Severe Snowstorm Disrupts Southern Alberta Roads

A severe snowstorm severely impacted road conditions across southern Alberta, particularly in Calgary, on Monday morning. The heavy snowfall posed significant challenges for commuters, leading to a chaotic morning rush hour.

Snowstorm Effects on Calgary Roads

Calgary faced numerous roadblocks as the snow created hazardous driving conditions. Many streets became nearly impassable, with vehicles sliding uncontrollably down hills and colliding with one another. Emergency services responded to numerous incidents, prompting authorities to close certain roads.

Traffic Incidents and Police Response

• Calgary police reported at least 389 traffic accidents from midnight to 4 p.m.
• Among these were 50 hit-and-runs and 26 incidents involving injuries.

Calgary Transit was also affected, with around 40 bus routes detoured due to the severe conditions. Commuter experiences varied, with some drivers expressing frustrations over extended travel times.

Personal Accounts

Tamara Hirsche, a commuter, described her journey as “scary,” noting that it took her an hour to reach her destination, compared to her usual 25-30 minutes. Bojan Bojagic, from Summit Landscaping Services, stated that the heavy, wet snow would prolong their snow-clearing efforts throughout the day.

Warnings and Weather Forecast

A heavy snowfall warning from Environment Canada affected a broad area, from southeastern British Columbia to southern Saskatchewan. Predicted snowfall totals could reach up to 20 cm in certain regions. Winds accompanying the storm were expected to create blowing snow, further diminishing visibility for drivers.

• Specific areas near the U.S. border are anticipated to be hardest hit.
• Temperatures in Calgary are predicted to drop from -2°C on Monday to around -8°C by Friday.
• The normal temperature for this time of year in Calgary is approximately 0°C.

Motorist Advisory

Officials in Lethbridge urged drivers to exercise caution and adapt to winter conditions. Transportation operations manager, Juliane Ruck, highlighted the importance of having winter tires and emergency kits ready for unexpected weather.

A Positive Perspective

While some found the snow challenging, others embraced its beauty. Local resident Heather Thomas remarked on the joy that the winter landscape brings to their community.

As the snowstorm is expected to taper off by late Monday in B.C. and Alberta, and early Tuesday in Saskatchewan, residents are reminded to prepare for changing conditions and fluctuating temperatures.

Highways in the Medicine Hat area also reported snow-covered, slippery conditions, emphasizing the need for careful driving.