Alberta Weather and Climate Guide

There are various geographical elements present in Alberta that affect the province’s weather. Firstly, Alberta’s size, and the fact it stretches 745 miles from its northernmost point to its southern tip, indicate that its climate will vary depending on location. Also, the Rocky Mountains and the open prairie plains affect the weather. This famous mountain range casts a 'rain shadow' over much of the province, keeping the area relatively dry. Northern Alberta experiences colder temperatures than the southern part of the province. Temperatures in south-eastern Alberta can range from −31°F to 100°F. In general, winters in Alberta are cold, and temperatures in the north vary between −12°F and 14°F. The south is colder, but these frigid temperatures are sometimes disrupted by warm winter winds. These warm winds, called Chinooks, are a climatic condition that occurs mostly in Alberta, although they can occur as far south as Albuquerque, New Mexico. These winds can raise temperatures by 40°F in less than an hour. Chinook days occur 30-35 times throughout Alberta’s long winters, and are most prevalent over Southern Alberta. In fact, in February 1992, one of Canada’s highest temperatures for that month was recorded in Alberta. It was 75°F in Claresholm, Alberta, thanks to the Chinook. Temperatures during Albertan summers range between 70°F and 86°F. The South and East sections of the region can sometimes experience drought-like conditions, whereas the North and West encounter more precipitation. On average, this eastern-central area of the province gets over 2,500 hours of sunlight each year, making Alberta home to the sunniest spot in Canada.