As many travellers return from Easter weekend celebrations, an icy blast of wintry weather is expected to make travel a challenge today.

Environment Canada has issued a series of weather alerts covering much of the north and a band of west-central communities.

Across the north, significant snowfall is expected to sweep across the province, spreading west to east from Peace River Monday morning and reaching Cold Lake by evening. 

Snow in the region will be heaviest tonight or Tuesday morning with around 15 centimetres  expected, except near the B.C. border where about 20 centimetres is expected.

Heavy flurries swirl over the Rockies

Further south, along the eastern edges of the Rockies, heavy flurries are expected.

In communities stretching from Jasper to Banff, bands of flurries are expected to pass through the region overnight Monday and throughout Tuesday morning. 

Snowfall is expected to be heavy, reducing visibility and causing snow to accumulate rapidly. 

Local snowfall amounts of 5 to 10 centimetres are expected as the flurries pass, particularly over higher terrain, Environment Canada said.

Travel is expected to be challenging.

Environment Canada has issued special weather statements, warning of poor road conditions on Highway 93, along the Saskatchewan River Crossing from Banff and Lake Louise.

Drivers are advised to prepare for quickly changing and deteriorating travel conditions and maintain a safe following distance.

If driving, turn on your lights, slow down and maintain a safe following distance, Environment Canada cautioned.

The snow is expected to taper off by Tuesday evening.