For most of northern Alberta, a winter warning is in effect until Monday. Southern Alberta may experience some precipitation and strong winds for a brief period.
Environment Canada forecastswintry weather in the northern half of the province Monday,from thePeace River-Fairview-High Prairie-Manning regionthrough to the Lloydminster-Wainwright-Vermilion-Provost area.
The warning states that heavy snow, freezing rain and strong winds are all possible in the affected areas.
On Sunday night, freezing rain will begin between Grande Prairie, Alta. and Edmonton. The rain will move eastward throughout the day, falling on Edmonton in the morning and reaching Lloydminster by afternoon, according to the warningsays.
It will snow in most areas by evening.
Environment Canada stated that motorists should be prepared for icy conditions on area highways, including highways 2, 16, and 43.
Strong northwest winds and gusts of up to 70 km/h are expected to develop as the snow melts.
The wind will blow snow, causing poor visibility. However, it should calm down overnight.
Temperature drops between 10 and 15 C can occur in a short time. Environment Canada warns that wet surfaces may refreeze from earlier precipitation.
Strong winds blow in southern Alberta
Environment Canada has also issued special weather statements for the southern portion of the province.
Strong winds, snow, blowing snow, and a rapid drop of temperatures are expected Monday night from the Nordegg Forestry Trunk Road Highway Highway 734 area to Alberta’s southeast corner.
Northwest winds of up to 70 km/h are expected to start Monday evening along the central Foothills before moving southeast. The winds will intensify throughout the night with gusts of up to 90 km/h in southeastern Alberta by midnight.
However, the winds should calm down by Tuesday morning.
A short period of rain or snow will fall around the time the winds pick-up. This could cause sudden reduced visibility or even zero. Then, it is possible for the wind to calm down and drift or blow snow.
When the winds pick up, temperatures will drop quickly. Environment Canada warns that wet surfaces could freeze during this time, which can lead to icy conditions.