Calgary Weather

Right now in Calgary it is 8°C and partly cloudy. Today's high is 14°C with a low of -1°C. Humidity is at 46%. Wind is N at 2 km/h.

Today (28 Apr): Overcast with a high of 14°C and low of -1°C. 4% chance of rain. UV index 6.1 (high). Wed (29 Apr): Overcast with a high of 12°C and low of -2°C. 8% chance of rain. UV index 6.3 (high). Thu (30 Apr): Overcast with a high of 19°C and low of 2°C. 1% chance of rain. UV index 6.1 (high). Fri (1 May): Overcast with a high of 15°C and low of 9°C. 24% chance of rain. UV index 6.2 (high). Sat (2 May): Moderate drizzle with a high of 13°C and low of 8°C. 24% chance of rain, up to 1.2mm. UV index 4.9 (moderate). Sun (3 May): Overcast with a high of 22°C and low of 7°C. 6% chance of rain. UV index 6.4 (high). Mon (4 May): Overcast with a high of 24°C and low of 10°C. 4% chance of rain. UV index 5.8 (moderate). Tue (5 May): Overcast with a high of 16°C and low of 8°C. 10% chance of rain. UV index 3.6 (moderate). Wed (6 May): Overcast with a high of 19°C and low of 5°C. 11% chance of rain. UV index 6.8 (high). Thu (7 May): Light drizzle with a high of 23°C and low of 8°C. 16% chance of rain, up to 1.5mm. UV index 6.6 (high). Fri (8 May): Light drizzle with a high of 25°C and low of 11°C. 20% chance of rain, up to 0.4mm. UV index 6.8 (high). Sat (9 May): Light drizzle with a high of 23°C and low of 12°C. 35% chance of rain, up to 2.9mm. UV index 6.1 (high). Sun (10 May): Overcast with a high of 16°C and low of 11°C. 39% chance of rain. UV index 3.9 (moderate). Mon (11 May): Overcast with a high of 20°C and low of 8°C. 39% chance of rain. UV index 4.7 (moderate).

The current air quality index in Calgary is 29 (European AQI), rated "Fair". Air quality is acceptable. Unusually sensitive people should consider limiting prolonged outdoor exertion. PM2.5 is 17 µg/m³. PM10 is 20.8 µg/m³.

Calgary's air quality can vary significantly due to local emissions, industrial activity, and most notably, wildfire smoke from surrounding regions in summer. You can find the real-time Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) for Calgary on the Environment and Climate Change Canada website or the dedicated /weather/air-quality sub-page. This index provides a scale from 1 (low risk) to 10+ (very high risk) and offers health advice based on pollutant levels like PM2.5 and PM10.

Poor air quality in Calgary is most often attributed to wildfire smoke, particularly during the summer months when large fires occur across Western Canada and the US. These smoke plumes can travel long distances, significantly elevating particulate matter levels (PM2.5) and creating hazy conditions. Other factors can include urban pollution from vehicles and industry, or dust from dry conditions, though wildfire smoke is typically the dominant cause for widespread 'bad' air quality days.

Current wind speeds in Calgary fluctuate daily and hourly, influenced by high- and low-pressure systems and the proximity of the Rocky Mountains. Average wind speeds are typically moderate, but chinook winds can bring very strong gusts, especially in winter. For the most up-to-date wind information, including speed, direction, and gusts, please refer to the live wind forecast on our /weather/wind page.

The UV index in Calgary varies by season and time of day. It is generally low in winter (1-2) but can reach moderate to high levels (5-7+) during summer, especially around midday. Even on cloudy days, UV radiation can be strong. Always check the daily UV index on our /weather/uv page and apply appropriate sun protection, such as sunscreen and hats, especially between 11 AM and 3 PM.

Calgary receives an average of 418 mm of precipitation annually, with the wettest months being June and July. Monthly rainfall averages range from about 10 mm in January and February to over 90 mm in June. These figures represent long-term averages; actual rainfall in any given month can vary significantly. For detailed monthly precipitation data, refer to our 'Monthly Averages' section.

Sunrise and sunset times in Calgary vary dramatically throughout the year due to its northern latitude. In summer, days are very long, with sunrise as early as 5:20 AM and sunset as late as 10:00 PM. In contrast, winter days are short, with sunrise around 8:30 AM and sunset as early as 4:30 PM. For precise daily times and a 14-day forecast, visit our dedicated /weather/sunrise-sunset page.

The moon phase cycles through new moon, crescent, quarter, gibbous, and full moon approximately every 29.5 days. While specific moon phases don't directly impact daily weather, they are a fascinating celestial event. You can find the current moon phase, illumination percentage, and a 14-day moon phase calendar on our /weather/sunrise-sunset page.

Calgary weather demands versatile clothing due to its variability. In summer, light layers are best, with a jacket for cool evenings or sudden storms. Spring and autumn require layering, including a waterproof outer shell, as temperatures can fluctuate wildly. Winter necessitates heavy, insulated, and waterproof outerwear, including a warm coat, hat, gloves, and thermal boots, due to extreme cold and snow. Always check the forecast before heading out.

Yes, Calgary typically receives an average of around 128 cm of snow annually. Snowfall can occur from as early as September to as late as May, though the heaviest months are usually November to March. While heavy snowfalls are common, chinook winds can cause rapid melting, leading to fluctuating snow cover throughout the winter months.

Yes, Calgary is famously located in 'Hailstorm Alley' and experiences frequent hailstorms during the summer months, particularly from June to August. These storms can be severe, producing large hail that can cause significant damage to property and vehicles. It is advisable to seek shelter and protect vehicles during hailstorm warnings. Always be aware of severe thunderstorm watches and warnings during the summer.

The best time for general outdoor activities in Calgary is during the summer (June-August) when temperatures are warmest and daylight hours are longest, perfect for hiking, cycling, and water sports on the Bow River. For winter sports like skiing and snowboarding, December to March offers optimal snow conditions. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures for exploring parks with fewer crowds.

Winter driving conditions in Calgary can be challenging due to heavy snow, ice, and cold temperatures. Roads can become very slippery, and visibility may be reduced during blizzards. Chinook winds can also cause rapid melting and refreezing cycles, leading to black ice. It is highly recommended to have winter tires, drive cautiously, and leave extra space between vehicles. Check live road conditions and weather warnings before travel.

Calgary experiences distinct seasonal temperatures. Average high temperatures range from around -2°C in January to 23°C in July. Average lows range from -13°C in January to 9°C in July. These averages can be significantly influenced by chinook winds in winter (warming) and Arctic fronts (cooling). For daily forecasts and historical data, our monthly averages table and live forecast pages provide detailed information.

Calgary's elevation of over 1,000 meters above sea level has several key effects on its weather. It contributes to cooler overall temperatures compared to lower-lying areas at similar latitudes and often results in a longer frost-free period locally due to the city's specific topography. Additionally, the higher elevation plays a role in the intensity of solar radiation and the dynamics of chinook winds, which are a defining feature of the local climate.

The longest day in Calgary occurs around the summer solstice, typically June 20th or 21st. On this day, Calgary experiences its maximum daylight hours, with sunrise occurring very early, often before 5:30 AM, and sunset happening very late, around 10:00 PM. This provides nearly 17 hours of daylight, perfect for enjoying outdoor summer evenings.

Calgary's common wind patterns are largely influenced by its proximity to the Rocky Mountains. Prevailing winds are often from the west, bringing either modified Pacific air or the famous warm, dry chinook winds, especially in winter. These chinooks can cause dramatic temperature increases. During the summer, winds can be more variable, often associated with convective thunderstorms. Easterly winds usually bring colder, more stable air masses from the prairies.