As the hockey season rests during its summer intermission, a fierce competition has emerged between Alberta’s two largest cities, Calgary and Edmonton, but this time it revolves around their contrasting weather patterns. While Edmonton has been grappling with unprecedented rainfall, Calgary is basking in dry, warm conditions. The stark difference has sparked a playful rivalry, with Edmontonians lamenting their soggy summer amidst a record-breaking deluge.
Edmonton’s Rainfall Records
According to Environment Canada meteorologist Brian Proctor, Edmonton has seen a staggering 533.8 millimetres of precipitation between June and July, setting a new record for the summer months. This figure surpasses the previous record of 417.1 millimetres established in 1953. Proctor remarked, “Just an amazing amount of moisture,” highlighting the sheer volume of rain that has inundated the city.
In July alone, the capital received 264.7 millimetres of rain, leading to widespread flooding that disrupted daily life. Roads were submerged, basements were filled with water, and outdoor events, including concerts, were cancelled. The city has estimated that the cost of storm damage clean-up could range from £20 to £30 million.
Calgary’s Dry Spell
Conversely, Calgary is experiencing a summer characterised by significantly lower rainfall, with only 10.4 millimetres recorded in July. Proctor described the situation succinctly: “Really dry is probably the best way I can word it.” The city’s rainfall in June amounted to 108.1 millimetres, but most of that fell during just two significant storm events. Since then, Calgary has seen minimal moisture, with a forecast indicating that the dry conditions are likely to persist into August.
The Impact of Persistent Storms
For Edmonton, the pattern of storms began in June and intensified throughout July, creating a cycle where each storm seemed to fuel the next. Proctor explained, “Moisture is like gasoline for thunderstorms,” suggesting that the abundant humidity has allowed storm systems to develop and repeatedly impact the same areas. This has led to localized but severe weather, with thunderstorms typically tracking from the foothills northeast across the city.
The relentless storms have caused significant disruptions, particularly for event organisers in Edmonton. The annual K-Days festival faced cancellations of key concerts due to the adverse weather, leaving many festival-goers disappointed.
A Heatwave in the South
Meanwhile, as Edmonton grapples with its meteorological woes, Calgary is enjoying temperatures soaring into the low 30s, prompting Environment Canada to issue a heat warning. Forecasts indicate that the dry spell will likely continue, with little expectation of rain, while the city is advised on fire risks due to the ongoing high temperatures and arid conditions.
As August approaches, Calgarians can expect sunny days and warm weather, living up to their city’s reputation as Alberta’s “Blue Sky City.” The forecast suggests that the temperature could reach up to 10 degrees Celsius above the seasonal average, creating a stark contrast to Edmonton’s soggy summer.
Why it Matters
The contrasting weather patterns in Alberta this summer highlight the increasing variability in climate conditions that can affect urban life, economy, and public health. While Edmonton faces the financial burden of storm recovery, Calgary’s dry conditions raise concerns about fire risks and water scarcity. This divergence not only fuels local rivalry but also underscores the broader implications of climate change on Alberta’s environment, economies, and communities, prompting a need for adaptive strategies to manage the impacts of extreme weather in the future.
