Environment Canada has issued a pair of weathering warnings for the areas to the east and west of the East Kootenay this morning.

To the east in southwestern Alberta, a wind warning is in effect for Crowsnest Pass, Pincher Creek and Waterton Lakes National Park areas, including: M.D. of Pincher Creek near Beauvais Lake Prov. Park; M.D. of Pincher Creek near Cowley Burmis and Maycroft; M.D. of Pincher Creek near Pincher Creek and Twin Butte; M.D. of Ranchland; Municipality of Crowsnest Pass including Coleman and Frank; Piikani Reserve; Waterton Lakes Nat. Park and Blood Res. 148A.

Strong winds that may cause damage are expected or occurring. Strong westerly winds with gusts near 100 km/h will continue throughout the day. These strong winds will weaken this evening, Environment Canada reported this morning (March 11).

“Loose objects may be tossed by the wind and cause injury or damage. Be prepared to adjust your driving with changing road conditions due to high winds. Wind warnings are issued when there is a significant risk of damaging winds,” Environment Canada stated.

The Elk Valley is not included in the warning but Environment Canada reports winds will be gusting between 20 and 40 km/h today and this evening, with wind chill near minus seven tonight. Heavy snow is also possible tomorrow morning.

And to the west a snowfall warning is in effect for Highway 3 – Paulson Summit to Kootenay Pass, with snowfall with total amounts of about 20 cm expected.

“An approaching frontal system will track across the southern interior tonight. Snow at times heavy will begin this evening and persist through Tuesday. Snowfall amounts up to 20 cm can be expected by Tuesday evening,” Environment Canada stated.

Prepare for quickly changing and deteriorating travel conditions. Visibility may be suddenly reduced at times in heavy snow. Weather in the mountains can change suddenly resulting in hazardous driving conditions.

Environment Canada says the Cranbrook/Kimberley and Columbia Valley areas have a 30 to 40% chance of flurries overnight from this approaching system, with up to five cm of snowfall possible tomorrow morning (March 12).

Lead image: The notorious big winds that blow in southern Alberta hit savage heights to close 2018, with 180 km/h wind gusts playing havoc and causing damages, including blowing over this wind speed sign near the junction of Highway 3 and 22. e-KNOW file photo

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