Winter Storm Warnings in Gander, Newfoundland and Labrador
Gander sits in the interior of the island of Newfoundland, where cold continental air collides regularly with moisture sweeping in off the Atlantic. The result is a genuinely heavy snow climate: averaged across 13 years of records spanning 2012 through 2024, Gander receives about 283.5 cm (111.6 inches) of snow per year — well above what most Canadians experience. That snowfall is not spread evenly through the winter. February, March, and January are historically the most demanding months, each capable of delivering multiple significant snowfalls in quick succession.
On average, Gander sees roughly 2.1 heavy-snow days per year — days when snowfall rates and accumulations are serious enough to disrupt travel and daily life. Winter overnight lows hover around −7.3 °C (18.9 °F), meaning snow that falls often stays, compounding totals throughout the season.
A winter storm warning issued for the Gander area signals that hazardous conditions are expected imminently or are already occurring — typically involving heavy snow, blowing snow, or a combination of wintry precipitation that makes travel dangerous. It is important to understand that warning thresholds are not universal; Environment and Climate Change Canada sets criteria regionally, so the snowfall amount required to trigger a warning here may differ from thresholds used elsewhere in the country.
| Years analyzed | 13 winters (2012–2024) |
|---|---|
| Avg. annual snowfall | 283.5 cm (111.6 in) |
| Snowiest months | February, March, January |
| Avg. winter overnight low | −7.3°C (18.9°F) |
| Heavy-snow days per year | 2.1 |
Climatology figures are approximate estimates for the period shown and may differ from official local records.
Watch vs warning: a winter storm watch means a major storm is possible in Gander within 12–48 hours (be prepared); a winter storm warning means it is happening or about to (take action now). For full definitions, see the complete winter storm warning guide.
Gander winter storm FAQ
Is there a winter storm warning in Gander right now?
The live status at the top of this page shows whether a winter storm warning, watch, or advisory is currently in effect for Gander, Newfoundland and Labrador. It checks live forecast and alert data automatically and refreshes every time the page loads.
Does Gander get winter storm warnings often?
Gander sees heavy snow routinely, and winter storm warnings are a regular feature of its winters. The frequency varies year to year with the track of major storm systems.
How much snow triggers a winter storm warning in Gander?
Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) issues winter warnings on criteria that vary by region and expected impact: how much snow or ice is forecast, over what period, and how disruptive it is likely to be for the area. There is no single fixed snow total.
What should I do during a winter storm warning in Gander?
Avoid travel if possible, stay indoors and keep warm, prepare for power outages, keep an emergency kit, and check on elderly or vulnerable neighbours. Follow guidance from Newfoundland and Labrador authorities and Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC).
Winter storm warnings in nearby locations
- Winter storm warning in St. John's, NL
- Winter storm warning in Sydney, NS
- Winter storm warning in Charlottetown, PE
- Winter storm warning in Halifax, NS
- Winter storm warning in Moncton, NB
- Winter storm warning in Saint John, NB
See all locations, read the latest winter weather news, or the full winter storm warning guide. Definitions follow Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) criteria; thresholds vary by region.