Canadians dreaming of a white Christmas might just get their wish this year – depending on where they live.
According to Weather Network meteorologists Rachel Modestino, Jaclyn Whittal and Doug Gillham, regional weather patterns, snowpack conditions, and upcoming storms will play key roles in determining whether snow blankets your region come December 25.
In Western Canada, the chances for snow are highly variable. On the B.C. Coast, mild Pacific storms are likely to bring rain, leaving the likelihood of a white Christmas quite low in Victoria and much of Vancouver Island.
Vancouver and the B.C. Interior also have a low chance, with prospects hinging on freezing levels that currently suggest limited if any snowfall.
Southern Alberta faces similar challenges, as mild air and snowmelt may reduce the chances of snow.
However, much of the rest of Western Canada is poised for a snowy Christmas, with cold temperatures and an established snowpack creating a high probability of festive snow.
As for Eastern Canada, the chance of snow is up in the air depending on regional conditions. Meteorologists say Southern Ontario holds a medium chance of a white Christmas. Snow is expected over the weekend, but the arrival of a rain-snow mix closer to Christmas could threaten a white Christmas.
Northern Ontario, however, enjoys a much more promising forecast for White Christmas wishes,, with cold weather and an existing snowpack making snow on Christmas Day almost a certainty.
In Quebec, Montreal faces a low chance of snow due to the lack of significant snowpack and minimal snowfall expected in the coming weeks. Conversely, Quebec City is far more likely to experience a white Christmas, with cold temperatures and current snow conditions strongly favouring snowy scenes.
Meanwhile, Atlantic Canada offers mixed prospects, ranging from low to medium. The likelihood of snow will depend on the path of incoming storms and whether precipitation falls as snow or rain, which could diminish the chances of a white Christmas in the region.
Overall, the Weather Network predicts that more Canadians are likely to enjoy a snowy Christmas this year compared to 2023. While some regions remain on uncertain ground, cold weather and favourable snow conditions in many parts of the country suggest a more festive holiday backdrop for 2024.
As the big day approaches, Canadians are advised to keep an eye on local forecasts for updates.
