A slow-moving storm is set to bring heavy rainfall, gusty winds, and a significant shift in temperatures to parts of southern and central Alberta, as well as western and central Saskatchewan this week. The strongest impacts are expected from Tuesday night through Thursday, as a strong upper low pushes into the region.
The area of greatest concern stretches from North Battleford and Saskatoon in Saskatchewan to Medicine Hat and the Cypress Hills in Alberta. Current weather models suggest that these areas could receive over 50 mm (2 inches) of rain, with some places potentially seeing up to 100 mm by the time the system moves through.
The eastern edge of the heavy rain remains uncertain, with some forecasts predicting Saskatoon may receive less precipitation, but it will still see showers. For areas in south-central and southeast Saskatchewan, along with southwest Manitoba, periods of showers and thunderstorms are likely, but the heaviest rainfall is expected to remain to the north and west.
A Wild Week Ahead
Gusty winds, heavy rain, and unseasonably warm temperatures will accompany the storm as it moves north. Winds could gust up to 80 km/h in parts of Alberta and 70 km/h in western Saskatchewan.
While southern Alberta, including Calgary and Lethbridge, will experience cooler temperatures, struggling to reach the mid-teens by Wednesday, areas to the east such as Manitoba will experience unseasonably warm weather. Some regions in Manitoba could see temperatures soaring up to 9°C above normal.
Severe Weather Risk in the Prairies
Before the storm’s arrival, the southern Prairies are at risk for severe weather. Thunderstorms are expected to develop over North Dakota on Monday and track north, eventually affecting southern Manitoba, with cities like Winnipeg potentially seeing strong storms.
Residents of west-central Saskatchewan and eastern Alberta are advised to monitor local weather updates and be prepared for rapidly changing conditions. Watch for possible weather warnings and ensure precautions are in place for the incoming storm.
While rain is much-needed in many areas, the combination of heavy downpours, strong winds, and fluctuating temperatures could create challenging conditions across the Prairies.