50-100 mm: Heavy weekend rain, storms, and snow hit Alberta
An intensifying low pressure system will bring 50-100 mm of rain, a risk of severe thunderstorms, localized flooding, and even snowfall across parts of Alberta this weekend
An intensifying low pressure system in northeastern B.C. is forecast to bring significant rainfall and the risk of severe thunderstorms across Alberta this weekend.
By Saturday morning, heavy rain will begin impacting the northern foothills and areas extending to Edmonton. The slow-moving system will persist through Sunday, with rainfall totals ranging from 50-100 mm in parts of Hinton, Whitecourt, Red Deer, and Edmonton. Localized flooding cannot be ruled out with prolonged, intense showers.
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Severe thunderstorm risk spreads across southern Alberta Saturday
As instability peaks Saturday afternoon, the low will trigger severe thunderstorms along the QE2 corridor. Cities and towns at risk of severe storms include Calgary, Red Deer, and locations to the east.
The primary threats will be large hail, strong wind gusts, and torrential rain.
The storms are expected to organize and track eastward, producing strong winds into the overnight hours.
Snow chances grow with cooling temperatures
By Saturday night, colder air will filter in from the west, causing temperatures to drop dramatically, especially in the Rockies.
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Freezing levels will fall, and snowfall is possible near Jasper.
Sunday’s daytime highs will also be well below seasonal, with 13°C in Calgary, 12°C in Red Deer, and 14°C in Edmonton (normal highs are closer to 21-22°C).
Stay tuned for updates and monitor for potential weather alerts.