Calgary's Warm Year-End Gives Way to Colder Start for 2026
Southern Alberta's warm spell ends as new year brings chill

Residents across southern Alberta, including Calgary, are savoring a mild conclusion to 2025, but should prepare for a cooler shift as the calendar turns. The warmer-than-usual conditions are set to persist for roughly another day before giving way to a temperature drop to welcome the new year.

A Temporary Reprieve from the Cold

The final hours of December 2025 are offering a pleasant break from typical winter chill for many communities. Danielle Savoni reported that the warmth will remain for a day or so, allowing for a relatively comfortable end to the year's activities. However, this mild interlude will not be entirely calm, as increased wind is also expected to accompany the temperate air.

New Year's Day Brings a Cool Change

The shift will be felt as 2026 begins. Forecasts indicate that the new year starts with temperatures dipping a bit, marking a return to more seasonal winter conditions. This transition serves as a reminder that January's characteristic cold is poised to re-establish itself across the region after the brief respite.

Context Within a Nationwide Weather Picture

While Alberta experiences its fluctuating temperatures, other parts of Canada are grappling with more severe conditions. This includes winter storm alerts and snow squall watches in Ontario, which highlight the variable and often intense nature of Canadian winter weather patterns from coast to coast.

The forecast for southern Alberta underscores the dynamic and changeable climate of the region, encouraging residents to enjoy the fleeting warmth while preparing for the return of winter's bite as they ring in the New Year.