Climate

Located in the Richelieu Valley, the Chambly Canal is in the Montreal climatic region, which has one of the mildest climates in Quebec. Broadly speaking, this region includes Saint-Pierre Lake, the Richelieu Valley and the head of Lake Champlain. The climate can be described as damp continental because it displays major temperature variations averaging 30° C. Annual precipitation is over 1 000 mm, with 30 to 40% occurring in summer. This temperate climate is characterized by summers that are not very hot, with an average daily temperature in July of 20° C, and winters that are not very cold, with an average daily temperature in January of-10° C. This region also enjoys the longest frost-free period and the longest sunshine duration.

The Montreal region also has the highest number of growing degree-days. Average accumulated degree days above 5° C define the amount of energy available for the growth of most plants. In the Chambly area, the total number of degree-days varies annually between 1 939 and 2 125. This can result in a specific type of flora because of the favourable growing conditions.