Winter storm blasts parts of western Canada

November 18, 2011 — From BC to Manitoba, people are dealing with heavy snow and gusty winds, courtesy of a strong winter storm.

Parts of central Alberta are coping with their first winter storm of the season.

Snow began falling in and around the city of Edmonton on Thursday morning, making it a messy commute for some. Snow plows were deployed throughout the city and by the early morning hours on Friday, 8 cm of snow had accumulated.

“A low that formed off the southern Rockies, is what brought the heavy snow and gusty winds,” says Dayna Vettese, a meteorologist at The Weather Network.

The system began tracking into Saskatchewan and Manitoba Thursday night and some areas could see up to 10 cm of snow by the time all is said and done.

“Strong winds over much of central and southern Saskatchewan will help to kick up that snow Friday,” says Gerald Cheng, another meteorologist at The Weather Network. “Motorists should be aware of blowing snow and reduced visibility throughout the day.”

Snowfall at night, Edmonton 17th Nov. 2011

Drivers are being reminded to adhere to the conditions and make sure their vehicle is ready for winter.

Conditions have been treacherous on BC's Coquihalla Highway as well. A major snowfall stopped hundreds of vehicles in both directions early in the day on Thursday.

Officials say the heavy snow and slick roads caught most drivers off guard. The Ministry of Highways recommended that drivers avoid unnecessary travel.

Along with snow falling in the interior of BC, flurries were also reported in the city of Vancouver early Friday morning.

While the onset of heavy snow is making it feel like winter across the west, temperatures have also been plunging in parts of the Prairies.

Lows in the minus teens were felt across Alberta and Saskatchewan on Thursday, and by Friday, temperatures will be even colder as the Arctic air sinks south.

“Several places across the Prairies will see temperatures dip into the -20's,” says Cheng.

Stay up-to-date on the weather watches and warnings in your area by heading to the Alerts section of the website.