Prepare your raincoats and galoshes, Alberta, because it’s going to be a wet one this weekend. Heavy rain is slated to begin this afternoon across southern Alberta, according to the forecast, with up to 100 millimetres of rainfall and even snow in some areas.
A heavy rainfall warning has been issued by the Prairie and Arctic Storm Prediction Centre of Environment Canada for large swaths of southern Alberta, spanning from Calgary to Jasper.
weather.gc.ca
According to the ECCC, heavy rain will begin to develop on Friday as a low-pressure system over the Pacific moves onshore and heads for southern Alberta.
Albertans can expect 50 to 100 millimetres this weekend across the province. But some areas may exceed that prediction, with the heaviest downpours expected along the foothills in the south.
A special weather statement has also been issued for Yaha Tinda and K-Country, where precipitation might surpass 150 to over 200 millimetres. However, this part of the forecast is less certain.
If you thought a rainy weekend was bad enough, some parts of the Rockies might even get wet snow tonight into Saturday.
Snow levels are forecast to drop to between the valley bottom and 2000 metres of elevation. If you’re passing through the mountains this weekend, be prepared for some possible winter driving conditions.
Coming off the heels of this weather system are some strong northerly winds that are expected to start on Saturday. The waterlogged soil could lead to trees getting uprooted by the strong winds, so keep an eye out.
Finally, thunderstorms are likely to occur across much of the province, but they aren’t expected to be severe. Not that your pets will take much consolation.
The area northwest of Edmonton appears to be the most favourable for thunderstorm conditions, which could result in heavy rain and possible small hail later this afternoon and evening.
Maybe it’s better to hold off on that weekend BBQ for a better forecast, Alberta.
You can view the full list of weather alerts on the ECCC website.