coastal british columbia experiences the mildest winters in canada where freezing temperatures are infrequent. victoria, generally considered the mildest major city in canada, has gone an entire winter without freezing. along with the moderating effect of the pacific ocean, the mountains impede the flow of the cold arctic air during the winter. the only exception is the northeastern portion of the province situated on the eastern side of the rocky mountains. without the protection of the mountains, the climate is similar to that found in the neighboring parts of alberta. the winters are very cold and the summers are warmer than areas west of the rockies.