Weather in Arviat

Planning your day in Arviat? Check out the current meteorological updates, charts, and forecasts presented below so that the weather does not catch you off guard.

Arviat, situated in the vast expanses of Canada, is characterised by a harsh subarctic climate. Extremely low temperatures in winter and very short, cool summers are typical for this region. Travellers should be prepared for freezing conditions dominating most of the year, and even during the warmest months, the weather remains quite fresh without any sweltering heat.

Seasonality here is very distinct but skewed towards the cold. The winter is prolonged and severe: from November to April, the thermometer consistently stays deep below zero, dropping to average values of around -29°C in February. Real warming arrives only briefly — in July and August, when the air warms up to an average of +12...+13°C, making this the most comfortable time for a visit.

There is comparatively little precipitation throughout the year, yet overcast days with light rain or snow are not uncommon, especially in late summer and early autumn. When planning a trip, it is important to consider that even at the height of the "summer" season, you will definitely need warm clothing, as the weather can be changeable and windy.

The climate in Arviat is severe and typical of arctic regions, creating unique conditions for travel. The annual temperature range here is quite impressive: from extreme frost in winter to cool freshness in summer. The coldest month is traditionally February with an average temperature of around -28.6°C, while the peak of warmth occurs in July, when the air warms up to an average of +12.7°C.

Winter in this corner of Canada is long and freezing. From November to April, the thermometer confidently stays below zero. January and February are particularly severe, when night-time temperatures can drop to -32°C. This is a time of true trials by cold, requiring the warmest equipment from tourists, as even in spring, in March, average indicators remain at the level of -20°C.

Summer here is short and not hot at all, which can be a relief for those who struggle with intense heat. In the warmest months — July and August — daytime maximums reach a comfortable +15...+16°C. Such weather is ideal for active outdoor recreation, but it is worth remembering the daily fluctuations: even in the height of summer, nights remain cool, with temperatures around +9°C, so a warm jacket will be useful to you at any time of the year.

The pattern of precipitation in Arviat is determined by the harsh arctic climate. The total amount of moisture here is low, however, the frequency of inclement days varies noticeably depending on the season. In winter and spring, from November to May, when temperatures stay consistently below zero, precipitation falls exclusively as snow. The driest period is the end of winter: in February, the minimum amount of precipitation is recorded, with only about 3 days when snowfall is possible.

With the arrival of the short northern summer, the situation changes. The "wettest" months of the year in terms of precipitation frequency are considered August and September, when bad weather can be observed for up to 12 days per month. During this period, as well as in July, rain and light drizzle prevail. Despite the high frequency of rainy days, the volume of precipitation remains modest, and heavy downpours are a great rarity here. By October, rain gives way to snow again as the region plunges into a long winter.

A trip to Arviat requires careful preparation, as the climate here is severe and arctic. The main rule when packing your suitcase is the principle of layering, which will allow you to maintain warmth in any conditions. For the winter months, when the temperature often drops below -30°C, high-quality thermal underwear, wool sweaters, and a professional down parka with a hood that reliably protects against the piercing wind are vital. Footwear should be as warm as possible, high, and have a non-slip sole for safe movement on snow.

Summer in this region is short and quite cool, with average temperatures around +12°C, so even in July and August, you should not count on light clothing. Be sure to take a windproof jacket, a fleece sweater, as well as a light hat and gloves. Given that the number of rainy days increases in the warm season, a waterproof jacket or a high-quality raincoat will become indispensable items. For long walks across the tundra, sturdy trekking boots are ideal.

In addition to clothing, pay attention to protective accessories. Sunglasses are mandatory at any time of the year: in winter they will save your eyes from the blinding snow, and in summer they will be useful during the long daylight hours. Dry air and wind can negatively affect the skin, so a nourishing cream and lip balm should be in your toiletry bag. Since the weather in Canada at these latitudes can change rapidly, a small comfortable backpack will be useful to carry removed or spare layers of clothing.