Sub-zero temps for a few days; warnings issued with more snow forecast for the Rockies, Calgary

Sub-zero temps for a few days; warnings issued with more snow forecast for Calgary and the Rocky Mountains

The avalanche risk across the Rocky Mountains was downgraded over the weekend in some areas but will likely be elevated mid-week with another moisture-laden system tracking across British Columbia.

On Friday there were major road closures around the Alberta-B.C. border due to a heightened avalanche risk. Officials warned of the instability within the snowpack in the back country and a number of slides occurred.

Avalanche Canada says as of 7 p.m. Monday, most of the range was at a considerable or moderate risk with the most concerning areas often assessed at the higher elevations.

Heavy wet snow is forecast for the southern portion of B.C. and over the Rockies over the next couple of days and Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) issued warnings due to the potential impact of that snow.

Yellow-level snowfall warnings were issued along the foothills — including in Banff and Jasper — with ECCC saying those areas can expect a long period of snowfall with total amounts of 20 to 30 centimetres.

“Snowfall will begin late tonight and continue through to Thursday morning. The heaviest snow is expected on Tuesday,” the weather agency said.

It also warned strong winds are expected throughout the Interior as a low-pressure system moves through the region. Strong southwesterly winds with gusts up to 80 kilometres an hour are expected to develop late Tuesday afternoon and peak in the evening, the ECCC said.

Yellow-level winter storm warnings have been issued along the western edge of the Rockies as the combination of wind and precipitation could impact visibility and traction due to blowing snow and the intensity of that system.

“Consider postponing non-essential travel and outdoor activities until conditions improve. If driving, turn on your lights, slow down and maintain a safe following distance. Prepare for some disruptions to transportation, services, and utilities,” the weather agency said.

Winter storm warnings are issued when more than one form of severe winter weather is anticipated or is occurring.

Calgary will likely start to see light and scattered flurries Tuesday morning, with total accumulations around two to five centimetres. Similar to Saturday, the initial snow should melt due to a warmer surface temperature, but snow coming down later in the day could stick through Thursday with daytime highs and lows expected to remain below freezing.

The end of the week will bring another shift in the weather pattern and warm Pacific air will flood back into southern Alberta.

Daytime highs are expected to jump by more than 10 degrees from Thursday to Friday and reach double digits again on Sunday. Temperatures will moderate early next week, and highs in Calgary are expected to sit around the seasonal average of 5 to 6 C.