Weather in Baker Lake

Stay informed about the current weather conditions in the city of Baker Lake. Below are up-to-date reports and forecasts to help you better plan your time.

The climate of Baker Lake can be described as severe subarctic, typical of the northern territories for which Canada is famous. The dominance of the cold season is clearly observed here: winter lasts for most of the year, while summer is very short and cool. This destination is suitable for those ready to encounter the true elements of the north and wish to see the pristine tundra.

The winter months are distinguished by extremely low temperatures. From December to February, the thermometer averages down to -30°C and lower, while freezing conditions persist right up until May. Summer here is rather a brief respite: the most comfortable weather settles only in July and August, when the air warms up on average to +12...+14°C.

Precipitation in the region is comparatively low, however, humid and overcast days are not uncommon, especially in early autumn. Travellers should consider that even at the height of summer, the weather can be fresh and windy, so warm, windproof clothing will be necessary at any time of the year.

The climate in this region is distinguished by the severity characteristic of northern territories. Baker Lake welcomes travellers with extremely cold winters and a short, cool summer. The annual temperature range here is immense: from piercing frosts in February, when the average temperature drops to -32.0°C, to the relatively comfortable figures of July, which is the warmest month of the year with an average value of 14.2°C.

The winter season here is prolonged and requires serious preparation. From November to April, the thermometer steadily holds significantly below zero. The most severe conditions are observed in January and February, when night temperatures can reach -35.0°C. Even in March, the air warms up on average only to -23.8°C. Spring arrives late: negative temperatures still persist in May (averaging -3.6°C), and noticeable warming begins only by June.

Summer in the town is cool and fresh, without the exhausting heat found in other regions. In July, at the peak of warmth, daytime maximums reach 18.6°C, creating pleasant conditions for active recreation, however, nights remain brisk with a temperature around 9.9°C. Such an amplitude between daytime warmth and nocturnal coolness is characteristic of the entire summer period. Already in September, the average temperature falls to 5.3°C, heralding the imminent return of winter.

Precipitation in Baker Lake has a clearly expressed seasonal character, determined by the harsh climate of this part of Canada. Since negative temperatures hold for most of the year, snow predominates here from October to May. At the same time, the total volume of precipitation in the winter months is minimal — often it is close to zero millimetres, although light snowfalls may occur from 2 to 5 times a month.

The end of winter is considered the driest period: in February, only about 2 days with precipitation are recorded on average. In spring, the intensity increases slightly, but a real change in weather conditions occurs only with the arrival of warmth.

Summer and the beginning of autumn are the wettest times of the year. In July and August, when the air warms up to positive temperatures, rain replaces the snow. The peak of inclement weather usually falls on September: this month sees the greatest number of days with precipitation — on average about 12. Travellers planning a visit during this period should take care to bring waterproof clothing, as damp and overcast weather becomes a frequent occurrence.

A journey to Baker Lake requires careful wardrobe preparation, as the climate here is severe and changeable. If your trip is planned for the period from October to May, prepare for extreme cold: the foundation of your equipment should be high-quality wool or synthetic thermal underwear. Be sure to bring a windproof winter parka, insulated trousers, as well as a reliable hat, scarf, and mittens capable of protecting against piercing wind. Pay special attention to footwear — it should be designed for low temperatures, have a thick sole, and provide good traction on snow and ice.

Summer in this region is cool, so even in July and August, when the temperature rises to +14°C, the principle of layering remains relevant. Instead of t-shirts, it is better to take fleece tops, a light sweater, and a high-quality windbreaker or raincoat, as precipitation falls quite often in the summer months. For walking tours across the tundra, waterproof trekking boots are ideal, ensuring comfort and dryness for your feet in damp weather.

Among important accessories, it is worth highlighting sunglasses and cream with high SPF: they are necessary both in winter for protection from blinding sun reflected off the snow, and during the long polar day in summer. It is also highly recommended to bring moisturising skin products and lip balm to prevent windburn. If you are travelling in summer, be sure to pack effective insect repellent in your luggage, as insects become active in the tundra during the warm season.