FINAL UPDATE
The weather advisory active for a majority of the region has ended.
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Anyone hitting the road today might want to wait until the sun comes up. Snowplows are out in full force this morning, and you can track their work using the Highway Hotline HERE.
UPDATE: Friday, Jan 17, 2025, 5:00 AM
A snapshot of Saskatchewan's highways this morning is showing an appropriate aftermath from yesterday's storm.
West-central only seems to be affected by partly covered roads and poor visibility early on, a light punishment compared to the spray of travel not recommended designations on the eastern side of the province this morning.
Below is the latest update from Environment Canada, shared just prior to 5:00 AM Friday.
"Widespread poor visibility in blowing snow continues across much of southern Saskatchewan early this morning with northerly winds gusting up to 70 km/h. Conditions should gradually improve this morning as winds abate somewhat."
Build some extra time into your morning commute if you have to go out this morning. With the region back to seasonal weather we can't expect any more melting, but highway crews should be out in full force as the high winds taper off throughout the day.
"Travel is expected to be hazardous due to reduced visibility in some locations. Be prepared to adjust your driving with changing road conditions. Consider postponing non-essential travel until conditions improve."
Check the Highway Hotline HERE.
ORIGINAL: Thursday, Jan 16, 2025, 7:30 AM
The majority of west-central Saskatchewan is currently under a blowing snow advisory. Environment Canada activated the alert Thursday morning just after 5:00 AM, warning that "areas of poor visibility in blowing snow is expected today, along with very strong winds."
According to Environment Canada, a blowing snow advisory is only activated when winds are expected to create blowing snow giving poor visibility to 800 metres or less for at least 3 hours. Early morning wind gusts around only around 30-50 km/h, making for a noticeable windchill.
"Northwest winds gusting up to 80 km/h will combine with falling snow to cause poor visibility starting this afternoon or evening."
Highs above zero for the region is expected to delay the onset of blowing snow until later this evening or overnight according to the weather service.
"Travel is expected to be hazardous due to reduced visibility in some locations. Be prepared to adjust your driving with changing road conditions. Consider postponing non-essential travel until conditions improve. Ensure that shelter is provided for pets and outdoor animals."
While snowfall is in the forecast all day Friday, the windy conditions should taper down and improve visibility, but an impending cooldown and freeze over will still cause for extra caution on the road for at least the next 24 hours.