Seasonal outlook, Environment Canada
EDMONTON — Northern Alberta is expected to experience periods of significant heat this summer, but changing weather patterns and timely rainfall could help prevent drought conditions from worsening.
The Weather Network’s summer forecast calls for warmer-than-normal conditions across Alberta, particularly during the early part of the season, as western Canada experiences some of the country’s strongest warmth signals.
Forecasters say the summer is expected to be more changeable than recent years, with periods of heat interrupted by storms and cooler weather rather than prolonged high-pressure systems producing extreme temperatures for weeks at a time.
The Prairies have already experienced an uneven start to summer, with stormy conditions and locally heavy rainfall interrupting warmer weather.
The Weather Network says rainfall during June was important for improving moisture conditions across Alberta, although significant amounts fell during short periods in some areas.
Forecasters say the balance between additional rainfall and prolonged dry stretches through July and August will determine whether drought concerns return later in the summer.
Northern Alberta communities could experience periods of significant heat, but breaks in the weather pattern are expected to provide opportunities for precipitation and cooler conditions.
Conditions in neighbouring British Columbia could also influence air quality across Alberta during the wildfire season.
British Columbia is expected to experience a hot and dry summer, with the province experiencing some of the strongest warmth signals in Canada.
Forecasters say temporary heat waves are likely, although the summer is not expected to be dominated by a prolonged heat dome.
Periodic changes in the weather pattern are expected to provide some relief from hot and dry conditions.
Hot and dry weather can increase wildfire risk in British Columbia, where smoke from large fires can be carried eastward into Alberta depending on prevailing winds and atmospheric conditions.
The Weather Network says summer conditions across western Canada are expected to become more consistently warm through July and August, although the season is not expected to be dominated by a single persistent high-pressure ridge.
Forecasters say the broader national pattern could result in fewer prolonged weather extremes and more frequent changes between periods of heat, storms and cooler conditions.
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