How does Lake Ontario affect Toronto’s continental climate?

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Toronto skyline — Toronto An aerial view of Toronto's skyline with the CN Tower at center.

Toronto experiences a continental climate that is modified considerably by its proximity to the Great Lakes, including Lake Ontario.1

This proximity serves as a moderating influence on the region's temperatures, helping to distinguish Toronto's climate from areas further inland that lack such thermal regulation. Additionally, the Great Lakes, in conjunction with prevailing westerly winds, play a significant role in influencing the city's precipitation patterns. This interaction ensures that precipitation remains relatively even throughout the year, totaling approximately 33 inches (834 mm) annually, with a portion of this occurring as significant snowfall during the winter months.21