What will this winter be like? Grab the hot cocoa — here’s your 2023 forecast

After three consecutive La Niña winters, a moderate El Niño is now well established. No two are alike, so let's break down what to expect this winter.

After three consecutive La Niña winters, a moderate El Niño is now well established in the central Pacific Ocean.

This warmer-than-normal water affects the jet stream and weather patterns around the planet and often leads to milder and less snowy winters in Canada. The weather pattern also becomes more variable, with wild swings in temperature and an increased potential for ice storms in parts of central Canada and bigger snowstorms in the Maritimes.

Confidence is also high for a mild Western Canada winter with less snow.

It is important to note that no two El Niños are alike and there are so many other factors that affect our weather pattern on a global and local scale.

Let me break down what to expect this winter across Canada.

Unfortunately, the mild and sunny November has come to an end but that calm weather will return on several occasions through the upcoming season.

It will likely be quieter than the past three La Niña winters. The strongest storms will follow the sub-tropical jet and slam into California rather than the Pacific Northwest.

This leads to milder temperatures with less coastal rain and less mountain snow across the province.