After a weekend of winter wonderland across much of Southern Alberta, many Airdrie residents might be wondering about their Monday morning commute.
The QEII, both south and north of Airdrie, is reported to be mostly bare and dry, with some ice or snow on the shoulders. However, motorists should be cautious of bridge decks, overpasses, and on-and-off ramps, as those areas may be slippery. In Airdrie and Calgary, many arterial roads are mostly dry, though there are reports of some slippery sections.
For those travelling north of Airdrie and east of Carstairs, conditions are slightly more hazardous along Highway 581 from Junction Highway 791 to the QEII junction. The highway is partially covered in snow, with icy sections and some ice or snow on the shoulders. Fog is also present.
While no major snow events are likely this week, Airdronians should bundle up, as the morning wind chill will be nearing -28°C.
Today will bring a mix of sun and clouds, with a 30 per cent chance of flurries. The high will reach -14°C, with a wind chill of -17°C in the afternoon, creating a risk of frostbite. Tonight, skies will clear, and temperatures will drop to -20°C with a wind chill near -24°C.
On Tuesday, expect sunny skies with a high of -3°C. The morning wind chill will be -23°C, warming to -5°C in the afternoon. The night will be clear, with a low of -19°C.
With the bone-chilling cold in the morning, the Alberta Motor Association (AMA) is encouraging Airdrie drivers to adopt safe winter driving habits. As temperatures drop, AMA advises plugging in block heaters at least four hours before driving when it’s -15°C or colder.
"We want people to get back in the habit of safe winter driving: that means using winter tires, increasing your following distance, and plugging in before hitting the road," said Brandon Klassen, AMA’s Manager of Operations.
Klassen noted that even newer vehicles could struggle in the severe cold if the block heater isn’t used. Other tips include checking tire inflation, using winter tires, and keeping your gas tank at least half full. An emergency roadside kit, with essentials like warm clothing, a flashlight, and a folding shovel, is also recommended.
On the road, AMA urges drivers to slow down, increase following distance, and avoid unnecessary trips in severe weather. Drivers should also reduce speed and move over when passing tow trucks helping stranded motorists.
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