Severe winter conditions are impacting travel and daily life across Alberta, with Calgary International Airport temporarily halting flights and RCMP advising against all non-essential travel on provincial roads and highways. The disruptions are the result of a powerful winter storm and an Alberta clipper system moving through the region.
Widespread Travel Disruptions
Flights in and out of Calgary International Airport were suspended Wednesday morning, with normal operations not expected to resume until 2:30 p.m. MT. Airport spokesperson Mackenzie Murphy noted that residual impacts are anticipated, as airports across the Prairies also contend with heavy snowfall. Passengers are urged to check directly with their airlines for the latest flight status updates.
Highway 2 between Calgary and Airdrie was closed earlier Wednesday, and remains closed southbound at Red Deer. RCMP issued a province-wide travel advisory around 1 p.m. MT, citing multiple collisions and whiteout conditions. Police are also advising motorists to avoid northbound Deerfoot Trail at Stoney Trail in Calgary due to multiple accidents.
Extreme Weather Warnings
Environment Canada has issued a yellow-level winter storm warning for much of Alberta, forecasting very poor visibility and wind gusts up to 100 km/h. In the southwestern part of the province, an orange-level wind warning is in effect, with westerly winds potentially reaching 130 km/h along the Highway 3 corridor between Lethbridge and the British Columbia border. These winds could lead to utility outages and hazardous driving conditions, particularly for high-sided vehicles.
The Icefields Parkway in the Rockies is also closed from Valley of the Five Lakes near Jasper to Lake Louise. An Alberta clipper system is responsible for the significant snowfall across the Prairies and portions of northern Ontario, followed by a surge of Arctic air.
Community Response
A warming centre has been established in Airdrie, with buses providing transportation for stranded individuals. RCMP are urging residents to stay home if possible and to exercise extreme caution if travel is unavoidable, emphasizing the potential for lengthy emergency response times. The Calgary Board of Education has warned of delays for yellow school buses and Calgary Transit, and has cancelled all after-school activities and high school athletics.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Alberta clipper?
An Alberta clipper is a fast-moving weather system that brings a large amount of snow to the Prairies and portions of northern Ontario, often accompanied by strong winds.
When is the airport expected to reopen?
Calgary International Airport expects to resume normal operations at 2:30 p.m. MT, though residual delays are likely.
What should I do if I must travel?
If travel is necessary, RCMP advise dressing for the weather, using headlights, maintaining a safe following distance, adjusting speed for conditions, and giving emergency crews space to work.
Given the widespread travel disruptions and hazardous conditions, how will communities balance the need for essential services with the safety of residents during this severe weather event?
