LETHBRIDGE, AB – The Canadian prairies may be in for a winter wallop.
The Weather Network has released its forecast for December, January, and February. It indicates periods of very cold conditions at times and more snow than normal across much of southern Alberta.
Meteorologist Jessie Uppal says we can thank La Niña for what’s likely on the way over the next few months.
“So areas like through Waterton Park, Pincher Creek, and Lethbridge sometimes see significant amounts of snow thanks to local affects, like upslope flow. We are expecting more storms than normal and more snowfall, but it only takes one or two (storms) to really beef up our snowfall accumulations by the end of the winter,” said Uppal in an interview with our radio station Monday.
And let’s not forget about the cold either. A good portion of the prairies are forecast to see frigid conditions more often than not this winter. Uppal notes arctic air will likely push farther south this winter, having more of an impact on places like Lethbridge and Medicine Hat. The “Polar Vortex” is certainly expected to be a big factor this winter.
The Weather Network states Canadians should be in for “winter weather whiplash” over the coming months. This is what the forecasting organization says about the Canadian prairies as we head into the winter of 2021/22.
“A frigid winter is expected across the region, especially during January and February. While a few periods of milder weather are expected, we have a heightened risk for extended periods of severe cold. Blizzard conditions are also expected a few times as arctic air plunges south across the region. A snowy winter is expected across the southern half of Alberta and southwestern Saskatchewan. Near normal snowfall is expected elsewhere.”
You can read the entire winter forecast from The Weather Network here: Winter Forecast
Devastating floods, record warmth, and a blizzard have made headlines across Canada this fall. Is this mild and stormy pattern a preview of what's to come this winter? ❄??
Check our #WinterForecast for a look at the season to come: https://t.co/fAnUthYciW
— The Weather Network (@weathernetwork) November 29, 2021