As Alberta rolls into mid-April, it seems winter isn't quite ready to let go, with a snowfall warning now in effect for areas west of Calgary. Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) has forecast heavy snowfall throughout the weekend, particularly impacting the Rockies and Foothills, including popular destinations like Banff and Kananaskis.
According to ECCC, residents and visitors can expect up to 20 centimetres of snow to accumulate by the end of the weekend. "Snowfall will begin as flurries early Saturday morning, and become more steady by noon," the agency stated in its warning. The snow is predicted to accumulate rapidly, especially in higher elevations, on Saturday afternoon and evening, before tapering off early Sunday.
Travelers should be aware that rapidly accumulating snow could make driving conditions hazardous. ECCC cautioned that visibility may be suddenly reduced at times during heavy snow. "If visibility is reduced while driving, slow down, watch for tail lights ahead, and be prepared to stop," the agency advised.
In Calgary, the weather will be slightly different. Rain showers are expected to start Saturday afternoon, transitioning to a few flurries later in the day. The daytime highs for the weekend are anticipated to be in the low single digits, with temperatures dipping below freezing at night. However, a warming trend is expected to return early next week, bringing spring-like weather back to the region.
As for other areas in Alberta, snowfall warnings were also issued for Lake Louise, Kananaskis Village, and Canmore. The average high for this time of year in Calgary is about 11°C, with lows around -2°C, while in Edmonton, the averages are similar with highs of 11°C and lows of -1°C.
Despite the unseasonable chill, many residents are taking the weather in stride. One local remarked, "Doesn’t Mother Nature know it’s the weekend?" referring to the sudden shift from warmer temperatures earlier in the week to the impending snow. While the forecast for Okotoks and surrounding areas includes a dip in temperatures with potential rain or snow, a rebound is expected next week with highs reaching 17°C on Monday and 19°C on Tuesday.
The contrast between the snowy forecast and the recent warm days has left many Albertans puzzled. "Spring swings will play out through the weekend, trading sunglasses for snow brushes, and even snow shovels in some cases," one meteorologist commented. In fact, this week’s warming trend is giving way to more frigid temperatures, cold rain, and heavy snow along the foothills.
In addition to the snowfall warnings, Alberta’s weather is characterized by the peculiar phenomenon of late-season snow, which is not uncommon. ECCC noted that while Calgary typically averages about 21 cm of snow during a normal month, April often brings significant snowfall events due to low-pressure systems tapping into tropical moisture from the south.
As the weather changes, residents are encouraged to stay updated on conditions, particularly if they plan to travel in the affected areas. The forecast indicates that flurries will start in the foothills early Saturday, slowly creeping east towards Calgary and the QE2 throughout the day. Accumulating snow is anticipated along the foothills, with a lower probability of any significant accumulation further east.
As the weekend progresses, the precipitation is expected to end by Sunday morning, but northwesterly winds will continue to usher in colder air, keeping temperatures below seasonal averages. It’s a reminder that while spring is officially here, winter can still make an unexpected return.
Looking ahead, forecasters suggest that milder conditions will return to western areas and spread east during the following week. However, cooler weather and more unsettled conditions could make a comeback during the Easter weekend, so residents should remain vigilant and check back for the latest weather updates across the Prairies.
In summary, Alberta’s weather this weekend serves as a stark reminder of the region's unpredictable climate. With snowfall warnings in place and temperatures fluctuating dramatically, it's clear that while spring is on the horizon, winter still has a say in the matter.
