Calgary's February temperatures are soaring, but is this it for winter?
Unseasonably warm weather engulfs Alberta this week, but winter gear is likely still needed
Alberta is in for a stretch of unusually warm weather this week as a ridge in the jet stream allows mild Pacific air to flow east of the Rockies.
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Temperatures are expected to soar 10°C–15°C above seasonal averages for early February. Southern Alberta, including Calgary, could see daytime highs reaching the mid-to-upper teens from Wednesday through the end of the work week.
January sets the stage for February warmth
January was already milder than usual in Alberta. Calgary recorded an average daytime high of 2.8°C, compared to the climatological normal of -1.5°C.
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This warming trend continues as the ridge builds over the region.
Extended streak of above-freezing highs
Calgary is on track for a stretch of above-freezing daytime highs that could last 15–20+ days.
The city hasn’t recorded a daytime high below 0°C since Jan. 26 (-4.9°C), and the current forecasts suggest this streak could extend until mid-February.
Winter isn’t over
While February is starting off warm, there are already signs of colder weather returning later this month.
And don't forget, Calgary typically sees snowfall into spring, averaging 21 cm of snow in April alone!
Residents are reminded not to put away winter gear just yet.