Winter Storm Warnings in Kingston, Ontario
Kingston sits at the northeastern end of Lake Ontario, where cold Arctic air regularly collides with moisture streaming off the Great Lakes. Analyzing thirteen years of weather records from 2012 through 2024, the city averages 116.8 cm (46.0 inches) of snowfall per year — enough to make winter preparedness a genuine priority for residents and commuters alike.
The snow season peaks in February, January, and December, in that order, when temperatures regularly bottom out around −7.3 °C (18.9 °F) overnight. Truly intense snowfall events are relatively uncommon: Kingston sees roughly half a heavy-snow day per year on average, with major snow events — the kind that can bring a city to a standstill — occurring only about once every ten years.
A winter storm warning for Kingston means Environment and Climate Change Canada expects snowfall, blowing snow, or a combination of winter hazards severe enough to create dangerous travel and significantly disrupt daily life. It is a call to act before conditions deteriorate — stocking supplies, avoiding unnecessary travel, and checking on vulnerable neighbours. It is worth noting that warning thresholds differ across Canada; the snowfall amounts that trigger an alert in Kingston may not match the criteria used in other regions.
| Years analyzed | 13 winters (2012–2024) |
|---|---|
| Avg. annual snowfall | 116.8 cm (46 in) |
| Snowiest months | February, January, December |
| Avg. winter overnight low | −7.3°C (18.9°F) |
| Heavy-snow days per year | 0.5 |
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 Kingston 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.
Kingston winter storm FAQ
Is there a winter storm warning in Kingston 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 Kingston, Ontario. It checks live forecast and alert data automatically and refreshes every time the page loads.
Does Kingston get winter storm warnings often?
Kingston sees significant snowfall in most winters, and winter storm warnings are issued in a typical season. The frequency varies year to year with the track of major storm systems.
How much snow triggers a winter storm warning in Kingston?
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 Kingston?
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 Ontario authorities and Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC).
Winter storm warnings in nearby locations
- Winter storm warning in Ottawa, ON
- Winter storm warning in Gatineau, QC
- Winter storm warning in Toronto, ON
- Winter storm warning in Montreal, QC
- Winter storm warning in Barrie, ON
- Winter storm warning in Mississauga, ON
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.