Year-round weather and climate in Ottawa, Canada
Average temperatures in Ottawa run from an average low of -12°C10°F in February up to an average high of 26°C79°F in July. September is the driest month at 8 rainy days; June the wettest at 14. Here is the annual climate data, so you know what you are packing for.
Good to know
- Population
- 1M
- Currency
- CAD
- Language
- English / French
- Time zone
- Toronto
Best time to visit
The most pleasant weather falls in July, August, and September, offering a perfect balance of comfortable temperatures and clear skies.
Rain character
Moderate Showers: Rainfall is standard and manageable. A compact travel umbrella or light rain jacket will easily get you through any wet days.
Day-to-night swing
The Daypack Trap: Beware the "noon illusion". In months like May, crisp sunny days drop off a cliff by 12°C22°F at sunset. Always carry an evening layer.
Seasonality Profile
True Four Seasons: Dramatic contrasts. Freezing winters, transitional shoulders, and blazing summers.
Evening vibe
Cozy Indoor Culture: Evenings are generally crisp, damp, or sweltering. Nightlife centers around indoor venues.
Sightseeing stamina
All-Day Strolling: Weather is generally forgiving for long walking days. Comfortable sneakers are your most important packing item.
Average temperatures, sunshine, and rainfall
Average monthly weather in Ottawa, based on recent historical data. Essential insights on temperature swings, expected rainfall, and daily sunshine.
Bars span the average daily low to high. Sep is typically driest at 8 days (79mm); Jun the wettest at 14 days (122mm).
| Month | Average high | Average low | Sunshine hours | Rainy days | Total rainfall |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | -3°C / 26°F | -12°C / 10°F | 5h | 10 | 79mm |
| Feb | -1°C / 29°F | -12°C / 10°F | 6h | 11 | 65mm |
| Mar | 5°C / 41°F | -5°C / 22°F | 7h | 11 | 76mm |
| Apr | 12°C / 53°F | 1°C / 34°F | 8h | 12 | 106mm |
| May | 20°C / 67°F | 8°C / 46°F | 11h | 10 | 76mm |
| Jun | 24°C / 76°F | 14°C / 57°F | 11h | 14 | 122mm |
| Jul | 26°C / 80°F | 17°C / 63°F | 12h | 14 | 117mm |
| Aug | 25°C / 77°F | 17°C / 62°F | 11h | 14 | 137mm |
| Sep | 21°C / 70°F | 13°C / 55°F | 10h | 8 | 79mm |
| Oct | 15°C / 59°F | 7°C / 44°F | 7h | 11 | 83mm |
| Nov | 7°C / 44°F | 0°C / 32°F | 5h | 11 | 68mm |
| Dec | 1°C / 33°F | -6°C / 22°F | 3h | 14 | 97mm |
Weather data by Open-Meteo.com (opens in a new tab)
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the sunniest time of year to visit Ottawa?
The most sunshine in Ottawa comes around July, averaging 12 hours a month. If you're heading there then, pack your sunglasses and sunscreen.
What clothes should I pack for Ottawa?
Your packing list depends entirely on when you travel. Temperatures in Ottawa swing from an average low of -12°C10°F in February up to 26°C79°F in July. The Packola app builds a tailored packing list for you based on the live weather forecast for your exact travel dates.
Do I need to pack an umbrella for Ottawa?
Ottawa gets rain on about 140 days out of the year. The wettest month is June. If you're traveling during the rainy season, you'll definitely want to pack an umbrella and a light rain jacket.
Pack smarter.
Averages get you close, but the week you travel is what matters. Get the live forecast, a smart packing list, and discover the best local spots and activities in Ottawa with Packola.
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