5-15 cm: Spring snow hits southern Alberta this week
Spring once again takes a back seat as a system moves into Alberta, ushering in cold air, moisture, and the possibility of snow
Southern Alberta is gearing up for a significant late-week snowfall, despite it being mid-April. Signals point to a developing storm impacting Calgary, the foothills, and areas south to Lethbridge starting Wednesday evening.
Weather Highlights:
Between 5-15 cm forecast for southern Alberta, starting Wednesday evening and lasting into Thursday morning
Temperatures near or below 0°C expected by Wednesday evening, creating conditions for a spring snowstorm
Snowy and messy conditions could disrupt Thursday morning commutes in Calgary and areas south to Lethbridge.
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Southern Alberta braces for more spring snow this week
A weather system moving north of the Yellowhead Highway early this week will allow cold Arctic air to spill south, dropping temperatures near or below 0°C by Wednesday evening across southern Alberta. This, combined with moisture and instability, sets the stage for a classic spring snow event.
Snowfall is expected to begin Wednesday evening, spreading south and east into Thursday morning.
At this point, snowfall amounts are estimated between 5-15 cm, but exact totals and locations with the heaviest snow remain uncertain.
Southeastern areas could see rainfall mixing with snow due to mild air clashing with colder conditions.
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Drivers in the region should prepare for potentially challenging travel conditions Thursday morning, especially in the southern foothills and Calgary areas.
A mix of snow and rain may create messy driving across portions of the southern Prairies near the developing warm front.