April snow forecast for parts of Alberta with up to 20 cm on the way
It’s no April Fool’s Day joke; some parts of Alberta are forecast to see up to 20 centimetres of snow soon, including some heavily populated areas.
We were warned late last month about how the weather in April was shaping up for Alberta, and spring is taking a backseat as wintry weather pops back into the picture.
Looking at the Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) Significant Weather Outlook, other portions of Alberta are at risk of seeing snow on Thursday, April 2.
Calgary is under the gun of seeing 15 to 20 centimetres of snow, while the Red Deer area, Lethbridge area, and areas east of Calgary to the Saskatchewan border may be in store for 10 to 15 centimetres.
ECCC Significant Weather Outlook
A special weather statement was issued by ECCC on Wednesday morning for parts of central and southern Alberta, including Calgary and Red Deer.
The statement stated that poor travel conditions are possible tonight into Thursday, and heavy snow will develop overnight Wednesday into Thursday over central Alberta, including along Highway 2 and parts of Highway 1, particularly near and west of Calgary.
Periods of high snowfall rates may reduce visibility and lead to rapidly changing road conditions, while conditions are expected to improve by Thursday evening.
Meteorologists added that total snowfall amounts are still uncertain, but some areas could see amounts ranging from 5 to 20 cm. Temperatures near zero on Thursday may limit snowfall accumulation.
“Allow extra time to travel and be prepared for changing conditions. With temperatures expected to rise this weekend, any snow that falls will likely melt quickly, improving travel conditions for the long weekend,” the statement added.
Sneaking a look at the major city centres in Alberta, although Edmonton is not under any watch, warning, or special weather statement, there is a 30 per cent chance of flurries today, and snow is set to begin near midnight with two to four centimetres expected.
Tomorrow in Edmonton is forecast to be a snowy one, with two to four centimetres forecast as well.
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With the special weather statement blanketing the city, the seven-day forecast for Calgary is naturally even snowier than for Edmonton, with tonight seeing snow at times or rain.
Snow and periods of snow are on top for Calgary during the day and night tomorrow, while the night of Sunday, April 5, has a 30 per cent chance of rain showers or flurries.
Edmonton forecast
Environment and Climate Change Canada
According to ECCC, the average high for Edmonton around this time of year is 8°C, while the average low is -3°C.
Calgary forecast
Environment and Climate Change Canada
According to ECCC, the average high for Calgary around this time of year is 9°C, while the average low is -4°C.
Are you over seeing snow in the forecast for Alberta as we welcome April? Let us know in the comments.