Overview of Severe Weather Conditions

Residents of Calgary and various parts of Alberta experienced severe weather conditions on Thursday, as strong winds swept through the area, prompting a weather warning accompanied by unplanned power outages across the city.

Wind Warnings and Power Outages

The weather situation escalated when Environment and Climate Change Canada issued a wind warning for Calgary around 11:30 p.m. Thursday, predicting gusts reaching 90 to 100 kilometers per hour overnight. Although the warning was lifted a few hours later, less intense winds were anticipated to linger into Friday.

As heavy winds raged across Calgary, utility crews from Enmax were kept on alert, addressing numerous power outages reported throughout the city. By Friday morning, outages were affecting several neighborhoods, including Brentwood, Hillhurst, Starfield, and downtown areas among others.

Impact on Roadways and Traffic

In addition to the power outages impacting thousands of residents, Alberta’s roadways were also heavily affected. Alberta Mounties had to warn drivers against traveling on highways that were compromised by snow and high winds. From noon on Thursday until 8 a.m. Friday, officers responded to a staggering 149 weather-related collisions across the province, resulting in injuries for six individuals. The RCMP strongly urged the public to heed warnings against travel, emphasizing the dangers posed not only to themselves but also to emergency responders.

Weather Alerts and Safety Recommendations

Meanwhile, a substantial portion of central and eastern Alberta was placed under a weather alert due to the combination of high winds and snow, leading to reduced visibility. Certain areas were even issued blizzard warnings as conditions continued to deteriorate.

As communities grapple with the aftermath of this severe weather, residents are reminded to remain vigilant and to prioritize safety when navigating both on the road and in their homes. Stay tuned for more updates as the situation unfolds and crews work diligently to restore power and ensure road safety across Alberta.