From sluggish spring to early summer: how May 2025 compares to last year
Weather patterns suggest a warmer lead-up to summer than in 2024 — with key differences across regions.
01/01/2025 - As May 2025 begins, the national weather forecast points to a strong end to spring and the early arrival of summer-like temperatures in central Canada. For short-term rental owners, this brings welcome news, especially when compared to the cooler and wetter summer start of 2024.
According to The Weather Network, this May promises more warmth and dryness across key tourist regions—including southern Quebec and Ontario—after a year in which many areas struggled with persistent rain, smoky skies, and inconsistent temperatures.
What’s different this year?
1. Earlier arrival of warmth in 2025
Last May (2024) was marked by a hesitant transition to summer, particularly in eastern Canada. Cooler-than-normal conditions persisted into early June, delaying outdoor plans. In contrast, 2025 is expected to bring a taste of summer by mid-May, especially in the Prairies, Ontario, and Quebec.
2. Drier conditions this spring
In 2024, several central and eastern regions experienced above-average rainfall. This May, a dry pattern is expected from the Great Lakes to Atlantic Canada, which increases wildfire risk but also improves outdoor conditions for visitors.
3. More stable warmth in southern Quebec (Montreal)
Montreal recorded frequent shifts between heatwaves and cold spells in May and June 2024, with rain disrupting early-season reservations. This year, however, the outlook shows a steadier transition, with slightly warmer than seasonal temperatures expected by the second half of May. This could lead to a stronger early booking season compared to last year.