As Nova Scotia is almost completely surrounded by water, the province enjoys some of Canada’s mildest weather. Winter temperatures, however, can still plummet as low as -32°F. Summer temperatures, on the other hand, usually hover between 70°F and 80°F, pleasantly warm, but rarely uncomfortably hot.
The climate in Nova Scotia’s sparsely populated interior tend to be hotter in summer and colder in winter than along the province’s long coastline. Southern Nova Scotia is the province’s rainiest and foggiest region, with an average of 196 foggy days in Halifax alone.
Hurricanes and tropical storms are rare, but not unheard of, during North America’s late summer to early autumn hurricane season. Although hurricanes and tropical storms rarely do any severe damage once they arrive as far north as Nova Scotia, Hurricane Juan in 2003 and Hurricane Earl in September 2010 were the rare exceptions to the rule.
Best Time to Visit Nova Scotia
Summer is Nova Scotia’s busiest, sunniest, and warmest season. This is when most of Nova Scotia’s lively festivals take place and when most tourist attractions are open. However, summer is also the most expensive time to come to Nova Scotia, when transportation and hotel costs are both at their peak.
Spring may be slow to arrive in Nova Scotia, but temperatures begin soaring dramatically between late March and the middle of June. Snow flurries, however, are not unheard of as late as early May, but pleasantly warm weather is usually the norm during spring in Nova Scotia.
Fall is another lovely time to visit Nova Scotia, especially once the leaves begin changing colors in the province’s valleys. September and early October temperatures are fairly cool, but not uncomfortably cold. Many tourist attractions close at the end of summer and do not reopen until springtime. Wentworth Valley, home to Nova Scotia’s best skiing, is the province’s most popular winter destination, but always expect the unexpected in terms of weather no matter when you arrive.