A Newcomers Guide to Canadian Winters
If this is your first winter in Canada, we’ve put together a few tips to help prepare you for the cold and snowy months ahead.
While the first official day of winter is December 21st, you may have noticed that we experience winter weather conditions in London as early as November. A few signs of the upcoming winter season include dropping temperatures, the sun setting earlier, and lots of snow!
January and February are the coldest months of the year, with temperatures ranging between -2°C and -10°C, with an average of -6°C. However, with wind chills, it can often feel like -20°C. London receives a lot of snow and ice during the winter, with temperatures sometimes going as low as -30°C.
Dressing for Winter
Knowing how to dress for the winter can play a big role in helping you stay warm and safe while outdoors. Please remember to wear at least 3 layers of clothing when going outdoors for longer than 30 minutes.
We recommend starting with a base layer made of synthetic materials, adding a sweater or hoodie, and then finishing off with your winter coat. Make sure to protect your neck, hands, ears, and feet with scarves, hats, gloves or mittens, and warm socks and boots. If you’re going to be playing in the snow, wearing snow pants is also a good idea.
Winter Activities
If you’re used to a warmer climate, winter in Canada might be intimidating with its cold weather and snowy conditions. Below is a list of fun activities you can enjoy with your family here in London.
Skating at Victoria Park, Covent Garden Market, or Storybook Gardens
Skiing, snowboarding, or tubing at Boler Mountain
Walk through Victoria Park and enjoy the festive lights—from now until the end of February
Visit the Holiday Market at Covent Garden Market during the month of December
Tobogganing
Build a snowman
Make snow angels
Enjoy a warm cup of hot chocolate at a local cafe
Winter Blues
The winter blues are a wave of low emotions that can come with the cold, dark days of winter. Some common symptoms include sleeping a bit longer, indulging in more comfort foods, and wanting to spend more time with Netflix than with friends and family. An estimated 18% of Canadians are affected by the lack of sunlight in the winter.
Here are some ways to improve your mood this winter:
Let light into your home
Stay physically active
Try to keep a regular sleep schedule
Plan things to look forward to in your calendar
Stay connected with your loved ones
Be kind to yourself
Battling low moods is no easy feat, and you’re doing your best! Have regular check-ins with yourself and make extra time for self-care.
Enjoy your first winter in Canada!
NOTE: This article is for information purposes only and should not be used in place of professional advice.
If you’re experiencing suicidal thoughts and need immediate help, please call the Talk Suicide crisis line toll-free at 1-833-456-4566 (in QC: 1-866-277-3533) or visit www.crisisservicescanada.ca.