Up to 40 cm of snow forecast in Alberta as winter weather looms
Parts of Alberta have plenty of snow on the way, with the forecast hinting at February weather many residents shudder at.
According to Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC), snowfall warnings are in effect for most of Alberta, including the Edmonton region and Red Deer, with heavy snow expected to begin tonight.
Total snowfall amounts between five and 30 cm are likely for many areas in the province, with local amounts reaching 40 cm in some spots. The snow will be heaviest on Tuesday morning and during the afternoon.
Some areas of eastern Alberta under a winter storm warning will also see strong east winds gusting to 60 km/h wth the accompanying heavy snow and will cause significant blowing and drifting. This winter storm event will taper off on Tuesday night.
“Travel will likely be challenging. Visibility will likely be suddenly reduced to near zero at times,” ECCC added.
“Prepare for quickly changing and deteriorating travel conditions. Consider postponing non-essential travel and outdoor activities until conditions improve. Take frequent breaks and avoid strain when clearing snow.”
Blowing snow is expected on Tuesday over open areas in central and southern Alberta, including Highways 1, 2 and 16. Visibility will likely be poor.
Looking at the ECCC Significant Weather Outlook, a large portion of Alberta is at risk of seeing heavy snow on Tuesday, Feb. 17.
Spots across the Rockies, as well as Calgary, which is currently under a special weather statement, fall under the five to 15 cm snow risk area, while Edmonton is grouped into a 15 to 25 cm snow risk, along with wind gusts of up to 70 km/h and blowing snow.
A section just east of Edmonton could see 20 to 40 cm of snow, along with wind gusts of up to 70 km/h and blowing snow.
ECCC Significant Weather Outlook
A blast of cold air is also in the cards for most of Alberta later this week, with the outlook for Thursday, Feb. 19, showing northern portions of the province potentially seeing wind chill values in the -50°C to -40°C range.
Another large section of the province, including areas like Edmonton, Fort McMurray, Red Deer, Lloydminster, and Medicine Hat, may see wind chill values in the -40°C to -35°C range.
ECCC Significant Weather Outlook
You can view the full list of watches, warnings, and special weather statements on the ECCC weather information portal.