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As the hockey season takes a much-needed break, the fierce rivalry between Alberta’s two largest cities, Calgary and Edmonton, has shifted from the ice to the skies. This summer, the weather patterns have created a striking contrast, with Edmonton experiencing unprecedented rainfall and Calgary enjoying dry, sunny conditions.
Edmonton’s Record Rainfall
According to Environment Canada meteorologist Brian Proctor, Edmonton has seen a staggering 533.8 millimetres of precipitation during June and July—a record for the summer months, surpassing the previous high of 417.1 millimetres set in 1953. “Just an amazing amount of moisture,” Proctor remarked, illustrating the extent of the city’s deluge. July alone contributed 264.7 millimetres, leading to flooded streets, damaged properties, and a significant burden on local summer events.
The City of Edmonton has estimated that the costs associated with storm clean-up will range between £20 million and £30 million. This year’s K-Days festival, a staple of Edmonton’s summer scene, was particularly hard-hit, with two major concerts cancelled due to inclement weather, much to the frustration of festival-goers.
Calgary’s Dry Spell
In stark contrast, Calgary has been experiencing an exceptionally dry summer, receiving only 10.4 millimetres of rain in July. “Really dry is probably the best way I can word it,” Proctor stated. The city’s June rainfall totalled 108.1 millimetres, but a large portion of that—about 75 per cent—fell during just two significant storm events. The lack of moisture has hindered the development of thunderstorms, which have been plentiful in Edmonton.
As the summer progresses, Calgarians are enjoying warmer temperatures, with forecasts indicating low 30s Celsius to start August. Environment Canada has even issued a heat warning for the region, highlighting the ongoing dry conditions.
Storm Dynamics in Edmonton
The summer storm season has been relentless for Edmonton. Proctor explains that the abundance of moisture acts as a catalyst for thunderstorm activity. “Moisture is like gasoline for thunderstorms,” he noted. The storms have repeatedly tracked across the same areas, causing localized flooding and severe weather warnings, including alerts for potential tornadoes in the vicinity.
With each storm, the potential for further rainfall increases, as conditions remain ripe for thunderstorm development. The result has been a chaotic summer for residents, festival organisers, and local authorities alike.
Forecast for August
Looking ahead, the weather outlook suggests a continuation of these divergent patterns. Calgary is expected to remain dry, while Edmonton is likely to see more rain. The forecast for the first day of August in Edmonton predicts a mix of sun and clouds with a 30 per cent chance of afternoon showers, while Calgary enjoys another sunny day with temperatures soaring into the mid-30s Celsius—about 10 degrees above the seasonal norm.
In response to the dry conditions, Calgary has issued a fire advisory, cautioning residents against the heightened risk of wildfires. This summer’s weather has solidified Calgary’s reputation as Alberta’s “Blue Sky City,” contrasting sharply with the rain-soaked capital to the north.
Why it Matters
The contrasting weather patterns not only highlight the environmental diversity within Alberta but also underscore the broader implications of climate variability. As urban centres grapple with extreme weather, the economic and social impacts—such as festival cancellations, infrastructure damage, and increased emergency response costs—become increasingly evident. This situation serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable planning and resilience in the face of evolving climate challenges.
