Environment Canada is predicting southern Alberta will receive a temporary reprieve from heavy and blowing snow originally expected to arrive Sunday evening, but the severe winter storm is merely taking its time in arriving in the Calgary area and blizzard conditions will greet the start of the work week.

The intense winter storm is travelling from northeast Alberta towards the central and southern sections of the province. Winter storm watches and warnings are in effect throughout the province with most regions expecting between 10 and 20 centimetres of snowfall.

In Calgary, freezing rain is forecasted in the hours prior to the snow which could lead to a slow and treacherous commute for drivers Monday morning. The City of Calgary Transportation department is taking preemptive measures against slick roads.

“We are salting the roads, which prevents snow and ice from sticking, as well as anti-icing known trouble spots,” explains Carissa Vescio, City of Calgary Transportation spokesperson. “Those are spots like bridge decks and hills."

“We have been watching the forecast continually,” says Vescio. “All of our available equipment will be in use this evening (Sunday) and into tomorrow morning’s commute. We also have extra crews on shift. We’ve ramped up our crews to ensure we have as much men as possible to manage the anticipated snowfall.”

Monday morning, road crews will focus their effort on Priority 1 routes which carry more than 20,000 vehicles on an average day.

 “I would suggest for (Monday) morning’s commute that Calgarians give themselves some extra time,” says Vescio.

The City of Calgary offers the following tips to drivers during periods of  poor road conditions:

  • Clean snow and ice off your vehicle to ensure your lights and your windows are clear.
  • Give yourself extra time to reach your destination.
  • Reduce your speed and turn on your headlights.
  • Drive defensively.
  • Leave extra distance between you and the car ahead of you.
  • When road conditions are difficult consider using Calgary Transit.
  • Consider delaying your trip until the roads are in better condition.

For updated storm information, visit Environment Canada – Alberta Weather Warnings