Alberta Braces for Major Winter Storm as Heavy Snow and Dangerous Travel Loom

Alberta Braces for Major Winter Storm as Heavy Snow and Dangerous Travel Loom

Alberta Braces for Major Winter Storm as Heavy Snow and Dangerous Travel Loom

Right now, much of Alberta is being put on high alert as a powerful winter storm is set to sweep through the province, with Edmonton right in the crosshairs. According to weather warnings, up to 30 centimetres of snow could fall by Wednesday evening, and it’s being described as one of those classic prairie storms that can disrupt daily life very quickly.

An Alberta Clipper is expected to move in early Wednesday morning, and once it arrives, snow will begin falling steadily, becoming heavy at times. Rapid accumulation is being forecast, which means roads, sidewalks, and highways could become snow-covered in a matter of hours. Gusty winds are also expected, and when those winds combine with falling snow, visibility may be reduced significantly, especially in open or rural areas. Blizzard-like conditions could develop outside the city.

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In and around Edmonton, snowfall totals between 15 and 30 centimetres are now expected, which is higher than earlier predictions. The snow is likely to begin during the morning commute, so drivers heading to work may already be dealing with slippery roads and poor visibility. It’s been said that the heaviest snow should taper off by the evening, but that timing could still affect both morning and evening rush hour traffic.

Warnings have been issued not only for Edmonton, but also for surrounding areas like St. Albert, Sherwood Park, Morinville, Leduc County, and Parkland County. Outside the city, conditions could be even worse. Strong winds and blowing snow are expected east and southeast of Edmonton, with some areas possibly seeing near-zero visibility. In parts of eastern Alberta, wind gusts could reach up to 90 kilometres per hour, creating extremely dangerous travel conditions and potential road closures.

Because of the incoming snow and what’s already on the ground, the City of Edmonton has announced a Phase 1 parking ban starting Wednesday night. This move is meant to allow snowplows and graders to clear major roads efficiently. Crews are expected to work around the clock, and the ban could remain in place for several days. Drivers are being warned that vehicles left on restricted roads could be ticketed or towed.

After the snow moves through, colder air is expected to settle in once again. Temperatures are forecast to drop sharply, with daytime highs falling back into the minus twenties by the weekend. While the storm may bring a white Christmas to Alberta, it’s also serving as a reminder to prepare, slow down on the roads, and be ready for quickly changing winter conditions.

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