1951::Calgary's Record Snow Storm in June

A late-spring snowfall wreaks havoc in the prairie city.

"1951::Record Snowfall: 8th Avenue and 1st Street E."

Photo: Times Colonist (1951)

Victoria, British Columbia

June 6, 1951

It was practically summer. But as Calgarians slept snugly in their beds, a freak snowstorm came to town. Blowing snow had hit Alberta hard between the rocky mountains and the Saskatchewan border, and Calgary was right in the middle of it. As much as 7 inches fell on the city and 36 inches on the nearby foothills. Residents woke up to chaos. 

"1951::Downed Trees on Elbow Drive"

Photo Clip: Calgary Herald (1951)

Calgary, Alberta

The storm had done its worst. The city's primary communication system had been disabled. Sleet and snow driven by high winds weighed heavy on its lines, causing poles to fall and wires to snap. Flights arriving at Calgary's airport were rerouted. Trolleys became unhitched, and their entangled lines blocked roadways for hours. In some cases, roads were rendered inaccessible. The estimated cost of damages soared to over a million dollars. It was considered the most unusual to hit Alberta since an inch of snow blanketed Calgary in the middle of summer 1918. 

"1951::Hail Pummels 1st Street W. at 7th Avenue"

Photo Clip: Calgary Herald (1951)

Calgary, Alberta

Days later, the city was once again under siege. Hail the size of golf balls battered the city, a relentless assault. Heavy rains followed, causing floods and landslides, further adding to the city's woes. The storm, a force of nature, made headlines around the continent.