Weather

Alberta's climate is one of extremes. Weather varies from day to day, from season to season and from part of the province to another. For example:

• In summer, daytime highs are normally in the 20 to 25°C range but can reach the mid to upper 30s.
   
• Normal low nighttime temperatures in the driest and coldest winter months, January and February, range from -15 to -25°C, while daytime temperatures range from -5 to -15°C. However, winter temperatures can dip as low as -30 to -40°C and wind can make temperatures feel even colder.
   
• In winter, chinook winds in the southern part of the province near the mountains can cause temperatures to rise as much as 20°C in less than an hour.
   
• Daylight hours range from 16 to 18 hours in June to six to eight hours in December.
   
• Mountain foothill areas get about 600 mm of precipitation (rain or snow) each year. The southeast corner of the province, one of the driest areas in Canada, gets fewer than 350 mm.
   
• Thunderstorms are common from late May through early September and account for about half of the yearly precipitation.

Weather radio stations are operated by Environment Canada and commercial radio and television stations broadcast weather reports and forecasts. Weather warnings are issued when severe storms are expected or have been seen in the area.

Environment Canada provides a great deal of information about climate and weather on the Internet.

Winter Clothing

Many newcomers ask about the winter and winter clothing. Warm clothing must be worn outdoors during the winter months, especially if the weather is cold and windy. Wind increases the rate at which the body loses heat.

In very cold weather, exposed skin will freeze in a very short time, which may result in frostbite (skin turns white and is injured). If this happens, go to a warm place immediately and warm the skin slowly, before it is seriously damaged.

To prevent frostbite, you need to wear warm layers of outer garments as well as regular clothing. Follow these suggestions for staying safe and warm in winter weather:

• It is important to wear a hat because most body heat is lost through the head. Winter hats should cover the ears.
   
• Winter boots should have a warm inner lining and thick soles with a rough surface to prevent slipping on ice.
   
• Coats should have a hood and warm lining, and be waterproof and windproof. They should be loose fitting to trap body heat while ensuring air circulation.
   
• On very cold days, people who must be outdoors for more than a few minutes should wear warm underwear under their regular clothing plus extra wool socks.
   
• Mittens are usually warmer than gloves.
   
• In extremely cold weather, scarves that cover the mouth are recommended to protect your lungs.

Date Updated: Nov 01, 2007
RDP-569