Cabot Strait Weather | Canada Edition

Home › Weather › Cabot Strait Weather

By Victoria Harper, Editor-in-ChiefReviewed by Grace PattersonForecast data: Open-Meteo & Environment and Climate Change Canada

Live forecasts update automatically; written guidance last reviewed 16 June 2026 by the Canada Edition Weather Desk. Data from Environment and Climate Change Canada and other national met services via Open-Meteo.

Check the live forecast above before crossing Cabot Strait, especially if you are travelling by ferry or small craft. This marine corridor between Newfoundland and Nova Scotia is known for sudden fog banks and strong southwesterly winds, particularly in spring and autumn. For port aux basques weather updates directly across the strait, tie your plans to the regional marine forecast.

What is the current Cabot Strait marine forecast?

The live forecast above shows the wind speed, wave height and visibility for Cabot Strait waters. Marine advisories are issued when winds exceed 20 knots or visibility drops below one nautical mile. For a broader picture, check the atlantic weather overview that covers the Strait of Belle Isle to the Laurentian Channel.

How does Cabot Strait weather affect travel?

Ferries between North Sydney and Port aux Basques often face delays when winds reach gale force and seas build above three metres. Fog is the bigger risk in summer, when warm air meets cold Labrador Current water. A cabot strait map in the live forecast helps you identify the narrowest section near St. Paul Island, where conditions can shift fastest. Southcoast weather patterns along Newfoundland’s shore also influence local wave heights.

LocationBetween Cape North (NS) and Cape Ray (NL), width ~17–30 km

Typical Wind Speed20–30 knots in fall; calms in July–August

Fog DaysOver 80 per year, peaking June–July

Water Temperature0–4 °C in winter, 10–15 °C in August

Is Cabot Strait safe for small boats today?

Small vessels should avoid the strait when the live forecast shows winds over 20 knots or visibility below two nautical miles. Check the cabot strait marine forecast issued by Environment Canada; they issue a separate “small craft warning” for open waters.

What causes the heavy fog in Cabot Strait?

Warm, moist air from the Gulf Stream flows over the cold Labrador Current, producing advection fog. This is most common from June through August, and can reduce visibility to near zero in minutes—especially near St. Paul Island.

Where can I see a live cabot strait map?

The live forecast above includes a wind and wave map layer. For a static chart, Environment Canada publishes a “Marine Weather – Cabot Strait” graphic on its website showing buoys and forecast zones.