April weather in Calgary/Banff
 

Hi! I am from Winnipeg but will be visiting relatives in Calgary the first week of April. What is the weather like this time of year? Thanks!

Calgary's weather is very variable. Officially the average high temperature in April is +11 deg C and the average low is -2 deg C. However, those averages really do not tell the full story. I remember times when we've had temperatures lower than -20 deg C in April. In late April 2003 we got a big dump of snow. But, by the same token, it can be sunny and very pleasant. I can remember April days that were over +20 deg C.

If I were you I would bring boots in case it snows. Then I would bring a jacket or coat that lent itself to layering. A raincoat with a warm zip-in-zip-out lining is good. Alternatively, a loose-fitting, thigh-length, three-season jacket would be good too. I say loose-fitting so one would have room under it for a sweater if necessary. A toque, scarf and gloves would be in order as well.

To add to Judy's information, it helps to remember that it is usually cooler at the beginning of April than it is at the end of April so that "average" high of 11C is a little bit deceptive.
However, if you are from Winnipeg you should be used to our Canadian spring weather and you'll know what I mean :-o !!!
The only difference between Winnipeg and Calgary is that it gets much cooler at night in Calgary (higher elevation and drier air), and sometimes Chinooks will blow in and change the temp from frigid to balmy in an incredibly short period of time.

The last two springs in Alberta have been miserable and cold, so maybe this year we will be lucky and get a warm one for a change.

Thanks for the quick responses! Oh, I definitely know what Canadian Springs can be like.