Published on May. 11, 2026, 2:29 PM
Canada’s weather pattern will begin to shift over the May long weekend, which could make or break your plans.
May has started off as a tale of two seasons across Canada, with chilly, below-seasonal temperatures dominating in Manitoba, Ontario, and Quebec, while summer-like heat has taken over Alberta and British Columbia. Only Atlantic Canada has experienced a near-seasonal May so far.
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As the much-awaited May long weekend approaches, forecasters are looking at an upcoming pattern shift, as the strong western ridge and central trough pattern that has been in place is finally showing signs of relaxing. What does this mean for your long weekend forecast? In short, you may want some backup plans if you’re going to be spending the weekend outdoors.
Western Canada could shift back to typical spring
After an early May heat wave brought temperatures across much of southern B.C. into the high 20s and low 30s, folks will finally see a drop back down to seasonal levels over the long weekend.
Southern B.C. and much of the coast will also see a chance for some showers throughout the weekend, which will be welcome after the intense heat and dry period.
Across the Prairies, we could see a more changeable trend take over for the weekend, with near- to above-seasonal warmth across the south and a below-seasonal chill in the north.
There will also be an increased risk of a stormy or rainy system developing on the Prairies with this shift.
