WATCH ABOVE: The return to winter weather was a shock to the system, especially given the recent string of summer-like conditions. Shallima Maharaj reports.
EDMONTON — Strong winds and snow slammed the Capital Region Wednesday, in what proved to be a less-than-hilarious April Fool’s joke.
Upwards of five to 10 centimetres of snow fell on areas in and around Edmonton, the result of a widespread low pressure system.
Environment Canada issued a special weather statement for the Edmonton area, warning of snow and wind just in time for April 1. Wind and snowfall warnings were also issued for areas north and south of the city.
A snowfall warning was also issued for areas north of Edmonton, including: Slave Lake, Westlock, Barrhead, Athabasca, Whitecourt, Edson, Fox Creek, Swan Hills, Bonnyville, St. Paul, Cold Lake, Lac La Biche.
By late Wednesday night, most of the warnings and statements had been dropped.
Between 6 a.m. and 3:45 p.m. Wednesday, there were 120 property damage collisions, 20 hit-and-run collisions, and five injury collisions in Edmonton, according to police.
For updated information on the areas affected, visit Environment Canada’s website.
WATCH: Margeaux Morin has our weather forecast for Wednesday, April 1, 2015. Yes! Warmer conditions are on the way!
The fresh snow was wet, so blowing snow was not a major concern, but wind gusts approached 90 km/h, making for less-than-ideal driving conditions.
“Where we have an accumulation of slushy conditions it causes a hydroplaning effect and certainly there can be some ice build up, as well,” said Cpl. Chris Little with Strathcona County RCMP.
“You have to slow down and look out for other vehicles.”
On Tuesday night Sheriffs and RCMP officers reported traffic delays on Highway 2 because a northbound semi truck was blown over near Lacombe.
The Capital Region will see some snow, and 24-hour amounts by Wednesday evening will likely be close to 10 centimetres.
“Through Wednesday, winds and blowing snow will be an issue,” Morin explained.
“Temperatures are looking to remain below the seasonal mark for the rest of the week, but still above freezing for day time highs,” said Morin.
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