March Weather in Yellowknife, Canada

Last updated: April 22, 2025

In March, Yellowknife, Canada, transitions toward the onset of spring, showcasing a striking range of temperatures. The maximum reaches a mild 7°C (44°F), while the average hovers around a brisk -17°C (2°F), plunging to a frigid minimum of -43°C (-46°F). This month also sees 18 mm (0.7 in) of precipitation over 5 days, with humidity levels remaining high at 94%. As the days grow longer, residents experience the lingering chill of winter while eagerly anticipating the thaw ahead.

March Temperature in Yellowknife

March in Yellowknife, Canada, marks a significant shift in temperatures as winter begins its retreat. With minimums around -43°C (-46°F), the chill still lingers, but the average climbs to a more bearable -17°C (2°F). This month sees a transition as the maximum temperatures reach a pleasant 7°C (44°F), hinting at the arrival of spring. The impressive jump from winter's depths to the warmth of early spring reflects the stark contrasts in Yellowknife's climate, paving the way for a gradual thaw and then the vibrant blooms of summer ahead.

March Weather in Yellowknife: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates March temperature patterns in Yellowknife, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec-12-131194156625946328-8
Data source: Temperature data for Yellowknife generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

March Precipitation in Yellowknife

March in Yellowknife marks a transition as the winter frost begins to wane, bringing an average precipitation of 18 mm (0.7 in) over 5 days. This slight uptick from February's 11 mm (0.4 in) and the 16 mm (0.6 in) recorded in January reflects the gradual onset of spring. The increased precipitation also hints at the return of more dynamic weather patterns, setting the stage for April's anticipated thaw. Notably, March's precipitation days are a bit more frequent than February's, suggesting a shift towards the wetter months ahead, as Yellowknife prepares to shake off the winter chill and welcome the increasing warmth of the approaching season.

March Precipitation Trends in Yellowknife

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Yellowknife, with values for each month alongside March's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the amount of precipitation, providing insights into how March's conditions compare to those of other months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec161118162039565528242014
Data source: Precipitation data for March generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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March Humidity in Yellowknife

In March, Yellowknife experiences a notable shift in humidity, dropping to 94% after the extremely damp winter months of January and February, which see humidity levels peaking at 98% and 97%, respectively. This gradual decrease indicates a transition towards the drier, warmer months ahead. As spring approaches, the humidity continues to decline, reaching 86% in April and further decreasing to 76% by May, revealing a consistent trend of diminishing moisture in the air as the region moves away from the frigid grip of winter. This pattern not only enhances the crispness of March but also sets the stage for the vibrant blooms of summer.

March Average Humidity in Yellowknife

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Yellowknife, with March's data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, allowing you to see how March's humidity levels compare to other months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec98%97%94%86%76%69%73%79%86%94%98%100%
Data source: Humidity data for March generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

March UV Index in Yellowknife

As March rolls into Yellowknife, Canada, residents experience a noticeable shift in the UV Index, which rises to 3, marking the beginning of moderate sun exposure. This increase signals a change from the consistently low levels of winter, where the UV Index remained at 1 for January and February, allowing for safer outdoor activities with longer burn times of 45 minutes. However, with the arrival of spring, it's important to be mindful as the burn time decreases to 30 minutes. Looking ahead, the UV levels continue to climb throughout April and May, peaking at 5 in May before reaching high levels in the summer months. For more detailed information on UV exposure and safety, visit Yellowknife UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Yellowknife for March

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Yellowknife in March, representing the highest UV radiation level. The UVI measures the intensity of ultraviolet radiation from the sun, indicating the potential risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec113456654211
Data source: Yellowknife March UVI data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

March Sunshine in Yellowknife

As March arrives in Yellowknife, Canada, the days grow noticeably brighter, with the sun gracing the city for an impressive 233 hours—a striking increase from the 156 hours seen in February. This surge signals the promise of spring, as daylight continues to extend towards the vibrant 271 hours of April. With each passing month, the trend of increasing sunshine becomes more apparent, peaking at an invigorating 378 hours in July. The gradual transition from the sparse illumination of January’s 77 hours to the sunny delight of late spring and summer paints a beautiful picture of Yellowknife's seasonal rhythm, emphasizing the profound connection between light and the joys of outdoor life in this northern haven.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Yellowknife: March Highlighted

The March sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Yellowknife experiences direct sunlight during the month of March, excluding cloudy or obstructed periods. This chart compares the sunshine duration of March with the other months of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec77h156h233h271h367h342h378h301h209h127h95h80h
Data source: Yellowknife March Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Yellowknife During March

In Yellowknife, the likelihood of sunny weather begins to evolve as winter transitions into spring. In March, the chance of sun is 30%, a slight dip from February's 37%, yet significantly better than the 24% seen in January. This suggests that while the days may still be dominated by chilly temperatures, there is a hint of optimism for clearer skies as the month progresses. The sun starts to return, paving the way for sunnier months ahead, with May expecting a leap to 45%. Overall, March serves as a pivotal moment, bridging the long, dark winter and the vibrant brightness of spring, making each sunny day feel all the more special.

Percentage of Sunny Days in March in Yellowknife

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Yellowknife throughout the year, with March highlighted. It highlights the variation in sunshine across each month and provides an overview of the typical frequency of sunny days, offering insights into how often Yellowknife experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec24%37%30%28%45%43%41%39%20%32%20%13%
Data source: Yellowknife March chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Yellowknife in March

As winter gives way to spring in Yellowknife, Canada, March heralds a remarkable transformation in daylight duration. After enduring only 6 hours of light in January and 8 hours in February, residents are greeted with a delightful 11 hours of sunlight in March. This marks a significant leap, indicating a shift towards longer days as nature awakens from its slumber. The increase continues into April with 14 hours of daylight and peaks at 19 hours in June, painting a vivid picture of the energizing effects of spring and summer. Conversely, as the year progresses, the daylight hours gradually wane, reminding us of the beautiful cyclical rhythms of life in this remote Canadian gem.

Average Daylight Hours in Yellowknife for March

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Yellowknife throughout the year, with March highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec6h 7m8h 51m11h 52m14h 57m17h 55m19h 46m18h 41m15h 52m12h 50m9h 48m6h 52m5h 6m
Data source: Yellowknife daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

March Winds in Yellowknife

As March rolls into Yellowknife, the winds begin to stir with a slightly more spirited average speed of 3.7 m/s (8 mph), a noticeable increase from the calmer months of January and February. This gentle uptick marks the transition into spring, where winds stay steady before peaking in October with an average of 4.1 m/s (9 mph). Interestingly, despite the invigorating winds, March maintains a consistent speed that matches April’s breezy conditions, setting the tone for the warmer months ahead. As the snow begins to melt and life reawakens, these fresh winds carry a promise of transformation, inviting residents and visitors alike to embrace the changing season in this resilient northern community.

Average March Wind Speed in Yellowknife

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Yellowknife, with values for each month shown alongside March's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It illustrates the average wind speed, offering insights into how March's wind conditions compare to the rest of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3.13.03.7 m/s3.73.83.73.63.43.74.14.03.0
Data source: Yellowknife March wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How March Weather in Yellowknife Compares to Other Months

The weather in Yellowknife changes throughout the year, offering a unique experience in each season. Below is a month-by-month comparison of March's weather with other months, highlighting differences in temperature, precipitation, and other key factors. Click on each section to discover seasonal trends in Yellowknife and find detailed weather information for every month.

In comparing the weather of January and March, January typically exhibits colder temperatures, with an average of -24°C (-11°F) and a minimum of -44°C (-47°F), while March sees a relatively milder average of -17°C (2°F) with a minimum of -43°C (-46°F). Despite this slight warming, both months experience low maximum temperatures, with January peaking at -7°C (20°F) and March reaching 7°C (44°F). Precipitation levels are fairly similar, with January receiving 16 mm (0.6 in) across 4 days and March slightly higher at 18 mm (0.7 in) over 5 days. Humidity remains high in both months, but March's 94% is a touch lower than January's 98%. For a more detailed look at January weather specifics, you can visit Yellowknife weather in January.

March brings a noticeable shift in weather compared to February, with warmer temperatures across the board. The minimum temperature in March is -43°C (-46°F), slightly milder than February's chilling low of -48°C (-54°F). The average temperature rises from February’s -25°C (-13°F) to -17°C (2°F) in March, and the maximum climbs significantly to 7°C (44°F), compared to February's maximum of -1°C (30°F). Additionally, March experiences more precipitation at 18 mm (0.7 in) over 5 days, while February had only 11 mm (0.4 in) over just 2 days. Humidity levels are also relatively high in both months, with March at 94% and February at 97%. For more detailed insights, you can check Yellowknife weather in February.

March and April in Yellowknife exhibit notable shifts in weather conditions. March experiences harsher temperatures, with a minimum of -43°C (-46°F) and an average of -17°C (2°F), while April offers a more moderate climate, with temperatures rising to a minimum of -31°C (-24°F) and an average of -7°C (19°F). Despite both months having similar precipitation levels—18 mm (0.7 in) in March and 16 mm (0.6 in) in April—April sees slightly less humidity at 86%, compared to March's high of 94%. Overall, April marks a transition toward milder weather, making it a more pleasant time as compared to the harsh cold of March. For detailed insights, visit Yellowknife weather in April.

March and May present a stark contrast in weather conditions. In March, temperatures range from a bone-chilling minimum of -43°C (-46°F) to a modest maximum of 7°C (44°F), with an average temperature of -17°C (2°F). The month experiences about 18 mm (0.7 in) of precipitation over five days, coupled with a high humidity level of 94%. In comparison, May showcases a significant warming trend, featuring minimum temperatures of -22°C (-8°F) and maximums reaching 26°C (79°F), with an average temperature of 5°C (41°F). Precipitation slightly increases to 20 mm (0.8 in), but occurs over just four days, and humidity drops to a more comfortable 76%. For more details, visit Yellowknife weather in May.

In March, the weather is characterized by frigid temperatures, with a minimum of -43°C (-46°F) and an average of -17°C (2°F), peaking at just 7°C (44°F). The month sees a high humidity level at 94% and experiences only 18 mm (0.7 in) of precipitation over five days. In stark contrast, June offers a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -2°C (29°F) to an average of 13°C (56°F) and a maximum of 28°C (83°F). June experiences more precipitation at 39 mm (1.5 in) over seven days, but the humidity drops to a comfortable 69%. For a deeper look into Yellowknife's June weather, check the following link: Yellowknife weather in June.

March and July present strikingly different weather conditions. In March, temperatures can plummet to a chilling minimum of -43°C (-46°F), with an average temperature lingering around -17°C (2°F) and a maximum of only 7°C (44°F). The month sees about 18 mm (0.7 in) of precipitation over 5 days, coupled with a high humidity level of 94%, creating a cold and damp atmosphere. In stark contrast, July boasts a much milder climate with minimum temperatures of 5°C (41°F), an average of 17°C (62°F), and highs reaching up to 30°C (86°F). This summer month also experiences more precipitation at 56 mm (2.2 in) across 9 days, but the humidity drops to a more comfortable 73%. For more details on the pleasant conditions in July, check out Yellowknife weather in July.

March and August present starkly contrasting weather in Yellowknife. In March, temperatures plummet with a minimum of -43°C (-46°F) and an average of -17°C (2°F), while reaching a maximum of just 7°C (44°F). The month experiences high humidity at 94% and limited precipitation of only 18 mm (0.7 in) over 5 days. In contrast, August boasts much milder temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to an average of 15°C (59°F), peaking at 32°C (90°F). Additionally, August sees more precipitation, totaling 55 mm (2.2 in) across 10 days, and a lower humidity level of 79%. For more details about weather dynamics during this month, you can check Yellowknife weather in August.

In March, temperatures in Yellowknife can be quite extreme, with minimums plunging to -43°C (-46°F) and an average around -17°C (2°F), while the maximum tends to hover at a chilly 7°C (44°F). The month experiences around 18 mm (0.7 in) of precipitation over approximately 5 days, contributing to the high humidity of 94%. In contrast, September brings a significant warming trend, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -4°C (25°F) to a comfortable average of 8°C (47°F) and highs reaching up to 22°C (71°F). The month sees a slight increase in precipitation to 28 mm (1.1 in) over about 6 days, accompanied by a more moderate humidity level of 86%. For more information on September weather, you can check Yellowknife weather in September.

March and October exhibit stark contrasts in weather conditions, despite similar humidity levels of 94%. In March, temperatures plunge to a minimum of -43°C (-46°F) with an average of -17°C (2°F) and occasional highs reaching only 7°C (44°F). This month also sees light precipitation totaling 18 mm (0.7 in) over 5 days. In contrast, October showcases a milder climate with minimum temperatures around -13°C (9°F), an average of 0°C (33°F), and maximums peaking at 12°C (54°F). Precipitation during this month averages 24 mm (0.9 in) across 7 days, indicating a wetter climate as autumn sets in. For more detailed information, you can check Yellowknife weather in October.

Comparing the weather in March and November reveals notable differences in temperature and conditions. In March, temperatures can reach a minimum of -43°C (-46°F), with an average temperature of -17°C (2°F) and a maximum of 7°C (44°F). The month experiences approximately 18 mm (0.7 in) of precipitation over 5 days, coupled with a high humidity level of 94%. In contrast, November has milder temperatures, with a minimum of -31°C (-24°F), an average of -13°C (8°F), and a maximum of 4°C (40°F). This month sees slightly more precipitation at 20 mm (0.8 in) over 6 days, along with increased humidity at 98%. For a closer look at November's weather, visit Yellowknife weather in November.

March and December in Yellowknife present some notably harsh winter conditions, yet they exhibit distinct differences. In March, temperatures experience a slight increase, with average lows around -17°C (2°F) and maximums peaking at 7°C (44°F), compared to December's colder average of -22°C (-8°F) and highs only reaching 1°C (34°F). Both months see ample precipitation, with March receiving 18 mm (0.7 in) over approximately 5 days and December slightly less at 14 mm (0.6 in) over 4 days. Humidity remains high in both months, but March's 94% is marginally less than December’s 100%, indicating a more frigid atmosphere during the latter. To explore further details, visit Yellowknife weather in December.

Compare Yellowknife's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From March Weather in Yellowknife

As March unfolds in Yellowknife, the weather begins to show signs of transition, standing in stark contrast to the depths of winter. While temperatures can reach a mild 7°C (44°F) during the day, the average chills are more reminiscent of winter’s grip at around -17°C (2°F). Unlike the heavier snowfalls of January and February, March sees limited precipitation, with only a handful of damp days contributing to a tranquility that lingers in the cold air. The high humidity of 94% can make even the milder days feel brisk, as the icy grip of winter begins to loosen, hinting at the promise of spring ahead. For a deeper understanding of the climate dynamics in this unique region, explore the full details at Yellowknife Climate.