It's cold here

by Jenn
(Winnipeg, MB, Canada)

I live in Winnipeg. Commonly refered to as Winterpeg. For those of you who think the winters are not too bad, its probably because where you live, it's not that bad.

I have a one year old son and I feel like we've been stuck indoors for ages. It's been 6 months since we played outside last, due to the cold, and it's only March. It's still -20°C or colder most days. And it'll be a few more months till it really warms up. Its true, some summers are hot here, but usually only for 2 months. The rest of the year it's cool to frigidly cold.

Barry's Response - Yes, for sure. I'm sure Minneapolis and other highly continental climates can relate. An extremely continental climate is one where the coldest month is -38 degrees Celsius or colder, and the warmest is 10 degrees or more. Siberia is the only place in the world that qualifies.

Winnipeg's about as close as we can get. In fact, it's Dfb, like most of Canada. There are at least four months averaging 10 degrees or better, at least one month averaging less than -3, and no real dry season. Winnipeg averages +19 degrees in July, -18 degrees in January. Summer humidity can be unbearable at times, but on the whole, it's pretty comfortable until September. The windiest time of year is late April and early May, while September is the calmest.

There was a high of 40.6 degrees (105 Fahrenheit) and a low of -45 (-49). The lowest windchill was -57 and the highest humidex was 46.1. Summers are warmer than most of the Canadian prairies, and winters are colder, making it almost supercontinental.

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As a result of Winnipeg's reputation for long and cold winters, the nickname "Winterpeg" has been given to the city.

Winterpeg is a playful acknowledgement of Winnipeg's cold winters. Winter in the city reflects the unique climate and the resilient spirit of its residents. Here's how it all started:

- Winnipeg is in the Canadian Prairies, a region with harsh winters. There's a continental climate in the city with cold temperatures, heavy snowfall, and icy conditions. As a playful way to acknowledge the city's cold climate, "Winterpeg" emerged.

- No specific event or person is credited with the nickname's origin. Locals and visitors likely made funny remarks over time. Winnipeg's unique weather conditions led to the nickname's popularity.

- Winnipeg winters are bitterly cold, with temperatures regularly dropping below freezing. Its location, far from large bodies of water, contributes to its cold climate. Arctic air masses can sweep across the region, causing frigid temperatures and challenging weather.

- Winnipeggers have developed a resilient and enduring spirit despite the winters. Winterpeg embraces its reputation as "Winterpeg" and finds ways to celebrate it. During festivals like Festival du Voyageur, snow sculptures, ice skating, and cultural activities showcase the city's unique climate.

- Winterpeg has become part of Winnipeg's identity and is often used affectionately by residents and visitors. Besides highlighting Winnipeg's unique climate, it shows the city's resilience and sense of community.

- In addition to its cold winters, Winnipeg also has beautiful summers with warm temperatures, providing a diverse range of seasons.