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Nunavut experiences one of Earth's most extreme climates, characterized by long, bitterly cold winters and brief, cool summers. The territory spans multiple climate zones, from the subarctic in the south to the polar desert of the High Arctic.
Data Sources: Climate data from Environment Canada Climate Data and Arctic Council
While southern Canada experiences four distinct seasons, Nunavut's seasons are defined more by light than temperature. Inuit traditionally recognize six seasons, each tied to specific activities and wildlife patterns. Here we present the four main seasons.
November - April
Winter dominates the Nunavut calendar, lasting six months or more. The territory experiences polar night—extended periods with no direct sunlight.
May - June
Spring brings rapidly increasing daylight and the beginning of the thaw. This transition period is marked by significant wildlife activity.
July - August
The brief Arctic summer brings continuous daylight north of the Arctic Circle and a burst of life across the tundra.
September - October
Autumn sees rapid cooling and the return of darkness. Wildlife prepares for winter, and communities harvest for the cold months ahead.
The Arctic is warming at nearly four times the global average rate—a phenomenon known as Arctic amplification. According to the Arctic Council's Arctic Climate Change Update 2021, this has profound implications for Nunavut.
Arctic warming rate compared to global average
Per decade since 1979 (September minimum)
Average Arctic temperature increase since 1970