The climate of the Saint John Region is humid continental, with four very distinct seasons. Because the City is located on the Bay of Fundy, it tends to be cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter compared to other cities in Atlantic Canada.
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Dress for the season
In the summer months (June, July, and August) average daytime temperatures can occasionally exceed 25 °C. When cold Bay of Fundy air meets warmer temperatures inland it often creates onshore winds that bring periods of fog and cooler temperatures. For this season, you will want to wear lightweight clothing.
The spring and fall months are cooler but generally very pleasant. You will need a light jacket or a heavy sweater to go outdoors in these months. Umbrellas and rubber boots are also a good idea in the spring because of the rain.
In the winter months (December, January, February), temperatures can fall to −8 °C or lower. Winter involves snow and slush. All homes will need to be heated during this time. You will need to have warm waterproof boots, a warm hat, gloves and scarf, a thick jacket and maybe even snow pants.
What to expect your first winter
Spring, summer, and fall are the three seasons that are usually the simplest to deal with. Temperatures are comfortable, weather is usually unremarkable, roads are clear, and storms normally don’t get in the way of day-to-day life. Winter, however, brings with it additional challenges. When the temperature drops, it can snow, roads and sidewalks may get icy, winter storms can make it difficult to get around, and it can even be dangerous if you or your home get too cold. So, it pays to be aware of the following challenges and take precautions.
Windchill temperatures
Even when the temperature does not seem very low, it can feel much colder, and can even be dangerous, if there are strong winds. This is known as the wind-chill factor, and it is part of winter weather forecasts. To protect your skin against frostbite, wear warm clothing that covers as much bare skin as possible.
Winter driving
When it is cold and there is snow, driving becomes more dangerous and challenging. In winter months, especially on snow or ice-covered roads, reduce your speed and increase following distance. In slippery conditions use your brakes lightly. Remember, condensation can freeze on the road causing a layer of nearly invisible black ice.
Winter activities
During the winter, many people plan indoor activities rather than spend much time outside. However, when it is not too cold, there is plenty to do outside. Saint John residents enjoy downhill and cross country skiing, skating, sledding (tobogganing) and simply building a snowman with their kids.
Winter clothing
In the winter, people wear warm coats, winter boots, gloves or mittens, and scarves. You may not need them every day, as the temperature varies from day to day, but you should always be prepared for cold weather.
Home heating
In the winter months, you will need to heat your home. Be sure to budget for the higher costs of electricity or fuel for home heat. Besides comfort, it is important to heat your home to protect your plumbing pipes. Your pipes may freeze in very cold weather if not properly insulated and kept warm. If you plan on being away from home on vacation or travels, you may want to leave the water running a little bit to ensure the pipes don’t freeze.
Snow clearing
When the snow accumulates outside, residents will need to shovel their pathways, stairs, and driveways. You may also need to shovel the sidewalk in front of your home depending on where you live. Keep a bag of road salt at your home and spread a thin layer of salt on the ice or snow in your driveway or walkway, which will then melt over time. If you rent, be sure to check with your landlord to find out who is responsible for shovelling and salting.
Storm days and school cancellations
During winter months, if poor weather causes dangerous road conditions, it may be necessary to cancel a bus run, close schools, or delay schools’ opening. The School District’s decision is made before 6:30 a.m. and is based on the forecasts and current on road conditions. To check if schools are closed listen to the radio, check Twitter, visit the Anglophone district website or the Francophone district website. You can also call the Snow Line at 1-855-535-7669.