Snowfall warning issued for Calgary this weekend

Environment Canada issued a snowfall warning for Calgary and surrounding areas on Saturday.

The agency said to expect 10 to 20 centimetres of snow.

“Snow will begin along the northern foothills this afternoon and spread south through the Calgary area this evening,” it said.

“Snow will begin to ease Sunday night.”

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An Alberta clipper is a fast-moving low-pressure system that forms in the province, said Global Calgary meteorologist Danielle Savoni.

“This clipper will move slower and force winds up the mountains (upsloping winds) Saturday night through Sunday night. It looks like we will also be tapping into some Pacific moisture,” she explained.

“These are two main ingredients that could lead to our biggest snowfall amount so far this season with 15-20 centimetres possible in Calgary between Saturday night to Sunday night. The snow will also be combined with strong winds at times, so expect poor road conditions until Monday.”

Environment Canada warned that visibility may be quickly reduced in heavy snow, so be prepared to adjust your driving.

Savoni added clippers drag in much cooler air.

“Expect frigid temperatures to creep in Saturday night and stick around to the middle of next week,” she said.

“Wind chills could make it feel like -30 or even colder at times for the next four to five days.”

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