't like freezing temperatures, but also don't like the summer heat.
Normal daytime temperatures during April and May are around 8°C to 18°C.
Spring weather is changeable. Often the sun shines, but you can expect rain showers for an average of 11 days a month, and it can often be surprisingly cold with temperatures below 10°C, even towards the end of May.
Book your Ottawa hotel in advance
Summer weather
Summers in Ottawa are warm and with quite a lot of thunderstorms. Ottawa is situated in a wide lowland area where strong thunderstorms form easily. On average, rain occurs 11 times a month and usually only in the early evening or at night.
The hottest months are July and August, when temperatures are between 24 °C and 26 °C.
Autumn weather
Autumn is one of the most beautiful times to visit Ottawa.
The leaves on the trees are coloured in deep reds and yellows, creating absolutely breathtaking secenries.
In addition, the autumn weather is quite pleasant and mild. Temperatures during October are between 8 °C and 15 °C with frequent but usually short showers.
From November onwards, it rains less, but temperatures drop to between 5 and 11 °C.
Table of temperatures during the year
Ottawa - Average temperatures during the year
When to go to Ottawa
Ottawa is a purely urban destination, where you can have fun in inclement weather all year round. You can spend up to 2 full days just walking around the museums and sights.
The weather in summer is not unpleasant. The humidity is pleasant, there is no stifling heat like in the subtropics and tropics, and late spring and summer are very pleasant times for walking.
However, as Ottawa is rarely the main destination when travelling in Canada, choose your travel season based on the main destinations you are heading to.
Any questions left?
If you have any questions or comments about the article...
