The weather

Beyond question, Canada is a cold country. During the winter, no place within its boundaries escapes the bite of frost. On the other hand, its southern regions have hot or even scorching summers. In fact, this vast country is home to several climates: an arctic climate in the Far North, a relatively cold and wet climate in the east, a continental climate in the centre, and a mild, wet climate on the West Coast.

What are the factors behind this distribution? Latitude, reflecting the distance from the equator; the proximity of a large body of water; location in relation to high mountain chains; altitude; and the flow of air masses—these are all factors that influence temperatures and precipitation.