As the hockey season takes its summer break, the spirited rivalry between Alberta’s largest cities has shifted from the ice to the unpredictable skies. This year, Calgary and Edmonton are experiencing vastly different weather patterns, with Edmonton setting a new record for summer rainfall while Calgary grapples with an ongoing dry spell.
Record Rainfall in Edmonton
Edmonton has become the epicentre of this summer’s deluge, receiving an unprecedented 533.8 millimetres of precipitation during June and July, according to Environment Canada meteorologist Brian Proctor. This figure surpasses the previous record of 417.1 millimetres established in 1953, marking an extraordinary season for moisture.
In July alone, the city recorded 264.7 millimetres of rain, resulting in extensive flooding, interrupted events, and significant disruption to daily life. Concerts were cancelled, roads were submerged, and the city anticipates storm cleanup costs reaching between £12 million and £18 million. As Edmonton residents wade through the aftermath, friendly jibes from their southern neighbours are inevitable.
Calgary’s Dry Spell
Conversely, Calgary is experiencing a starkly different summer. The city has seen a mere 10.4 millimetres of rainfall in July, prompting Proctor to describe the conditions as “really dry.” While June brought some relief with 108.1 millimetres—primarily from two substantial storms—July has been devoid of precipitation, leaving the city basking in warm, sunny weather.
With temperatures soaring into the low 30s, Calgarians are enjoying a summer reminiscent of its tourism tagline as “Alberta’s Blue Sky City.” However, this prolonged dry spell has led to the issuance of a fire advisory due to heightened risks associated with the arid conditions.
The Stormy Saga of Edmonton
For Edmonton, the summer storm season began with a series of rainfalls in June that intensified dramatically in July. Proctor explains that the moisture acts as “gasoline” for thunderstorms, fuelling their development across the region. The pattern has resulted in repeated storms tracking over the same areas, which has led to extreme downpours and localized flooding.
The city has faced challenges in managing the relentless weather, with each storm compounding the effects of the last. As the meteorologist notes, the storm systems have shown a propensity to initiate in the foothills and move northeastward across Edmonton, causing significant inconvenience and damage.
Looking Ahead: A Divergent Forecast
As August approaches, forecasts predict little change in the weather patterns for both cities. Calgary is expected to remain dry, enjoying continued sunny days, while Edmonton will likely experience more rain. The outlook for the first day of August includes a mix of sun and clouds for Edmonton, with a 30 per cent chance of afternoon showers. In contrast, Calgary’s forecast shows more sun, with temperatures around 10 degrees Celsius above seasonal norms.
As the month progresses, Edmonton will likely see further rainfall, while Calgary’s dry conditions may persist. This imbalance not only highlights the unpredictable nature of Alberta’s weather but also the impact it has on community activities and daily life.
Why it Matters
The contrasting weather patterns between Calgary and Edmonton underscore the significance of climate variability in Alberta. The implications extend beyond mere inconvenience; the economic impact of cleanup costs in Edmonton and potential disruptions to local businesses and tourism in both cities cannot be overlooked. As the summer unfolds, communities must navigate the challenges posed by extreme weather while also considering the broader environmental implications of such dramatic fluctuations in precipitation. Balancing growth and sustainability will be key as Alberta navigates these ongoing weather extremes.
