Future Climate

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There is broad consensus among scientists and decision makers that climate change is the most serious environmental threat facing our planet, its ecological systems, and our way of life. As climate change increases the potential for more powerful and unpredictable precipitation, the danger of flooding in the Toronto region's rivers increases.

This section contains reporting data for climate projections in the Toronto region. Unlike other indicators, these climate projections are not intended to change over time from a reporting perspective; However, information will be updated as new data become available.

Scroll down to view the following climate projections:

 Climate Trends 

 Future Precipitation 

•  Annual Average Precipitation 
•  Annual Extreme Precipitation 
•  Seasonal Extreme Precipitation 

 Future Temperature 

•  Annual Average Temperature 
•  Extreme Heat 

For detailed summary tables outlining climate projections under a "business-as-usual" scenario (RCP 8.5) and a moderate greenhouse gas emissions scenario (RCP 4.5) see the Future Climate Reporting Key.

Based on the climate projections for the short- (2011–2040), medium- (2040–2070), and long-term (2071–2100), the Toronto region will likely experience a warmer and wetter climate, along with more variable weather patterns including higher intensity storms.

Below are a few examples of the climatic changes that the Toronto region is expected to experience:

• Warmer annual air temperatures.
• More extreme heat days where temperatures are above 30°C.
• Less extreme cold days where temperatures are below -20°C.
• Increased total precipitation, along with more extreme weather events (e.g. storms).
• Less freeze-thaw cycles and potential for ice.
• A longer growing season coupled with the increased risk of pests.
• An increase in precipitation overall did not greatly decrease the number of dry days, which may imply that water stress is likely to be increased.

 Click here  to find out how to take action in your neighbourhood to improve the overall health of the Toronto and Region environment!