Even though the spring equinox is behind us now, the ever-increasing sun angle is no match for the latest bout of snow blanketing Alberta this weekend.
Highways and surface streets across southern Alberta are increasingly slick and snow-covered heading into Saturday evening as precipitation builds over the region. Expect snow to stick around into Sunday, with double-digit accumulations on the way for some communities.
DON’T MISS: Canada’s widespread drought may fuel the upcoming wildfire season
Through Sunday: Snow continues for southern Alberta
This storm will have similar travel impacts as the event that affected Alberta last week. Plan ahead and prepare for quickly changing and deteriorating travel conditions.
Snow began in Calgary early Saturday and spread east through the day. Colder temperatures will allow this to be a lighter, fluffier snow.
Travellers hitting the roads this weekend from Calgary south to the international border can expect slippery conditions and snow-covered surfaces as the snow picks up Saturday night and continues into Sunday. Snowfall warnings remain in effect.
Flurries will persist into Sunday before gradually easing throughout the day. A widespread 10-20 cm of snow is forecast. Calgary is forecast to see lower amounts than earlier this week, with projected totals ranging from 5-15 cm.
A wider range anticipated as a result of the uncertainty surrounding the storm’s northern edge.
Snowfall warnings are in effect. Visibility may be suddenly reduced at times in heavy snow, so prepare for slow commutes.
Additional snow helpful to severe drought conditions
Although the snow may cause travel slowdowns and disruptions, the additional moisture continues to be great news in helping to alleviate the very dry and extreme drought conditions across the region. Any precipitation at this time certainly helps, especially up in the mountains.
Officials say the snowpack is really low for this time of year, which could be a major concern for the wildfire season ahead.
Stay with The Weather Network for all the latest on your forecast across Alberta.