Wind warnings issued for southern Alberta while Banff, Jasper brace for snow

Environment Canada issued a wind warning for parts of southern Alberta on Thursday as some area were told to expect gusts of up to 100 kilometres per hour.

According to the weather agency, “wind-prone” areas should expect powerful gusts overnight but then the wind should diminish on Friday.

“Wind warnings are issued when there is a significant risk of damaging winds,” Environment Canada said on its website. “Be prepared to adjust your driving with changing road conditions.”

Watch below: (From December 2018) Strong winds wreaked havoc on the highways in southern Alberta on Thursday leaving many vehicles in the ditch or flipped over. Blake Lough reports.

2:19 Strong winds wreak havoc on southern Alberta highways

Meanwhile, areas in and around Alberta’s most well-known mountain parks were told to expect up to 15 centimetres of snowfall on Thursday night.

“This area of snow will shift southward through the night into parts of Banff National Park. Total snowfall over the highest elevations of the highway are expected to reach 10 cm by Friday morning.”

READ MORE: 3 climbers believed killed in Banff National Park avalanche

The weather agency warned drivers in these areas to prepare for wet and snowy conditions.

“Rapidly accumulating snow will make travel difficult,” Environment Canada said. “Public Safety Canada encourages everyone to make an emergency plan and get an emergency kit with drinking water, food, medicine, a first-aid kit and a flashlight.”

Watch below: (Oct. 3, 2018) The Alberta Motor Association provides tips on being prepared for winter-driving emergencies

1:41 Staying safe in a snowstorm: Alberta Motor Association provides tips on being prepared for winter driving emergencies

For a complete list of weather warnings, watches and advisories in Alberta, click here.

Want your weather on the go? Download Global News’ Skytracker weather app for iPhone, iPad and Android.