Snow and Wind Prepare Prairies for Dangerously Cold Conditions Ahead
Arctic air is set to bring dangerously cold temperatures to the Prairies this weekend, impacting travel and daily life.
Prairies, Canada, Cold Weather, Snow, Wind
Calgary: The Prairies are in for a wild weather ride. We’ve been experiencing a bit of a temperature rollercoaster, but it looks like frigid Arctic air is about to take over. This weekend, we’re expecting some of the coldest temperatures of the season.
Before that Arctic blast hits, a low-pressure system is moving through the northern Prairies. It’s bringing heavy snow, especially north of the Yellowhead Highway. So, if you’re in that area, be ready for some serious snowfall.
And it’s not just the snow; strong winds are also on the way. We’re talking gusts between 60-80 km/h, which could make things pretty tricky for anyone traveling this weekend.
On Thursday, a clipper system will sweep from northern Alberta down to south-central Manitoba. Expect about 10-20 cm of snow in northwestern Alberta and Manitoba’s Interlake region by Friday morning.
While southern areas along the Trans-Canada and Yellowhead Highway might see some snow, it won’t be as much. The bigger concern down south will be those strong winds picking up on Thursday and sticking around into Friday.
As we head into the weekend, brace yourself for dangerously cold conditions. Temperatures could drop 10 to 20°C below what we usually see this time of year. It’s going to be a shock to the system!
There’s a chance we’ll get some milder Pacific air later in January, but don’t get too comfortable. More Arctic air is likely to swoop in and keep those warmer spells short-lived.