Climate and monthly weather forecast
Calgary, Canada

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The magnificent skyscrapers of the city of Calgary, Canada
The magnificent skyscrapers of the city of Calgary, Canada

The climate of Calgary

Calgary, located in Canada, falls under the Dfc category of the Köppen climate classification, indicating a Subarctic climate. This type of climate typically presents severe winters, cool summers, and a lack of a distinct dry season. This makes Calgary an interesting place for those keen on experiencing wide variations in weather parameters throughout the year.

Exploring the climate data, the city notably witnesses changing temperature patterns. Throughout the year, temperatures range from a low of -11.5°C (11.3°F) in the winters to a high of 22.9°C (73.2°F) in the summers. It also experiences relative humidity readings varying between 59% to 82%. Rainfall in Calgary follows a similar diversified pattern, with April being the start of the wet season and extending through to August.

There are also unique weather patterns observed. Snowfall is prevalent from October through April with a marked absence in the summer, placing Calgary in a unique position for snow lovers. June is the wettest month, with on average 65mm (2.56") of rainfall. On the contrary, January and February record the lowest rainfall levels with 9mm (0.35") and 12mm (0.47") respectively.

The best time to visit Calgary

Usually, the best time to visit a place is when the weather conditions are most favorable. Observing Calgary's climate data, the summer months from June to August feature the highest temperatures with average highs ranging from 18.8°C (65.8°F) to 22.9°C (73.2°F), making it an ideal time to visit. The summer months also boast the longest daylight hours, ranging from 15.6 hours to 16.5 hours. This offers ample time for outdoor activities.

In addition, the UV index during this period ranges from 4 to 5, suggesting moderate exposure. These months also witness considerably clear skies with the cloud% being the lowest at 26% to 34%. Additionally, the relative humidity is not too high during this period, staying closer to the annual low point, ensuring a comfortable visit.

The worst time to visit Calgary

Understanding the less favorable time to visit a place is equally important. Analysis of Calgary's weather data suggests that the winter months are generally the least favorable for a visit. With January and December seeing average temperatures drop to a chilly -3.9°C (25°F) and -4.8°C (23.4°F), and low temperatures plummeting to as low as -11.2°C (11.8°F) and -11.5°C (11.3°F) respectively, it makes for an extremely cold period.

During this period, the city experiences the highest snowfall reaching up to 99mm (3.9") in February and 78mm (3.07") in December. This is mirrored by the snowfall days, going as high as 12.9 days in February and 12.2 days in December. The shorter daylight hours between 8 hours and 8.9 hours pull down the visibility to 9km (5.6mi), further making it less preferable for tourists.

Spring weather in Calgary

Spring in Calgary is marked by gradual warming temperatures. March starts with a low of -6.6°C (20.1°F) and highs of 1.8°C (35.2°F). However, by May, the temperatures reach appreciable levels registering highs of 15.4°C (59.7°F) and lows around 5°C (41°F). Rainfall also takes an upward slope, starting with 15mm (0.59") in March and doubling to approximately 28mm (1.1") by May. Interestingly, although spring makes a commencement, snowfall persists with 101mm (3.98") and 102mm (4.02") in March and April, and registers a sharp decrease to 26mm (1.02") in May.

Summer weather in Calgary

Summer is relatively warmer in Calgary with the average high temperature peaking at 22.9°C (73.2°F) in August and bottoming at 18.8°C (65.8°F) in June. The corresponding lows range from 8°C (46.4°F) to 10°C (50°F) across these months. This is the period with the highest rainfall, particularly in June when 65mm (2.56") of rain is expected. However, one would hardly find any snowfall during this time. Average daily sunshine rates are the highest, marking around 10 hours and daylight extending to about 16 hours.

Autumn weather in Calgary

Autumn starts with relatively high temperatures: September highs of 18°C (64.4°F) and lows of 6.5°C (43.7°F) nearing winter temperatures in November with highs of 1.1°C (34°F) and a chilling low of -6.4°C (20.5°F). Rainfall decreases substantially from September's 16mm (0.63") to November's 12mm (0.47"), while snowfall begins to take over reaching up to 81mm (3.19") in November.

Winter weather in Calgary

Winters in Calgary are truly subarctic. The lowest temperatures of the year are recorded in these months, with average highs below freezing from -3.9°C (25°F) to -4.8°C (23.4°F) and lows plunging down to -11.5°C (11.3°F) in December. It is also the snowiest period for the city, with a staggering 99mm (3.9") of snowfall expected in February and 78mm (3.07") in December. The daylight hours decrease to 8, which directly impacts visibility, bringing it down to 9km (5.6mi) in these months.

Weather in January

Cold air and snow dominate Calgary's weather landscape in January. Blustery winds and snowfall are common, with precipitation mainly in the form of snow, reaching as high as 66mm (2.6"). While the daylight hours are short, there's a nice balance between shaded and sunny days. Weather in January »

Weather in February

Moving into February, Calgary's winter maintains its hold with freezing temperatures similar to January's. However, snowfall slightly continues to climb, reaching a peak of 99mm (3.9") for the season. Despite the cold, the city begins receiving substantially more daylight than in the previous month. Weather in February »

Weather in March

The arrival of March brings a slight respite from the intense cold with temperatures inching up to approximately 1.8°C (35.2°F). March marks the beginning of a transition period from winter to spring, characterized by a notable decrease in snowfall from 101mm (3.98") to 102mm (4.02"). Weather in March »

Weather in April

April sees a huge leap in temperatures, moving from the chilling cold to a more manageable 8.2°C (46.8°F). Snowfall drops significantly to 26mm (1.02") as the city moves away from the winter season. The changes in the atmospheric conditions, coupled with increased daylight hours, lead to an increase in outdoor activities. Weather in April »

Weather in May

Calgary's weather shows a distinct shift in May, moving fully into the spring season as temperatures rise to a high of 15.4°C (59.7°F). Rainfall begins to increase significantly, registering at 46mm (1.81"). This momentum brings along a more humid environment, adding a layer of freshness to the airg. Weather in May »

Weather in June

June brings the onset of summer, with temperatures reaching as high as 18.8°C (65.8°F). Transitioning from May, Calgary witnesses dense precipitation, seeing a spike in rainfall to 65mm (2.56"). The city welcomes an abundance of sunshine and ample daylight hours. Weather in June »

Weather in July

July, the peak of summer in Calgary, experiences the highest temperature, reaching 22.4°C (72.3°F). With 41mm (1.61") of rainfall, there's a significant decrease in precipitation from the previous month. Even with high temperatures, the city surprisingly maintains a low humidity, offering a dry, warm summer. Weather in July »

Weather in August

As August arrives, Calgary continues to revel in the warmth with temperatures slightly dropping from July to 22.9°C (73.2°F). Decreasing rainfalls, receding to 23mm (0.91"), coupled with maintained low levels of humidity shape a comfortable outdoor experience. Weather in August »

Weather in September

With the advent of September, Calgary starts transitioning toward cooler weather, with temperatures dropping to 18°C (64.4°F). The rainfall takes a notable decrease, falling to 16mm (0.63"), bringing back the drier conditions of Calgary weather. Weather in September »

Weather in October

October signifies a palpable shift in Calgary's weather pattern, with temperatures decreasing further to 9.5°C (49.1°F). With a decline in rainfall to 11mm (0.43"), combined with lower humidity, residents enjoy crisp autumn air. Weather in October »

Weather in November

Calgary turns a chilling corner in November as temperatures drop drastically to 1.1°C (34°F). A glimpse of the approaching winter appears with increased snowfall, clocking in at 81mm (3.19"). Despite the lesser daylight and sunshine hours, the city maintains good visibility throughout the month. Weather in November »

Weather in December

Finally arriving in December, Calgary succumbs to the full force of winter, with temperatures plunging to -4.8°C (23.4°F). The city becomes a snowy landscape, with 78mm (3.07") of fresh snowfall covering the ground. Short daylight hours and long nights take center stage, creating a perfect atmosphere for holiday decorations. Weather in December »
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Frequently asked questions

What are the most humid months in Calgary?

January and February, with an average relative humidity of 82%, are most humid months.

What is the driest month in Calgary?

January is the month with the least rainfall in Calgary. Rain falls for 3.7 days and accumulates 9mm (0.35") of precipitation.

How many days does it rain in Calgary?

Throughout the year, there are 94.1 rainfall days, and 288mm (11.34") of precipitation is accumulated.

When does it snow in Calgary?

Months with snowfall are January through June, September through December.

How many days does it snow in Calgary?

In Calgary, Canada, during the entire year, snow falls for 75.3 days and aggregates up to 629mm (24.76") of snow.

What is the month with the lowest UV index in Calgary?

January is the month with the lowest UV index in Calgary, Canada, with an average maximum UV index of 1.

When is Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Calgary?

On Sunday, 10. March 2024, at 2:00 am, Daylight Saving Time starts, and the time zone changes from MST to MDT. Daylight Saving Time ends on Sunday, 03. November 2024, at 2:00 am, and the time zone reverts from MDT to MST.

What is the snowiest month in Calgary?

The month with the most snowfall in Calgary is April, when snow falls for 9.5 days and typically aggregates up to 102mm (4.02") of snow.

What is the wettest month in Calgary?

June is the month with the most rainfall in Calgary. Rain falls for 17 days and accumulates 65mm (2.56") of precipitation.

When are the longest days in Calgary?

With an average of 16h and 30min of daylight, June has the longest days of the year in Calgary, Canada.

When it does not snow in Calgary?

July and August are months without snowfall in Calgary.

What month has the most sunshine in Calgary?

With an average of 11h of sunshine, July has the most sunshine of the year.

What is the month with the highest UV index in Calgary?

The month with the highest UV index in Calgary, Canada, is July, with an average maximum UV index of 5.

What is the hottest time of year in Calgary?

August, recognised by an average high temperature of 22.9°C (73.2°F) and a low of 9.8°C (49.6°F), is Calgary's warmest month.

What is the least humid month in Calgary?

With an average relative humidity of 59%, September is the least humid month in Calgary, Canada.

What month is the coldest in Calgary?

December is the coldest month, with an average high-temperature of -4.8°C (23.4°F) and an average low-temperature of -11.5°C (11.3°F).

What is the month with the shortest days in Calgary?

The month with the shortest days in Calgary, Canada, is December, with an average of 8h and 0min of daylight.

What is the month with the least sunshine in Calgary?

December has the least sunshine of the year in Calgary, Canada, with an average of 5.2h of sunshine.

Average temperature
Calgary, Canada

Average temperature - Calgary, Canada

The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is August (22.9°C).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is December (-4.8°C).

The month with the highest average low temperature is July (10°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is December (-11.5°C).

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Average pressure
Calgary, Canada

Average pressure - Calgary, Canada

The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is February (1019.3mbar).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is June (1010.8mbar).

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Average wind speed
Calgary, Canada

Average wind speed - Calgary, Canada

The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is January (13.1km/h).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is August (10.3km/h).

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Average humidity
Calgary, Canada

Average humidity - Calgary, Canada

The months with the highest relative humidity are January and February (82%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is September (59%).

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Average rainfall
Calgary, Canada

Average rainfall - Calgary, Canada

The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is June (65mm).
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is January (9mm).

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Average rainfall days
Calgary, Canada

Average rainfall days - Calgary, Canada

The month with the highest number of rainy days is June (17 days).
The month with the least rainy days is November (2.5 days).

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Average snowfall
Calgary, Canada

Average snowfall - Calgary, Canada

The month with the highest snowfall is April (102mm).
The months with the least snowfall are July and August (0mm).

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Average snowfall days
Calgary, Canada

Average snowfall days - Calgary, Canada

The month with the highest number of snowfall days is February (12.9 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are July and August (0 days).

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Average daylight / Average sunshine
Calgary, Canada

Average daylight / Average sunshine - Calgary, Canada

The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 16h and 30min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 8h and 0min).

The month with the most sunshine is July (Average sunshine: 11h and 0min).
The month with the least sunshine is December (Average sunshine: 5h and 12min).

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Average sunshine days
Calgary, Canada

Average sunshine days - Calgary, Canada

The month with the most sunshine days is October (22.1 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is June (10.7 days).

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Average visibility
Calgary, Canada

Average visibility - Calgary, Canada

The months with the highest visibility are June, August and September (10km).
The months with the lowest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, July, October, November and December (9km).

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Calgary, Canada

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