Blackfalds, Alberta, is in for a week of mixed weather, with gusty winds early on giving way to sunny skies and temperatures climbing to 30°C by Thursday. No weather alerts are currently in effect, and air quality remains ideal for outdoor activities.
As of noon on Monday, August 24, conditions at the Lacombe AAFC station showed a temperature of 19.5°C with WNW winds at 18 km/h, according to Environment Canada. The forecast calls for a mix of sun and cloud with winds gusting up to 50 km/h and a high of 23°C, feeling like 26 with the humidex.
The warming trend continues through the week, with sunny skies expected Tuesday through Friday. Temperatures will climb from 25°C on Tuesday to 29°C on Wednesday and a peak of 30°C on Thursday, well above the seasonal norm of 21°C for late August.
Residents can expect a change by Saturday, August 29, when Environment Canada forecasts cloudy conditions with a 60 percent chance of showers and a high of 18°C, a noticeable cooldown after the mid-week warmth; The Weather Network also flags a risk of evening thunderstorms. Sunday returns to a mix of sun and cloud with a high of 19°C, according to The Weather Network.
Air quality in the Red Deer and Blackfalds region is rated Low Risk with an Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) of 2, indicating ideal conditions for outdoor activities, according to Environment Canada. No active weather alerts or warnings are in effect for the area.