A special weather statement is in place for much of central and northern Alberta as rain and snow are expected to pass through the region.
Environment Canada warned that on Tuesday night, people across central and northern Alberta might experience treacherous driving conditions as a rainy and snowy weather system develops.
“Rain changing to wet snow will occur Tuesday night into Wednesday over central and northern Alberta,” Environment Canada said in a special weather statement posted on its website Monday afternoon.
“Starting Tuesday evening, cold air from the Northwest Territories will move southward, causing rain to switch over to snow.”
A severe thunderstorm warning was also in place for Edmonton and surrounding communities for some time Monday evening.
Environment Canada issued the warning at 7:37 p.m. and stated the storm was capable of producing “strong wind gusts, up to nickel size hail and heavy rain.”
Because ground temperatures are quite warm throughout the province, the weather agency said it is not yet able to forecast how much snow may stick to the ground but asked people to be prepared for whatever comes.
“Potential impacts include poor travel conditions Tuesday night into Wednesday morning,” Environment Canada said.
READ MORE: Snow possible on southern B.C. mountain passes
Global Edmonton meteorologist Jesse Beyer said at this time of year, “the profile of the atmosphere during events like this can set up those really wet snowfalls.”
“The heavy snow with even minimal to moderate accumulations can add a lot of weight to tree limbs, roofs and other personal property leading to damage,” he said.
However, Beyer also noted that the rain may add some “much needed moisture to the parched Alberta soil.”
“Some areas could be looking at notable rain totals,” he said. “Some areas may see 30 to 50mm in accumulations.”
For a complete list of areas in Alberta under a weather alert, click here.
Want your weather on the go? Download Global News’ Skytracker weather app for iPhone, iPad and Android.
Watch below: (From Jan. 11, 2020) Driving in winter conditions can be daunting but it doesn’t have to be. BCAA’s Josh Smythe shares tips for getting around safely.
Comments