This week, Calgary is in for some lovely weather, with warm days ahead. Starting Monday, temperatures are expected to reach double digits, which is a welcome change!
According to Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC), temperatures over the weekend will sit between 8 and 10°C. This warm spell comes from a shift in the upper air patterns over the Prairies.
Meteorologist Rob Griffiths explained that warmer air moving up from the south, along with Chinook winds, will contribute to this rise in temperatures. ECCC forecasts clear skies and highs around 15°C until Wednesday, January 14. However, after this warmth, expect a dip back into single digits on Thursday and Friday, before climbing back to 13°C on Saturday.
For context, Calgary typically experiences highs of -3°C and lows of -15°C at this time of year. The warmest recorded temperature on January 14th was 11°C back in 2004, making this week’s forecast quite notable!
Winds are likely to be gusty, reaching up to 60 kilometers per hour on Sunday evening and into Monday morning. Later, they could ramp up to 80 kilometers per hour before calming down again.
Griffiths cautions against getting too excited about long-range predictions of mid-teen temperatures. “I’d be careful about relying too heavily on those forecasts,” he advised. “However, it does look like we’ll enjoy milder weather next week.”
Residents should also be mindful of potential icy conditions. The fluctuation between freezing and thawing means that walkways, parking lots, and roads may be slicker than usual. So, keep an eye out while out and about!
With such a shift in temperatures, discussions are popping up on social media regarding how this warmer weather impacts local winter activities. Many Calgarians are excited about the chance to enjoy parks and outdoor settings that have been too cold for comfort. It’s a reminder of how quickly climate patterns can change and how they affect daily life.
This week serves as a prime example of Calgary’s unique weather patterns. As it turns out, understanding these shifts can help residents better prepare for their day-to-day plans. Regularly checking reliable weather updates, like the ECCC or the Weather Network, can also keep you informed about what to expect in the days ahead.
