Parts of Alberta face wind gusts up to 100 km/h Saturday
Powerful winds could disrupt travel and cause isolated power outages
Strong winds are expected to sweep across Alberta on Saturday, with gusts reaching up to 90 km/h by the evening and possibly 100 km/h along the immediate foothills.
The strongest winds are expected to develop as a cold front passes through the province on Saturday morning, bringing increasingly gusty conditions throughout the day.
Drivers should be prepared for unexpected crosswinds, especially on exposed highways where strong gusts can make travel difficult.
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What's driving the strong winds?
A Pacific low is expected to redevelop over northern Alberta, bringing Pacific air to the area.
At the same time, a sharp difference in air pressure between high pressure off the coast of British Columbia and a trough over the Prairies is causing winds in Alberta to accelerate.
When air pressure varies significantly over a short distance, air moves faster between areas of high and low pressure, resulting in stronger winds.
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Travel and power outages among the concerns
Gusts could reach 90 km/h across parts of Alberta by Saturday evening, with gusts up to 100 km/h in the immediate foothills.
High-sided vehicles, such as trucks and trailers, may sway or even topple in strong crosswinds. Isolated power outages are also possible as strong winds damage trees and power lines.
Drivers should exercise caution, particularly on exposed roads and keep an eye on local forecasts as the system moves across the province.
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