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Quebec City has a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons and one of the widest temperature swings of any major Canadian city. January averages a high of -6 degrees C (21 degrees F) and a low of -16.2 degrees C, while July reaches a 25 degrees C (77 degrees F) high. Annual precipitation totals 1,175 mm, with 303 cm of snow each winter. This best time to visit Quebec City guide pairs with the monthly numbers below, and the full Quebec City guide links all seven seasonal articles.
Quebec City Weather by Month: Temperatures
The monthly table shows 1991-2020 normals for Jean Lesage International Airport (YQB). December through February stay below freezing: January averages -11.1 degrees C overall, with highs near -6 degrees C and lows around -16.2 degrees C. April is the first month with highs above freezing (8 degrees C), and May climbs to 17 degrees C. Summer peaks in July at 25 degrees C, and September still averages 18 degrees C before October drops to 11 degrees C. Winter visitors can time their trip using our events and festivals calendar.
| Month | Avg high C | Avg low C | Mean C |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | -6 | -16.2 | -11.1 |
| February | -4.5 | -14.2 | -9.3 |
| March | 1 | -8.3 | -3.6 |
| April | 8 | -1 | 3.5 |
| May | 17 | 5 | 11 |
| June | 22 | 10.6 | 16.3 |
| July | 25 | 13.6 | 19.3 |
| August | 23 | 12.5 | 17.8 |
| September | 18 | 7.2 | 12.6 |
| October | 11 | 2 | 6.5 |
| November | 2.9 | -4 | -0.6 |
| December | -5 | -13 | -9 |
Quebec City Weather by Month: Rainfall
Rainfall is spread fairly evenly, with July the wettest month at 119 mm over 12 days and February the driest at 66 mm over 10 days. June, September, and October each bring 111-116 mm. Rain falls as snow from November through March; the city averages 303 cm of snow a winter, with December and January the snowiest months. If you plan to visit outside the best weather window, pack layers that handle both wet and dry cold. For a sense of where each district sits, see the Quebec City neighborhoods guide.
Quebec City Weather by Month: Sunshine, Humidity, Snow
Sunshine runs from about 2.5 hours a day in December to 7.5 hours a day in July. Winter days are short, with the sun setting before 4:30 p.m. in late December, while June and July stretch past 9 p.m. Summer humidity is noticeable but not extreme, with July dew points around 15 degrees C. Snow stays on the ground from late November into early April, so winter travelers should check the things to do in Quebec City list for indoor and outdoor options that work in snow.
Quebec City Weather by Month: Planning Around the Data
Use these numbers to pick a base and a wardrobe. Summer needs a light jacket for evenings that dip to 13 degrees C; winter needs insulated boots and a parka rated for -25 degrees C. For where to sleep in each season, see the where to stay in Quebec City guide, and read the travel tips and FAQ for packing and transport specifics.
