Kananaskis Under Wind Warning as Alberta Sees Widespread Weather Alerts

What’s Happening? Wind and winter storm alerts are popping up across Alberta this evening, with dozens of regions under yellow snowfall warnings or winter storm watches stretching from the Peace Country to the southeast. As of 5 PM Sunday (Dec 7), the only part of the Bow Valley included in these advisories is Kananaskis, which sits under a Yellow Wind Warning. No wind or snowfall alerts are currently in effect for Canmore, Banff, or Lake Louise.

What “Yellow” Actually Means? Environment Canada now colour-codes all weather alerts to show impact level. Yellow is the lowest of the three alert colours and signals hazardous weather that may cause moderate, short-term, and localized impacts. It is the most common alert level, but still one worth paying attention to. In a Yellow Wind Warning, you may see broken tree branches, brief power outages, flying debris, and difficult driving conditions.

The Wind Setup. Strong west winds will develop late this evening in wind-prone areas. They ease somewhat Monday morning (Dec 8) before ramping back up late Monday afternoon through Monday night, again gusting near 100 km/h. Near the BC border, snow and blowing snow may reduce visibility Monday night.

Who Should Pay Attention? Drivers on Highway 40, especially those hauling trailers or driving high-sided vehicles. Outdoor enthusiasts and anyone with loose items outside in or near Kananaskis Village should be ready for sudden, powerful gusts that can move gear or knock things over.

What You Should Do. Environment Canada recommends checking updated alerts and reporting severe conditions through ABstorm ([email protected]).