Meteorologists with Environment Canada say strong winds, snow, blowing snow and a rapid drop in temperature is expected for southern Alberta tonight.

Strong northwest winds gusting up to 70 km/h will develop early this evening along the central foothills and will move southward thought the night. Gusty winds are expected to reach Calgary in the evening and Lethbridge by midnight. These winds, however, will taper off from the north overnight.

Near the onset of these winds a brief period of intense snow is expected. Visibility may be suddenly reduced to zero in snow and blowing snow.

A rapid drop in temperature will also occur with the northwest winds. Temperature drops of 10 to 15 degrees Celsius are possible in a short period of time and wet surfaces may freeze causing icy conditions, so be prepared for poor travel conditions.

A Snow squall watch is in effect for:

• Brazeau Co. near Brazeau Dam
• Brazeau Co. near Cynthia and Lodgepole
• Clearwater Co. near Caroline and James River Bridge
• Clearwater Co. near Rocky Mtn House and Crimson Lake
• O’Chiese 203 Res. and Clearwater Co. near Sunchild Cree Res.
• Yellowhead Co. near Minnow and Wolf Lakes and Elk River

Additionally, A Snowfall Warning is in effect for:

• Clearwater Co. near Chungo Creek
• Clearwater Co. near Nordegg and Big Horn Res.
• Clearwater Co. near Ya-Ha-Tinda Ranch
• Yellowhead Co. near Cadomin and Robb

Heavy snowfall is forecast to bring up to 15 cm to the Alberta Foothills Monday night and Tuesday.

Heavy snow will develop over the central foothills early this evening. This snow is anticipated to move southwards to impact areas near Waterton Lake National Park overnight tonight. The heaviest snow will fall along the front range of the Rockies with the highest amounts expected in Kananaskis Country.

Snowfall will taper off from the north Tuesday morning.

Gusty north winds will also develop with this snow. Wind gusts up to 60 km/h may cause poor visibility in blowing snow in the afternoon and evening. These winds will taper off overnight.

Click here for the latest weather update.

For current highway conditions throughout the province, visit 511 Alberta.