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Niagara has already experienced the effects of a changing climate. These changes are expected to intensify over the coming decades, affecting everything from public health to infrastructure and agriculture.
Rising temperatures
Hotter summers are becoming the norm bringing more heat waves, longer growing seasons, and increased strain on vulnerable residents.
Changing precipitation
Rainfall patterns are shifting. Niagara can expect more intense rain events, increased flooding risk and periods of drought.
More extreme weather
Severe weather events are becoming more frequent and more damaging, putting pressure on infrastructure and emergency services.
Climate scientists have analyzed detailed data from 16 different climate models to predict how Niagara's weather will change over the coming decades. These projections paint a clear picture: Niagara is getting warmer and wetter, with more extreme weather events.
By mid-century (2050s), Niagara's average temperature is expected to rise by 2°C to 3.5°C. By the 2080s, that increase could reach 3.6°C, turning our current 8.7°C average into 12.3°C.
You'll notice this as:
Annual precipitation is projected to increase by 10 percent by the 2080s, from 1,081 millimetres per year to 1,192 millimetres.
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For detailed information on climate projections, download Climate Projections for Niagara - Final Report.
Climate change can increase air pollutants which can cause breathing difficulties in vulnerable populations. Learn what air quality means to your health and use the Air Quality Health Index to help make decisions around your exposure.
Increased temperatures and rainfall leads to higher rates of e.coli in the water, which can cause gastrointestinal illness if swallowed.
Monitor beach testing results to find out which beaches are posted as unsafe for swimming.
Increased storm water run off lead to algal blooms that can cause irritations and respiratory complications. Learn how to recognize blue-green algae blooms and how to prevent them.
Climate change can increase the number of extreme weather events. Understand the health risks of extreme cold and how you can protect yourself.
Warmer temperatures can increase demand on power grids and cold-holding unit compressors leading to power outages. This can expose hazardous foods to dangerous temperatures.
Learn about food safety at home to prevent foodborne illness.
Climate change can increase the number of heat warnings. Understand the health risks of extreme heat and how you can protect yourself.
Climate change can lead to an increase in West Nile virus and the appearance of new mosquito-borne diseases typically seen in tropical climates. Monitor trends in Niagara and learn how to reduce your risk for mosquito bites.
Increased ultraviolet ray exposure from being outside for long periods of time can harm the skin and eyes which could lead to sunburns, skin damage, skin cancer, eye lesions, cataracts and retinal burns.
Climate change will make more areas of Niagara favourable for blacklegged ticks to live, which can carry Lyme disease. Learn how to identify ticks and protect yourself.
Increased flooding and precipitation can overload wells and cisterns. This can cause contamination from run off and an increase in waterborne diseases.
Learn about testing and maintenance for wells and cisterns.
Climate change doesn't affect everyone equally. Some Niagara residents face greater health risks from extreme heat, flooding and air quality changes. Understanding who is most vulnerable helps us direct resources and support where they're needed most.
For more information, see the Ontario Climate Change and Health Vulnerability and Adaptation Assessment.
Since declaring a climate emergency in 2021, we committed to taking meaningful action and reaching net-zero corporate emissions by 2050.
Learn how we're tackling the climate issue in our Corporate Climate Action Plan.
Reducing our own emissions
We're tracking and publicly reporting our greenhouse gas emissions every year, and working toward a 20 per cent reduction in emissions from Regional buildings and facilities by 2028.
Working with our communities
We work with local municipalities, utilities, businesses, institutions and community groups through the Niagara Climate Change Action Network and the Climate Change Municipal Community of Practice.
Planning for a resilient future
Climate-related objectives are built into the Niagara Official Plan, ensuring that climate considerations guide how we grow, develop and invest in infrastructure across the region for decades to come.
Several Niagara Region facilities have achieved LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification — the globally recognized standard for sustainable building design. These buildings use significantly less water and energy than conventional buildings.
Niagara Regional Police Service 1 Division Building
40 per cent less water
13.6 per cent less energy
Achieved in 2021
Merrittville Emergency Medical Services Base
30 per cent less water
42 per cent less energy
Achieved in 2017
Provincial Offences Courthouse
40 per cent less water
30 per cent less energy
Achieved in 2017
Niagara Regional Housing
30 per cent less water
48 per cent less energy
Achieved in 2015
Campbell East Building, Regional Headquarters
30 per cent less water
32 per cent less energy
Achieved in 2007
Everyone has a role to play in addressing climate change. Here are some meaningful steps you can take as a Niagara resident.
Drive less
Carpooling, taking transit, walking or cycling reduces your carbon footprint and improves air quality. Explore Niagara Transit options.
Eat and shop locally
Buying local, seasonal food from Niagara farmers reduces transportation emissions and supports our agricultural community.
Speak up
Want to see stronger climate action? Write to your local or regional councillors; elected officials need to hear from residents.
Stay informed
Follow our news and notices to stay up to date on climate programs, extreme weather alerts and Regional sustainability initiatives.
