Major storm, blizzard could dump 15-30 cm of snow on parts of the Prairies
Blizzard conditions are forecast across parts of the Prairies Wednesday as a disruptive, potentially dangerous, storm will track across the region with a swath of 15-30 cm of snow and blustery wind gusts.
A powerful storm with blizzard conditions will sweep across the Prairies Wednesday and Thursday, bringing blizzard conditions, potential road closures, and flash freezes in some areas. Strong winds also pose a risk of power outages.
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Some areas across Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba could see 15-30 cm of snow.
Blizzard conditions are forecast for many, with whiteouts and dangerously cold wind chills creating hazardous conditions. Plan ahead as travel disruptions are anticipated.
Heavy snow and winds pick up across the Prairies Wednesday, dangerous blizzard conditions possible
A strong Alberta clipper will quickly track across the Prairies on Wednesday, affecting all three provinces with snow, wind, and potential blizzard conditions.
15–30 cm of snow is possible in central Alberta and southern Saskatchewan, including Edmonton, Saskatoon, Regina and major corridors like the Yellowhead Highway.
Snow begins in central Alberta, including Edmonton, early Wednesday, tapering off by evening. Winds gusting 40–60 km/h will reduce visibility and create slick roads, impacting the morning commute.
Snow spreads into southern Saskatchewan by late morning, intensifying into the afternoon with snowfall rates of 2–3 cm an hour/
Gusts of 40–60 km/h will cause blowing snow, with heavier impacts along major highways by evening. Southern Saskatchewan may initially face freezing rain along the Trans-Canada Highway, creating hazardous road conditions, as well.
Southern Manitoba will see snow by Wednesday afternoon, becoming heavy by evening. Though snow tapers by Thursday morning, wind gusts up to 70 km/h will persist, resulting in blowing snow and difficult travel during the morning commute.
Winds of 110+ km/h could impact southern Alberta and Saskatchewan.
Consider postponing travel with truck-tipping winds in southern Alberta forecast, and dangerous winter driving for central Alberta and southern Saskatchewan.
Winter storm watches, wind, blizzard warnings are in effect. Travel could become dangerous, with blizzard conditions likely in southern Saskatchewan from Wednesday evening to early Thursday.
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Wild temperature roller-coaster continues, brace for a flash freeze
Southern parts of the Prairies will experience dramatic temperature swings this week. On Wednesday, temperatures will rise well above freezing, with some areas reaching double digits, while regions north of the Arctic boundary will stay in the minus teens and 20s. A flash freeze is expected Wednesday night as Arctic air pushes south again.
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Another brief warm-up is forecast for late Thursday, followed by a return to colder conditions. Areas near the U.S. border will continue to see highly variable temperatures into next week.
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Stay with The Weather Network for the latest on conditions across the Prairies.