A significant stretch of road connecting Jasper to Banff is expected to be closed for several days as the area is under a winter storm warning issued by Environment Canada.
According to 511 Alberta, the provincial government's travel information service, plans are in place to close Highway 93N from Athabasca Falls to Saskatchewan Crossing from 3 p.m. on Tuesday.
At about noon on Thursday, it's expected the highway will be reopened from Athabasca Falls to Parker Ridge. However, it is expected that Parker Ridge to Saskatchewan Crossing will remain closed until Friday at 4 p.m.
"Up to 60 cm of new snow is expected between Tuesday, Nov 30 and Thursday, Dec. 2," the 511 Alberta site read.
The site also noted avalanche control activities are taking place in the area.
Story continues below advertisement
READ MORE: Warning of 'extreme' avalanche risk in some parts of B.C. as third storm hits
"There is a lot of moisture making its way through B.C. right now, and we are seeing some of it make its way over the Rockies; causing these warnings," said Global Edmonton weather specialist Phil Darlington.
He added that some parts of Alberta could see significant wind gusts this week.
"The strongest winds are expected for the southern foothills — around 130km/h — with areas to the northern end of the warnings — the Hinton, Grande Prairie area — seeing gusts around 90 km/h," Darlington said. "Either way, they have the potential to do some damage.
"If it was a tornado, those winds would be in the EF 0-1 categories."
Darlington noted Edmonton will likely see rain, snow and wind between Tuesday and Thursday, "but nothing like what is happening further west."
In its winter storm warning, of which the section of Highway 93 that is being closed is under, Environment Canada said heavy snowfall combined with powerful wind gusts will lead to reduced visibility and blowing snow.
"Consider postponing non-essential travel until conditions improve," the weather agency said on its website. "Rapidly accumulating snow could make travel difficult over some locations. Visibility will be suddenly reduced to near zero at times in heavy snow and blowing snow.
Story continues below advertisement
"Public Safety Canada encourages everyone to make an emergency plan and get an emergency kit with drinking water, food, medicine, a first-aid kit and a flashlight."
3:37 Winter driving tips and what you should have in a road safety kit Winter driving tips and what you should have in a road safety kit – Jan 22, 2021 Environment Canada said the snow is expected to taper off Thursday morning.
For a complete list of areas in Alberta under a weather alert, click here.
Want your weather on the go? Download Global News' Skytracker weather app for iPhone, iPad and Android.
© 2021 Global News, a division of Corus Entertainment Inc.
No comments:
Post a Comment