Description

Dfc: D = Continental  f = fully humid  c = cool summer

The subarctic climate (also called subpolar climate, or boreal climate) is a climate with long, cold (often very cold) winters, and short, warm to cool summers. It is found on large landmasses, often away from the moderating effects of an ocean, generally at latitudes from 50° to 70°N, poleward of the humid continental climates. Subarctic or boreal climates are the source regions for the cold air that affects temperate latitudes to the south in winter. These climates represent Köppen climate classification Dfc, Dwc, Dsc, Dfd, Dwd and  Dsd.

In the most common subarctic climate Dfc, the coldest month averages below 0°C and 1–3 months average above 10 °C . There is no significant precipitation difference between seasons. These are generally dry climates but there is little evaporation due to the cold temperatures.

Köppen climate classification map for subarctic climates Dec, Dec, Dec, Dad, Dfd - source: wikicommons, author:  Alice Hunter, 2018.

Flight safety and planning considerations

In the winter months, give consideration to de-icing operations on the ground and the impact of that on turn-around times. Runways may be contaminated year round. Temperature error correction may be required to heights on approach. In summer, thunderstorms and wildfires are a concern.

Related articles

Koppen climate classification system (KCC)