Summer

 In the summer, Iqaluit experiences cool and often windy weather, with average temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). The season is short, typically lasting from late June to early September. Snow is rare but not impossible in early summer. The long daylight hours, thanks to the Arctic's midnight sun, create a unique environment for outdoor activities. While it’s not overly rainy, expect occasional drizzle or overcast days. Layers and windproof clothing are essential for staying comfortable. 

Average Temps  

June  5 °C
July  9 °C

August  8°C
September  3 °C

 Early Beginnings and Cold War Era

Iqaluit, meaning "place of many fish" in Inuktitut, was originally a seasonal fishing and hunting location for the Inuit. The area gained prominence during World War II and the Cold War when the U.S. established Frobisher Bay Air Base in 1942 as part of the strategic Crimson Route, a series of airfields supporting transatlantic aircraft movements. During the Cold War, Iqaluit became a key location for the Distant Early Warning (DEW) Line, a system of radar stations designed to detect potential Soviet airstrikes. This military presence brought infrastructure, employment, and non-Inuit settlers to the region, though it also disrupted traditional Inuit ways of life. In the 1960s, the military base began to scale down, and the settlement transitioned to civilian use. It was officially renamed Iqaluit in 1987, reclaiming its Inuit heritage. During this period, Iqaluit grew as a hub for government administration and services for the Eastern Arctic, attracting Inuit from surrounding communities.

In 1999, with the creation of Nunavut as a separate territory, Iqaluit was chosen as the capital. This designation brought significant investment in infrastructure, education, and healthcare, as well as a growing government workforce. The city's population steadily increased as it became the administrative, cultural, and economic center of Nunavut. By 2024, Iqaluit has over 10,000 residents, reflecting a diverse mix of Inuit and non-Inuit populations. It serves as a gateway to the Arctic, offering modern amenities like schools, a hospital, and an airport, while retaining its cultural roots through art, traditional activities, and the Inuit language. Challenges such as housing shortages, high living costs, and the impacts of climate change remain significant. However, Iqaluit continues to grow as a vibrant community balancing tradition and modernity, serving as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of its people.

In Winter, Iqaluit is extremely cold, with temperatures ranging from -35°C to -10°C (-22°F to 14°F), often feeling colder with the wind chill. The season spans from October to May, with limited daylight in the heart of winter. Snow blankets the landscape, and blizzards are common, accompanied by strong winds. It’s a true Arctic experience, requiring heavy winter clothing and gear to stay safe and warm. 

Average Temps  

October -4 °C
November -13 °C
December -24 °C

January -28 °C

February -28 °C
March -24 °C

April -15 °C
May -3 °C