By the end of December, the city of Winnipeg typically lives up to its nickname, “Winterpeg.”
However, Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) announced this year that the average monthly temperature in Manitoba was -5.5 degrees Celsius, potentially the third warmest December on record.
“The trend is definitely above normal,” said ECCC operational meteorologist Kyle McCauley. Except for Dec. 18, when temperatures were 1 degree below normal, “every day for the past 30 days has been significantly above normal,” Macaulay said.
The only warmer Decembers were in 1877 and 1997, when a strong El Niño event occurred, according to the ECCC. Weather events are likely to blame for the slow start to Winnipeg’s winter season this year.
“This is probably the first year that I wish it had been colder and snowier in Winnipeg,” said Bill Schiffke, who was skating with his family at Assiniboine Park on Saturday.
Skating at the park’s Duck Pond opened to the public on Friday, but a park spokesperson told CTV News that the toboggan hill and cross-country ski trails are still closed for the season due to lack of snow. .
For many skaters, it was their first outdoor activity of the season.
“We didn’t know if the rink would be open because the weather was warm,” Ingrid Okonkwo said.
“I love cross-country skiing,” Julia Cifka said. “And of course I didn’t have a chance… There’s not enough snow and there aren’t any trails to get out and do it.”
Some welcomed the less wintry weather. Santina Lee and William Lee said they are enjoying the mild weather because they can take long walks with their dog Atlas.
“It’s great because I don’t think it’s that much of a hassle to take her out,” Lee said. “She’s an arctic breed, so she doesn’t care. She’ll be out regardless.”
Assiniboine Park said the zoo is seeing more visitors than usual this month, although warm weather has affected traditional winter activities. This includes increasing the number of people attending the zoo’s illuminated exhibits, which the park said had to be canceled for several days last season due to cold weather.
For those basking in Winnipeg’s warm sunshine, Environment Canada said they can expect mild weather to continue into the new year.
“It seems likely that temperatures will be warmer than average,” Macaulay said. “This includes January, February and March,” meaning those waiting for a “winter peg” may have to wait a little longer.
