Why are winters colder in Nova Scotia’s inland highlands than along the Atlantic coast?

Nova Scotia experiences a modified continental climate that is significantly influenced by its proximity to the sea. The Atlantic coastal regions benefit from the moderating effects of the ocean, which helps maintain warmer winter temperatures compared to the rest of the province.1

In contrast, inland areas—particularly the highlands—experience colder winters because they lack this direct maritime influence. The Cape Breton Highlands, which contain the province's highest elevations, form an undulating plateau that averages 1,200 feet (370 m) above sea level. This increased elevation and distance from the coast contribute to the colder temperatures found in these interior regions.12