Fort McMurray snowfall warning: 15 to 20 cm by Thursday

Environment Canada has issued a snowfall warning for Fort McMurray and the surrounding Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo, with total amounts of 15 to 20 centimetres expected before the snow ends Thursday morning.

The weather agency said roughly 10 cm of snow fell overnight and another five to 10 cm is expected Wednesday. The snow will ease Wednesday night and end Thursday morning, Oct. 29.

Environment Canada said roads and walkways will likely be difficult to navigate because of accumulating snow, and visibility will likely be reduced at times. It advised people to allow extra time for travel.

The warning covers Fort McMurray and Anzac, as well as Fort MacKay, Janvier South and Conklin, Mariana Lake and other parts of Wood Buffalo. A similar yellow-level snowfall warning is in effect for Lac La Biche County, near Crow Lake Provincial Park and the Wiau, Winefred and Grist lakes area.

Southern Alberta is also under snowfall warnings, for the Municipality of Crowsnest Pass, the Municipal District of Pincher Creek, Waterton Lakes National Park and the Piikani Reserve, where the agency expects the snow to end Thursday morning.

Edmonton, St. Albert and Sherwood Park are under a special weather statement, which is less severe than a warning, calling for up to 15 cm. We have the details in our report on Edmonton’s first big snowfall. Drivers heading out can also read our guide to winter parking bans and our winter storm preparation checklist.

Environment Canada asks residents to report severe weather to [email protected], by calling 1-800-239-0484 or on social media using #ABStorm. Current alerts are posted on the Environment Canada weather site.

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Source: Environment and Climate Change Canada snowfall warning for Wood Buffalo, updated Wednesday, Oct. 28.