Peterborough Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Canada
Summer
Peterborough, Canada experiences warm and humid summers with average temperatures ranging from 15.6°C to 25.7°C (60.1°F to 78.3°F). The warmest months are July and August, when temperatures can occasionally reach up to 30°C (86°F). Humidity levels are relatively high during this time, making it feel even warmer. Peterborough receives a fair amount of sunshine during the summer months, with an average of 8.3 hours of sunlight per day. Rainfall is common, particularly during the afternoon and evening, with an average of 80 mm of rain per month.
Winter
Winters in Peterborough are cold and snowy, with average temperatures ranging from -8.9°C to -1.7°C (16°F to 28.9°F). The coldest months are January and February, when temperatures can drop below -20°C (-4°F) at night. Peterborough receives significant snowfall during the winter months, with an average of 120 cm (47 inches) of snow per season. Snowstorms are common, and can make travel difficult at times. Despite the cold temperatures, Peterborough receives an average of 5.5 hours of sunshine per day during the winter months.
Average Temperature in Peterborough, Canada: An Overview
Peterborough, a city located in the province of Ontario, Canada, experiences a humid continental climate characterized by warm summers and cold winters. The average temperature throughout the year in Peterborough varies significantly, with the warmest month being July with an average temperature of 20.6°C (69°F) and the coldest month being January with an average temperature of -7.4°C (19°F). The average annual temperature in Peterborough is approximately 8.1°C (46.6°F).
Seasonal Fluctuations and Extreme Temperatures
During the summer months from June to August, temperatures in Peterborough often reach the high 20s Celsius (low 80s Fahrenheit), with average high temperatures around 27°C (81°F). In contrast, winter temperatures from December to February typically range from -10°C to -5°C (14°F to 23°F), with average lows hovering around -12°C (10°F). The city has also experienced extreme temperatures, with record highs reaching 38.9°C (102°F) in 1936 and record lows dipping to -43.3°C (-46°F) in 1934.
Common Cloud Types in Peterborough, Canada
Peterborough, Canada, experiences a variety of cloud formations throughout the year. Among the most common are cumulus clouds, characterized by their puffy, cotton-like appearance. Cumulus clouds often appear on clear days and can range in size from small, isolated clouds to larger, more imposing formations. Stratus clouds are another common type, appearing as a uniform, gray layer that covers much of the sky. Stratus clouds often bring overcast conditions and can lead to drizzle or light precipitation.
Seasonal Variations in Cloud Cover
Cloud cover in Peterborough varies throughout the year. In the winter months, the city often experiences overcast skies due to frequent snowstorms and cold fronts. During the spring and fall, cloud cover becomes more variable, with a mix of clear days and cloudy periods. Summer typically brings the least amount of cloud cover, as clear skies and sunshine dominate the weather pattern.
Annual Precipitation
Peterborough, Canada experiences a temperate climate with evenly distributed precipitation throughout the year. On average, the city receives approximately 880 millimeters (34.6 inches) of precipitation annually. The wettest months are May, June, and July, with average monthly precipitation ranging from 75 to 100 millimeters (2.9 to 3.9 inches). The driest months are January and February, with average monthly precipitation below 50 millimeters (2 inches).
Seasonal Distribution
Precipitation in Peterborough varies significantly depending on the season. Winter typically brings the least amount of precipitation, with snow being the dominant form. Spring and fall see a moderate increase in precipitation, with occasional thunderstorms and rain showers. Summer is the wettest season, characterized by frequent thunderstorms and heavy downpours. The city is particularly prone to summer storms, which can sometimes lead to localized flooding. The heaviest daily rainfall ever recorded in Peterborough was 126 millimeters (5 inches), occurring in August 1954.
Average Rainfall
Peterborough, Canada receives an average of 882 millimeters of precipitation annually, which is distributed somewhat evenly throughout the year. The wettest month is July, with an average of 100 millimeters of rainfall, while the driest month is February, with an average of 50 millimeters. Peterborough’s rainfall is influenced by its location in the Great Lakes region, which experiences a humid continental climate with warm, humid summers and cold, snowy winters.
Seasonal Variation
Peterborough’s rainfall patterns vary seasonally. In the spring, as temperatures rise and snow melts, there is an increase in rainfall, peaking in July. The summer months are generally warm and humid, with frequent thunderstorms that can bring heavy rainfall. In the fall, rainfall gradually decreases as temperatures cool and the air becomes drier. Winter rainfall is generally light and occurs in the form of snow, with snowfall averaging around 130 centimeters per year.
Snowfall and Snow Cover
Peterborough, Canada, experiences moderate snowfall during the winter months. The average annual snowfall is approximately 120 centimeters (47 inches), with the heaviest snowfall typically occurring between December and March. Snowfall can vary greatly from year to year, with some winters receiving significantly more or less snow than the average.
The snow cover in Peterborough typically persists for several months each year. The snowpack typically reaches its peak in mid-February, with a snow depth of around 30 centimeters (12 inches). The snow cover gradually diminishes as the temperatures rise in the spring, with the majority of the snow melting by the end of March or early April.
Daytime Sunlight Hours
Peterborough, Canada, experiences significant variation in daylight hours throughout the year due to its geographical location in the Northern Hemisphere. During the summer months (June to August), days are long, with an average of 15 to 16 hours of sunlight per day. The city enjoys extended daylight hours from sunrise, which occurs around 5:30 AM, to sunset, which lasts until approximately 9:30 PM. This abundance of sunlight provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities, such as picnics, swimming, and hiking.
Seasonal Differences in Sunlight
As the seasons change, the duration of sunlight in Peterborough undergoes dramatic fluctuations. In the winter months (December to February), days are noticeably shorter, with an average of only 8 to 9 hours of daylight per day. Sunrise typically occurs around 8:00 AM, while sunset arrives early, around 5:00 PM. The reduced sunlight can impact daily routines, leading to earlier bedtimes and adjustment of outdoor activities. During the fall and spring seasons, the city experiences gradual changes in daylight hours, with a gradual reduction or increase in sunlight as the days transition from shorter to longer and vice versa.
Moonrise and Moonset in Peterborough, Canada
Peterborough, Canada, offers enchanting celestial views of the moon as it rises and sets throughout the year. Moonrise times vary significantly, with the moon rising earlier in the evening during the summer months and later during the winter. During the summer solstice, the moon can rise as early as 9 pm, casting an ethereal glow over the city as darkness descends. In contrast, during the winter solstice, the moon may not rise until after midnight, providing ample time for stargazing before its appearance.
Moonset times also exhibit seasonal variations. In the summer, the moon often sets shortly before sunrise, creating a stunning spectacle as the waning moon bathes the eastern horizon in a soft, golden light. During the winter, the moon can remain visible high above the horizon until well after sunrise, gradually fading away as daylight intensifies. These extended moonset durations offer ample opportunities to admire the moon’s beauty in the early morning hours.
Humidity in Peterborough, Canada
Peterborough, Canada experiences a humid continental climate with warm, humid summers and cold, snowy winters. The average annual humidity in Peterborough is around 70%, with the highest levels occurring during the summer months. The high humidity levels in Peterborough can make it feel uncomfortable, especially during hot weather.
Summer humidity in Peterborough is typically high, with an average relative humidity of around 80%. This humid air can make it feel hotter than it actually is, and can lead to heat stress and discomfort. The highest humidity levels typically occur in July and August, when the average relative humidity can reach 90% or higher.
Winter humidity in Peterborough is much lower, with an average relative humidity of around 60%. This dry air can be beneficial for people with respiratory problems, as it can help to reduce congestion and irritation. The lowest humidity levels typically occur in January and February, when the average relative humidity can drop to 50% or lower.
Wind Patterns and Characteristics
Peterborough, Canada, experiences a temperate climate characterized by moderate winds throughout the year. The predominant wind direction in Peterborough is from the southwest, bringing in warm and moist air from the Great Lakes. During the spring and summer months, these winds often carry moisture, resulting in frequent precipitation. In the fall and winter, the winds shift more towards the northwest, bringing in cold and dry air from the north. The average wind speed in Peterborough varies between 10-15 kilometers per hour (6-9 miles per hour), with occasional gusts reaching speeds of up to 30 kilometers per hour (18 miles per hour).
Seasonal Variability
The wind patterns in Peterborough exhibit distinct seasonal variability. During the winter months, the winds tend to be stronger and more variable, with frequent gusts and occasional storms. The presence of Lake Ontario to the south can lead to localized wind effects, particularly during the colder months when the temperature difference between the land and the water is greatest. This can result in localized winds known as “lake breezes” or “land breezes,” which can significantly alter the wind patterns in the immediate vicinity of the lake. In the spring and summer, the winds generally become milder and more consistent, with a prevailing southwest wind direction. The presence of vegetation during these months can also influence the wind patterns, reducing wind speeds and creating more sheltered microclimates.
Spring (April-May):
Spring in Peterborough offers a vibrant tapestry of colors as the city awakens from its winter slumber. Temperatures gradually rise, making it ideal for outdoor exploration. Stroll through Victoria Park, where lush green lawns and vibrant flower beds create a picturesque backdrop for picnics and leisurely walks. The Otonabee River, flowing through the city’s heart, provides ample opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. Don’t miss the annual Dragon Boat Races, a lively event that brings the community together.
Summer (June-August):
Summer in Peterborough is a season of sunshine and endless possibilities. As temperatures soar, the city transforms into a hub for outdoor activities. Spend lazy afternoons at Little Lake or Chemong Lake, enjoying swimming, boating, or sunbathing on sandy beaches. Explore the extensive trail network in the Peterborough Greenbelt, perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and cross-country skiing. Attend the summer-long Peterborough Musicfest, where renowned musicians perform in the city’s historic downtown core.
Solar Energy Potential in Peterborough, Canada
Peterborough, Canada, boasts significant potential for solar energy harnessing due to its favorable geographical location. The city enjoys ample sunshine, with an average of 2,416 sunshine hours annually. This represents approximately 5.6 peak sunlight hours per day, making it an attractive destination for solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. Moreover, the city’s relatively low latitude provides a favorable angle of incidence for solar panels, further enhancing their energy production capabilities.
Solar Power Adoption and Initiatives in Peterborough
Peterborough is actively embracing solar energy as a clean and renewable source of power. The city council has implemented several initiatives to promote solar power adoption. Notable among these is the Solar PV Rebate Program, which provides financial incentives for residents and businesses installing solar PV systems. Additionally, Peterborough Utilities, the local utility provider, offers net metering programs that allow solar system owners to sell excess electricity back to the grid at a competitive rate. These programs have contributed to the growing number of solar installations across the city, showcasing Peterborough’s commitment to sustainability and clean energy.
Relief
Peterborough, Canada possesses a diverse topographical landscape featuring an array of landforms, including rolling hills, river valleys, and plateaus. The city is situated within the Canadian Shield, a vast geological region characterized by ancient bedrock and relatively low relief. Consequently, the terrain in Peterborough generally lacks dramatic elevation changes.
Rolling hills dominate the landscape surrounding Peterborough, gradually increasing in elevation as one moves away from the Otonabee River valley. The hills provide scenic vistas and offer opportunities for recreation. The highest point in the Peterborough area is approximately 185 meters above sea level, located on the edge of the Canadian Shield. The Otonabee River meanders through the city, carving out a fertile valley with gentle slopes and alluvial plains. Along the riverbanks, one can find picturesque waterfalls and rapids, adding to the region’s natural beauty.
Peterborough Airport
Peterborough Airport (YPQ) is the nearest airport to Peterborough, Canada. It is located approximately 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) northwest of the city center. The airport has one runway, which is 1,372 meters (4,500 feet) long. Peterborough Airport is served by several airlines, including Air Canada Express, Bearskin Airlines, and Wasaya Airways. The airport offers a variety of services, including passenger terminals, baggage claim, and car rentals.
Alternative Airports
If Peterborough Airport is not convenient for your travel plans, there are several other airports within a reasonable driving distance of Peterborough. These airports include:
- Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ): Located approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles) southwest of Peterborough, Toronto Pearson International Airport is the largest airport in Canada. It is served by a wide range of airlines and offers a variety of flights to destinations around the world.
- Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ): Located approximately 110 kilometers (68 miles) southwest of Peterborough, Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is a smaller airport that is located on the Toronto Islands. It is served by a limited number of airlines and offers flights to destinations within Canada and the United States.
- Hamilton International Airport (YHM): Located approximately 75 kilometers (47 miles) southwest of Peterborough, Hamilton International Airport is a medium-sized airport that is served by a variety of airlines. It offers flights to destinations within Canada, the United States, and Mexico.
Peterborough’s History and Significance
Peterborough, nestled in the heart of Ontario, Canada, boasts a rich history dating back to the 19th century. Originally known as Stop 30 on the Peterborough and Port Hope Railway, the settlement quickly evolved and was officially incorporated as Peterborough in 1850. The city’s advantageous location at the confluence of two rivers, the Otonabee and Trent, played a vital role in its growth. Peterborough became a prominent industrial hub, with numerous mills and factories established along the riverbanks.
Peterborough’s cultural heritage is deeply intertwined with the arts and education. The city is home to Trent University, renowned for its environmental science, liberal arts, and arts programs. The Peterborough Theatre Guild has been a vibrant force in the community for over 70 years. The city’s bustling arts scene includes a variety of galleries, performance spaces, and festivals, such as the Peterborough Musicfest. Peterborough is also recognized for its beautiful parks and green spaces, including Del Crary Park and Beavermead Park, which offer recreational opportunities and stunning natural scenery.