Canada's weather for October is all over the place and here's when we could see snow

We're in for a bit of a rollercoaster ride. 🎢

Larch trees in fall after first snow in Banff National Park (illustrative).

First snow in Alberta (illustrative).

Contributor

Canada's October weather forecast is here, and it looks like we're in for a wild ride across the country.

Whether you're in B.C., Newfoundland or somewhere in between, it's time to bundle up because chilly weather and our first snow could be closer than you think.

Here's everything you need to know about this month's weather forecast across Canada and which areas might see the first snowfall.

BC: Unsettled and stormy

B.C.'s October weather is off to a chilly start, with clearing skies and cooler temperatures. The Farmers' Almanac predicts unsettled conditions throughout the month, with showers and stormy weather expected by Halloween.

While there's no direct mention of snow in the forecast just yet, the colder temperatures later in the month could mean higher elevations may get a dusting. Keep an eye out as stormy conditions in the Rockies might affect neighbouring areas.

The Prairies: Gusty with wet snow

For the Prairies, October could bring some snow — especially in Alberta's Rockies. According to the Farmers' Almanac, wet snow is possible in higher terrain around October 16-19.

The rest of the region will experience back-and-forth weather, with cold rains moving across the Prairies early in the month and stormy conditions later on. The Weather Network also suggests that cold fronts sweeping through in mid-October could make things feel a lot more wintry before Halloween, with gusty winds wrapping up the month.

Ontario: Temperature whiplash

Ontario's October weather looks to be a mix of cooler rain and mild temperatures. Early on, cold rain will sweep across the Great Lakes, but by Thanksgiving, we should see clearer skies, according to the Farmers' Almanac.

After that, expect some back-and-forth conditions, with showers and cloud cover dominating mid-October. The Weather Network forecasts a similar pattern, where cooler air from cold fronts will dip into the province, but don't expect consistent cold just yet. The real chill might hold off until later in the month.

Quebec: Chilly with a side of frost

In Quebec, things are looking chilly, especially at the start of October. The Farmers' Almanac suggests a frosty beginning, with possible light showers moving in by mid-month. However, Thanksgiving weekend should bring fair skies and milder weather.

Toward the end of the month, colder air and stormy conditions will roll in, and The Weather Network predicts that Quebec could also see temperature swings thanks to passing cold fronts. It's not clear yet if snow will hit, but you'll want to keep your jackets handy.

The Maritimes: Rainy mix with an early freeze

The Maritimes can expect a mix of rain, chilly winds and the possibility of frost in October. According to the Farmers' Almanac, Newfoundland may see a frost or freeze early in the month, while New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and PEI will start with clearer skies.

Mid-October will be relatively calm with fair weather for Thanksgiving, but Halloween could get messy with rainy skies forecasted across the region. The Weather Network adds that while storms are less frequent this year, any tropical systems could dramatically change the precipitation outlook.

No matter where you are in Canada, October is bound to bring its fair share of weather surprises, so keep an eye on your local forecasts as the month progresses!

AI tools may have been used to support the creation or distribution of this content; however, it has been carefully edited and fact-checked by a member of Narcity's Editorial team. For more information on our use of AI, please visit our Editorial Standards page.

  • Narcity Staff will keep you up to date with notices that impact Canadians from coast to coast to coast. From government payments and food recalls to national rankings, cost of living stats and minimum wage updates, all stories are carefully chosen and compiled for you by Narcity journalists dedicated to keeping you informed. Whether you're checking local and national weather reports, deals and discounts, gas prices or job alerts, you can rely on us to keep you informed with trustworthy, relevant articles.

Canada's new fall forecast says there will be an 'abrupt transition' to early winter weather

Warmer temperatures will be interrupted by blasts of winter-like weather. 🍂❄️

A burst of snow will bring up to 20 cm to Ontario this week before the cold snap ends

Temperatures will warm up but still be cold enough for "lingering" snow.

CSIS is hiring for these jobs and you can get paid up to $120,000 a year to be nosy

You'll help investigate threats to national security. 🔍

Costco is hiring for jobs that pay $20 to $25 an hour and some don't require any experience

Positions are available at a new unique warehouse that's opening in Canada soon.

6 cheap and safe Caribbean destinations to visit in 2026 if you're skipping Cuba

Turquoise waters, white sands, and no travel warnings. 😌🏝️

U of T is the only Canadian school in the top 10 of this new best universities ranking

It beat every Canadian university in all of these subject areas! 📚

Lotto 6/49 winners split a $5M jackpot with another ticket and didn't believe it was real

They checked the ticket online and at a store to make sure they really won the jackpot. 💸

Canada's 'most romantic town' is near Toronto and it's filled with European charm

It's the perfect place to visit with your favourite person.