Snowy Thanksgiving Weekend: Calgary Parents Warned to Stay Indoors

Calgarians and expats alike are bracing for a cold and snowy Thanksgiving long weekend, with Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) warning of up to 20 cm of snowfall in western parts of Alberta. For those with kids, this could mean a long weekend of indoor activities, but there are practical steps you can take to ensure a smoother experience.

According to the ECCC, the first accumulating snow of the year is expected late this week, changing to snow on Friday in west-central regions and for much of the province by Saturday. The Calgary-Edmonton corridor is also expected to see accumulating snow, with the highest snowfall amounts predicted in western areas like Grande Cache and Jasper National Park. While the snow is forecasted to taper off on Sunday, the travel conditions are expected to deteriorate quickly.

The Thanksgiving long weekend in Calgary will see a 60 per cent chance of rain showers or flurries on Saturday, with a low of -1°C, and a 40 per cent chance of flurries that night. Edmonton, meanwhile, will experience a 12°C high and a 2°C low, with a 50 per cent chance of rain or snow on Saturday, and periods of snow that night with a low of 0°C. Both cities will see their temperatures drop compared to the average for this time of year.

As a parent of two and a resident of Calgary for nine years, I can attest to the impact such weather can have on daily life. Schools might be affected, with some potential for cancellations or early dismissals. For expats and digital nomads, it's important to plan ahead and prepare for the worst, whether that's stocking up on supplies or ensuring your children's activities are indoors.