Snow Expected in Calgary as Up to 20 cm Forecast for Parts of Alberta Over Victoria Day Weekend

Environment and Climate Change Canada has issued a special weather statement warning that parts of Alberta, including Calgary, could receive significant snowfall during the Victoria Day long weekend.

The advisory says a major shift in weather conditions is expected to bring rain, strong winds, sharply colder temperatures and the possibility of accumulating snow, particularly in higher elevations and along the foothills.

Calgary may see wet snow

According to the latest forecast, rain is expected to begin overnight and transition to wet snow early Saturday morning in Calgary.

The city could receive more than five centimetres of snow, while temperatures are forecast to plunge to near freezing during the day. Snow and flurries may continue into Sunday before conditions gradually improve.

The unusual mid-May snowfall comes just days after temperatures reached the mid-20s Celsius across southern Alberta.

Up to 20 cm possible in western Alberta

Environment Canada says snowfall amounts remain uncertain, but some areas west of Calgary and near Jasper National Park could receive up to 20 centimetres of snow.

The heaviest snowfall is expected along the Alberta Foothills and sections of the Trans-Canada Highway west of Calgary, where travel conditions may deteriorate rapidly.

Motorists heading to the mountains or planning long weekend trips are being urged to monitor forecasts and prepare for winter-like driving conditions.

Pattern change brings dramatic cooldown

A low-pressure system moving across the Prairies is ending Alberta’s recent stretch of warm weather.

Forecasters say temperatures will fall into the single digits by the weekend, accompanied by gusty winds of up to 90 km/h in some regions.

In eastern and northern Alberta, rainfall totals could exceed 30 millimetres, raising concerns about localized flooding and elevated river levels.

Travel advisory for holiday weekend

The weather system arrives as thousands of Albertans prepare to travel for the Victoria Day long weekend.

Officials recommend checking road reports, carrying emergency supplies, and allowing extra time for travel, especially in mountainous areas where snow accumulation could be significant.

Strong river flows expected in Calgary

While the cooler weather may surprise residents, the City of Calgary says mountain snowpack alone is not a major flood concern. City officials note that heavy upstream rainfall remains the most significant factor in river flooding.

The newly completed Sunnyside Flood Barrier is now operational and provides enhanced protection for the communities of Sunnyside and Hillhurst during the annual flood season.

Forecast summary for Calgary

• Friday night: Rain begins after midnight
• Saturday: Rain changing to wet snow, temperatures near 2°C
• Sunday: Flurries and scattered showers
• Monday (Victoria Day): Gradual clearing with cool temperatures

Albertans are being encouraged to stay informed and be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions as winter-like conditions return unexpectedly in the middle of May.

Courtesy: ctvnews