Plenty of snow is on the way for parts of Alberta, and the forecast is trending in a chilly direction over the coming days.
According to Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC), snowfall warnings are in effect for numerous areas, including parts of the Icefields Parkway.
Multiple rounds of heavy snow will bring up to 50 cm to parts of Highway 93 by Wednesday evening. Snow will begin this morning over higher elevations.
The snow level will hover around 1700 m before dropping to the valley bottom by Tuesday morning. Conditions will be highly variable, and the warning cautioned that travel will likely be challenging. Road closures are possible.
Snowfall warnings are also in place for portions of northern Alberta, with multiple rounds of heavy snow expected, including today, Dec. 15, with total amounts of 20 to 30 cm. The final round of snow will taper off this evening.
“Roads and walkways will likely be difficult to navigate due to accumulating snow. Visibility will likely be reduced at times. Prepare for quickly changing and deteriorating travel conditions,” the warning stated.
Portions of southwestern Alberta are also under wind warnings, with strong westerly winds expected to continue today, with gusts up to 120 km/h. Winds will weaken this evening.
Edmonton and Calgary are not under any watches or warnings; however, a big dip in temperatures is expected over the coming days.
Looking at the forecast for YEG and YYC, both cities will see a blast of warmer air to start the work week before a major cooldown occurs. It’s looking like it’s going to be a chilly lead-up to Christmas Day!
Edmonton forecast
Environment and Climate Change Canada
According to ECCC, the average high for Edmonton around this time of year is -6°C, while the average low is -14°C.
Calgary forecast
Environment and Climate Change Canada
According to ECCC, the average high for Calgary around this time of year is -2°C, while the average low is -14°C.
You can view the full list of watches, warnings, and special weather statements on the ECCC weather information portal.
If you’re looking for how the winter forecast for Alberta seems to be shaping up, we have you covered, while we also have the scoop on how often Calgary and Edmonton have seen white Christmases so far this century.
