As the summer months unfold in Alberta, the weather has sparked a playful rivalry between the province’s two largest cities, Calgary and Edmonton. This year, the stark contrast in their climates has taken centre stage, with Edmonton experiencing a record-breaking deluge while Calgary enjoys prolonged dry conditions.
A Record Summer for Rainfall in Edmonton
Environment Canada meteorologist Brian Proctor recently reported that Edmonton has received an astounding 533.8 millimetres of precipitation during the months of June and July, shattering the previous summer record of 417.1 millimetres set in 1953. This year’s rainfall is not just a statistic; it has caused significant disruption, leading to flooded streets, damaged properties, and the cancellation of major outdoor events.
“Just an amazing amount of moisture,” Proctor remarked, summarising the situation succinctly. The month of July alone accounted for 264.7 millimetres of rain, which has resulted in an estimated cleanup cost for the city ranging from £20 to £30 million. The summer storms have been particularly challenging for festival organisers, with the annual K-Days celebrations suffering two cancelled headline concerts due to the relentless weather.
Calgary: A Summer of Sunshine and Heat Warnings
In stark contrast, Calgary has experienced an unusually dry summer, with only 10.4 millimetres of rain recorded in July. “Really dry is probably the best way I can word it,” Proctor stated, highlighting the city’s stark weather reality. The previous month, Calgary saw a total of 108.1 millimetres of precipitation, but nearly 75 per cent of that fell during just two significant storm events.
As August approaches, the forecast suggests little change for Calgary, which is basking in temperatures reaching the low 30s. Environment Canada has even issued a heat warning for the area, with no significant rain in sight. The dry spell has prompted Calgary to issue a fire advisory due to the ongoing high temperatures and precarious conditions.
The Stormy Saga of Edmonton’s Summer
Meanwhile, Edmonton’s summer storms have escalated, characterised by an ongoing series of thunderstorm events. These storms have been described as “very, very convective,” with extreme downpours that feed off the moisture available in the atmosphere. Proctor explained that the nature of these storms has resulted in them tracking repeatedly over the same areas, leading to localized flooding and disruption.
“Moisture is like gasoline for thunderstorms,” he noted, underscoring how the abundance of rain has fuelled the storms. This relentless weather pattern has made for a summer filled with unpredictability for Edmontonians, who have been grappling with the aftermath of consistent storms.
Weather Outlook for August
As we look forward to August, Proctor’s forecasts indicate that Edmonton will likely continue to experience wet conditions, while Calgary remains dry. The initial days of August in Edmonton are expected to bring a mix of sun and clouds, with a chance of showers, while Calgary enjoys more sunny days and above-average temperatures.
Certainly, the weather has set the stage for a playful rivalry between the two cities, with each side taking good-natured jabs at the other. As the summer progresses, the contrasting climates offer a reminder of Alberta’s diverse weather patterns.
Why it Matters
The divergent weather conditions not only highlight the geographical and climatic differences within Alberta but also raise important discussions about environmental impacts and preparedness for extreme weather events. The situation underscores the necessity for cities to develop robust infrastructure and emergency plans to address the challenges posed by climate variability. As communities navigate these weather extremes, the implications for public safety, economic stability, and environmental management become increasingly critical.