Cape Parry Climate and Weather Patterns
Cape Parry is characterized by an extreme Arctic climate, defined by prolonged periods of freezing temperatures and significant seasonal shifts. The region's weather is monitored by an automatic weather station (CZCP), which continues to provide critical data even though the previously staffed weather station is no longer in operation.
The environment is marked by a stark contrast between the brutal winters and the brief, cool summers. Temperature fluctuations are extreme, with the region experiencing some of the most challenging thermal conditions found in the Canadian Arctic.
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Key Facts
- Absolute Minimum Temperature: −47.2 °C (−53.0 °F).
- Absolute Maximum Temperature: 23.9 °C (75.0 °F).
- Annual Snowfall: 116.0 cm (45.7 in).
- Record Low Wind Chill: −68.4.
- Annual Average Precipitation: 161.2 mm (6.35 in).
Temperature Extremes and Seasonal Trends
The thermal profile of Cape Parry is dominated by sub-zero temperatures for the majority of the year. The daily mean temperature reaches its lowest point in February, averaging −27.5 °C (−17.5 °F). Conversely, the warmest period occurs in July, with a mean daily maximum of 9.4 °C (48.9 °F).
Extreme cold is a recurring theme, with record lows of −47.2 °C (−53.0 °F) recorded in both December and January. The wind chill—the perceived decrease in air temperature on exposed skin due to the wind—can drop as low as −68.4, making the environment hazardous during winter months.
Summer Peaks and Humidex
While the region is primarily frozen, summer brings a brief window of warmth. The absolute maximum temperature ever recorded is 23.9 °C (75.0 °F). The humidex, an index that combines humidity and temperature to determine how hot it feels to the human body, peaks in July at 26.9.
Precipitation and Humidity
Precipitation at Cape Parry is relatively low, with an annual average of 161.2 mm (6.35 in). This moisture falls as both rain and snow, though snowfall is the dominant form of precipitation for much of the year.
The highest precipitation levels occur between July and October, with September seeing the peak average of 27.4 mm (1.08 in). Snowfall is most significant in October, averaging 27.6 cm (10.9 in). Relative humidity remains consistently high throughout the year, averaging 81.7%.
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Climate Data Summary
| Metric | Winter (Jan/Feb) | Summer (Jul/Aug) | Annual Average/Record |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mean Daily Max Temp | −23.1 to −24.4 °C | 8.0 to 9.4 °C | −8.6 °C (Annual Mean Max) |
| Mean Daily Min Temp | −29.1 to −30.6 °C | 2.9 to 3.1 °C | −14.2 °C (Annual Mean Min) |
| Avg Precipitation | 6.7 to 7.9 mm | 24.5 to 26.5 mm | 161.2 mm |
| Avg Snowfall | 8.2 to 10.6 cm | 0.9 to 3.7 cm | 116.0 cm |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the coldest temperature ever recorded at Cape Parry?
The absolute minimum temperature recorded at Cape Parry is −47.2 °C (−53.0 °F).
How much snow does Cape Parry receive annually?
The region receives an average annual snowfall of 116.0 cm (45.7 in).
When is the warmest time of year at Cape Parry?
July is typically the warmest month, with a mean daily maximum temperature of 9.4 °C (48.9 °F) and a record high humidex of 26.9.
Is the weather station at Cape Parry still staffed?
No, the staffed weather station is no longer in operation; however, an automatic weather station (CZCP) remains at the site to collect data.
What is the record wind chill for the area?
The record low wind chill recorded at Cape Parry is −68.4.