Alberta's weather forecast is calling for up to 20 cm of snow and 'major travel disruptions'
Buckle up, because summer is not beginning on a warm note. The Alberta and BC weather forecasts are calling for snow to start the season.
Parts of both B.C. and Alberta are set to see the unseasonable weather, with chilly temperatures accompanying the snow.
The Weather Network said that the snow is expected on Friday, right in time for the official start of summer.
If hiking was a part of your weekend plans, you may want to re-think things, because TWN said that "substantial snow totals" are set to reach some trails in the high elevations. It's thanks to a "deep trough over B.C. and Alberta is paving the way for colder northeastern air to move into the region beginning Friday," TWN said.
Temperatures will drop down by Saturday, ranging from 5 to 12°C below seasonal averages in some areas. On top of that is gusty winds, and rainfall in Alberta foothills throughout the weekend.
Environment Canada has issued special weather statements for parts of B.C. and Alberta, including for the City of Calgary. The statement said that the southern foothills could see up to 200 mm of precipitation by Sunday. It also warned that "rain will change to snow over mountainous terrain," on Friday night.
There are also special weather statements in place for B.C. North and South Peace River, and Williston.
As for how much snow to expect, accumulations could get up to 20 cm at the highest elevations. "As temperatures fall on Friday night, rain will transition to snow in higher elevations. Freezing levels are forecast to drop to around 2,000 m, with significant snowfall likely in mountainous terrain," TWN added.
TWN also warned that "major travel disruptions" are expected for Highwood Pass and southern sections of Highway 93, so anyone travelling should prepare for the conditions.
This article's cover image was used for illustrative purposes only.
