THE IMPACTS OF CLIMATIC VARIABLES ON SEASONAL WATER CONSUMPTION IN CALGARY, ALBERTA

Abstract

The study began by examining the effects of climatic variables on weekly water consumption per capita in the City of Calgary, Alberta. It was revealed that weekly water consumption per capita remains fairly steady in the city when mean maximum weekly temperatures are below 15 °C, and tend to increase with increasing temperatures, especially when temperatures are above 15 °C. In addition, a statistical model for predicting spring-summer water use for the city has been developed and verified, with the use of Stepwise Regression Analysis. Baseline data for the model were obtained for the period May-August, 1982–1985. The model includes the number of days in the week with measurable precipitation, mean maximum weekly temperature and degree-heating days above 16 °C. It was verified with actual water use data from May-August, 1986–1989.