Snowfall warnings expanded, avalanche risk increases as another system heads into Alberta

A series of low-pressure systems have aligned to bring another wave of winter weather into Alberta and British Columbia.

Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) have expanded the yellow-level snowfall warnings in Alberta from the foothills to areas around the Edmonton region due to a long period of snowfall.

The agency says between 20 to 30 centimetres are expected to fall through to Thursday morning, with the heaviest snow expected Tuesday night.

In higher elevations, total snowfall accumulations could exceed 30 centimetres.

This fresh snow has enhanced the avalanche risk with Avalanche Canada evaluating areas west of Calgary as a high-risk rating.

Travel is expected to be negatively impacted, with both road conditions and visibility negatively impacted as strong, north wind blowing any fresh or falling snow.

Calgary is expecting scattered flurries, but accumulations should be limited to two to four centimetres.

In B.C., winter storm warnings remain for areas around Prince George and Yoho and Kootenay national parks.

“A strong Pacific low-pressure system is tracking across the B.C. Interior bringing heavy snow to Yoho Park - Kootenay Park,” the national weather agency said.

“Strong westerly winds gusting up to 70 kilometres an hour will develop tonight and persist into Wednesday causing near zero visibility in blowing snow.”

Travel will also be challenging in these areas with ECCC advising drivers to consider postponing non-essential travel and outdoor activities, and to prepare for disruptions to transportation, services and utilities.

Strong winds have prompted wind warnings across central B.C. and special weather statements warn of likely power outages due to strong southwesterly winds associated with that fast-moving Pacific low.

Temperatures will remain cooler for the next couple of days across the region with highs in Calgary not expected to rise above -1 C. There will be a quick improvement starting Friday with a daytime high of 8 C, which is 14 degrees warmer than the forecast high for Thursday.

The normal range in Calgary this time of year is 6 C for a high and -7 C for a low.