Alberta's Unexpected April Snowstorm

In an unexpected twist to the spring season, a late April snowstorm swept through Alberta, delivering a stunning 20 centimeters of snow in some areas by Monday. This winter wonderland came as a surprise to many residents in central and southern parts of the province.

Snowfall Details and Impact

According to Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC), preliminary reports indicated a whopping 20 cm of snow blanketed the Nordegg area. Other spots weren't spared either—18 cm fell in Edson and Hendrickson Creek, while Pekisko received a solid 10 cm. Additionally, third-party data suggested that the Sundre area experienced around 6 cm.

Travel Warnings and Road Hazards

As the snow accumulation escalated, Didsbury RCMP received reports of a jackknifed truck on Highway 2 near Township Road 294 in central Alberta just after midnight. Officers quickly closed the northbound lanes, urging drivers to be cautious due to treacherous conditions. "Road conditions are currently dangerous, with ice forming in many areas," the police warned, advising the public to limit unnecessary travel and to prioritize safety while on the roads.

Resuming Normalcy

By 8 a.m., the RCMP provided an encouraging update: traffic on Highway 2 resumed as normal, signaling a brief return to normalcy. However, travelers remained aware, keeping in mind the unpredictable nature of weather during this unusual spring.

Weather Alerts from ECCC

This late-season snowfall caught many off guard, especially since ECCC had issued its first snowfall warning for the region the previous Easter Sunday, predicting the arrival of heavy, wet snow beginning Sunday night. As Alberta continues to navigate these springtime surprises, residents are reminded to stay vigilant and prepared for sudden weather changes.