Airdrie motorists are being urged to exercise caution. Due to worsening weather, road conditions are expected to deteriorate this afternoon and into the evening.
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Environment Canada has issued a wind warning for areas east of Airdrie, including Rocky View County near Irricana, Beiseker, and Kathyrn. Strong northwest winds gusting to 90 km/h are anticipated today or tonight, with falling snow expected to further reduce visibility due to blowing snow. Winds are expected to weaken by Friday morning.
In Airdrie, current forecasts call for snow throughout the day, with a 60 per cent chance of flurries late this evening and overnight. Local blowing snow is also expected, reducing visibility. Winds will shift north at 50 km/h, gusting to 70 km/h this evening before easing to northwest at 30 km/h, gusting to 50 overnight.
Temperatures are forecast to drop to a low of minus 10 tonight, with wind chills making it feel like minus 19.
Road conditions on the QEII remain fair, and Highway 1 southeast of Calgary has reopened after a multi-vehicle collision earlier today. Gleichen RCMP confirmed the crash, between Highways 901 and 842, involved two vehicles, with several others swerving into ditches to avoid the collision. No injuries were reported.
Traffic was briefly diverted to Highway 561 before the closure was lifted. RCMP continues to urge drivers to adjust to the weather and drive cautiously.
The forecast for Friday indicates mainly cloudy skies with a 60 per cent chance of flurries in the morning. Winds will ease to west at 20 km/h gusting to 40 before becoming light. A high of minus 6 is expected, but wind chills will remain cold, feeling like minus 17 in the morning and minus 8 in the afternoon.
Friday night could bring further challenges, with cloudy skies, a 60 per cent chance of flurries, and temperatures dropping to minus 25.
Motorists are advised to prepare for changing conditions, allow extra travel time, and ensure vehicles are equipped for winter weather.
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