Edmonton is bracing for significant snowfall on Thursday, March 13, 2025, with Environment Canada warning residents to prepare for 10 to 20 centimeters of snow expected to blanket the city and surrounding areas.
Snowfall is scheduled to begin early Thursday morning, transitioning from light flurries to heavier snow as the day progresses. By Thursday evening, the weather agency anticipates the snowfall to taper off, with only the tail end of winter apparent as residents prepare their shovels once again.
According to Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC), the impending snowstorm is tied to the arrival of an Alberta clipper system. This weather front is set to impact much of central and northern Alberta, including Edmonton, St. Albert, and Sherwood Park, which are under snowfall warnings as issued on March 12. "Snowfall is expected to become heavy at times starting early Thursday morning," cautioned the agency.
Commuters are advised to be mindful of changing conditions as the accumulating snow could lead to difficult travel on highways, roads, walkways, and parking lots throughout the city. Environmental experts predict there will be significant impacts on rush hour traffic in urban areas, urging drivers to allow for additional travel time and to remain vigilant of slippery road conditions.
Christy Climenhaga, a scientist with ECCC, remarked, "You're going to find those snow shovels if you put them away because it's going to feel very much like winter over the next 24 hours." She emphasized the severity of the forecast, indicating this could be one of the largest single-day snowfall events this winter, potentially surpassing 12.8 centimeters recorded on November 23, 2024.
For many residents, news of the upcoming snowfall is layered with irony. While February had already seen early signs of spring with warmer weather, March often brings reminders of winter's grip, which might sometimes be the snowiest month of the season. Many residents are now pulling their shovels out of garages, mentally preparing for the challenges presented by this significant weather system.
With cumulative totals expected to range from 10-20 centimeters throughout the Edmonton area, the forecast includes warnings of potential blowing snow conditions, as high winds may accompany the snowfall. "Surfaces such as highways, roads, walkways, and parking lots may become difficult to navigate due to accumulating snow," Environment Canada reported, ensuring citizens are forewarned of possible travel disruptions.
By Thursday morning, temperatures are projected to hover around -4 degrees Celsius during initial snowfall but are expected to drop as the day progresses, potentially leading to even colder conditions overnight. The forecast low for Thursday night is -13 degrees, with wind chill making it feel even colder—down to -14 degrees.
Residents are reminded to check local databases and forecasts for continuous updates as this system develops. Tips for safe travel have already flooded popular channels, encouraging individuals to drive cautiously and adjust their pace according to road conditions.
The warnings extend beyond just Edmonton. ECCC issued alerts for nearly 100 areas across central and northern Alberta, indicating the widespread nature of this storm. While the heavy snow will impact the city significantly, areas northeast of Edmonton, including Cold Lake and additional regions, could see even higher accumulations, up to 25 centimeters.
Thursday's weather will serve as yet another reminder of Alberta's unpredictable late winter weather patterns. Such instances reveal how the region can transition from mild conditions to winter storms swiftly, emphasizing the necessity for residents to stay prepared.
Further details on this system are best served by local weather apps and news sources updating the public on real-time conditions. Adapting to Calgary's weather, which has seen particularly low snowfall this winter compared to historical records, highlights the stark differences across various areas of Alberta.
With months of anticipated winter weather still remaining, it is clear residents of Edmonton will have ample opportunity to navigate these snow challenges and reflect on just how quickly Manitoba weather can turn.