Snowfall warning for Edmonton, up to 25cm of snow expected this weekend: ECCC

The City of Edmonton is under a snowfall warning Friday, as Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) is predicting a significant amount of snow to hit this weekend.

Meteorologists issued the alert around 4:30 a.m. saying that a long period of snowfall with total amounts of 15 to 20 cm is expected this weekend.

The snowfall is expected to start Friday evening and intensify Saturday morning.

Drivers are being told to brace for quickly changing and deteriorating travel conditions, with suddenly reduced visibility, and difficult-to-navigate roads due to accumulating snow.

“The weather just seems to slow everything down,” said Don Getschel, the president of the Towing and Recovery Association of Alberta.

Getschel is warning drivers if you see blue and orange lights, move to another lane and slow down.

“It’s a very dangerous spot for them to be in as well as you driving. We’re out there just trying to do a job and get motorists going. We’re not trying to hold anybody up.”

ECCC Snowfall warning in effect for central and southern Alberta. For location details: https://t.co/X3r2Prk11K (4:31am) #ABRoads #ABStorm pic.twitter.com/VzPRovoj93

— 511 Alberta (@511Alberta) November 22, 2024

The Alberta Motor Association says if you’re hitting the road this weekend, stock up on an emergency kit.

“Shovel, blanket, first aid, being prepared for anything did happen and whether it be a battery backup so if you did hit the ditch that your phone has enough charge,” said Dennis Porter, with the Alberta Motor Association.

Another piece of advice from Porter is if you’re going uphill, aim your tires slightly away from other tracks for extra grip.

“If you’re sliding, don’t stay on the brakes. Sometimes, let off a little bit, let your tires gain the traction that’s needed. Same thing with staying on the accelerator,” said Porter.

Tow truck drivers like Getschel are also warning about “chase towing” where someone shows up to a collision unannounced and starts towing. He says you can call whoever you want.

“You have the right to say no. It’s your vehicle. It’s your property. You have the right to decide what happens to it,” said Getschel.

The snowfall warning is one of a number issued across central and southern Alberta on Friday.

The snowfall is expected to ease Saturday evening in Edmonton.

-With files from James Dunn