Climate & Weather

Calgary is located in Southern Alberta and is at an elevation of 1,045 meters (3,428 feet).

Our climate is defined as prairie-steppe and is also characterized as a northern cool-temperature zone.

Temperature and precipitation is strongly influenced by our proximity to the Rocky Mountains. The mountain ranges intercept moist air from the Pacific coast resulting in more rain (and snow) on the eastern slopes and dry winds across our Interior Plains. This also accounts for our clear and sunny skies.

Our relatively high elevation and drying winds result in low year-round humidity and increase the need to increase personal hydration. Consuming 1 liter of water per day is recommended.

This mountain influence can also produce what are called Chinook winds in our winter months. These warm winds can create 10-20 degree temperature increases in a few short hours. A blessing during a cold winter day and can last for one to three days.

Generally, precipitation occurs mostly in late spring and early summer. Late afternoon thunder-showers are quite common in the summer and should be treated seriously. Read the sky!

Weather is extremely variable all year long. It is highly advisable to bring clothing layers that help you deal with 5-10 degree temperature swings in the course of a day or afternoon. Evenings are generally cool.