Reaction from the field
The recent snowfall in Calgary has had a profound impact on the city, leading to hazardous driving conditions and a surge in accidents. Calgary police have advised motorists to avoid travel due to the treacherous winter road conditions caused by heavy snowfall. As the storm progressed, the snowfall rate was reported to be between 3 to 5 cm per hour in various parts of the city, creating a challenging environment for drivers.
By the end of the storm, Calgary International Airport recorded approximately 16 cm of snow, with the heaviest accumulation occurring in the northern parts of the city. In contrast, the southern areas experienced relatively dry conditions, highlighting the uneven distribution of snowfall across Calgary. This disparity has raised concerns about the preparedness of the city’s infrastructure to handle such weather events.
The storm’s severity was underscored by the total of 159 crashes reported, with 27 of those resulting in injuries. This alarming statistic emphasizes the dangers posed by winter weather and the importance of heeding safety warnings from authorities. Environment Canada had issued a snowfall advisory for Calgary, indicating that the storm was expected to bring significant accumulation.
Terri Lang, a meteorologist, noted, “I think the intensity is what really sets it off,” referring to the unexpected nature of the storm. She further pointed out that March is statistically the snowiest month for Calgary, stating, “Most people don’t think about this but March actually, statistically, gets the most amount of snow during the winter from November to April.” This historical context underscores the need for residents to remain vigilant during this time of year.
As the city grapples with the aftermath of the storm, another weather system is forecasted to bring an additional 5 to 8 cm of snow by Thursday morning. This anticipated snowfall raises concerns about further disruptions and the potential for additional accidents on already hazardous roads. Lang cautioned, “Folks shouldn’t be surprised to see snow in March, because it is the snowiest month, and we’re not out of the woods yet in terms of the possibility of snow coming.”
Residents have expressed their surprise at the sudden shift in weather, with one local, Jabier Abusdos, remarking, “The couple of past days were so nice… I was like what is going on?” This sentiment reflects the unpredictable nature of Calgary’s weather and the challenges it poses for residents and city services alike.
As the city prepares for more snowfall, the focus remains on ensuring public safety and managing the road conditions effectively. Authorities are urging residents to stay informed about weather updates and to exercise caution when traveling. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full extent of the upcoming storm, but the community is bracing for what lies ahead.
