17 Apr 2023 | 08:15 AM UTC
Canada: Adverse winter weather forecast over parts of western regions through at least April 18
Adverse winter weather forecast across parts of western Canada through at least April 18. Hazardous travel conditions likely.
Event
Adverse winter weather is forecast across parts of west-central Alberta and northeastern British Columbia provinces through at least April 18. Hazardous driving conditions are likely across the affected area due to icy roads and reduced visibility caused by blowing snow. Heavy rainfall may result in floods and flash floods.
As of early April 17, Environment Canada has issued red snowfall warnings across Fort Nelson in northeastern British Columbia; 10-20 cm (4-8 inches) of snow is forecast. Rain is forecast near Sikanni Chief early April 17 before transitioning to snow later in the morning. The precipitation over Fort Nelson is likely to remain as rain but snow is likely over higher elevations around Highway 97 west of Fort Nelson. Red rainfall warnings are in place for Fairview, High Prairie, Manning, and Peace River in Alberta; rainfall of up to 2.5 cm (1 inch) is forecast. Rainfall late April 16 is likely to transition into wet snow the afternoon of April 17 and into snow late April 17. Flash floods and localized flooding are possible. Officials will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.
Snow accumulations are likely across the affected area. Lesser snowfall totals are possible where sleet and freezing rain mix with snow. In addition to the heavy snow, strong wind gusts will probably lead to periods of blowing and drifting snow. Blizzard conditions are possible. Sporadic power outages are possible throughout the affected area.
The inclement weather will likely cause widespread ground and air transport disruptions across the affected area. Traffic and commercial trucking delays are possible along regional highways. Dangerous and challenging driving conditions are also probable on secondary and rural roads in the affected provinces as maintenance crews prioritize clearing major routes. Authorities could close stretches of highway if driving conditions become too hazardous. Gusty winds may threaten to topple high-profile vehicles throughout the affected area. Mountain passes and tunnels could be closed as a precautionary measure during periods of intense snowfall. The disruptive weather will likely cause some delays and cancellations at airports in the affected region. Heavy wet snow and strong winds could bring down power lines and trees with foliage.
Advice
Monitor local media for updated weather information. Verify road conditions before driving in areas where heavy snowfall is forecast. Allow extra time to reach destinations in these areas and carry an emergency kit and warm clothes if driving is necessary, especially on secondary or rural routes that could become impassable. If routing shipments by truck through the affected area, plan accordingly for delivery delays. Confirm flights. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
