Storm forecast to slam Calgary to bring 40 cm of snow to Alberta
We may be almost a month into spring, but a weather system is forecast to drop up to 40 centimetres of snow in Alberta, and Calgary isn’t escaping seeing some.
According to a snowfall warning issued Wednesday afternoon by Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC), heavy snow is expected to intensify tonight. This heavy snowfall event will continue through Thursday for parts of central and southern Alberta, with total amounts of 15 to 30 cm.
Locally, higher amounts are most likely over the Highway 9 corridor between Calgary and Coronation, where upwards of 40 cm is possible.
Poor visibility due to blowing snow is also possible in some areas tonight and Thursday morning, particularly east of Highway 2 and toward the Saskatchewan border. Snow will end Thursday evening.
“Travel will likely be challenging. Roads and walkways will likely be difficult to navigate due to accumulating snow. Visibility will likely be reduced at times. Road closures are possible. Allow extra time for travel. If driving, turn on your lights, slow down and maintain a safe following distance. Take frequent breaks and avoid strain when clearing snow,” the warning added.
Looking at the forecast over the next few days, ECCC states that snow at times heavy is expected tonight, with amounts in the 10 to 15 centimetre range. Wind will also be on the stronger side at times, being northeast at 20 km/h gusting to 50, becoming northwest 20 gusting to 40 late this evening.
Environment and Climate Change Canada
As for tomorrow, five centimetres of snow is forecast to fall in Calgary, with a wind chill of -17°C in the morning and -8°C in the afternoon. Tomorrow night is set to be cloudy with a 30 per cent chance of flurries.
You can view all current watches and warnings issued by ECCC online.