The February forecast for Alberta is out and a cold snap is lurking

After a warmer-than-average January, Albertans can expect to see much colder, snowier conditions in the month ahead, with the February forecast hinting at a major shift.

Environment and Climate Change meteorologist Justin Shelley says that a change in weather patterns beginning later this week will bring Arctic air and increased snowfall to the province.

Temperatures are expected to plummet early next week, with the coldest days looking like Monday and Tuesday.

“The coldest temperatures will likely bottom out in that early week timeframe, so somewhere between Monday morning and Tuesday morning, with temperatures well into the -20°C’s, likely into the low -30°Cs for some central and northern regions, and wind chill values closer to -40°C,” Shelley explained.

You might also like:
• Edmonton Oilers reveal two beautiful Lunar New Year logos
• Lawsuit filed after Canadian mom and son died in Dominican Republic
• Peavey Mart confirms closure of all of its stores across Canada

However, the cold snap is expected to linger according to the February forecast, with temperatures 3°C to 5°C below average in most areas of the province.

Snowfall is also expected to be above normal, especially in central and southern Alberta, as systems from interior BC and the Rocky Mountains pass through the province.

“We are sort of in a weak La Niña currently, which, generally speaking, brings colder patterns and slightly above-average precipitation,” Shelley said.

Shelley noted that as freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall approach, Albertans should prepare for the winter weather ahead.