Heavy snowfall expected through Friday across Alberta

Snowy Weekend in Alberta

After a mild fall in Alberta up until this week, a snowy weekend is on the forecast for much of the province. Environment and Climate Change Canada is predicting a total of 15 to 25 centimetres of snow in both Edmonton and Calgary this weekend. The snowfall is expected to begin in southern Alberta on Friday morning, spreading northward throughout the day, intensifying at night, and then increasing again on Saturday morning before tapering off on Sunday morning.

The weather agency is warning that visibility may be suddenly reduced during heavy snowfall, making surfaces like roads, walkways, and parking lots difficult to navigate. Snowfall intensity will vary throughout the day and night, with 5 to 10 cm expected by Saturday morning in Calgary, followed by another 10 to 15 cm by Saturday evening.

Meteorologist Stephen Berg from Environment and Climate Change Canada explained that the snowfall is a result of remnants from the bomb cyclone that hit British Columbia and has now moved eastward. This weather system is developing in the foothills of Montana, on the other side of the Rockies, which is contributing to the snowfall in Alberta.

Snowfall warnings are in effect across much of southern and central Alberta, extending as far north as Grande Prairie. Similar warnings have been issued on the west coast of British Columbia and in southern Saskatchewan, reaching as far east as Moose Jaw.

Berg advised drivers to be cautious of reduced visibility while on the roads on Friday and Saturday, as heavy bursts of snow are expected on Friday and a heavier accumulation on Saturday. He also mentioned that the weak La Niña pattern currently in place suggests a cooler and snowier winter for the Prairie provinces in the coming weeks.

As Albertans prepare for the first significant snowfall of the season, it’s important to take precautions and stay informed about changing weather conditions. Stay safe and stay warm this weekend!