Weather and Climate at McMaster
McMaster University, located in Hamilton, Ontario, experiences a humid continental climate with warm and humid summers and cold, snowy winters.
- Summer (June to August): Average temperatures range from 18°C to 29°C (64°F to 84°F). High humidity can make it feel warmer.
- Winter (December to February): Average temperatures range from -6°C to 0°C (21°F to 32°F). Snowfall is common, with an average of 120 cm annually.
- Spring and Autumn: These seasons are transitional with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 20°C (41°F to 68°F) in spring and 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F) in autumn.
- Rainfall: The city receives about 800 mm of precipitation annually, with the wettest months being July and August.
- Extreme Weather: Occasionally, the region experiences severe weather like thunderstorms in summer and blizzards in winter.
- Impact on Campus Life: The McMaster campus is equipped to handle various weather conditions, with indoor pathways and heated walkways during winter. Outdoor research may be limited during extreme cold or heavy snowfall, but the university's facilities are designed to support year-round academic activities.