Published on Apr. 15, 2026, 1:53 PM
Winter returns to the Prairies, interrupting spring. A messy and cold storm is set to affect the region through Thursday
A significant mid-April snowfall is set to impact the Prairies this week. Two rounds of snow are forecast, with the second system bringing strong winds and heavy accumulation. Hazardous travel is expected on the Trans-Canada and Yellowhead highways across Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba through Thursday. Blowing and drifting snow could reduce visibility, with 10-20+ cm expected in some areas.
Be sure to check the road conditions before heading out.
Weather Highlights:
Snow begins across southern Alberta Wednesday evening, then pushing across Saskatchewan and Manitoba Thursday with heavy snow and strong winds
A large swath of 10-20+ cm of snow is forecast through Friday
Travel hazards with blowing snow and reduced visibility is likely
Snowy and messy conditions could disrupt Wednesday and Thursday commutes
Flood concerns grow in parts of Manitoba
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Brace for difficult travel as rounds of spring snow hit the Prairies
The first round of snow arrives with a low pressure system tracking across the central and northern Prairies, spreading snow from Edmonton through Prince Albert to central Manitoba through Wednesday.
A narrow band of 5-15 cm is expected, accompanied by blustery winds gusting 30-50 km/h, leading to blowing and drifting snow in some areas.
The second and stronger system, developing over Montana, will combine with high pressure sinking in from the north.
Snowfall will begin across central and southern Alberta Wednesday evening, continuing overnight and into Thursday as a more organized band spreads across southern regions of Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba.