The city received a big blast of winter overnight and the heavy snowfall is making roads and sidewalks slick.

The snow started on Wednesday night and has been falling lightly throughout the day in and around the city.

A snowfall warning is in effect for Calgary and southern Alberta and 10 to 25 cm of snow is expected to fall by Friday.

Police say that drivers should be extra careful in driving in these types of conditions.

Bridge decks, ramps, and intersections are all of particular concern.

The city’s fleet of sanders and plows are out on the roads working to clear major arteries and ramps.

Calgary Police say there were 12 injury and 182 non-injury crashes reported between midnight and 4 p.m. on Thursday.

Police are offering the following winter driving tips:

Before your journey

  • Plan your journey ahead and try to stay on main roads
  • Check the weather conditions before you leave and always allow extra time for your journey
  • Make sure your vehicle is clear of snow and ice – not only is it dangerous, but it could result in a $115 ticket
  • Uncleared snow could also fall off your vehicle and hit the vehicle behind or distract other drivers.

When driving

  • Drive according to the road conditions. Just because the speed is posted at 100 km per hour does not mean you have to go that fast
  • Always leave a safe gap between you and other vehicles. That way you will have plenty of time to react should anything happen…the ‘two second’ rule is always a good idea
  • Pay particular attention at intersections. Snow often melts under the exhausts of vehicles and then re-freezes making it icy and difficult to stop
  • Take extra care when travelling over bridges where black ice can form
  • Avoid any sudden manoeuvres such as braking, accelerating or sharp turns
  • If the conditions are too treacherous, turn back or find safety quickly.

The storm is part of a system out of Montana and weather experts say it will hit the areas of Cardston and Crowsnest Pass the hardest where up to 35 cm is expected.

Highways in and out of the city are also in poor shape with reduced visibility and drifting snow in some areas.

For the latest road conditions, visit the AMA Road Reports website.