Alberta to Get up to 20 cm of Snow Today as Spring Storm Hits the Province
Environment Canada has issued weather warnings across Alberta as a major system moves through, bringing heavy snow and dangerous driving conditions to northern and central regions.
Just as Albertans were settling into spring, winter has made a sudden return. A significant storm is tracking across the province today, Tuesday, April 7, with snowfall warnings in effect for several regions. The system is bringing a mix of heavy snow and high winds, creating a messy commute for those in the North and along the Rockies.
Snowfall Totals Across the Province
The impact of this "Alberta Clipper" varies by region, but almost nowhere in the province is escaping the cold front.
Northern Alberta: Communities like Peace River and High Prairie are bracing for the worst of it, with up to 20 cm of accumulation expected by Wednesday morning.
Edmonton & Central Alberta: The Capital Region is looking at 5–10 cm of heavy, wet snow. Because temperatures are hovering near freezing, roads are expected to be particularly slushy and slick.
The Rockies: Jasper and the Icefields Parkway (Highway 93) are seeing roughly 10 cm, with higher amounts at peak elevations causing reduced visibility for mountain travelers.
Road Conditions and Visibility
Environment Canada is warning that travel will be difficult. "Visibility may be suddenly reduced at times in heavy snow," the agency stated in its Tuesday morning alert.
Alberta 511 is already reporting scattered ice and slush on major highways. With wind gusts reaching 60 km/h in some open areas, blowing snow is expected to make highway driving hazardous through Tuesday evening.
When Will it End?
The good news is that this is a fast-moving system. While the snow will continue through the night, temperatures are forecast to climb back toward the double digits by the weekend. For now, however, the winter tires you might have been planning to swap out are still very much a necessity.
Note: If you are traveling between Edmonton and northern points today, expect delays and check road reports before heading out.
Expected Snow Accumulation
Peace Country / North15–20 cm
Edmonton & Area5–10 cm
Rockies (Jasper/Banff)10 cm
Calgary & South2–5 cm
Sources:
Environment Canada: https://weather.gc.ca/
Alberta 511: https://511.alberta.ca/
