As the hockey season takes a break, Alberta’s two largest cities, Calgary and Edmonton, find themselves engaged in an unexpected rivalry: the weather. This summer, the contrast in climate has sparked playful jabs among residents, with Edmonton experiencing unprecedented rainfall, while Calgary basks in an ongoing dry spell.
Edmonton Sets a Rainfall Record
Environment Canada meteorologist Brian Proctor shared staggering statistics, revealing that Edmonton has recorded 533.8 millimetres of rain during June and July, a figure that shatters the previous summer record of 417.1 millimetres established in 1953. Proctor remarked, “That’s an amazing amount of moisture,” highlighting the severity of the situation.
In July alone, the city experienced 264.7 millimetres of precipitation, leading to significant flooding, disrupted events, and a costly cleanup effort expected to range between £20 million to £30 million for the city. The heavy rains have severely impacted summer festivals, including the annual K-Days, which saw the cancellation of key concerts due to the severe weather.
Calgary’s Sunshine and Heat
In stark contrast, Calgary has received a mere 10.4 millimetres of rain in July, a situation that Proctor described as “really dry.” The city had its share of moisture in June, totalling 108.1 millimetres, but this was largely concentrated in two storm events. Since then, the dry conditions have persisted, leading to soaring temperatures, with Calgary recently issuing a heat warning as August approaches.
The forecast for Calgary indicates little change in sight, with continued dry conditions expected. Residents enjoyed temperatures in the low 30s at the start of the August long weekend, with sunny skies dominating the outlook. This prolonged dry spell has even prompted the city to issue a fire advisory due to the heightened risk associated with ongoing high temperatures and the dry environment.
Stormy Weather Patterns in Edmonton
The summer storms that have battered Edmonton increased in frequency and intensity throughout July. Proctor noted that the moisture acts as “gasoline” for thunderstorm activity, allowing successive storms to develop and wreak havoc across the city. The storms have exhibited a pattern, frequently tracking over the same areas, resulting in extreme downpours and localized flooding.
As these weather patterns continue, the city has faced multiple storm warnings, and residents have remained on alert for potential tornadoes. Proctor described the situation as “very convective,” underscoring the severity of the storms that have impacted the region.
The Forecast Ahead
Looking to the future, Proctor’s forecast suggests that Calgary will remain dry while Edmonton continues to experience wet conditions. The outlook for Edmonton on the first day of August predicts a mix of sun and clouds with a chance of showers, while Calgary’s forecast promises more sun and temperatures significantly above normal.
With the ongoing contrast, the weather rivalry between these two Alberta cities is not just a matter of local pride; it impacts daily life, public events, and even local economies.
Why it Matters
The disparate weather patterns between Calgary and Edmonton highlight the broader implications of climate variability and its effects on urban life. For Edmonton, the record rainfall poses challenges in terms of infrastructure, emergency response, and community safety. Meanwhile, Calgary’s dry conditions raise concerns about water conservation and wildfire risks. As Alberta navigates these extremes, the situation serves as a reminder of the importance of environmental resilience and preparedness in the face of changing climatic conditions.