Anyone heading to the mountains this weekend should prepare for possibly poor highway conditions after snowfall warnings were issued for both Banff and Jasper national parks on Thursday.
The snowfall warnings continued on Friday morning, with the possibility of up to 50 centimetres of snow by Saturday night, according to Environment Canada.
Upwards of 15 to 25 centimetres of snow is expected along Highway 93 north of Lake Louise by Friday afternoon, with another 15 to 20 centimetres expected on Saturday, the weather agency said in its warning.
“The heaviest snow is expected to fall south of Saskatchewan River Crossing,” the Friday morning warning read.
“Somewhat lesser amounts totalling 30 centimetres are possible from Saskatchewan River Crossing north to the Columbia Icefield area.
“North of the Columbia Icefield area minimal snowfall accumulations are expected through Saturday,” Environment Canada said.
Wind warnings were also issued Friday morning for parts of southern Alberta, including Lethbridge, Taber, Cardston and Magrath, with gusts near 100 kilometres per hour.
“Damage to buildings, such as to roof shingles and windows, may occur,” the warning read.
“Loose objects may be tossed by the wind and cause injury or damage. Be prepared to adjust your driving with changing road conditions due to high winds.”
The weather system could cause difficult driving conditions Friday and Saturday along highways 1, 3, and 93, according to Environment Canada.
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