The winter weather is here and students are bracing themselves for the cold months ahead.
Calgary has had an El Niño climate pattern for the past few years, meaning that higher sea level surface temperatures lead to warmer weather. 2023 was one of the warmest years on record according to the World Meteorological Organization.
This year, meteorologists anticipate a La Niña pattern, which means cooler sea surface temperatures and a much colder and snowier winter.
SAIT baking student Taylor Burns offers some advice on how to prepare.
“Definitely get a good jacket,” said Burns. “Honestly, I go to Canmore [to] get a winter jacket.”
Changing weather means changing seasonal flavours, which Burns is excited for in her baking.
“I like anything peppermint, especially peppermint bark.” said Burns.
With the shorter days and more reason to stay inside, students tend to struggle and lack motivation.
“I notice I get a lot of headaches more, and I’m less motivated to do things,” said Burns. “But you just have to fight through that.”
The City of Calgary website advises Calgarians to deal with the cold by wearing proper winter clothing, preparing your vehicle and plugging it in, and staying warm and healthy throughout the season.
“I usually layer up with under layers, or having a big coat on,” said Tyler Pelland, an academic upgrading student at SAIT.
During fall, when the weather is nice, students often enjoy breaks between classes outside on the various benches and tables on the SAIT campus. Cold weather leads to a shift in these social habits.
“I usually don’t stay out that late since it gets dark at 6 p.m. and I usually stay at home more,” Pelland said.
