Red Bay National Historic Site of Canada
Weather
View from Saddle Island©GMNP / Parks Canada / 01-92 / Michael BurzynskiThe Labrador Current
Climate and weather conditions in coastal Labrador are strongly influenced by the Labrador Current. Flowing southward along the coast of Labrador, this current brings huge quantities of cold water and icebergs southward, eventually to meet the warm waters of the Gulf Stream.
Seasons
Summer temperatures are usually moderate near the coast, where the colder ocean waters cool onshore breezes. While rain showers are common - especially in July - there are extended periods of clear, dry weather. The first frosts of autumn usually occur in late September. Winter brings frequent storms with heavy snowfall and strong winds from the east and northeast. The surface of the sea freezes in January and usually remains frozen until April. Spring is often a beautiful time of the year, with long spells of bright sunshine and relatively warm weather.
Average Weather Conditions
Summer temperature:
10 o C
Sheltered locations climb into the high 20°C range in August.
Winter temperature:
-10 o C
In January and February, temperatures can fall to -34 o C.
Annual snowfall:
415 cm
Often the heaviest snowfalls occur in March. In places, snowdrifts may reach five metres in height.
Annual rainfall:
530 mm
Early summer is usually the rainiest season, but it can rain any time in Labrador.
Current Weather Conditions
You can check the current weather conditions at these locations near Red Bay:
- Blanc Sablon, Quebec (about 60 km WSW from Red Bay "as the crow flies").
- Mary's Harbour, Labrador (about 75 km NNE from Red Bay "as the crow flies").