Heavy rain, strong winds expected across Alberta as storm system moves in

A slow-moving low-pressure system is expected to bring widespread heavy rainfall, strong winds and mountain snow to parts of Alberta over the next several days.

Environment and Climate Change Canada has issued rainfall warnings for a large portion of the province, stretching from Fort McMurray south to Pincher Creek, as the storm system moves into the region.

Rain is forecast to begin overnight and intensify through Tuesday before gradually easing early Wednesday as the low-pressure system shifts eastward.

Between 50 and 100 millimetres of rain is expected in warned areas by Wednesday morning, with some locations potentially receiving more than 100 millimetres. The heavy rainfall could lead to localized flooding and rapidly rising water levels.

A special weather statement remains in effect for areas west of the warned region, where total rainfall amounts of 30 to 60 millimetres are expected over the same period.

In addition to the rain, strong northerly winds are forecast, with gusts reaching up to 70 km/h in some areas.

The storm is also expected to bring a return to wintry conditions in Alberta's mountain parks. Snow levels are forecast to drop over the next few days, resulting in accumulating snowfall at higher elevations.