How does Quebec’s climate differ between Kuujjuaq and Sherbrooke?

Quebec’s climate varies significantly between the northern region of Kuujjuaq and the southern city of Sherbrooke, primarily due to the province's vast latitudinal range and the influence of continental air masses.1

In the far north, Kuujjuaq experiences a much harsher, colder climate. Average temperatures there range from −11 °F (−24 °C) in January to 52 °F (11 °C) in July. In contrast, the southern region is significantly milder; Sherbrooke sees average temperatures ranging from 14 °F (−10 °C) in January to 68 °F (20 °C) in July.1

These temperature differences are part of a broader climatic gradient across Quebec. While the south benefits from a less severe climate, the far north is characterized by extreme cold and a shorter growing season, with the northern regions averaging fewer than 80 frost-free days annually, compared to 140 days in more temperate areas like the Montreal plain.1