Honestly, if you're checking what is the temperature in calgary canada right now, you’re likely seeing a number that doesn't tell the whole story.
Today is Sunday, January 18, 2026. If you step outside right this second, it’s 27°F. But here’s the thing: it actually feels like 19°F. That gap between the number on the screen and the bite on your cheeks is the classic Calgary experience. The sky is a thick, stubborn layer of clouds, and there's a north wind blowing at about 7 mph. It’s not a gale, but it’s enough to make you regret leaving your scarf on the coat hook.
Calgary is weird. I mean that in the best way possible.
You’ve got a high today of 29°F and a low of 18°F. Most people think Canadian winters are just a flat line of misery, but Calgary is the king of the "Wait, what just happened?" weather shift.
The Temperature in Calgary Canada: Why It Changes So Fast
Basically, Calgary sits in this high-altitude sweet spot near the Rockies. It’s the sunniest major city in the country, boasting over 330 days of sun a year. Even on a day like today where it’s cloudy with a 10% chance of snow, you know the sun is lurking somewhere.
But the real celebrity here is the Chinook.
If you aren't from around here, a Chinook is a warm, dry wind that screams down the mountains. It can literally raise the temperature by 20 degrees in a couple of hours. You’ll see this massive, arching cloud in the west—the Chinook Arch—and suddenly, the ice on your driveway starts turning into a lake. It’s nature’s space heater.
January 18th Breakdown
- Current Temp: 27°F
- RealFeel: 19°F
- Humidity: 69%
- Wind: 7 mph from the North
- Tonight's Low: 18°F (Expect clear skies later)
Humidity is sitting at 69% right now. That’s actually a bit high for us—usually, it’s so dry here your skin feels like old parchment.
Surviving the "Feels Like" Factor
You've probably heard it a million times, but layering is the only way to stay sane. When the temperature in calgary canada is hovering in the mid-20s, a single heavy parka is actually a mistake. You'll sweat while walking to the C-Train and then freeze the moment you stand still.
Start with a base layer that actually wicks moisture. No cotton. Seriously, cotton is the enemy. It holds onto sweat and turns into a cold, wet rag against your skin. Go for merino wool or some fancy synthetic.
Then, throw on a mid-layer like a fleece or a light down vest. Your outer shell should be windproof. Since the wind is coming from the north today at 7-8 mph, that windproof layer is what stops the "feels like 19°F" from getting into your bones.
What to Actually Do Today
Since it's cloudy and hovering just below freezing, it's actually great weather for being active. It’s not that "hurt your face" cold.
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- Bowness Park Skating: The ice is solid, and the trees look incredible with a light dusting of frost.
- Central Commons Park: If you're near the University, this is the spot for a quick lap on the ice.
- Coffee Crawl in Inglewood: It’s a 27°F kind of day. Perfect for hopping between local roasters without overheating.
Looking Ahead
Tonight the clouds are supposed to clear out. That sounds nice, but in the winter, clear skies usually mean the heat escapes into space. We’re looking at a low of 18°F. If you’re heading out for dinner or a late-night movie, the wind might pick up to 8 mph.
Keep an eye on the sidewalks. With the high hitting 29°F today and the low dropping well below that tonight, anything that melts this afternoon is going to be a skating rink by 10 PM.
Next Steps for You:
Check your windshield washer fluid. Seriously. When Calgary is in this temperature range, the roads get that gross, grey slush that coats your windshield in seconds. Make sure you’ve got the -40 rated stuff. Also, if you’re walking, look for boots with actual rubber grips. Those stylish leather-soled boots will betray you on the first patch of black ice you hit.