Additional snows up to 15 cm possible in Alberta through Sunday
From double-digit highs to end the week in Alberta, to a weekend of cold and snow ahead -- April is showing its true colours
Spring swings will play out through the weekend in Alberta, trading the sunglasses for snow brushes, and even snow shovels in some cases. This week's warming trend will give way to more frigid temperatures, a cold rain, and heavy snow along the foothills.
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Even though it may seem like a cruel joke to see 15-30 cm of snow in the forecast, remember that the bulk of April’s snows are common on the western Prairies. Low-pressure systems often tap into tropical moisture from the south to produce major snowfall events. Calgary averages about 21 cm of snow during a normal month, so this week's early-summer tease certainly wasn't a freefall into the warmer season.
Snow lingers into Sunday morning
Daytime temperatures will fall below seasonal this weekend, dipping below the freezing mark at night.
In addition to the loss of mild air, southern Alberta will see the chance for snow, some mixed precipitation, and a cold rain.
Snow started for many areas through the day Saturday, and it's expected to continue moving south through the overnight hours toward Lethbridge.
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Accumulating snow is anticipated along the foothills, with a lower probability of any accumulation further east.
System totals between 15-30 cm are expected for the foothills and higher elevations. Most snow toward the QE2 will melt on ground contact, but flurries and mixed precipitation is likely. Drivers should brace for the changing conditions and potential for slick roads.
While the precipitation ends by Sunday morning, northwesterly winds will continue to usher in the colder air.
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Not only is April a common month for snow in southern Alberta, but May can bring as much as 12 cm to Calgary in a typical year.
Milder conditions will return to western areas and spread east during next week. Cooler weather and more unsettled conditions could return to the region during the Easter weekend, however.
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Be sure to check back for the latest weather updates across the Prairies.