A special weather statement is in effect for Cochrane, with a major storm system expected to bring heavy rain and strong winds to the area this weekend.
Rain is expected to begin Friday, with the heaviest amounts falling along the Alberta foothills. By Sunday afternoon, rainfall totals could range from 50 to 100 millimetres in most areas, with up to 200 millimetres possible in higher elevation regions.
Cooler air will also move in Friday night, bringing a shift from rain to snow in the mountains. Wet, heavy snow could lead to 10 to 20 centimetres of accumulation in areas like Highwood Pass and southern stretches of Highway 93.
Strong northerly winds are also in the forecast for Saturday, with gusts between 60 and 80 kilometres an hour. Combined with saturated ground, the winds could cause tree damage and localized impacts.
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However, temperatures in the Cochrane area are expected to return to the mid-20s by mid-next week.
Cochrane's long-range forecast is available here.