Wind warning for southwestern Alberta, gusts to 90 km/h

Environment and Climate Change Canada has issued a wind warning for communities across southwestern Alberta on Saturday, Oct. 17, with westerly gusts of up to 90 km/h expected.

The warning, reported by CTV News Calgary, is a yellow-level alert. It says driving conditions will likely be difficult and that high-sided vehicles will be pushed around by the wind. The full text, including the list of affected communities and exact start and end times, is posted on the Environment and Climate Change Canada website.

The Weather Network said the strongest winds develop as a cold front moves through Alberta on Saturday morning. Gusts build through the day, with up to 100 km/h possible in the immediate foothills and up to 90 km/h by Saturday evening in parts of the province, the forecaster said.

Wxcentre.ca forecast gusts of up to 80 km/h across much of central and southern Alberta, strongest in the extreme southwest, with snow at higher elevations in the mountain parks. It said up to 10 cm of snow is possible along the Icefields Parkway.

Strong gusts can bring down tree branches and cause localized power outages. Drivers of trucks, trailers and recreational vehicles are advised to slow down and take extra care on exposed highways. Road conditions and closures are posted on Alberta 511.

The warning follows a windstorm earlier this week that left thousands of Albertans without power. A related fall storm is also expected to bring wind and lower snow levels to the B.C. Interior on Saturday. Alberta drivers heading into the mountains can also review our guide to winter tire laws by province.

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