Why weather is such a hot topic

Credit to Author: Lisa Evans| Date: Wed, 14 Jun 2023 19:28:58 +0000

Talking about the weather may seem like a mundane thing to do – much less exciting than a conversation about sports or politics – but in Canada, the weather can spark just as much enthusiasm as a winning goal or a close election race.  Why do Canadians love to talk about the weather?

Extreme weather provides plenty of conversation material

This fixation on the weather is a Canadian phenomenon, and with good reason.  With temperatures varying from +40C to -40C depending on the season, it’s no wonder whether is a hot topic.  From heat waves and humidity warnings to freezing temperatures, wind chills and everything in between, there’s no shortage of conversation material when it comes to the weather.  The climate varies widely from province to province, season to season and even day to day, leaving nary a dull moment.

A safe conversation topic

While debates over politics and religion can lead to heated exchanges and conversations about sporting events can cause non-sports lovers to feel left out, talking about the weather is a safe topic everyone can weigh in on.  While some people like it hot and others like it cold, saying “This heat is unbearable” or “I can’t believe it’s still snowing in April” is unlikely to lead to a shouting match.

The weather is also a great conversation starter at networking events.  “How about this weather, eh?” is a common phrase Canadians use to greet each other in the elevator or at a party where you don’t know anyone.  While chatting about the weather does nothing to make a frigid day warmer, it gives us a commonality – a place for conversation to begin.

Talking about the weather is practical

Since temperatures and climate conditions vary so widely from day to day and season to season, asking “what’s it like out today?” lets you know what to expect and can help you plan your day.  Should you wear a jacket?  Should you bring an umbrella?  Is a thunderstorm likely to interrupt your kayaking excursion or will a snowfall affect your commute time?  News reports always include a segment on the upcoming weather for the week and websites such as the weather network are commonly saved as favourites on Canadians’ computers.

The weather can make you SAD

The weather is also a serious topic that’s important to Canadian mental health.  Studies have shown that weather changes can affect people’s moods.  While a sunny day can lift spirits, a dull, rainy day can make us feel a little gloomy.  While everyone may experience these shifts in mood to varying degrees, some people are particularly vulnerable to weather changes, so much so that it affects their mental health.  The short days of late fall are the beginning of a type of clinical depression called “Seasonal Affective Disorder”, or SAD, which can last until spring.  During the winter, it isn’t uncommon to experience only nine hours of daylight.  This lack of light can cause severe depression in some individuals who rely upon light therapy to regulate their mood changes back to normal.  About two to six percent of Canadians experience severe SAD while another 15 percent experience a milder form of the illness.

Weather talk is important for cultural integration

While words such as “wind chill” and “frostbite” may be new to immigrants from warmer countries, becoming familiar with “weather talk” can help prepare newcomers for the myriad of ways Canada’s weather will affect daily life.  Statistics Canada reveals adjusting to Canada’s climate was the greatest challenge for 16 percent of newcomers.  Getting familiar with key vocabulary prior to arrival and watching weather reports in the city you’re moving to can help you to prepare.

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