Edmonton Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Canada

Summer (June – August)

Edmonton experiences warm and moderately dry summers, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. The city enjoys long days with plenty of sunshine, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and picnicking. While humidity can be moderate, sporadic thunderstorms can provide some relief from the heat.

Winter (November – March)

Edmonton’s winters are long and cold, with average temperatures hovering around -10°C to -15°C. The city receives ample snowfall, creating winter wonderlands with snow-covered streets and parks. During the coldest months, temperatures can drop below -30°C, so it’s essential to bundle up in warm clothing. Bitterly cold wind chills can make it feel even colder.

Summer in Edmonton

Edmonton’s summers are characterized by warm and dry conditions, with an average temperature ranging from 14°C (57°F) in June to 18°C (64°F) in July and August. The city experiences long daylight hours during this time, with sunrise occurring around 5:30 AM and sunset around 9:30 PM. The lack of humidity contributes to comfortable outdoor conditions, making it an ideal season for activities such as hiking, biking, and enjoying the numerous festivals and outdoor events the city offers.

Winter in Edmonton

In contrast to its warm summers, Edmonton’s winters are long and cold, with average temperatures ranging from -10°C (14°F) in December to -5°C (23°F) in January and February. The city receives an average of over 100 centimeters (40 inches) of snowfall annually, creating a snowy and icy landscape. Temperatures can occasionally drop below -30°C (-22°F), resulting in extreme cold advisories and the potential for frostbite and hypothermia. Despite the frigid conditions, Edmontonians embrace winter with outdoor activities such as ice skating, skiing, and snowshoeing.

Cloud Types in Edmonton, Canada

Edmonton’s skies exhibit a diverse array of cloud types throughout the year. The most prevalent types are cirrus clouds, characterized by their thin, wispy appearance; cumulus clouds, with their distinct puffy shape; and stratus clouds, which form a uniform, overcast layer. Cirrus clouds are typically found at high altitudes, while cumulus and stratus clouds occur at lower levels.

Beyond these common types, Edmonton also experiences less frequent cloud formations, such as altocumulus and altostratus clouds, which occupy intermediate heights and often signal approaching weather changes. Nimbostratus clouds, associated with precipitation, produce light rain or snow and can persist for extended periods. Cumulonimbus clouds, also known as thunderclouds, are towering vertical formations that can produce rain, hail, and lightning.

Annual Precipitation Patterns

Edmonton, the capital of Alberta, Canada, experiences a moderate amount of precipitation throughout the year. With an average annual total of around 450 millimeters, precipitation is distributed relatively evenly across the seasons. The summer months (June, July, and August) tend to be the wettest, with an average of around 80 millimeters of rainfall per month. During this time, thunderstorms and heavy downpours are common. The winter months (December, January, and February) are typically the driest, with an average of less than 20 millimeters of snowfall per month. Precipitation in the shoulder months (March, April, September, and October) is variable, with a mix of rain, snow, and sleet.

Extreme Precipitation Events

While Edmonton typically experiences moderate precipitation, extreme events can occur. The heaviest rainfall on record was in July 2022, when over 150 millimeters of rain fell in a single day, causing widespread flooding in the city. In the winter months, blizzards and ice storms can also bring significant snowfall and freezing rain. These events can disrupt transportation and power services and can pose safety hazards. In recent years, the increased frequency and severity of extreme precipitation events have raised concerns about the impacts of climate change on Edmonton’s climate and infrastructure.

Average Precipitation

Edmonton experiences a humid continental climate with moderate precipitation throughout the year. The average annual rainfall in the city is around 480 millimeters (19 inches), with most of the precipitation occurring during the summer months. However, the city is also prone to occasional thunderstorms and snowfall during the fall and winter seasons.

Seasonal Variations

Edmonton’s rainfall distribution varies significantly throughout the year. The wettest months are typically June, July, and August, when the average monthly rainfall exceeds 60 millimeters (2.4 inches). During these months, rainfall is often associated with convective thunderstorm activity, which can produce localized flooding and occasionally hail. In contrast, the driest months are typically January and February, when the average monthly rainfall drops to around 20 millimeters (0.8 inches). During the winter, precipitation often falls as snow, with Edmonton receiving an average of 110 centimeters (43 inches) of snowfall per year.

History of Snowfall in Edmonton

Edmonton, the capital of Alberta, Canada, experiences a significant amount of snowfall each year. The city has a continental climate characterized by cold, dry winters and warm, dry summers. The average annual snowfall for Edmonton is 114 centimeters (45 inches). The most snowfall occurs in December and January, with an average of 25 centimeters (10 inches) per month. The snowiest month on record was December 1944, when Edmonton received 46 centimeters (18 inches) of snow.

Impact of Snowfall on Edmonton

The heavy snowfall in Edmonton can have a significant impact on the city and its residents. The snow and ice can make it difficult to travel, leading to traffic delays and accidents. Sidewalks and roads can become slippery, posing a safety hazard to pedestrians and drivers alike. The snow can also damage buildings and infrastructure, and it can cause power outages. In addition, the cost of snow removal can be a significant expense for the city.

Sun Hours in Edmonton

Edmonton, located in Alberta, Canada, experiences a relatively low number of sunshine hours compared to other regions in the country. On average, the city receives approximately 2,258 hours of sunshine annually. This amounts to roughly six hours of sunlight per day throughout the year. The winter months, particularly December and January, are the cloudiest, with an average of only two hours of sunshine per day. Conversely, the summer months, June and July, are the sunniest, with an average of nine hours of sunshine per day.

Despite the modest number of sunshine hours, Edmonton residents can still enjoy a variety of outdoor activities during all seasons. The long summer days provide ample opportunities for swimming, hiking, and biking in the city’s numerous parks and trails. In the winter, when sunlight is scarce, Edmontonians embrace activities such as ice skating, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. The city also features several indoor attractions, such as museums, theaters, and shopping malls, that offer respite from the cold and cloudy weather.

Moonrise and Moonset Times in Edmonton, Canada

The moon’s position varies throughout the night, and its rise and set times change daily. In Edmonton, Canada, the moon rises and sets at different times depending on the season and the phase of the moon. During the summer months, the moon rises later in the evening and sets earlier in the morning, providing longer nights and shorter days. Conversely, during the winter months, the moon rises earlier in the evening and sets later in the morning, leading to shorter nights and longer days.

The moon’s phase also influences its rise and set times. A new moon, when the moon is not visible from Earth, rises around sunrise and sets around sunset. As the moon progresses through its phases, it rises and sets later each day. A full moon, when the entire moon is visible from Earth, rises around sunset and sets around sunrise. The intermediate phases, such as the first quarter and third quarter moons, rise and set at various times in between, creating a dynamic and ever-changing celestial tapestry in the Edmonton sky.

Average Humidity Levels

Edmonton, Canada experiences a continental climate, characterized by significant seasonal variations. The average relative humidity in Edmonton ranges from 60% in July to 75% in January. This means that the air in Edmonton is typically dry for most of the year. However, during the summer months, when temperatures rise, the humidity levels can increase significantly, creating a muggy and uncomfortable feeling.

Seasonal Variations

The humidity levels in Edmonton vary significantly throughout the year. During the winter months, the cold temperatures cause the air to hold less moisture, resulting in lower humidity levels. As the weather warms up in the spring and summer, the air becomes more humid. The highest humidity levels occur during the summer months, when warm, moist air from the Pacific Ocean is drawn into the region. This can lead to uncomfortable conditions, especially when combined with high temperatures. The humidity levels generally decrease again in the fall and winter months as the weather cools down.

Wind Patterns

Edmonton experiences a wide range of wind speeds and directions throughout the year. Prevailing winds typically come from the west and southwest, particularly during the summer months when warm air from the Pacific Ocean moves inland. These westerly winds bring moisture and can contribute to the city’s occasional summer thunderstorms.

In the winter, the cold air from the Arctic often dominates, resulting in stronger northerly winds. These winds can be harsh and create snowdrifts, reducing visibility and making travel hazardous. However, Edmonton’s position within a large river valley modifies the wind patterns to some extent. The North Saskatchewan River Valley acts as a wind corridor, channeling winds and creating localized wind gusts, especially in the river valley areas.

Wind Speed and Impact

Average wind speeds in Edmonton vary from 15 to 20 kilometers per hour (9-12 miles per hour). However, during storms, wind gusts can reach speeds of up to 100 kilometers per hour (60 miles per hour). High winds can cause power outages, damage infrastructure, and pose safety risks to pedestrians and cyclists.

Edmonton’s wind patterns also impact its climate and ecosystems. The strong northerly winds in winter help keep the city relatively dry and reduce snowfall accumulation compared to other cities at similar latitudes. The prevailing westerly winds in summer contribute to Edmonton’s moderate temperatures and provide moisture for the surrounding vegetation.

Summer (June to August)

Summer in Edmonton is a vibrant season marked by warm temperatures, long days, and a plethora of outdoor activities. With average highs reaching the mid-20s Celsius (70s Fahrenheit), it’s the perfect time to explore the city’s parks, gardens, and walking trails. Festivals and events abound, including the Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival and the Capital City Downtown Farmers’ Market. Adventure enthusiasts can enjoy kayaking, biking, and fishing in the North Saskatchewan River Valley.

Fall (September to November)

Fall brings a crispness to the air and transforms Edmonton’s landscape into a vibrant tapestry of hues. The average temperature ranges from the mid-teens to the low single digits Celsius (50s to 30s Fahrenheit). As the days shorten, the skies often clear, providing stunning views of the city’s skyline and the surrounding countryside. This season offers opportunities for hiking, apple picking, and exploring the city’s historical neighborhoods. Capping off the season, the Edmonton Light Up Parade and Festival of Lights illuminate the downtown core with festive displays.

Potential and Challenges

Edmonton, the capital of Alberta, Canada, experiences long, cold winters and relatively short, mild summers. Despite these seasonal variations, Edmonton boasts considerable solar energy potential. The city receives an average of 2,500 sunshine hours annually, which is comparable to many sunnier regions of the country. However, the cold temperatures during most of the year pose a challenge for solar energy systems, as lower temperatures reduce the efficiency of solar panels.

Current Status and Future Prospects

Recognizing the potential benefits of solar energy, Edmonton has taken steps to encourage its adoption. The city offers a variety of incentives to homeowners and businesses that install solar systems, including rebates, grants, and net metering programs. As a result, there has been a steady increase in the number of solar installations in Edmonton in recent years. With advancements in solar technology that enhance efficiency and cost-effectiveness, the future of solar energy in Edmonton appears bright. As the technology continues to improve and the cost of solar panels declines, solar energy is expected to play an increasingly significant role in Edmonton’s energy mix, contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable future for the city.

River Valley and Ravines

Edmonton’s topography is prominently characterized by the North Saskatchewan River Valley, which bisects the city. The river valley floor is approximately 100 meters below the surrounding terrain, forming a vibrant and picturesque landscape dotted with parks, trails, and natural areas. The river valley is flanked by steep ravines on both sides, including the iconic Mill Creek and Whitemud Creek ravines. These ravines provide stunning views of the cityscape and offer opportunities for recreational activities such as hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing.

Beaumont Glacial Moraine

Dominating the landscape to the northwest of Edmonton is the Beaumont Glacial Moraine, a massive ridge of glacial till deposited during the last Ice Age. The moraine reaches an elevation of over 800 meters above sea level, providing panoramic views of the city and surrounding prairies. The moraine’s rolling hills and valleys have been shaped by erosion and glacial meltwater, creating a unique and rugged terrain. Popular recreational activities in the moraine include hiking, cross-country skiing, and geocaching.

Edmonton International Airport (YEG)

Edmonton International Airport (YEG) is the main airport serving Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Located approximately 26 kilometers (16 miles) south of downtown Edmonton, YEG is the fifth busiest airport in Canada by passenger traffic, handling over 8 million passengers annually. The airport serves as a hub for Air Canada and WestJet, connecting Edmonton to numerous destinations across Canada and internationally.

YEG features three terminals: Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and the International Terminal. Terminal 1 primarily serves domestic flights, while Terminal 2 handles both domestic and international flights. The International Terminal, which opened in 2012, is dedicated to international flights and features state-of-the-art facilities, including customs and immigration services. YEG offers a wide range of amenities to passengers, including duty-free shopping, restaurants, bars, and lounges. The airport is also well-connected to the city center by various transportation options, including shuttles, buses, and taxis.

Edmonton: A Vibrant Metropolis in the Canadian Prairies

Edmonton, the capital of Alberta, is a thriving metropolis nestled in the heart of the Canadian prairies. With a population of over 1 million people, it is the fifth largest city in Canada. Edmonton boasts a vibrant arts and culture scene, a growing culinary reputation, and a rich history that dates back to the fur trade era. The city is known for its ample green spaces, including the picturesque River Valley, which offers stunning views and recreational opportunities.

Economic and Social Hub of Western Canada

Edmonton serves as the economic and social hub of Western Canada. It is home to a diverse range of industries, including energy, technology, and manufacturing. The city’s thriving downtown core is lined with sleek skyscrapers and modern shopping malls, while the surrounding areas offer a mix of residential neighborhoods and industrial zones. Edmonton is also a major transportation hub, with an international airport and efficient public transit system connecting residents to all corners of the city.