Winter Storm Warnings were issued for the Western Prairies, with 15+ cm of Snow Expected
Snowfall has been widespread in southern and central Alberta and Saskatchewan. Several inches of snow are expected to fall through Tuesday, with a possible accumulation of up to 25 cm
Beware of driver distractions. A low-pressure system swept across Alberta and southern Saskatchewan on Tuesday, bringing chilly northwesterly air along with wintery conditions.
Heavy, blowing snow has created hazardous travel conditions in areas with snowfall warnings.
ECCC’s snow warning warns that rapid accumulation of snow may make travel challenging. Visibility may be reduced suddenly in heavy snow conditions.
Winter Storm Warnings 15+ Cm of Snow Expected
Snow is expected to pile up along the Alberta-Saskatchewan border where several inches are possible through Tuesday.
Winter storm warnings have been issued for the western Prairies, with snowfall accumulations of over 15 cm expected in some areas. This winter storm will bring significant snowfall, high winds, and potentially hazardous travel conditions.
Residents are advised to prepare for reduced visibility and slippery roads, especially in higher elevation areas and along major highways.
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What to Expect:
– Heavy Snowfall: Alberta and Saskatchewan could receive more than 15 cm of snow, with localized areas possibly receiving more.
– Strong Winds: Snow blowing in the wind may cause poor visibility, which makes driving dangerous. Snow drifts are compounded by wind gusts of 60-70 km/h.
– Cold Temperatures: Wind chill will make it feel considerably colder than usual, particularly when temperatures drop significantly.
Precautions and Safety Tips:
– Avoid Unnecessary Travel: Travel should be limited to essentials in light of the poor road conditions.
– Prepare Emergency Kits: Pack a car emergency kit, which includes blankets, water, flashlights, and extra batteries, if you need to travel.
– Stay Updated: Monitoring local forecasts for any changes in the storm’s path or intensity is advised.
The storm is expected to last 24-48 hours, tapering off gradually. Crews will be removing snow from roads, but commuters and drivers should prepare for delays.
Snow will intensify Through Tuesday
Tuesday’s snowfall will be the first accumulating snow of the season across many areas across the western Prairies. Drivers may have a challenging time navigating through the deteriorating conditions, which means travel could be especially challenging.
Tuesday morning, Alberta’s capital region was impacted by precipitation in the pre-dawn hours due to temperatures dropping. Snow will remain on the ground based on the ratio of rain to snow as well as temperature.
Edmonton to Medicine Hat will see 3+ cm accumulations before tapering off into the evening.
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Accompanied by Gusty winds and Poor Visibility
Tuesday’s snow potential along the Alberta-Saskatchewan border will be greater thanks to cooler temperatures and fewer rain interruptions.
Southern Saskatchewan, including Regina, experiences a transition from rain to snow in the afternoon and evening.
Throughout the Cypress Hills, 10-15 cm of snow is possible along the Trans-Canada Highway between Medicine Hat and Swift Current, Sask. As the snow falls, gusty winds will blow between 50 and 70 km/h, making conditions even more dangerous.
Snow blowing south of Highway 1 will cause poor visibility locally throughout the day. According to the ECCC, “You must adapt your driving to changing road conditions.”.
Snow Won’t last with Climbing Temperatures This Week
A southerly flow and high pressure moving in will push temperatures upwards through the rest of this week, despite Tuesday’s snow.
Fair weather is forecast through Saturday, before becoming unsettled late next week. Winter storm warnings have been issued for the western Prairies, with snowfall accumulations of over 15 cm expected in some areas.
This winter storm will bring significant snowfall, high winds, and potentially hazardous travel conditions. Residents are advised to prepare for reduced visibility and slippery roads, especially in higher elevation areas and along major highways.
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