🚨🌤️ Calgary’s long weekend weather will be a rollercoaster! From scorching heat and air quality alerts to thunderstorms and cooler temperatures, be prepared for it all. Stay informed and stay safe! 🌩️💧 #Calgary #Alberta
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Rollercoaster Weather in Store for Calgary This Long Weekend
As the August long weekend approaches, Calgary is bracing itself for a wild mix of weather conditions. From scorching heat to thunderstorms and rain, this weekend is set to be a meteorological rollercoaster. Here's a detailed breakdown of what to expect and how it could impact your plans.
Friday: A Scorching Start
The weekend kicks off with a blazing Friday. Calgary is currently under a ridge of high pressure, ensuring that the day remains sunny and hot. With temperatures expected to soar to a high of 29°C, the city is under a heat warning that will likely persist through Saturday.
What Does This Mean for You?
The heat warning indicates that prolonged exposure to high temperatures can be dangerous, especially for vulnerable populations like the elderly, children, and those with pre-existing health conditions. It’s a good idea to stay hydrated, avoid strenuous activities during peak heat hours, and ensure your living space is cool.
Air Quality Alert
Adding to the discomfort, air quality may become an issue today. Calgary's air quality health index is forecast to enter the moderate health risk category by the afternoon. Nearby areas like Claresholm, Okotoks, and Medicine Hat are already experiencing poor air quality due to smoke from wildfires in the central foothills. Those with respiratory issues should take precautions and limit outdoor activities.
Saturday: Storms on the Horizon
As the weekend progresses, Calgary’s weather takes a dramatic turn. Saturday starts off calm and sunny, but changes are brewing. The jetstream is expected to shift, potentially leading to storm convection along the foothills by early afternoon.
What to Watch For
Storm cells may develop and track towards Calgary and Highway 2 south around 4:30 p.m. Expect more organized cell development to form east of the city. If weather models hold true, these storms could prompt watches and warnings across southern Alberta, especially as the afternoon transitions into evening. If you're planning outdoor activities, keep a close eye on weather updates and be prepared for sudden changes.
Sunday and Monday: Cooling Down
By Sunday, the intense heat begins to wane as clouds move in, bringing a chance of scattered showers and noticeably cooler temperatures. This trend is expected to continue into the holiday Monday and into the following week.
Implications for the Outdoors
While this cooler, wetter weather might not be ideal for those planning outdoor adventures, it’s a welcome change for the ongoing battle against wildfires in the Rockies. The rain could provide much-needed relief to fire crews and help reduce the intensity of the wildfires.
Conclusion: Prepare for Anything
This long weekend, Calgary will experience a dramatic range of weather conditions. From high heat and poor air quality on Friday to potential thunderstorms on Saturday and cooler, wetter weather to follow, it’s crucial to stay informed and flexible with your plans.
Actionable Takeaways:
- Stay Hydrated: Keep yourself well-hydrated and avoid extended exposure to the heat.
- Monitor Air Quality: Check air quality updates if you have respiratory issues.
- Be Weather Aware: Watch for storm warnings and adjust your plans accordingly.
- Plan for Cooler Weather: Prepare for a shift to cooler, wetter conditions if you have outdoor plans.
Stay safe and enjoy the long weekend, no matter what the weather throws your way!