Examining past temperature variability in Moosonee, Thunder Bay, and Toronto, Ontario, Canada through a day-to-day variability framework

Abstract

Temperature variability in Moosonee, Thunder Bay, and Toronto, Ontario, Canada is examined through a day-to-day variability framework. Statistical measures used in this study include standard deviation (SD), day-to-day temperature variability (DTD), DTD/SD ratio (G), change in day-to-day variability (ΔDTD), and threshold measures of 5°C and 10°C. ΔDTD is the difference between day-to-day change in temperature maximum (DTDtmax) and day-to-day change in temperature minimum (DTDtmin). A distinct seasonal trend is reflected in DTD in Moosonee, Thunder Bay, and Toronto, where ΔDTD is greatest during spring. Monthly ΔDTD averages in Toronto, Thunder Bay, and Moosonee are affected by seasonal variation, the lake effect, and the freeze-up of nearby waterbodies. Yearly averages of ΔDTD have significantly increased over the past recent years in Moosonee and Thunder Bay; a continual increase in climate variability may be detrimental to the subsistence lifestyle of those living in these areas.