Weather, hypothermia and frostbite

Ukkusiksalik National Park

Climate and extreme weather

Low precipitation levels, low temperatures and high winds characterize Ukkusiksalik’s marine arctic climate. Combined with the low temperatures, the wind produces some of the highest wind chill factors in North America and the most blowing snow. The Hudson Bay influences the area’s climate by creating a heat sink in the summer. On-shore winds create fog in the summer and snowstorms in the fall. The ice remains on the bay until mid-July. Be prepared for snow anytime, anywhere in the park!


Monthly climate summaries
Month Average high Average low Percipitation in mm (rain/snow)
January -28.7℃ -35.8℃ 0 / 84
February -27.9℃ -35.1℃ 0 / 84
March -22.9℃ -31.5℃ 0 / 128
April -12.6℃ -22.1℃ 0.5 / 153
May -2.2℃ -9.4℃ 6.7 / 102
June +9.2℃ +0.5℃ 20.8 / 33
July +16.7℃ +6.0℃ 41.8 / 0
August +14.0℃ +5.0℃ 45.7 / 13
September +5.9℃ -0.6℃ 35.8 / 81
October -4.2℃ -10.7℃ 5.3 / 294
November -16.3℃ -23.9℃ 0.1 / 213
December -24.8℃ -31.9℃ 0 / 122

Hypothermia and frostbite

Hypothermia is a life-threatening condition. People with hypothermia can no longer keep themselves warm and cannot re-warm themselves without assistance. Know the signs and symptoms of hypothermia and how to treat it and take precautions to prevent its onset. Remember to take the windchill factor into account when evaluating temperatures.


Wind and rough water

Be sure to check weather forecasts before heading into the park. Remember that areas of calm seas and areas of wind and rough waters may be relatively close together. Local outfitters know the conditions and weather trends for the area. Listen to local outfitter advice regarding winds, rough water and points of land that are dangerous during challenging weather conditions.

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